Safe and Inclusive Workplaces
Union workplaces are safer workplaces. Many of the rights we take for granted were fought for and won by union members, such as workers’ compensation and bans on asbestos. Unfortunately, many physical and mental health risks are still being tolerated or ignored by employers.
Unions undertake vital work to improve workplace health and safety including:
- Training health and safety representatives to identify monitor unsafe working practices
- Supporting workers to negotiate safe work policies
- Assisting with the resolution of health and safety issues
- Campaigning to make governments to do more to prevent workplace deaths and injury
- Conducting research into workplace conditions and the risks to workers
As well as working to improve work health and safety, unions fight to make workplaces more inclusive for all workers. Unions believe all workers deserve to be treated fairly and with respect. This includes women, Indigenous workers, LGBTQIA+ workers, disabled workers and migrant workers.
There are special laws that prevent discrimination on the basis of your gender, race, cultural or religious background. Unions support members experiencing bullying or discrimination and challenge employers to provide safe environments for all workers.
Are you already a union member?
Reach out to your union for more specific information about how you and your workmates can make the most of your rights at work.
Not yet a member?
Joining your union is the most powerful decision you can make to protect your rights at work.