IN THE TASMANIAN INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION

Industrial Relations Act 1984

This was an application by The Association of Professional Engineers, Australia, Tasmanian Branch (APEA) for an increase in the vehicle allowance prescribed in the Professional Engineers (Private Industry) Award and for the addition of a new paragraph aimed at facilitating future adjustments to that allowance.

Mr D Pyrke, who appeared for the APEA in making submissions produced an exhibit "P1" which specified the new amount sought to be inserted and the terms of the additional paragraph. The latter provided for a procedure to be followed in the following terms:

"Provided that this rate shall be adjusted on 1 June each year in accordance with movement in the "Transportation" component of the Consumer Price Index for the 12 months preceding the March Quarter in the same year."

Mr Pyrke submitted in support of his application that this formula has been adopted by this Commission for other areas. He also confirmed that his proposal was consistent with the present Wage Fixing Principle, Allowances which permits increases in these terms:

"Existing allowances which constitute a reimbursement of expenses incurred may be adjusted from time to time where appropriate to reflect the relevant change in the level of such expenses."

Mr S Clues, who appeared for the Tasmanian Confederation of Industries (TCI) confirmed agreement to the application and he submitted that that the Guidelines reference, relied upon by Mr Pyrke, applied.

I accept the submissions of the parties and the Award will be amended as agreed operative from the date of this decision.

An order is attached.

P A Imlach
COMMISSIONER