What's a union?

A union is a member-based organisation made up of employees, usually from the same industry or a collection of similar industries. Unions represent their members on employment rights, such as work hours and conditions. They also bargain with employers about members' pay and employment conditions.

Unions are registered under federal workplace relations law. In certain circumstances, Fair Work Australia may also grant that state-registered unions can be recognised federally.

Freedom of association

All employees have the right to join or not join a union. They must not be pressured by the union or employer or any other person to make a decision about joining, not joining or leaving a union.

Important! An employer cannot dismiss an employee based on whether or not they're a union member.

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