Bulletin 8 - protected industrial action - issued 13 February 2026
Information for Union members
The Fair Work Commission have made an order pursuant to s.443 of the Fair Work Act (the Act) for a protected action ballot to be held for employees covered by the NTPS Fire and Rescue Service 2021 – 2025 Enterprise Agreement.
The ballot is to be conducted by Fair Vote Services over the period 13 February 2026 to 20 February 2026 and UWU members will receive ballots. If the ballot is successful, members of UWU can take the protected industrial action proposed. Employees who are not UWU members are not eligible to vote, will not receive a ballot and cannot participate in protected industrial action.
The timeline for the ballot has been generated in accordance withs s.451 of the Act as below:
| Action | Date and Time (ACST) |
|---|---|
| Notice of Ballot Distributed to Employees | Thursday, 12 February 2026 |
| Distribution of Instruction Sheet | Friday, 13 February 2026 – 9:00am |
| Ballot Commencement | Friday, 13 February 2026 – 10:00am |
| Close of Ballot | Friday, 20 February 2026 – 5:00pm |
| Declaration of Results | Friday, 20 February 2026 – 7:00pm |
Fair Work Act requirements
In accordance with the FW Act, the employer is legally required to deduct payment to a member who engages in protected industrial action, for the total duration of the industrial action taken. In relation to other approved actions (i.e. action that affects a particular activity or part of the day), a reduction to salary will be calculated in accordance with the FW Act, noting a Bulletin will be issued advising of the proportion of pay to be deducted.
More information about the bargaining process
Regular updates in relation to the bargaining process are posted on the OCPE Website. Further information on bargaining and the Act can be obtained at www.fwc.gov.au or you can contact the Fair Work Commission information line on 1300 799 675.
Nicole Hurwood
Commissioner for Public Employment
13 February 2026