Application by Crown Equipment Pty Ltd
Citation: [2026] FWCA 2143
At a glance
- Awards cited
- MA000217
What happened
Crown Equipment Pty Ltd sought approval for the Crown Equipment Pty Ltd Melbourne Workshops Enterprise Agreement 2026. The Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) was a bargaining representative. Concerns arose regarding workplace delegates' rights and whether apprentices would be better off overall, given the agreement didn't specify apprentice pay rates. The employer provided undertakings to address these concerns.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission approved the enterprise agreement. The employer gave undertakings that workplace delegate entitlements will align with or exceed those in Clause 40A of the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020. If apprentices are employed, they will receive above-award benefits and a minimum hourly rate one dollar more than the award rate. These undertakings became terms of the agreement.
What it means for employers
Employers seeking to implement enterprise agreements must carefully consider the Better Off Overall Test (BOOT) for all employee groups, including apprentices. Addressing potential concerns with clear undertakings can facilitate approval.
What it means for employees
Employees should review any new enterprise agreement and understand how it affects their entitlements compared to existing awards or agreements. The AMWU will be covered by this 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