Application by "Automotive, Food, Metals, Engineering, Printing and Kindred Industries Union" known as the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union (AMWU) (188V)
Citation: [2026] FWC 2404
What happened
The Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union (AMWU) applied for a protected action ballot order concerning employees of Albins Performance Pty Ltd. The union and employer were attempting to reach an agreement. Albins Performance did not object to the application. The AMWU’s Organiser, Daniel Yacoub, provided a declaration outlining bargaining efforts.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission granted the AMWU's application for a protected action ballot order under section 437 of the Fair Work Act 2009. A ballot will be conducted by Fair Vote Services Pty Ltd, an approved ballot agent. Voting must close by July 13, 2026. A compulsory conciliation conference will be scheduled to facilitate negotiations regarding the proposed enterprise agreement.
What it means for employers
Employers should ensure they engage in genuine bargaining with unions when negotiating agreements. Failure to do so may lead to union applications for protected action ballots, potentially disrupting operations and increasing costs.
What it means for employees
Employees have a right to bargain collectively through their union. This process can lead to improved terms and conditions of employment via an enterprise agreement. The ballot will allow employees to vote on whether to take protected industrial action.
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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 →