The AFAP is distributing the following RexPC Update at the request of the RexPC:
RexPC Meeting with Company Representatives
Your RexPC Representatives met with the Company on Wednesday 5th February. A variety of topics were on the agenda with constructive conversation centred on each topic.
Crew Meals
As you will likely be aware, the RexPC are currently conducting a survey on Pilots' experiences with the various crew meals. This survey will conclude on Friday 14th February. The early results have already been quite useful. For those who haven’t completed the survey, you can access it below:
https://afap.questionpro.com/RexCrewMeals
The survey should take approximately 3-5 minutes to complete, and as always, all responses are confidential and will be reported only in the aggregate.
The Company indicated they are conducting their own internal reviews but would prefer to await our survey data before making sweeping changes. The RexPC reiterated that early indications suggest significant issues with the breakfast packs and would like to see these addressed as a matter of urgency.
We also appreciate those Pilots who have indicated a willingness to test meals on behalf of the RexPC. This will be of particular assistance in bases that do not currently have a RexPC representative. Given the logistics and number of departments involved, we expect this to be an on-going issue for the foreseeable future as we work with the Company on suitable and viable solutions.
Annual Leave Rostering
With the annual leave bid once again upon us, we took the opportunity to address with the Company the 4+3/5+2 rostering patterns (see previous 15th January 2025 RexPC “Annual Leave Rostering Patterns” for full briefing). The Company indicated they intend to revert primarily to 5+2 patterns for the 2025/2026 leave year, however there may be situations where rostering 4+3 will be necessary (e.g. periods of leave with high demand) and that the weeks that will be rostered 4+3 will be made clear. Additionally, there will be a checkbox confirming your individual acceptance of 4+3 rostering patterns. If you bid for a week that is scheduled as 4+3 but do not indicate your acceptance of this rostering pattern, it may affect your access to that specific week.
The RexPC Annual Leave Representative highlighted a particular area that slows down the processing each year being the seniority number entry. Many Pilots are entering their employee number (i.e. “0XXXX”) rather than seniority number. Your seniority number is contained in column 1 of the Pilot Seniority List available on the FCNWP. Significant time is spent each year correcting this, prior to being able to process the leave requests.
Jacinth-Ambrosia Charter (ADL)
The RexPC has received several queries related to Jacinth recently as well as a general discussion with the Company prior to Christmas 2024. We understand that issues generally exist around loading/unloading procedures, air conditioning cart usage and accommodation for split shifts.
The Company indicated they are aware of these issues, and work had begun on rectification, however further efforts have been temporarily paused as the contract is now out for tender.
In the meantime, it is essential that crew prioritise safety above other considerations: despite the presence of the air conditioning cart (and the fact it is mentioned in training materials), we recommend that individual pilots do not attempt to move this equipment, as it is very heavy and could pose a danger to people and aircraft if moved without suitable assistance.
Melbourne Limited Tenure Commands
Limited Tenure Commands (LTC) were introduced with the Pilots Agreement 2022 under clause 32. LTCs are only available to Pilots eligible to hold a command subject to other conditions as detailed in clause 32.
We are aware that there are some Pilots interested in Melbourne Crew Base, however the Company indicated that to date, they had not received any eligible LTC bids. Crew Resources Management also requested we remind Pilots that the LTC bid form is separate to a normal bid form. Comments on a bid form are not taken as an official LTC bid. Details for the LTC bid are contained in Administration Memo A115/24 (FCNWP).
Sydney Car Parking
Sydney Pilots would likely be aware the current arrangement with the Branksome Hotel and Residences is ending with parking to move to the Blu Emu Car Park managed by Sydney Airport. The RexPC have received several queries related to this change, specifically in the way the payments are handled.
The Company advised that this change was directed by EY (the Administrators) who are conscious of the issues. To ensure that a quick change was possible, it was determined by EY that the current payment arrangements would remain in place for now, but a “holistic” review is underway with EY to determine how car parking fees will be handled. Staff Car Parking has fringe benefits tax implications for the Company which will also need to be considered in the context of the broader review.
The Company advised that EY had reiterated the review is continuing as recently as the morning of the RexPC meeting. We will provide any updates as they are advised.
Crew Cars
The RexPC highlighted that several cars around the network are in increasing states of disrepair, and some may no longer be roadworthy. The Company is aware of some of the issues (those that have been raised in SMS reports) and have undertaken an on-going internal review. Where cars are deemed to be unroadworthy, these will be removed from service and crew are to transition to other transport options (e.g. Taxis/Uber). Given the restrictions imposed by voluntary administration, where a car is removed for safety reasons, it is unlikely to be replaced until Rex has a new owner.
Key points:
- If you are uncertain a car is roadworthy, do not drive it and request a taxi instead. Ensure you submit an SMS report on the car condition.
- Continue to submit SMS reports if a car condition is observed to be potentially unsafe. This aids the company to focus on the bigger problem vehicles.
- Monitor NOTACs for removal from service. Cars noted as removed from service are unlikely to be replaced, with taxis becoming the replacement transport.
ASIC Applications (SYD)
We are aware some Pilots are having difficulties in getting ASIC forms signed if their days don’t happen to align with the FALS. The Company advised the front door of Head Office has returned to being unlocked and Pilots are able to attend reception unescorted. It was also advised that the following Head Office staff are authorised signatories for Sydney Airport ASICs:
- Phil Walter (Crew Resources)
- Melissa Azzopardi (Crew Planning)
- Jenny Jagger (HR)
Whilst you can certainly attend Head Office and request a signature, it was advised that the best method is to complete your form and then email it to one of the above, so they can leave it at reception for collection as they are not always immediately available.
As before, the first preference would be to seek a signature from the FALS but alternatives are available. If you wish to liaise with the FALS, you can email them at fals.syd@rex.com.au
Questions
If you have any questions in relation to the above advice, please contact RexPC members:
- Robin Darroch (VIC/QLD/SA)
- Nicole Waterman (WA)
- Peter Gravitis (NSW)
- Haydn Burgoyne (NSW)