Sydney- Baggage handlers at an Australian airport were criticised Thursday for letting a bag labelled "bomb" to make it onto the tarmac.

Qantas airline staff would not allow the bag on to a plane at Brisbane's domestic terminal. The bag was later deemed safe.

Union spokesman Geoff Bowes said better security was called for.

"The fact that a piece of luggage with "bomb" clearly written on it has been able to get into the baggage make-up area of a secure airport in this country is just another slap in the face for aviation workers and the travelling public," he said. (dpa)