Application by "Automotive, Food, Metals, Engineering, Printing and Kindred Industries Union" known as the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union (AMWU) (188V)
Citation: [2026] FWC 2323
What happened
The Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union (AMWU) applied to the Fair Work Commission for a majority support determination to initiate bargaining for an enterprise agreement covering employees at Lion Pty Ltd’s Little Creatures Geelong facility. The proposed agreement would cover brewers, packaging technicians, technical officers, and warehouse/packaging technician logistics staff. Initially, the employer was identified as 'Lion – Beer, Spirits and Wine Pty Ltd', but this was later corrected to Lion Pty Ltd. Lion opposed the application, arguing the AMWU lacked standing, employees didn’t want to bargain, the employee group wasn't fairly chosen, and it wasn't reasonable to make the determination.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission found that the AMWU did have standing to bring the application. The decision focused on whether a majority of employees wanted to bargain and if the group was fairly chosen. Further details regarding the specific reasoning and final outcome are not provided in the supplied text, but it indicates a majority support determination was made.
What it means for employers
Employers should ensure accurate identification of their company name when dealing with union applications. They also need to be prepared to address concerns about employee willingness to bargain and the fairness of group representation if an application for a majority support determination is lodged.
What it means for employees
Employees should understand that unions can apply for majority support determinations to initiate bargaining, which could lead to enterprise agreements. Employees may want to consider whether they wish to be represented by a union in bargaining processes and ensure their voices are heard.
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This summary was drafted 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 →