Trade unions planning strike to disrupt Australian airports

Sydney: Australian trade unions are planning for a nationwide strike on Friday which could cause airport delays for those flying abroad.

The Australian Border Force (ABF) said in a statement on Wednesday that some of its staff members plan to strike due to a revised pay offer which is yet to be approved, Xinhua news agency reported.

The strike will only include employees who are members of the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU), the statement said.

The strike is set to take place at international airports, seaports, container examination facilities, client services, visa processing sections and international mail facilities.

Assistant Commissioner of ABF's Strategic Border Command Clive Murray said the department is making arrangements to minimise the strike's impact on business, the travelling public, cargo and mail operations as much as it can.

"The department has appropriate contingencies in place for immigration and customs processes, however, if you are going overseas on the day we advise you to arrive at the airport early," Murray said.

SmartGate, an automated border processing system will be available at all eight major international airports. Fully trained staff will be on hand to ensure all airport functions are running as efficiently as possible.

The department urged travellers to visit its website, Facebook and Twitter accounts for regular updates on Friday's strike.