Application by Golding Contractors Pty Ltd
Citation: [2026] FWC 2535
At a glance
- Employees affected
- 362
What happened
TEC Coal Pty Ltd leases the Stanwell Meandu Mine in Queensland, currently operated by BUMA Australia Pty Ltd. From July 1, 2026, Golding Contractors Pty Ltd will operate the mine. Around 357 of BUMA’s employees have accepted offers from Golding. These transferring employees will work under the existing BUMA Meandu Mine Enterprise Agreement 2025. Golding has applied to the Fair Work Commission for an order extending this agreement to any new, non-transferring employees it hires after July 1, 2026. The unions involved support this application.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission decided to make an order extending the BUMA Meandu Mine Enterprise Agreement 2025 to cover Golding’s future non-transferring employees. The Commissioner considered factors like the views of both Golding and potential new employees, whether any employees would be disadvantaged, and the agreement's expiry date and impact on productivity. All statutory matters weighed in favour of making the order, which will improve minimum conditions for new employees and provide operational benefits for Golding.
What it means for employers
Employers taking over operations from another business should understand that existing enterprise agreements can be extended to cover newly hired employees. This is particularly relevant when there's a transfer of assets and work arrangements. Consider the impact on productivity and economic factors when assessing such applications.
What it means for employees
Employees transferring between businesses may benefit from continued coverage under an existing enterprise agreement, ensuring consistent minimum conditions of employment. New hires joining the business after the transition should also be covered by the same agreement.
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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 →