The Decline of Australian Union Density—A Survey of the Literature

Abstract

This paper reviews the literature on the decline in Australian union density within the context of similar research overseas. Five broad approaches are analyzed to study changes in unionization—structural shifts, macroeconomic factors, institu tional and organizational influences, the individual decision, and comparative material. Relevant Australian studies are critically reviewed and compared with studies performed in other countries. The review highlights the complexity of the problem, the need to avoid simplistic responses, and makes suggestions as to which areas of research appear most likely to increase our understanding of the recent sharp decline in unionization.