Union EBAs mean better rates and conditions

Some important changes in the new Fair Work laws are already having an effect on bargaining negotiations around the country.

Your right to union representation

From 1 July 2009, once bargaining gets underway, all employers in the federal system are required to tell their workforce in writing that they are entitled to be represented in the bargaining process.

For all union members, this means the union is automatically the bargaining representative [unless a worker appoints someone else]. The employer must recognise the union and negotiate in good faith to try to reach an agreement.

Members who have received these notices have been quick to contact the CFMEU to get an organiser involved in bargaining as early as possible.

The new umpire, Fair Work Australia has also refused to approve some EBAs where employers have not properly advised workers of their right to representation during bargaining. This shows the new laws treat workers’ right to representation as fundamentally important to the bargaining system.

'Good faith’ bargaining

 We have also used the system of ‘good faith’ bargaining to keep employers honest during negotiations. Attempts to side-step the union or refuse to take part in proper negotiations have been defeated. Even the threat of bargaining orders has been enough to pull a few employers back into line.

Territory workers win from changes

NT construction workers can benefit from these changes too. Already, with union assistance, CFMEU members at Tutt Bryant Crane Hire (pictured above) have been able to use the ‘good faith’ bargaining provisions to negotiate more effectively with their employer.

Union negotiated collective EBAs have a track record of better rates of pay and conditions.

Contact CFMEU NT Branch for assistance today.