Your ASU representatives prepared for and attended the first bargaining meeting on 7 October 2015. The purpose of the meeting was to kick off negotiations for a new enterprise agreement for staff at Maurice Blackburn. The meeting had been planned for weeks.
Unfortunately, before the meeting could begin Maurice Blackburn representatives demanded that an ASU organiser leave the meeting, as they had not been advised in advance that he would be attending. Maurice Blackburn representatives said that they were not prepared to meet unless the ASU organiser left!
The ASU delegates decided that the ASU organiser should stay, as it is not up to Maurice Blackburn to direct who may attend bargaining meetings on behalf of the ASU. On this basis, Maurice Blackburn refused to meet, and left.
The ASU is extremely disappointed and concerned by the conduct of the Maurice Blackburn representatives. Delegates had spent time preparing for and then attending the meeting, which turned out to be a complete waste of their time.
The ASU does not intend to dictate who attends bargaining meetings on behalf of Maurice Blackburn, and similarly does not expect Maurice Blackburn to try to control who represents the ASU - and then terminate bargaining if it's not to their liking.
ASU puts Maurice Blackburn on notice
The ASU has now written to Maurice Blackburn putting them on notice that we consider their conduct in refusing to meet with us to be in breach of their obligation to bargain in good faith in accordance with the Fair Work Act 2009. We have sought a response by 15 October.
In the event that Maurice Blackburn does not comply with its obligation to bargain in good faith, the ASU has a range of options available to it, including making an application to the Fair Work Commission.
We will keep members updated with any developments.
Want more information?
If you need more information contact your locals ASU organiser or delegate (download the full bulletin below for details).
Maurice Blackburn Bulletin - 13 Oct 2015