A union collective agreement - your best chance to secure fair pay and conditions in AMSA
29 July 2008, 12:44pm
AMSA staff will shortly be asked to choose what type of agreement they want. It is an important decision with real consequences for your pay, rights and conditions.
How we won the right to choose
In the past decade employers had the right to choose what type of agreement
or individual contract best suited their needs. So a critical part of the Rights
at Work campaign was making sure that workers had a real say in agreement
making. Now it is government policy that agencies must genuinely consult you
about the type of agreement you would prefer.
Why the choice matters
The type of agreement determines how the agreement is made – and that makes a
difference to outcomes on pay, rights and conditions;
Union collective
agreement
Employee (non-union) collective
agreement
latest average pays 3.9% per annum*
latest average pays 3.5% per annum*
your employer and your union must reach
agreement before an all staff vote
no requirement to negotiate or to reach
agreement before a staff vote
experienced CPSU negotiators join your
workplace reps, and bring knowledge of latest developments in the public sector
to the negotiations
management may choose to consult with staff
but are only obliged to provide information
your union representatives can visit you and
assist you in the workplace in resolving issues
individuals must raise disputes and your
union is only involved if invited by a member
the union is a party to the agreement and can
take action to enforce it
your union is restricted in its lawful
ability to enforce any breaches or provide you with industrial advice and
support
* Source: DEEWR, December quarter 2007
It’s not just the expert negotiators
CPSU backs up its negotiators with the latest research and industry analysis
– plus campaigning, media and lobbying expertise. That is why 85% of the
Australian Public Service choose union agreements.
The decisive factor – union members
Good agreement outcomes are won through strong workplace support. You still
need an active and strong union membership to get the best possible outcomes.
Questions or comments?
For more information email amsa_bargain@cpsu.org.au or
contact Irene Moggan on (02) 8204 6955 or mobile 0409 533 300.
