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Selected Events in Trade Union History Mudginberri Abattoir Dispute (1985)

From
1985
Darwin, Northern Territory
To
1985
Functions
Industrial Dispute

Summary

In 1985 the owners of the Mudginberri Abattoir, within the boundaries of the Kakadu National Park, signed individual contracts with employees without the involvement of workers. Member s of the Australasian Meat Industry Employees Union (AMIEU) maintained a picket line on the road leading up to the abattoir for four months. The Union was concerned that workers were not being paid standard award wages and other entitlements. The owners, in conjunction with the National Farmers Federation (NFF) and the Meat and Allied Trades Federation (MATFA), instigated legal action to damages. This action was successful and the union was fined and had its assets frozen.

Published resources

Journal Articles

  • Brian, Bernie, 'The Mudginberri Abattoir Dispute of 1985', Labour History, vol. 76, 1999, pp. 107-124. Details

Ross E. Elford