Hundreds of South Australian meat workers have been left without pay or notice after being suddenly suspended from work at the Thomas Foods International meatworks in Lobethal.
According to a worker who spoke with us on the condition of anonymity, around 200 to 300 afternoon shift workers were due to return to the job on Monday following a three-week period of routine annual winter leave. Just after 4.30pm on Friday the 25th of July, they were informed they were being stood down “indefinitely”, effective immediately and without pay.
The worker said no support, alternative shifts, or financial assistance has been offered to staff, and the abrupt timing has left many struggling.
“To give us half an hour’s notice – that’s just despicable. A lot of the guys spent their savings and all of their leave and have come back to this news,” he said.
A letter to workers from Thomas Foods International, seen by this publication, attributes the decision to “significant market challenges, prevailing economic conditions, and a substantial reduction in stock supply.”
The Australasian Meat Industry Employees Union (AMIEU) wrote to members yesterday, Monday the 28th of July, expressing strong concerns regarding the timing and lack of notice.
“Your union expressed strong concerns regarding the timing and lack of notice— particularly as you are only just returning from an extended shutdown,” SA Branch Secretary Justin Smith wrote.
“This situation could and should have been handled more appropriately.”
Smith told ARN’s Adam and Jennie this morning that there is insecurity for workers in the industry.
“In the meat industry we have a thing called regular daily hire and shutdowns due to shortages of stock. They’re still employed but they can be stood down if the company struggles to find livestock … they do want to be producing the product, but if the sheep aren’t there, there’s not much they can do and unfortunately it’s the workers who pay the price,” Justin Smith told ARN’s Adam and Jennie this morning.
He said the company has agreed to keep the union informed and involve them in any future staffing consultations.
A spokesperson for Thomas Foods International said the drought in South Australia is the key factor behind the changes.
“The drought has sharply decreased sheep numbers, with recovery not expected before 2027, despite recent rainfall.
“Production workers were notified on Friday, and it is envisaged that most workers will be retained under the new working arrangements. Employees will be offered work at our other sites if not required at Lobethal.
“The Lobethal facility remains committed to long-term operations as a leading smallstock processor.”
