Workers at Bega Cheese Factory have called off plans for industrial action after an in principle agreement was reached between management and staff.
On Monday night, Bega Cheese presented a new three year Enterprise Agreement offering improved wages and conditions following pressure by union workers.
The changes include a base increase on wages, improvements in casual worker rights, uniforms for administrative staff, better sick leave conditions and new domestic violence support.
Bega Cheese said in a statement that it is pleased to have reached an in principal agreement with employees.
“It was pleasing that this outcome was achieved without any industrial action and due process is now underway to finalise the agreement. We look forward to continuing the good working relationship we have with our employees at the home of Bega Cheese,” the dairy company said.
In a statement from the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU), Patricia Fernandez, Australasian Meat Industry Employees Union secretary,
said workers have “stood strong in demanding respect”.
“They have sent a strong message to Mondelez that they can’t take advantage of regional workers, funneling profits away from the local community into the pockets of CEOs and Board members.”
The proposed agreement will be put to workers for a formal vote in the coming weeks.
