Tensions between supermarket and union have simmered since 2017
Legal proceedings by Aldi against the Transport Workers Union (TWU) have commenced today in Supreme Court, which the union says “could have far reaching consequences for anyone who wants to protest against poor workplace safety, environmental or rights abuses”.
The parties have been at loggerheads since 2017 over issues of safety in the transport supply chain, resulting in Aldi lodging an application for an interlocutory injunction to restrain the TWU from conducting pickets at its premises, and restrain the publication of certain communications relating to the dispute between the parties.
“Aldi is taking the case after the TWU protested against the supermarket giant’s refusal to discuss safety in its transport supply chain,” the union continues in a statement.
“While companies such as Coles and Woolworths have recognised the danger in the industry and have signed safety charters, Aldi refuses to even discuss the issue.
“Aldi is now taking the unprecedented step of trying to sue the Union for its protest campaign.”
Read more about the TWU’s national action against Aldi, here
In response, the supermarket was quoted by Channel 9 News as saying: “The TWU has made a series of allegations against Aldi.
“We say these allegations are false.
“The Federal Court will determine the matter following the hearing.”
The case has commenced before Justice Flick in the Federal Court Sydney.