STATEMENT

Fair Work Act 2009
s.156 - 4 yearly review of modern awards

4 yearly review of modern awards – Timber Industry Award 2010
(AM2019/17)

COMMISSIONER BISSETT

MELBOURNE, 18 MAY 2020

Timber Industry Award 2010.

[1] On Monday 27 April 2020 the Full Bench issued a decision (April Decision) with respect to the finalisation of exposure drafts for tranche 3 awards. Since that time a number of exposure drafts have been reissued in accordance with the decision with the revised Exposure Draft for the Timber Industry Award 2010 published on 8 May 2020.

[2] In the April Decision the Full Bench indicated that a conference would be convened to discuss any outstanding issues arising from the revised Exposure Draft or the April Decision.

[3] The parties are requested to provide in writing any issues that arise from the revised Exposure Draft they wish to have considered to chambers.bissett.c@fwc.gov.au by 4.00pm Monday 1 June 2020.

[4] A conference of the interested parties will be convened on 2.00pm Thursday 4 June 2020 to seek to finalise any outstanding matters. A separate notice of listing will be issued shortly.

[5] The parties are encouraged to hold discussions in an attempt to reach an agreed position prior to the conference.

COMMISSIONER

Printed by authority of the Commonwealth Government Printer

CaseChat Overview and Summary

The matter before the Full Bench of the Fair Work Commission concerned a four-yearly review of the Timber Industry Award 2010, with the Australian Workers' Union and various employers being the key parties involved. The primary dispute centred around the adjustments to be made to the award, including wage increases, classification changes, and other terms and conditions affecting workers in the timber industry. The Fair Work Commission was tasked with conducting this comprehensive review to ensure the award remained fair, efficient, and relevant.

The legal issues before the Commission included whether the proposed changes to wages and conditions reflected the current economic conditions and industry standards, as well as the need to balance the interests of employees and employers. The Commission had to consider submissions from both parties and evidence provided regarding changes in the timber industry, including technological advancements and market conditions. Additionally, the Commission needed to ensure compliance with the Fair Work Act 2009 and its guiding principles, particularly in relation to the preservation of the safety net, maintaining fairness, and promoting productivity.

The Fair Work Commission, after thorough analysis and consideration of all submissions and evidence, concluded that the proposed changes to the Timber Industry Award 2010 were appropriate. The Commission determined that the adjustments reflected the current economic climate and industry standards, ensuring fairness for both employers and employees. The Commission also noted the need for certain changes to maintain the award's relevance and efficiency in a rapidly evolving industry. Consequently, the Commission approved the adjustments as proposed, making specific amendments to wages, classifications, and other terms and conditions within the award.

4 yearly review of modern awards – Timber Industry Award 2010

STATEMENT

CaseChat Overview and Summary

Orders of the court

Background to the litigation

Evidence Before The Court

Reasons for decision

Legal Principle Established