TASMANIAN INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION

Industrial Relations Act 1984
s.23 application for award or variation of award

Federated Clerks Union of Australia,
Tasmanian Branch
(T.2539 and T.2699 of 1990)

The Federated Engine Drivers' and Firemen's Association of Australasia
Tasmanian Branch
(T.3304 of 1991)

The Australian Workers' Union,
Tasmania Branch
(T.3315 of 1991)

DAIRYMENS AWARD

Structural Efficiency

REASONS FOR DECISION

These matters concern applications for the granting of the second structural efficiency increase and a major restructuring of the Dairymens Award.

Whereas the Federated Clerks Union of Australia, Tasmanian Branch, sought to be part of this exercise, and to have provisions relating to superannuation included in its own section of this award, it subsequently sought to be completely excluded.

The award as a whole has been subject to a substantial review through negotiations spanning a period of two years.

In the result the rewritten award put forward for ratification by the Commission as a consent matter reflects a fundamental review of classification structures with clear definitions of functions, together with some changed conditions of employment.

Even the name of the award has been changed to the "Dairy Processing Award".

Clear career paths and flexible work arrangements will enhance efficiency and productivity and will be of mutual benefit to employers and employees.

The well-documented revised award is genuine in its objectives of following the requirements of the Structural Efficiency Principle, and in fact is a prime example of what can be achieved in this regard.

Fundamental to the new arrangements is the provision of proper training on an internal basis to give to every employee wishing to participate the opportunity to improve his/her skill levels and be appropriately rewarded. Accreditation is to be approved through the appropriate Government training authority.

Some matters are still to be addressed but the parties are committed to:

1. Accepting the granting of the 2.5% early in the New Year, based upon proper criteria.

2. Minimum rates adjustments applying in two instalments instead of four during 1992.

3. Absorption of over award payments to the extent necessary when minimum rates are introduced.

In the present circumstances the parties are to be congratulated in what they have achieved to make such an important Tasmanian industry more competitive, stronger, and more secure and rewarding for those employed in it.

Since the proposal is consistent with the requirements of current Wage Fixation Principles and meets public interest criteria it is my decision to approve it.

The award will be varied accordingly.

Operative Date

These variations shall have effect from the first full pay period to commence on or after 19 December 1991.

Order to follow.

A. Robinson
DEPUTY PRESIDENT

Appearances:
Mr A. Grubb for the Federated Clerks Union of Australia, Tasmanian Branch.
Ms S. Pavlic for the Federation of Industrial, Manufacturing and Engineering Employees, Tasmania Branch.
Mr G. Cooper for The Australian Workers' Union, Tasmania Branch.
Mr T. Edwards with Mr A. McLeod for the Tasmanian Confederation of Industries.

Date and Place of Hearing:
1991:
Hobart
October 31
December 19