A seven month stand-off over wages could come to an end next week when workers at Simplot’s Ulverstone and Devonport sites in Tasmania vote on wages after reaching an in-principle agreement in the Fair Work Commission.
It is understood the company’s proposal is “a bit different to what they first put forward but the most important thing is for the workforce to get to understand what the proposal is and obviously see what they think about it”, according to the AMWU’s John Short. The AMWU had previously requested a 12% wage increase over three years.
Mid last-year, the company indicated that the Devonport plant could close if it does not increase competitiveness. Simplot manufactures a range of products including frozen vegetables, Chiko rolls and Lean Cuisine.
