Application by Princes Laundry Services Pty Ltd Trading AS Princes Laundry
Citation: [2026] FWCA 1469
What happened
Princes Laundry Services Pty Ltd sought approval for its Enterprise Bargaining Agreement 2025-2028. The agreement covers employees and mirrors the Dry Cleaning and Laundry Industry Award 2020. A technical error occurred in the notice of employee representational rights, using an outdated form. The United Workers’ Union is a bargaining representative for the agreement and supports its approval. Employees voted on the agreement and demonstrated sufficient interest.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission approved the Princes Laundry Services Pty Ltd Enterprise Bargaining Agreement 2025-2028, effective from July 8, 2026, expiring June 30, 2028. The Commissioner found a minor technical error in the notice of employee representational rights did not disadvantage employees. Several clauses were noted as potentially inconsistent with the National Employment Standards (NES), but the agreement states that NES entitlements will prevail where there is an inconsistency.
What it means for employers
Employers should ensure notices to employees regarding bargaining are compliant with current regulations, particularly concerning form requirements. When drafting enterprise agreements, carefully consider potential inconsistencies with the National Employment Standards and include a clause ensuring NES entitlements take precedence.
What it means for employees
Employees should review any new enterprise agreement to understand their rights and entitlements. If there's concern about an inconsistency between the agreement and the National Employment Standards, employees can rely on the more beneficial provisions of the NES.
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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