
UNIONISE YOUR WORKSITE
Understanding your rights under workplace law
Under the Fair Work Act, every worker in Australia has the right to join a union and participate in lawful union activities. These rights are protected by law, ensuring that you can seek better working conditions, fair pay, and a safer workplace without fear of discrimination or retaliation.
Unionising is commonly used to win overdue pay increase, safer workplace and improving workers rights on site.
Here are the steps to Unionise your Worksite
- Contact a TWU Representative:
Reach out to the TWU that represents workers that move Australia. We provide guidance, resources, and support to help you through the unionisation process. - Organise Your Workmates:
Start talking to your co-workers about the benefits of unionising like winning safety and pay rises. Share information and address any concerns they might have. Building a strong, united group is essential for a successful union campaign. - Form a TWU Committee:
Establish a committee of committed workers who will lead the efforts and work closely with the TWU. This group will help plan and coordinate activities to win stronger wages and conditions, communicate with workers, and act as liaisons with the TWU. - Sign Up TWU Members:
Collect signed membership forms from your co-workers who wish to join the TWU. This demonstrates collective interest and support for union representation. - Sign a Majority Support Determination (MSD):
The TWU will provide you a legal petition to collect signatures of the new TWU Members. The MSD is a legal petition and once the majority of the workers sign it legally allows the TWU to commence enterprise bargaining negotiations with the employer. - We Notify the Employer:
Once the majority of the workforce has joined the TWU & signed the MSD, we will notify your employer of your intent to to commence bargaining for a new workplace agreement under the protections of the Fair Work Act. A letter from the TWU will be sent to the employer without identify workers. - Bargain Collectively:
Once the company recognises the TWU as representing a majority of workers, you can begin collective bargaining with your employer by pursuing claims for pay increase, safer jobs and improvident rights on the job. This involves negotiating terms and conditions of employment to form an enterprise agreement. If the company fail to comply with legal requirements, an application from the TWU will be lodged in the Fair Work Commission.
Legal Protections:
- Protection Against Adverse Action: The Fair Work Act protects you from adverse actions, such as dismissal or discrimination, due to your involvement in union activities.
- Right to Representation:
You have the right to be represented by your union in any workplace matter, including negotiations, disputes, and disciplinary actions. - Access to Fair Work Commission:
If you encounter any issues during the unionisation process, the TWU will seek assistance from the Fair Work Commission, which is designed to resolve disputes and ensure your rights are upheld.
Resources and Support
The TWU is here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact our union representatives. Together, we can create a fairer, safer, and more equitable workplace.
For further details and support, contact us to speak to an experienced TWU Offical. Unionising is a powerful way to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected in the workplace.