Woolworths faces major pay dispute as union strike disrupts supply across Australia

Woolworths faces a significant pay dispute with its warehouse workers, leading to empty shelves across Victoria, NSW, and the ACT. The Fair Work Commission will hear Woolworths' request to stop union picketing at key distribution centers. The industrial action has lasted 16 days, costing Woolworths over $50 million. The United Workers Union is demanding better pay and changes to a performance management system. Woolworths claims the union's demand for a 25% pay rise over three years exceeds inflation. The company is focused on keeping grocery prices affordable for customers.