Amcor Packaging (Australia) Pty Ltd v Automotive, Food, Metals, Engineering and Kindred Industries Union

Amcor Packaging (Australia) Pty Ltd sought an injunction against the Automotive, Food, Metals, Engineering and Kindred Industries Union and its organiser, Mr Reid, to prevent interference with the operation of its manufacturing plant at Preston. The dispute arose from a strike by union members employed by Amcor, which led to the union and Mr Reid allegedly inciting further industrial action. The matter was heard in the Federal Court of Australia.

The primary legal issue before the court was whether the union and its organiser had engaged in unlawful conduct by encouraging or facilitating the continuation of the strike and picketing, which obstructed access to Amcor's premises. The court had to determine if the union and Mr Reid were responsible for actions that went beyond what was authorised by the union's rules and whether such actions constituted unlawful industrial conduct.

The court found that the union and Mr Reid had indeed engaged in unlawful conduct by inciting the continuation of the strike and picketing, despite it not being authorised by the union. The union and Mr Reid were restrained from further interference with Amcor's operations, and the union was directed to notify its members of the cessation of authorised strike action. The union was also required to take steps to ensure compliance with the court's orders and report back to the court on its efforts. The court reserved the right to make further orders if necessary.