On 1 November 2006, Technip Oceania, the project manager of the Otway gas Plant Construction Project applied for an order under s.496 of the Workplace Relations Act 1996 to stop industrial action that was being taken by electrical trades employees by way of a refusal to work overtime.
The electrical employees had refused to make themselves available to work overtime (contrary to agreement and custom on the site) since 11 September 2006 following a reduction in staffing numbers on the project.
Commissioner Eames made an order with effect from Tuesday 7 November 2006 for a period of 6 months or until completion of the project if that occurs sooner.