All Australian workers have the right to join a union.

Anyone working in Australia can join a union. It doesn't matter if you work as a casual or permanent staff member, part time or full time.

Union membership

We recognise your entitlement to join a registered union. While you don’t need to join a union, we encourage you to. When you start work, your name, position title and workplace location may be provided to a relevant union. They may contact you to discuss the benefits of union membership.

Protection and security

When you join a union you get specialist advice and support from workplace delegates about:

  • your wages and entitlements
  • unfair treatment and harassment at work
  • work related injuries or illness
  • collective bargaining for better pay and conditions
  • superannuation.

Join a union

Most industries have their own unions, and some have more than one.

The list below includes unions that may be relevant to your role.

Last updated: November 2023

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