Application by "Automotive, Food, Metals, Engineering, Printing and Kindred Industries Union" known as the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union (AMWU) (188V)
Citation: [2026] FWC 3042
At a glance
- Employees affected
- 33
What happened
The Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union (AMWU) and Communications, Electrical, Electronic, Energy, Information, Postal, Plumbing and Allied Services Union applied to the Fair Work Commission for a majority support determination. This application concerned employees of Australian Meat Group Pty Ltd at their Dandenong, Victoria facility. The employees are covered by the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020. A petition signed by 19 out of 33 relevant employees supported bargaining. The employer had not yet agreed to bargain.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission granted the application for a majority support determination. Commissioner Allison found that a majority of employees wanted to bargain and that the group of employees was fairly chosen. The Respondent did not oppose the determination. A separate determination document (PR813113) was issued to formally commence bargaining.
What it means for employers
Employers should be aware of union applications for majority support determinations, particularly when employees express a desire to bargain. Refusal to engage in bargaining can lead to a Fair Work Commission order compelling the employer to do so.
What it means for employees
Employees have avenues through their unions to initiate bargaining for an enterprise agreement if employers are unwilling to negotiate. A majority support determination can facilitate this process.
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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 →