Question 1

What does a luggage handler do?

Accepted Answer

A luggage handler (also known as a baggage handler) is responsible for loading and unloading passenger luggage and cargo from aircraft. They work on the airport tarmac, operating baggage carts, belt loaders and other ground support equipment to ensure luggage is transferred safely and efficiently between the terminal and aircraft.

Question 2

What award covers luggage handlers in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Luggage handlers are typically covered by the Airport Employees Award 2020 (MA000048). This award applies to employees performing ground handling services at airports, including baggage handling, ramp operations and cargo services. Pay rates vary based on classification level and duties performed.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a luggage handler?

Accepted Answer

Under the Airport Employees Award, luggage handlers are typically classified at Level 2 or Level 3 depending on their duties and equipment operation responsibilities. Handlers who operate specialised equipment or have additional responsibilities may be classified at higher levels. See our Airport Employees Award pay rates guide for current rates.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a luggage handler job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract qualified candidates. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Above award rates' or 'Competitive hourly rate based on experience.' Check the current Airport Employees Award rates for guidance.

Question 5

What qualifications do luggage handlers need?

Accepted Answer

Essential qualifications include an ASIC (Aviation Security Identification Card), which requires background checks and is mandatory for working in secure airport areas. Handlers should have completed manual handling training and hold a current Working with Children Check where required. Some positions require forklift or ground support equipment licences. Use HR software to track ASIC and licence expiry dates.

Question 6

What is an ASIC and how do I get one?

Accepted Answer

An ASIC (Aviation Security Identification Card) is a security pass required to access secure areas at Australian airports. Applicants must undergo criminal history and security checks through an Issuing Body. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks. Employers usually sponsor new employees to obtain their ASIC, but candidates with an existing valid ASIC are highly desirable.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a luggage handler?

Accepted Answer

For experienced roles, look for previous airport or ground handling experience, familiarity with baggage handling systems and equipment, demonstrated physical fitness, and experience working in team-based environments. Experience with dangerous goods handling or aircraft loading procedures is highly valuable.

Question 8

Do luggage handlers need a forklift licence?

Accepted Answer

A forklift licence is desirable but not always essential. Some ground support equipment requires specific licences or workplace-based training. Handlers operating belt loaders, tugs or cargo loaders typically receive on-the-job training and equipment-specific certification from their employer.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent luggage handlers?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your operational needs and flight schedules. Permanent positions provide consistency and retain trained staff, while casuals offer flexibility during peak travel periods. Many ground handling companies maintain a core permanent team supplemented by casuals. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to luggage handlers?

Accepted Answer

Under the Airport Employees Award, penalty rates apply for: Saturdays (150%), Sundays (200%), public holidays (250%), and shift work penalties for early morning, evening and night shifts. Casual employees receive a 25% loading. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for luggage handlers?

Accepted Answer

Under the Airport Employees Award, the minimum engagement for casual employees is typically 3 hours per shift. Part-time employees have guaranteed minimum hours. Check the specific award provisions for your operation type and state.

Question 12

What should I include in a luggage handler employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type, hourly rate, applicable award, required security clearances (ASIC), main duties, work location (airport terminal), shift patterns, PPE and safety equipment requirements, and physical fitness requirements. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to luggage handlers?

Accepted Answer

Under the Airport Employees Award, rosters should be provided at least 7 days in advance where practicable. Changes require reasonable notice unless due to unforeseen circumstances like flight delays or cancellations. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives staff visibility of upcoming shifts.

Question 14

Can I require luggage handlers to work night shifts and early mornings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, airport operations run 24/7 and early morning and night shifts are common for luggage handlers to support flight schedules. Shift requirements should be clearly communicated in the job description. Under the award, employees are entitled to shift penalties for early morning (before 6am) and night work. Be clear about shift expectations during hiring.

Question 15

What breaks are luggage handlers entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Airport Employees Award, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break of 30-60 minutes. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. Breaks must be scheduled to ensure continuous baggage handling operations. Use break planning tools to manage coverage.

Question 16

How do I manage luggage handler coverage during flight delays?

Accepted Answer

Flight delays and irregular operations require flexible rostering. Maintain a pool of on-call staff who can be contacted for extended shifts or unplanned requirements. Consider split shifts during peak arrival and departure windows. Use rostering software with real-time updates to communicate schedule changes quickly.

Luggage handler job description