Passengers warned as double strike action hits Sydney Airport

- 2.29pm . First published September 23, 2026 - 10.24pm

shares Share article There were disruptions for travellers on Thursday morning, with hundreds of airport ground staff walking off the job over better pay and conditions.

Hundreds of Certis security workers and Qantas freight staff downed tools across the country at 7.30am and did not return to work until about 9.30am.

Workers on strike at Sydney Airport. Today

The staff walked off the job to call for better pay, more full-time work opportunities and a less fragmented workforce.

The industrial action took place at airports in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.

Travellers faced longer lines at security and baggage drop-off while the strike took place.

There was also a planned two-hour stoppage from 6pm on Thursday and a three-hour strike on Monday at Sydney Airport.