Since 1935, we've been helping unions and their members make legal wins
Our history is intertwined with the Australian labour movement. We share its key milestones such as minimum wages, the 38-hour working week, annual and parental leave, equal pay for women, Medicare, superannuation and the age pension.
We have fought tooth and nail to ensure that workers are able to negotiate effectively and respond successfully when their rights are under threat.
Some of our biggest wins include:
- Acting for union members during the 1930s 'free speech' battles
- Acting for community picketers during the 1998 maritime dispute
- Defending firefighters' struggles for union rights in the 1940 and 50s
- Carrying a successful campaign for construction workers in 2000 and winning them a 36-hour week
- Challenging the 1969 jailing of the Tramways Union leader Clarrie O'Shea
- Fighting on behalf of clothing outworkers demanding decent wages and work conditions in the 1990s.
It's our passionate belief that all employees have rights in the workplace - whether current employees, job applicants or former employees. If you're concerned about a union issue such as unfair dismissal, systemic underpayment or exploitation, wage inequality or the widespread decline in permanent and secure employment, ask your union for a referral to our team to receive discounted fees and services.
Our benefits for union members
We give members of unions that we represent free or discounted access to our legal services. We help affiliated unions defend workers' rights, ensure safe working conditions and negotiate for employees through collective bargaining.
Through your union membership, you may have access to:
Our Union Services team, who act as a conduit between union members and legal practitioners, and will help ensure the delivery of prompt legal advice and information
A free one-hour consultation with one of our Industrial and Employment lawyers
Free or discounted fees for Personal Injury services
Fixed fees for Family Law services
Our Union Services team can put you in touch with the correct practice area for your legal needs and represent you in a wide range of legal areas. We'll fight tirelessly to make sure you get the best possible outcome for your unique situation.
For more information about how we can help your trade union or union members, please contact us by calling 1800 555 777 or submit an online enquiry. Our Union Services team manages our ongoing relationships with trade unions, and arranges new partnerships. Talk to us today.
