Three workers at Woolworths’ Melbourne Liquor Distribution Centre have survived a determined push from management to victimise them. The MLDC 3, all members of the National Union of Workers, were singled out for investigation and disciplinary action – including possible dismissal – following a four-day strike in August. The strike won some limitations on management’s use of labour hire in the shed.

Management’s pursuit of disciplinary action against two of the most active union delegates, along with a former delegate, was a clear attempt to weaken union representation in the shed. A settlement means that, although the workers will be subject to disciplinary measures, they will not be sacked.

As with the August strike at MLDC, solidarity from workers at other sheds played a crucial role in the outcome. NUW members at Woolworths distribution centres in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and regional Victoria pledged solidarity with the targeted workers. This gave management second thoughts about sacking union delegates as they approached the busiest few weeks of the year.