Qantas staff worried about their jobs

Australia's unions are calling for jobs to be protected as a takeover bid is made for the country's national airline.

A consortium led by Macquarie Bank and US private equity firm Texas Pacific Group have lodged a $11.4 billion bid.

Australia Correspondent Steve Price says Qantas workers are worried about their future because Macquarie Bank is known for slashing jobs. He says they are also concerned about maintaining the airline's reputation for safety.

Mr Price says a number of safeguards are in place including a maximum of 49 per cent foreign ownership in Qantas. No one entity is allowed to own more than 25 per cent.

- NEWSTALK ZB