Greens Leader Christine Milne and Greens Deputy Leader Adam Bandt have called on the government to support a loan guarantee or government investment in Qantas, but only if there are guarantees on protecting local jobs and conditions.

"There are strong economic and security reasons for Australia keeping a national carrier," Senator Milne said.

"Tony Abbott should not let more Australian jobs go to the wall. He needs to act.

"Australia is facing a jobs crisis, particularly in the south-east of the country. Qantas is a big employer and needs to stay in Australia."

Greens Deputy Leader and industry spokesperson Adam Bandt MP says Qantas' decision to cut 500 heavy maintenance jobs threatens the future of airline maintenance in Australia.

Mr Bandt said Qantas' heavy maintenance was central to keeping the critical mass of skills needed for maintenance across the industry and the Federal government needs to take steps to secure a future for maintenance in the country. The government needs to establish the Industry Roundtable called for by the unions to address the future of the industry.