[2025] FWC 3468
Citation: [2025] FWC 3468
At a glance
- Employees affected
- 106
What happened
The Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA) applied for a community of interest determination regarding the closure of the Torrens B power station in South Australia, operated by AGL Energy Ltd and AGL Torrens Island Pty Ltd. The application aimed to support transition employees. No dependent employers were nominated. A hearing was held on 20 November 2025, with submissions from the NZEA, AGL, the Energy Industry Worker Redeployment Advisory Group, and several unions. AGL did not oppose the application, and the unions supported it. There are 106 transition employees and approximately 78 participating employees.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission Deputy President Saunders made a community of interest determination, as the application was unopposed. The determination requires AGL to take actions to support transition employees in finding alternate employment. The Commission considered factors like the NZEA Act's objectives, existing support systems, the number of employees, redeployment capacity, and the Adelaide labour market conditions. The Commission found it reasonable to specify AGL as a closing employer, noting the need for ongoing support and the relatively short timeframe before the closure of one power station unit. A separate determination (PR793922) will be issued to implement the decision.
What it means for employers
Employers, particularly those undergoing transitions like power station closures, should proactively provide support to affected employees. Demonstrating efforts to assist employees in finding new employment is important. Consider the potential need for ongoing support and the impact of closures on specialized skillsets and older workers.
What it means for employees
Employees facing job transitions due to power station closures may benefit from the support and obligations placed on their employer through a community of interest determination. This determination aims to facilitate access to alternate employment opportunities and support during the transition period.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fwc.gov.au/documents/decisionssigned/pdf/2025fwc3468.pdfWant more cases like this?
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This summary was drafted by AI from the published decision and reviewed before publishing. It is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, speak to the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified lawyer. About these summaries & corrections →