Qantas is the safest airline there is. Many would prefer Qantas for long haul, just because of this reputation. Such a reputation isn't built overnight and to keep the tops on their toes, maybe salaries might be a bit higher than usual.
Not any more.
Qantas is no safer, and no less safe, than nearly every other airline in the developed world. Airlines in the developed world are all about as safe as each other.
The well deserved "safest airline in the world" reputation that Qantas forged over three-quarters of a century of operation is no longer a relevant point of difference as most competitor carriers just don't crash anymore.
I doubt many passengers would accept that QF salary costs should be higher beacause they are 'safer'.
For most travellers these days, its all about price, with safe travel being a well-founded assumption.
PG