Application by Coles Supermarkets Australia Pty Ltd
Citation: [2026] FWCA 2316
What happened
Coles Supermarkets Australia Pty Ltd applied to the Fair Work Commission for approval of the MilkCo and UWU Dairy Beverage Centre Enterprise Agreement 2026. The agreement is a single enterprise agreement covering employees in the food, beverages, and tobacco manufacturing industry. The United Workers Union (UWU) acted as a bargaining representative and has indicated it wants the agreement to cover its members.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission Deputy President Slevin approved the MilkCo and UWU Dairy Beverage Centre Enterprise Agreement 2026. The Commission found that the requirements of sections 186 and 187 of the Fair Work Act 2009 were met. The agreement will operate from 1 October 2026 and expire on 26 August 2026.
What it means for employers
Employers should ensure any enterprise agreements comply with the requirements of the Fair Work Act 2009, particularly sections 186 and 187, before seeking approval. Engaging with unions during the bargaining process is important.
What it means for employees
Employees covered by the MilkCo and UWU Dairy Beverage Centre Enterprise Agreement 2026 will have their terms and conditions of employment governed by the agreement. The UWU will be covered by the 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