Real Union = Real Power
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 130 No 3, 23 May 2025, page no 4.
As we enter the final phases of the EB11 negotiations, members will have their voices heard in democratic ballot processes to accept or reject any offer put by the employer. This is one of the most public demonstrations of the member voice in our Union. To have your say means something.
But if you are not a member, you remain voiceless in determining your salary and working conditions as part of formal negotiations with your employer.
That’s why in June we will be encouraging as many potential members who have not yet taken up the offer of QTU membership to join and ensure they get a say in these important decisions. This will build upon the 1,200 new members who joined the QTU in Term 1.
Negotiating salary and working conditions is a staple of all registered trade unions. It is the most fundamental form of collectivism, and when united, shows how powerful our Union and profession can be. But this power only comes from members contributing to the collective strength of their Union.
There are many other benefits of joining the Queensland Teacher’ Union. The QTU offers campaigning strength, advocacy and protection that only comes with more than 135 years of experience.
We take the rights and responsibilities of being a registered organisation under the Queensland industrial relations system seriously. We also advocate for members on a collective and individual basis, winning with and for members every day.
Joining the QTU guarantees you will have people in your corner who have walked in your shoes and know the real challenges faced by teachers and leaders in schools and TAFE in the 21st century.
If you have a colleague who has not yet taken up the offer of QTU membership, talk to them about why you belong to your Union. Also, why not pull out this poster and put it up in your staffroom to encourage your colleagues to join?
Collectivism and solidarity are not things you can simply purchase. Joining your Union adds to our collective strength and real union power in the workplace and in negotiations.
Join online here: www.qtu.asn.au/join.