UNIONS - Union structure

Unions are democratic organisations which means they are run by the members! Most unions are made up of a national office with branches in each state, and also operate on a local level at the workplace.

National level

Unions are usually governed by the national council and the national committee of management who are elected by members of the union.

Branch level

As well as a national office, unions have state branches. The members of each branch elect a committee of management to manage the business of that branch.

Local workplace level

At workplaces where unions have members, decisions are made by these members about matters that affect them. The members at the workplace usually elect representatives who are union delegates and members of local workplace union committees.

The Delegate

Unionists in a particular workplace may elect a representative known as the delegate. Union Delegates act on behalf of the union in matters and to act as a link between the union's central office and the members on the job in the workplace.

Full-time officials

Unions are made up of full-time employees that have different positions and different jobs to do. So what does each person do?

The president of a union is often the official spokesperson of the union. They represent and argue the unions' views in public forums and in the media.
Typically, the secretary is responsible for the overall management and development of the union. The secretary is elected directly by all members of the union every four years.

Then there is the assistant secretary, organisers and industrial officers, health and safety officers, officers, education officers, and research officers.

That’s a lot of people making sure you’re happy at work!