Australia's Apple Store workers plan Christmas strike

Strikers at Apple's Brisbane store in October 2022. Source: Cameron Atfield, Sydney Morning Herald

Following its first strike in October 2022, and subsequent plans to hold further ones when necessary, Australia's workers are preparing for a two-day walkout. It would begin at 15:00 local time on December 23, 2022, and continue throughout Christmas Eve, traditionally a particularly busy time for Apple Store sales.

According to Reuters, the strike would affect all Apple Stores in Australia, but especially the two in Brisbane, plus one each in in Adelaide and Newcastle. These are the stores with most members in Australia's Retail and Fast Food Workers Union (RAFFWU).

RAFFWU has been asking Apple for improved conditions such as fixed rosters, and an agreed annual wage rise. Reportedly, RAFFWU attempted to get Apple management to discuss the issues the week of December 5, but Apple refuses to meet until February 2023.

"This Christmas strike is a way for our members to take back their time with family and friends," RAFFWU secretary Josh Cullinan told Reuters, "while management continues to refuse to give workers the most basic minimum rostering rights."

If it goes ahead, the strike is expected to feature 200 of Apple's approximately 4,000 employees in Australia. RAFFWU's Cullinan says that Apple management will be formally notified of the strike on Monday, December 12.

If it goes ahead, the strike is expected to feature 200 of Apple's approximately 4,000 employees in Australia. RAFFWU's Cullinan says that Apple management will be formally notified of the strike on Monday, December 12.

Reuters says that Apple declined to comment on the strike or current negotations. However, a spokesperson said that Apple was "proud to reward our valued team members in Australia with strong compensation and exceptional benefits."

Alongside the two-day walkout, Australian Apple Store workers will refuse to undertake iPhone and Apple Watch repairs in certain unspecified hours. They may also refuse to wear Apple's festive red t-shirt.