Effective communication: Trade Unions

What is a Trade Union?

A group of workers united to improve and protect wages, conditions, and safety.

What issues do trade unions deal with?

Hours of work, unfair dismissal, leave entitlements, penalty rates, safety

Who do trade unions represent?

• Same job workers (e.g., Nurses Union).

• Industry-wide workers (e.g., CFMEU).

How do trade unions work?

Collective power gives workers more influence than individuals; members pay fees; ACTU represents all unions nationally.

What happens if negotiations break down?

Industrial action:

• Work to Regulations

• Go Slow Campaign

• Lockout

• Strike

What is Work to Regulations?

Workers do only what is required in their contracts or rules — no extra tasks, no flexibility.

What is a Go Slow Campaign?

Workers deliberately slow down their work to reduce productivity while still technically working.

What is a Lockout?

Employers stop workers from entering the workplace to pressure them into accepting terms.

What is a Strike?

Workers refuse to work altogether to force changes in pay or conditions.

What is Fair Work Australia?

An Industrial Court that settles disputes but prefers self-resolution.

What is the Fair Work Ombudsman’s role?

Provides advice, ensures compliance, investigates breaches, enforces workplace laws.

How can workers check their pay?

Fair Work pay calculator website.

What is freedom of association?

The right to join or not join a union.

Why do people join unions?

Better pay, protection, job security, collective bargaining.

Why do some people not join unions?

Cost, feel it’s unnecessary, prefer personal negotiation.

Which industries are highly unionised?

Construction, education, health, manufacturing.

Which industries have low union membership?

Hospitality, retail.

What are the overall aims of trade unions?

Improve wages, working conditions, safety, and job security.

What is the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO)?

An independent government office that helps workers and employers follow workplace laws.

What are the main roles of the Fair Work Ombudsman?

• Provide education, advice, and guidance about workplace rights and obligations.

• Promote and monitor compliance with the Fair Work Act.

• Investigate possible breaches of workplace laws.

• Take enforcement action if laws are broken (e.g., fines, court cases).