Vote Required to End Strike Against Woolworths

Pickets that have caused significant disruptions at four Woolworths distribution centres in Victoria and NSW have been ruled “unlawful” by the Fair Work Commission (FWC).

The union behind the strikes has vowed to continue until a “vote on a final position” from the supermarket chain is conducted.

After a lengthy hearing, the FWC found that the protests were impacting “good faith bargaining requirements” under the Fair Work Act, leading to a bargaining order being issued.

Woolworths has filed an urgent application with the Fair Work Commission, seeking resolution to the ongoing strikes.

The commission found that the picketing was unfairly blocking warehouse workers and truck drivers from accessing the work sites, leading to disruptions.

The FWC’s interim orders prohibit the union or its members from obstructing access to the distribution centres. The union has been instructed to inform its members about these orders.

Despite the orders, the union remains committed to negotiating with Woolworths until a satisfactory offer is reached, emphasizing the importance of a democratic vote by members.

The ongoing industrial action has left supermarket and bottle shop shelves empty, costing Woolworths millions of dollars.

Negotiations between warehouse workers and the retail giant have been tense, focusing on pay and conditions, including concerns over an algorithmic management platform.

Woolworths’ lawyers argue that the picketing undermines good-faith bargaining and puts undue pressure on the negotiation process.

The union maintains that workers deserve fair treatment and better pay, highlighting concerns over the company’s performance management system.

The standoff between Woolworths and the union continues, with both sides adamant in their positions. The impact of the strikes on supply chains and retail operations underscores the importance of reaching a resolution swiftly.