About the Industrial Unit
The Industrial Unit is responsible for implementing the industrial interests of the union as determined by National Executive and Council.
The unit's objectives include:
- Facilitating the effective and efficient negotiation of enterprise agreements in the higher education, TAFE, research and other sectors in which the NTEU operates.
- To defend and promote the industrial interests of NTEU members in appropriate forums and tribunals.
- The provision of advice, support and resources to other areas of union activity – including branch and divisional activities.
The key activities include:
- Provision of assistance and advice to Divisions, Branches, Executive and Council on industrial matters and industrial disputes and industrial policy.
- Direct involvement in negotiations with employers and other unions regarding: enterprise agreements; awards; other industrial instruments.
- Research, preparation and advocacy on matters before industrial tribunals.
- Preparation and advocacy on matters before other tribunals.
- Developing industrial campaigns and strategies.
- Preparation, research and development of submissions to government inquiries and other relevant bodies.
- Participation in and provision of training sessions.
- Monitoring and analysing industrial trends and legislation.
- Maintenance of databases including salaries, bargaining outcomes and union staff and office bearers.
- Promulgating significant sector outcomes throughout the industry.
- Liaison with other unions and representing the union in the ACTU.
- Providing advice and assistance to Division industrial staff.
- Responsibility for all administration in connection with the Industrial Relations Commission’s legal requirements and lodging of applications.
These activities have considerable overlap with the other units of the Union and a core part of the unit’s work is to support and facilitate other units in their work. Examples include the preparation of policy submissions on industrial matters, the maintenance of a salary database for the calculation of member fees, and the development of recruitment tools with an industrial focus.