Application for approval of the Vertech Group Pty Ltd (WA & NT) Hydrocarbon Sector Inspection Services Enterprise Agreement 2025

[1] Vertech Group (the Applicant) has made an application for the approval of an enterprise agreement known as the Vertech Group Pty Ltd (WA & NT) Hydrocarbon Sector Inspection Services Enterprise Agreement 2025 (the Agreement). The application was made under s 185 of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (the Act). The Agreement is a single enterprise agreement.

[2] On the basis of the material contained in the application and accompanying declarations, I am satisfied that each of the requirements of ss 186, 187 and 188 of the Act as are relevant to this application for approval have been met.

[3] I note that the following clauses in the Agreement appear to be inconsistent with the National Employment Standards (the NES):

1. Redundancy: Clause 16.3 of the Agreement provides that the employer is not required to pay redundancy if they make an alternative offer of employment which is rejected by the employee but does not require an application to the Fair Work Commission as per s 120(2) of the Act.

2. Compassionate leave: Clause 15.4 of the Agreement provides for compassionate leave; however, it is silent as to when the employee, their spouse, or de facto partner has a miscarriage or gives birth to a stillborn child. This may be inconsistent with s 104(1)(c) of the Act.

[4] However, I am satisfied that under clause 5.2 of the Agreement, the more beneficial entitlements of the NES will prevail where there is an inconsistency between the Agreement and the NES.

[5] The Australian Workers' Union (the organisation), 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), and based on the declaration provided by the organisation, I note that the organisation is covered by the Agreement.

[6] The Agreement was approved on 21 October 2025 and, in accordance with s 54, will operate from 28 October 2025. The nominal expiry date of the Agreement is 21 October 2029.

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