Application by Catholic Homes Incorporated
Citation: [2026] FWCA 1979
What happened
Catholic Homes Incorporated applied to the Fair Work Commission for approval of its Registered Nurses (ANF) Enterprise Agreement 2025. The application initially had a signature page that didn't fully comply with regulations, but an amended version was filed. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), representing nurses, supports the agreement and wants to be covered by it.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission approved the Catholic Homes Incorporated Registered Nurses (ANF) Enterprise Agreement 2025. the Commissioner waived a minor procedural irregularity regarding the application's signature page. The agreement will operate from July 31, 2026, and expire on June 30, 2028. A clause about carer’s leave was noted as potentially inconsistent with the National Employment Standards (NES), but this issue was resolved by a clause stating that NES entitlements prevail. The agreement now includes delegates' rights based on the Nurses Award 2020.
What it means for employers
Employers should ensure application paperwork complies with Fair Work Regulations, or be prepared for procedural irregularities to be waived. Agreements must consider consistency with National Employment Standards and include a delegates’ rights term, or incorporate it via an applicable award.
What it means for employees
Registered nurses at Catholic Homes Incorporated will be covered by the new enterprise agreement from July 31, 2026. The agreement provides for certain benefits and conditions of employment. Where there is inconsistency between the agreement and National Employment Standards, the NES entitlements will prevail.
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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 →