Hume City Council and the Australian Services Union have agreed to settle Federal Court proceedings arising from a dispute about pay deductions connected with industrial action taken by employees earlier this year.
The proceedings involved differing positions regarding the notice provided for the industrial action, whether the action was protected under the Fair Work Act 2009, and Council's obligations in relation to employee pay during that period.
The parties have agreed to resolve the matter without any admission of fault on the part of Hume City Council in the interests of maintaining a constructive working relationship and supporting the ongoing bargaining process. As part of the settlement, Council will contribute $1,780.41 to the ASU's industrial action hardship fund.
The settlement is made without any admission of liability by either party.
The settlement does not involve a finding by the Court against either the ASU or Council. Both parties acknowledge their respective legal rights and responsibilities and remain committed to engaging respectfully and constructively.
The ASU and Hume City Council are continuing to negotiate in good faith as part of the multi-employer bargaining process involving Hume and seven other councils. The parties remain focused on progressing negotiations and working towards an agreement that provides clarity and certainty for employees.
