Given the exorbitant price of fuel these days (and it ain't gonna get any cheaper), it's hardly surprising a company that uses the amount of fuel that Qantas does is looking to save every last drop. It makes sense as a business to reduce costs wherever it can.
OK, in the beginning while everyone gets used to it, it will be confusing. In a year I doubt anyone will give a toss. No doubt the policy will be refined, if necessary.
To see this descend into pilots slagging off other pilots just because one company changes it agreed descent speeds really is quite pathetic.
For the record, Cruise is now at planned CI unless you are late (i.e. 15 mins behind sched on blocks). If you are early, slow down. Descent is now cruising MN(at whatever CI you are doing - not necessarily 0)/ECON descent speed, unless ECON spd is outside the range 265-285 in which case if ECON < 265, then use 265 and if above 285, use 285.
As they say, it's their train set - I don't really care how they want me to operate it, as long as it's safe. Hell, if they think I should whistle dixie because they think it will save fuel, I'll happily do it. Care factor - negative 20.