Why Join a Union?

Real people. Real action. Real change.

The union movement is made up of almost two million workers coming together to get things done.

If you want to see change, together, we can take action to drive that change.

That means better wages than non-union members, the workplace conditions you deserve and support standing by if anything goes wrong.

Real benefits for real people.

Making workplace change today for the future.

As union members, our actions are never for the advancement of the individual alone. That’s why we act to make changes that benefit everyone. You. Your coworkers. Your family. Their coworkers.

Union members are building fairer and safer workplaces for today – and tomorrow.

The first place to turn. The last people to give up.

Sometimes you just need a second opinion. Whether you have tough questions you need answering or you’re ready to take action, your union is the first source of information about your wages and working rights.

This is what we do – day in, day out – so you can trust your union to give you the right information at the right time.

Know your rights, and we’ll stand up for them together.

All union members get access to advice and legal representation if things go wrong in the workplace.

Think of it like a safety net – you pay small, regular membership dues, but you’re covered big time if something goes wrong.

How it works

You can apply to join your union online in just a few minutes. It’s quick, easy and completely confidential.


  1. Provide your details
    We need a few details like who you are and where you work. Don’t worry, everything you tell us is completely confidential.
  2. Confirm your union
    There’s a union for every industry and occupation. We’ll confirm which union covers your workplace or industry.
  3. Pay your first month
    You can pay your first month’s membership fee via direct debit or credit card in most instances.
  4. Your union will be in touch soon
    Once you’ve applied to join your union, your union will be in touch with you to confirm that application has been received.

On average, members earn 26% more than non-members.

Union members earn, on average, $312 more per week than non-union members.

There are a variety of factors that contribute to higher wages for union members – this is often called the union wage premium

Union members are safer at work than non-members.

Research consistently shows that workplaces with more union members are safer, with fewer serious injuries.

This is because unions work hard to ensure that workplaces have elected and trained Health and Safety Representatives (HSR).

We don’t just talk. We do.

Any career. Any job. Any organisation. Any time. Whether you’re starting your first job, changing career or getting ready to retire, as workers, we’re all in this together.

Australian union members come from all walks of life, and we’re here to support each other on that journey – no matter what stage you’re at.

One voice echoes.

Many voices resonate.

Being part of a union gives you collective bargaining power. That means working with union representatives who can help you negotiate better terms and conditions, like increased pay and improved leave entitlements, all on your behalf.

Speak up or stand by?

It’s your call.

Bullying. Harassment. Unfair dismissal. Your union membership ensures you have support if or when you need it. We stand together whenever members want help, but the course of action we take is entirely up to you.

Inclusive, tax-deductible fees for all.

Australian unions have the interests of all workers in mind – many unions offer scaled membership fees to suit all roles and employment types as well as payment options. And all unions membership fees are 100% tax-deductible.

Here for each other,

all of the time.

Union membership also offers other great benefits, including advice on loans and financial planning and cheaper car hire, banking services, insurance and movie tickets. Visit Member Benefits for more info or call 1300 486 466.