Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation v Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) Limited

[2023] FWC 3287

[2023] FWC 3287

FAIR WORK COMMISSION

DECISION

Fair Work Act 2009

s.459—Protected action

Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation
v

Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) Limited

(B2023/1348)

DEPUTY PRESIDENT HAMPTON ADELAIDE, 8 DECEMBER 2023

Application to extend the 30 day period in relation to B2023/1153

1. This matter concerns the declaration of the result of a protected action ballot (PR767571) held in matter B2023/1153. The ballot results were declared on 7 November 2023 and a correction to the results was issued on 15 November 2023.

1. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF or Applicant) has made an application pursuant to s.459(3) of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Act) to extend the 30 day period in which industrial action is authorised by the relevant protected action ballot.

1. Section 459(3) of the Act provides as follows:

“(3) The FWC may extend the 30-day period referred to in subparagraph (1)(d)(i) by up to 30 days if:

(a) an applicant for the protected action ballot order applies to the FWC for the period to be extended; and

(b)     the period has not previously been extended.”

1. The application made by the ANMF contends that each of the relevant requirements have been met and that the period should be extended by a further 30 days.

1. Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section) Limited (RFDS) has not advised the Commission of any objection to this application

1. I am satisfied that the relevant requirements of the Act have been met and that the application should be granted.

1. Accordingly, pursuant to section 459(3) of the Act, I order that the 30 day period for the commencement of protected industrial action for eligible ANMF members employed by RFDS be extended by a further 30 days.

1. This order will operate on and from 8 December 2023.

DEPUTY PRESIDENT

Printed by authority of the Commonwealth Government Printer

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