NKSK version 2

I can't believe that the ALP has signed up to an agreement whereby if a union has 50% of a workforce signed up then everyone - even those not in the union - has to pay a $500 "bargaining fee" direct to the union.

That's it. The law. No getting out of it.

So in spite of the fact that only 20% of the general workforce is in a union, the unions could theoretically receive a $500 fee from every member of the workforce.

Now that, is frightening.

Nomore

Another money making scheme in OZ.

There are good at this sort of thing, arn't they??

Swerv-o

Where's Mrs Thatcher when you need her?

S

NKSK version 2

There's nothing wrong with money making schemes - that's what makes the world go round.

What's so annoying is that it is usually some bloke who has opted out of the workforce to be a pen pusher and motormouth, espousing socialism, fairness and equality who for some reason is able to afford a penthouse in the most exclusive suburb, multi-million dollar investment portfolios and political influence.

So much for equality and fairness and sticking up for the little man.

NKSK version 2

I KNOW!!

Hated her with a passion in the 1980s but my goodness Australia needs someone like her now!

Swerv-o

This is evidently part of Labours commitment to not having the country run by the unions...

S

NKSK version 2

Don't know why I'm posting smileys - I could cry actually.

Swerv-o

I can imagine. are you likely to be effected?

S

NKSK version 2

No. Not at all. My place has probably a less than 10% union membership and even then the union is very moderate - right wing even. (Independent Education Union).

It's the principle which gets me down. I think it's completely undemocratic and reminds me so much of England circa 1975.

breezeboylan

How can they recieve $500 from every member of the workforce if only 20% of them are union members and the law now states that it only applicable to areas where there is over 50% membership?

My understanding is that if the union negotiate on behalf of 50% + 1 person and then everybody signs up to the negotiated settlement, then everyone has to contribute to the people who made the negotiatiation, only fair IMHO.

For example if the Union negotiate a 10% pay rise for its members, then the whole workforce is entitled to that pay rise not just the membership. If you dont want to pay the union for this service then non union members can in theory negotiate their own conditions and salary.

Tracie

NKSK version 2

This is the bit which I doubt.

I'm not sure that this is an option under the new arrangements. I don't think you are allowed to opt out and conduct your own negotiations.

If the union wants to negotiate on behalf of it's members - fine. But as a non-union member I don't want them to negotiate for me.

But do I have an option?

Vash the Stampede

The unions are absurdly powerful in Australia. While I do believe they are necessary, I cannot condone their behaviour.

When I worked for Australia Post, less than 40% of employees were union members - despite aggressive recruitment tactics by local reps.

Vash the Stampede

You could try asking for your own AWA.

breezeboylan

But the fact that there has to be over 50% union membership in that area surly means that it is democracy in action. If the majority decide on membership then surly the minority should agree or chose to work in a non union environment. I object to paying union fees for all my working life and the non union members benefiting from the conditions that the unions have fought for on my behalf.
Tracie

NKSK version 2

Yes I take your point.

The Australian yesterday gave a good example but Í've just tried finding it online but can't and I've binned the paper...

Maybe somebody has it - inquirer section.

It went something like this....

Imagine a workforce of 1000. If there is a vote on whether to collectively bargain and 100 people turn up for the vote, then as long as 50 people plus one vote for the union to bargain, all of the 1000 strong workforce will need to pay the $500 bargaining fee.

Hence the union receives massive amounts of cash for such a small vote.