News

As members will be aware from our bulletin on 24 August 2026, the VAU made an application to the Fair Work Commission for a Protected Action Ballot Order (PABO) The PABO was approved, and the vote on 31 August 2026 at 4:00pm.

We are pleased to inform members that NPT members voted YES to taking protected industrial action. Of those who voted, 96.98% of members voted yes to industrial action. This shows the overwhelming response to NPT’s offers, which have been inadequate and insulting.

The VAU has notified NPT that members will be taking the below actions:

NPT members who nominated the VAU as their bargaining representative will participate in the above actions from this Friday, 4 September 2026. If you did not nominate the VAU as your bargaining representative, you cannot participate in industrial action.

Please remember that taking protected industrial action is a workplace right, and the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) prohibits employers from taking any adverse action against an employee because they participate in industrial action. This includes terminating, demoting, victimising, dropping your shifts or being threatening to do so because of your participation in industrial action. So do not be afraid to participate, whether you are a new employee, or have been at NPT for years.

Members have the ability to choose to engage with any of the actions outlined above. You do not have to participate in all of the actions, but we strongly encourage members to get involved in industrial action. It is our best chance at making NPT recognise and reward your hard work and increased scope of practice, because they are refusing to do so at the bargaining table.

Members can contact the VAU if they have any questions. We are happy to answer member questions or clarify any misunderstandings that members may have. We encourage members to call or email the VAU.