Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union v Svitzer Australia Pty Ltd

[2020] FWC 5856

[2020] FWC 5856

FAIR WORK COMMISSION

DECISION

Fair Work Act 2009
s.459—Protected action

Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union
v
Svitzer Australia Pty Ltd
(B2020/673)

VICE PRESIDENT CATANZARITI SYDNEY, 2 NOVEMBER 2020

Application to extend the 30-day period in relation to B2020/442.

[1] On 30 October 2020, the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (Applicant) made an application to the Fair Work Commission (the Commission) pursuant to s. 459(3) of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (the Act) to extend the 30 day period for protected action authorised by a protected action ballot order, PR722196 made on 28 August 2020. The Order applies to certain employees of Svitzer Australia Pty Ltd (the Respondent).

[2] The ballot result, by which a majority of the relevant employees endorsed the proposed forms of protected industrial action, was declared on 8 October 2020. Pursuant to s. 459(1)(d)(i) of the Act, the 30 day period for protected action commenced on the date of the declaration of the results of the ballot and therefore expires at midnight on 6 November 2020.

[3] On 30 October 2020, the Respondent advised the Commission via email that it does not oppose the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union’s application to extend the 30 day period for protected industrial action. Accordingly, I have determined the matter on the basis of the documentation filed.

[4] In addressing s.459(3) of the Act, this application is made by the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union who is the Applicant for which the protected action ballot order was issued. Furthermore, the period specified in s.459(1)(d)(i) has not been previously extended.

[5] On that basis and on the material before me, I am satisfied that each of the relevant requirements of s.459 of the Act have been met and that a 30 day extension is appropriate. As the 30 day period expires at midnight on 6 November 2020, the extension period will operate from 6 November 2020.

[6] An order has been separately issued in PR724186.

VICE PRESIDENT

Printed by authority of the Commonwealth Government Printer

<PR724187>