Application by The Karuna Hospice Service Limited Trading AS Karuna Hospice Services
Citation: [2026] FWCA 2388
What happened
The Karuna Hospice Service Limited, trading as Karuna Hospice Services, applied to have the Karuna Hospice Services Nurses Enterprise Agreement 2026 approved. The application was filed one day late due to a miscalculation. A Notice of Employee Representational Rights had a slightly different name for the agreement. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation – QNMU Branch also indicated they wished to be covered by the agreement.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission approved the Karuna Hospice Services Nurses Enterprise Agreement 2026. The Deputy President extended the time for filing the application. The Commission noted some clauses may be inconsistent with the National Employment Standards, but an undertaking ensures the more beneficial entitlements of the NES will prevail. The agreement will operate from September 7, 2026, and expire on May 28, 2029.
What it means for employers
Employers should carefully calculate deadlines for lodging documents with the Fair Work Commission. Ensure consistency in naming conventions across all documents related to enterprise agreements. Provide undertakings to address potential inconsistencies with the National Employment Standards.
What it means for employees
Employees should be aware of the terms of the Karuna Hospice Services Nurses Enterprise Agreement 2026. The National Employment Standards will apply if there are any inconsistencies between the agreement and their entitlements.
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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