Border Force strike action to disrupt airports

HUGE delays are expected at Australia’s international airports today as thousands of Border Force workers walk off the job.

People at the Sydney international Airport during a strike by customs officers could cause some delays in boarding international flights today. Some long cues seen at some check ins but the departures gate was clear .pic John Grainger

HUGE delays are expected at Australia’s international airports today as thousands of Border Force workers walk off the job for 24 hours.

Border Force staff began a strike at midnight as part of industrial action to protect pay and conditions.

About 5000 workers will take part in the Community and Public Sector Union’s 24-hour strike at international airports, ports, mail and cargo centres.

Border Force staff who clear passengers and cargo will be involved in the industrial action, but those involved with counter-terrorism and national security will work as usual.

A spokeswoman for the CPSU said the organisation did not “want to convenience passengers” but advised travellers to get to airports early.

CPSU national secretary Nadine Flood with protesters at Sydney Airport Sunday. Picture: Toby Mann/AAP

Meanwhile, hundreds of tourists stranded in Bali face another long wait as volcanic ash clouds continue to surround Denpasar Airport.

Numerous flights from Bali to Australia were cancelled on Sunday as the ash cloud neared the airport, with only a lucky few able to board a plane home.

Two Jetstar flights bound for Bali to pick up travellers on Sunday were forced to turn around as conditions worsened.

And the conditions are expected to remain unfavourable with Virgin Australia cancelling flights planned for this morning, and Jetstar saying it plans limited flights.