More than 300 Commonwealth Games security staff have reportedly walked off the job, with many citing unsatisfactory working conditions.
Commonwealth Games Head of Security Danny Baade told news.com.au approximately 390 workers quit.
United Voice Queensland Security Coordinator Glenn Conroy told SBS News hit out at the shambles, saying many workers left because of poor conditions.
“Our members have told us they’re forced to wear uniforms that don’t fit, and sleep on bunk beds that are too small in rooms with cockroaches and mice,” he said.
“Management have thrown the staff rosters out the window, there’s no adequate transport to and from venues, and they’re not given enough rest time between shifts.
“We are very concerned about the issues that have been raised by our members - they are putting safety and security at the Games at risk, and go against the agreement we had negotiated with Games management.”
The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation (GOLDOC) said despite the exodus of staff, security has not been compromised.
According GOLDOC, there is a “combined security workforce of approximately 10,000 people” including security contractors, police and defence personnel at the Games.
“We have the required number of contract security guards needed for Games time security,” a GOLDOC spokesperson told SBS News.
Mr Baade told news.com.au that the 390 staff who walked off the job had already been replaced.
The Games will run for another week, ending on 15 April.
