Application by Greater Geelong Constructions Pty Ltd Trading AS Ggc Industries
Citation: [2026] FWCA 1977
What happened
Greater Geelong Constructions Pty Ltd (GGC) applied for approval of three greenfields enterprise agreements: the GGC Offshore Maintenance HUC Greenfields Enterprise Agreement, the GGC - Western Australia and Northern Territory Offshore Construction Projects Agreement, and the GGC Offshore Decommissioning Enterprise Agreement. These agreements would apply to prospective employees performing offshore work in Western Australia and the Northern Territory. The Australian Workers Union (AWU) supported the agreements, while the Australian Manufacturers Workers Union (AMWU) initially raised concerns about their approval, including whether they represented a genuine new enterprise and if pay and conditions were consistent with industry standards. GGC provided evidence comparing its proposed agreements to others in the sector.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission approved all three greenfields enterprise agreements submitted by Greater Geelong Constructions Pty Ltd. The AMWU’s initial objections regarding the genuineness of a new enterprise and consistency with prevailing pay rates were dismissed. The Commissioner was satisfied that the AWU was entitled to represent employees covered by the agreements, and that approval was in the public interest. GGC provided evidence demonstrating alignment with industry standards through comparisons with other decommissioning agreements.
What it means for employers
Employers seeking to establish greenfields agreements should ensure they can demonstrate good faith negotiations and provide comparative data showing pay and conditions are consistent with prevailing industry rates. Thorough documentation of business plans and operational capabilities can support arguments for approval, particularly when addressing concerns about the genuineness of a new enterprise.
What it means for employees
Employees potentially covered by these agreements should be aware of their union representation and understand the terms and conditions outlined in the approved enterprise agreements. The AWU is recognised as the bargaining representative for these employees.
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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 →