AMWU represents over 60,000 workers in manufacturing across the country.
When workers stand together, we have more power to shape our workplaces and our future.
What your union can do for you
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Support when you need it: You’re protected with expert industrial legal advice and representation, plus support and education on your workplace rights.
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Higher wages and secure work: We campaign for higher wages for all workers in manufacturing. Trade union members, on average, earn $251 per week more than non-union workers, according to ABS data.
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Stronger together at the table: Being part of the AMWU gives you collective bargaining power to negotiate better pay, conditions and protections, and to build safer workplaces for future industries.
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Better work and society for all: Many of the basic rights all Australians enjoy today were won through hard-fought campaigns by union members: from the 8-hour work day and weekends to Medicare, annual leave, paid parental leave and more. Being part of the union movement means supporting everyday Australians as well as your workmates on the shop floor.
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Membership that pays for itself: Union membership fees are 100% tax deductible, and members get access to exclusive benefits. The cost of one coffee a day buys you powerful workplace protection and the full backing of your union when you need it.
We provide union support no matter where you are
The AMWU has branches across Australia, supporting members in cities and regional communities. Wherever you work, our state branch will be there to provide advice and representation from people who understand your industry and the issues affecting workers in your area.
Contact your state branch
What you get with your AMWU membership
Better wages and conditions
We negotiate and fight for improved wages and working conditions on your behalf. Together, we have a stronger voice to negotiate better pay, conditions and job security.
Job protection and security
Our team provides expert advice and representation when workplace issues arise, from disciplinary action and underpayment to bullying, harassment, workers’ compensation, and unfair dismissal.
Workplace health and safety
Our organisers and health and safety specialists help members identify hazards, enforce safety standards and hold employers accountable. We’re here to help if you’re injured at work, or have any concerns about your safety in the workplace.
Legal advice and support
Whether it’s about your roster or your rate of pay, being part of the AMWU gives you access to experienced industrial and legal professionals who provide confidential advice and representation when you need it.
AMWU membership comes with additional benefits
We have established a Member Insurance Benefits Program, managed through Coverforce Insurance Broking. Under this program, all eligible financial members of the AMWU have the following insurance cover in place:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t find your answer? Call us on 1300 732 698 or email us at amwu@amwu.org.au.
CONTACT USWhen workers join together, we have a stronger voice at work. The AMWU works with members to improve wages, conditions, safety and job security, and provides support when workplace issues arise.
AMWU members have access to workplace advice, support and representation, education and training, and a range of member benefits. Most importantly, you become part of a collective voice working for better wages and conditions.
The AMWU can provide advice and support when you have a workplace issue. This can include problems with pay, conditions, safety, bullying, disciplinary action, unfair treatment or disputes with your employer.
Yes. Unions give workers the collective strength to negotiate with employers for better wages, conditions and workplace rights. The AMWU represents members in negotiations and campaigns for fairer pay and conditions across the industries we cover.
No, joining a union is your right. Your employer cannot prevent you from becoming a union member or treat you unfairly because you are a union member. The AMWU can support you if you experience problems because of your union membership.
Your union membership is generally your business. You don’t need to tell your employer that you have joined unless you choose to, or unless you need the union to represent you at work. The AMWU can advise you about your rights and privacy as a member.
If you’re an AMWU member, you can contact your union for advice and support. Your union representative or organiser can help you understand your rights, work through the issue and, where appropriate, represent you in discussions with your employer.
Yes, AMWU members can access union representation and support when dealing with workplace disputes. Depending on the circumstances, this may include representation in meetings, advice about your workplace rights and assistance with resolving the issue.
Yes, you don’t need to work at a workplace that already has a union to join the AMWU. When workers join together, they build the collective strength to have a stronger voice at work and organise for better wages, conditions and safety. The more workers who stand together, the stronger their voice.
Union membership means you don’t have to face workplace issues alone. Your membership gives you access to support, advice and representation, while helping build the collective strength of workers to improve wages, conditions, safety and job security.
A union isn’t a cost; it’s the best investment workers can make when we stand together. With the AMWU, we won over $400,000 in backpay for 289 workers and secured an industry-leading agreement restoring respect and dignity. None of this would have happened without joining our union.
— Mitch, shipbuilding pipe welder
The union has been a huge support during EBA negotiations, helping us achieve better outcomes and giving everyone a voice. Delegate training also strengthened my skills in communication, advocacy, negotiation, and problem-solving.
— Anna, Microbiologist
You’re never alone in the AMWU. You’re part of a family that stands with you. This past year we secured the best EBA I’ve had in 30 years, plus constant wins outside bargaining. The union has given me the skills, tools and confidence to speak up for what’s right.
— Antonino, Boilermaker
Ready to join? Contact the AMWU today.
Speak to our friendly Helpdesk team and we'll assist you on resolving your workplace issue.
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