Unions and Collective Bargaining in 2010

Abstract

An increase in both union members and density, together with the re-election of a Labor government, albeit a minority one, were positive developments for Australian trade unions in 2010. Anticipated changes to the leadership of the Australian Council of Trade Unions occurred with the departure of Sharan Burrow and Ged Kearney assuming the presidency. The Fair Work Act 2009 began to be bedded down with modern awards taking effect from 1 January. Despite the efforts of the federal opposition, the shadow of Work Choices affected the federal election campaign. Unions experienced difficult relationships with state governments across the political spectrum. Asbestos continued to be one of the primary workplace safety issues, while fatalities on the waterfront and the 40th anniversary of the Westgate Bridge disaster served as reminders of the importance of adequate regulatory standards.