The AMWU has demanded that Fairfax not implement changes until it consults its workforce, and this has been agreed in Fair Work Australia today.

Lorraine Cassin, National Print Secretary for the AMWU Print Division said that today's outcome is welcome because no worker will lose their job until there has been a chance to discuss the issue with company.

"The ACTU will now write a letter to the CEO of Fairfax demanding an urgent meeting and full consultation for the changes at Fairfax.

"Today's outcome is simple – it shows that Fairfax must respect the clause in its agreement to consult workers properly and in good faith before closing printing operations in Chullora and in Tullamarine", said Ms Cassin.  

Leigh Diehm, Assistant State Secretary said this decision removes the dark cloud of uncertainty that has been hanging over the printing operations in Victoria and in NSW.

"The ACTU are only happy to facilitate the meeting between the unions and Fairfax if the consultations have the capacity to reverse the decisions to close these factories – which we will be pushing for.

"The agreement in Fair Work Australia confirms this position. Fairfax now must properly consult with the workers and us before any drastic changes can be implemented.

"No factory will be closed until all alternatives can be explored and proper consultations have been conducted", said Mr Diehm.