Workers asking for secure work, a safe job, and certainty that they can provide for their families
Thousands of FedEx workers will stop work for two hours on Friday to demand job security protections amid the so-called "Amazon effect" on the transport industry.
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) said FedEx workers overwhelmingly voted in favour of industrial action by 91% last week.
The two-hour stoppage comes after workers rejected an offer from FedEx, which they criticised for not having protections to stop their work from being outsourced and not having guaranteed protections against AI and automation.
The industrial action also comes as FedEx shifts work to contracted drivers on piece rates, forcing them to deliver a parcel up to every four minutes, according to the TWU.
"FedEx workers are standing up for their families, their communities, and the future of the transport industry," said Michael Kaine, national secretary of the TWU, in a statement.
"They are asking for nothing more than secure work, a safe job, and the certainty that they can provide for their families."
The 'Amazon effect'
Thousands of other transport workers are also voting on industrial action across more than 200 agreements, as the TWU campaigns for secure jobs amid the "Amazon effect" in the transport industry.
According to the TWU, Amazon's Flex model engages workers in delivery "blocks" on below-minimum wages and conditions, pressuring FedEx to strip away decent work.
"FedEx workers can see exactly where this leads," Kaine said.
"Amazon fuelled an industry crisis by turning decent transport jobs into insecure, low-paid, algorithmically managed work, and FedEx is choosing to go down that path instead of standing with responsible Australian operators."
The union urged FedEx to join other companies and clients, such as Linfox, Bevchain, and Team Global Express, in working with employees to lift working conditions.
"The door remains open. FedEx can come back to the table and reach an agreement that gives workers confidence in their future, protects the families who depend on these jobs, and helps make transport safer and more sustainable for everyone," Kaine said.
Meanwhile, FedEx said it "remains committed to working constructively towards an agreement that delivers value" for its people.
"FedEx supports minimum standards for contractors in the transport industry and has engaged constructively in the FWC process and industry forums," a spokesperson told the Australian Financial Review.
"We support progressing industry-wide standards that contribute to the sustainability of the sector for the benefit of workers, customers, and communities alike."
