The collective bargaining notification process was introduced on 1 January 2007.
Notification is a process under which parties which propose to engage in collective bargaining conduct may obtain immunity from legal action under the Trade Practices Act, if the conduct is in the public interest.
Any party to a collective bargaining arrangement can lodge a notification and can lodge a notification on behalf of other businesses that will be a party to the arrangement. Collective bargaining notifications may also be lodged by a nominated representative who is not a member of the collective bargaining group. For example, an industry association may lodge a notification on behalf of its members.
Collective bargaining notifications under consideration during May 2009
Australian Newsagents Federation Limited
On 6 May 2009 the Australian Newsagents Federation lodged a collective bargaining notification on behalf of its Western Australian members, the members of the West Australian Distribution Association and certain independent newsagents. The notification relates to a proposal by the newsagents to collectively negotiate the terms and conditions of their contracts with West Australian Newspapers.
The ACCC sought submissions from interested parties before allowing the notification to stand on 27 May 2009.
Developments in the Australian Competition Tribunal during May 2009
There were no developments in relation to collective bargaining notifications in the Australian Competition Tribunal during May 2009.
