Strikers at Brisbane Apple Store October 2022 Source: Cameron Atfield, Sydney Morning Herald
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Apple Store workers in Australia plan to strike again over wages and working conditions, this time around the Christmas break.
After the first strike in October 2022 and subsequent plans to hold more as needed, Australian workers are gearing up for a two-day strike. It will begin at 3:00 pm local time on December 23, 2022 and continue through Christmas Eve, traditionally a particularly busy time for Apple Store sales.
According to Reuters, the strike will affect all Apple stores in Australia, but especially two in Brisbane, as well as one each in Adelaide and Newcastle. These are the stores with the most members of the Australian Retail and Fast Food Union (RAFFWU).
RAFFWU is asking Apple to improve conditions such as fixed lists and agreed annual pay increases. The RAFFWU reportedly tried to get Apple executives to discuss the issues in the week of December 5, but Apple refuses to meet until February 2023.
“This Christmas strike is a way for our family and friends,” RAFFWU secretary Josh Callinan told Reuters, “while management continues to refuse to give workers the most basic minimum registration rights.”
If the strike takes place, it is expected that 200 of the approximately 4,000 Apple employees in Australia will take part in the strike. RAFFWU's Cullinan says Apple executives will be formally notified of the strike on Monday, Dec. 12.
If the strike takes place, it is expected that 200 of the approximately 4,000 Apple employees in Australia will take part in the strike. RAFFWU's Cullinan says Apple executives will be formally notified of the strike on Monday, Dec. 12.
Reuters reports that Apple declined to comment on the strike or ongoing negotiations. However, a spokesperson said that Apple is “proud to reward our valued team members in Australia with massive compensation and exceptional benefits.”
In addition to the two-day strike, Apple Store workers in Australia will refuse to repair iPhone and Apple Watch during certain hours. They can also refuse to wear the festive red Apple T-shirt.
