In a hearing late last week Fair Work Australia Senior Deputy President Hamberger said that he: “ . . . can’t see any reason not to accede to all the three applications” associated with the amalgamation of Printing Industries Association of Australia (Printing Industries) and the Graphic Arts Services Association of Australia (GASAA).
He has directed that a ballot of GASAA members be conducted by the Australia Electoral Commission as soon as practicable.
Representatives of both organisations attended the hearing held in Sydney.
Justice Hamberger approved three key amalgamation criteria 1. That there was sufficient community interest to support the amalgamation; 2. That GASAA members can now proceed to a ballot for the amalgamation and 3. Granted a membership ballot exemption to Printing Industries on the basis of its size.
Printing Industries CEO Bill Healey said he was very pleased with the outcome.
“This now clears the way for the Australian Electoral Commission to facilitate the ballot of GASAA members,” he said.
“I would also take this opportunity to acknowledge the work of Printing Industries’ Workplace Relations and Legal Services team led by Charles Watson for all their compliance and preparatory work that has successfully taken us to this point.”
GASAA Executive Officer Garry Knespal, said relevant paperwork was now underway for the Electoral Commission to facilitate the vote.
“Subject to a vote of GASAA members, we are well on track for finalisation before the end of the year,” he said.
Printing Industries Association of Australia
www.printnet.com.au
Graphic Arts Services Association of Australia
www.gasaa.asn.au
