Every worker has the right to join a union. There is a union for every worker in every kind of job and every workplace. Being part of a union is the best way to protect and improve your rights at work.
Union members are generally paid more (around $160 per week or 15 percent extra) and have better working conditions than non-members.
Joining a union is completely confidential – you don’t need to tell the boss, your co-workers or your parents. If you are old enough to work, you can join your union. You can join a union at any time - just follow the link below to find out more.
Unions can:
Help ensure you get treated fairly and paid properly.
Help you improve your pay and conditions.
Help you if you have a question or issue at work.
Help support campaigns about important issues outside of the workplace.
Your employer can't prevent you from joining a union and it is illegal for an employer to discriminate against someone because they are a union member.
What Union do I join?
Different Unions cover workers in different industries. Most unions cover a bunch of different industries. The most common ones for young people to be covered by at the United Workers Union (UWU) who cover hospitality, restaurants, cafes, clubs and more and the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA) who cover fast food, grocery store workers, retail and more.
To find out more about how to join your union, visit http://www.unionsact.org.au/joinyourunion/.