Application for approval of the SeaRoad Shipping - CFMEU (MUA) Bass Strait Enterprise Agreement 2025

[1] An application has been made for approval of an enterprise agreement known as the SeaRoad Shipping - CFMEU (MUA) Bass Strait Enterprise Agreement 2025 (the Agreement). The application was made pursuant to s.185 of the Fair Work Act 2009 (the Act). It has been made by SeaRoad Shipping Pty Ltd. The Agreement is a single enterprise agreement.

Interaction with the National Employment Standards

[2] Clause 3.3 of the Agreement provides that the National Employment Standards (NES) applies to employees covered by the agreement except where the agreement provides a more favourable outcome (NES precedence clause). On this basis, I am satisfied that the apparent inconsistencies with the NES outlined below do not prevent the approval of this agreement:

1. Clause 20.8.1 of the Agreement provides for compassionate leave, however it is silent in relation to the entitlement in circumstances when an employee, their spouse, or de facto partner has a miscarriage or gives birth to a stillborn child. Section 104(1)(c) of the Act provides for compassionate leave in these circumstances. On the basis of the NES precedence clause, the superior entitlement provided for in the NES will apply.

[3] On the basis of the material filed in support of the application, I am satisfied that each of the requirements of ss.186, 187, 188 and 190 as are relevant to this application for approval have been met.

[4] The Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union - Manufacturing Division - Tasmanian District (MUA) being a bargaining representative for the Agreement, has given notice under s.183 of the Act that it wants the Agreement to cover it. In accordance with s.201(2) I note that the Agreement covers the MUA.

[5] The Agreement is approved and, in accordance with s.54 of the Act, will operate 7 days after approval.

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