AUSTRALIA (From news reports) -- After a 30-day lockout, over 300 workers at the Opal mill in Maryvale have returned to work.

The workers voted on Saturday to accept an improved deal, with their return scheduled for 6:00am Sunday, February 16th.

The conflict had stemmed from Opal's proposal to drastically cut wages and conditions, which would have left workers in a much worse position according to the union.

However, after intense negotiations, the Union and Opal reached an agreement.

This new deal ensures wage increases for all workers, along with the retention of essential terms and conditions.

Pulp & Paper Workers Secretary Denise Campbell-Burns welcomed the deal, saying, "We're pleased that our members will be returning to work with real wage growth and their existing terms and conditions intact. No one is left behind."

Ms Campbell-Burns emphasized the positive outcome of the deal but raised concerns about the lengthy lockout process, which she said could have been avoided.

Opal also expressed satisfaction with the resolution and confirmed the new Enterprise Agreement at the Maryvale Mill.

The company releasing a statement saying, "We are pleased to welcome our valued Production team members back to work from Sunday, February 16th, 2025, after reaching an in-principle agreement for a new Enterprise Agreement."