Central Goldfields Shire continues to negotiate for its staff

Published on 27 March 2025

Whilst Central Goldfields Shire awaits the outcome of its Federal Court appeal, negotiations for a new Single Interest Enterprise Agreement with Ararat City Council are continuing in good faith for the benefit of its employees.

In 2024, the Australian Services Union lodged a successful application to the Fair Work Commission to compel Central Goldfields Shire to negotiate a Single Interest Enterprise Agreement with Ararat City Council.

Following clarification of its implications and the consequences for other regional Victorian councils - on 27 November 2024 - Central Goldfields Shire lodged an appeal to the Federal Court of Australia against the decision to retain its independence.

Whilst the outcome of the appeal is pending, Central Goldfields Shire is continuing to engage in negotiations. Regular meetings are being held with Ararat Rural City Council, and the unions party to the agreement, to progress discussions as quickly as possible and to ensure the best outcome for employees whilst maintaining financial sustainability.

Central Goldfields Shire Interim CEO Sally Jones said the decision to appeal was in the best interests of its staff and community.

“We know that single interest bargaining can impact councils' ability to tailor agreements to their specific workforce needs.

“When you have a national union coming in wanting to merge the entitlements of two councils with different demographics and workforces without discussion, compromises will have to be found. To date the union hasn’t been able to advise how this will happen.

“It may result in wage increases and conditions that do not align with individual councils' financial and operational circumstances, potentially leading to budget constraints, reduced services, or workforce reductions.

“Our preference is for a local EBA so that we can negotiate agreements specific to our workforce needs - ensuring fair wages and conditions while maintaining financial sustainability.

“We’ve successfully negotiated eight agreements in the past, securing strong working conditions and wage increases tailored to our organisation and staff. The sudden shift to single interest bargaining without prior discussion undermines established processes and disregards our ability to make independent workforce decisions.

“Whilst this is only impacting two rural councils currently, we are essentially a test case for the local government sector. This has the potential to set wide-ranging precedents for councils across the state with implications for years to come.

“We continue to lobby the Municipal Association of Victoria for their support and remain committed to securing the best possible outcome for our employees and broader community whilst ensuring financial responsibility.”