The Australian Workers' Union is to explore a strategic alliance with other unions operating in the agriculture supply chain in a bid to "grow union density" in the sector and campaign for employees rights. According to AWU national secretary Daniel Walton, workers in the farm sector were routinely underpaid and denied basic working conditions.
The union, once led by Opposition leader Bill Shorten until he moved into federal politics, represents workers in farming, civil construction, mining and oil industry jobs. It is Australia's oldest union and its predecessor, the shearers union, is credited with effectively giving birth to the Australian Labor Party in western Queensland during an 1891 shearers' and pastoral workers' strike.
However, AWU membership has slumped in recent years, reportedly halving to about 69,800 last year - down from a strength of 139,329 declared in 2012.
It is now about half the size of the feisty Construction Forestry Maritime Mining and Energy Union, which shares some similar membership territory as the AWU.
"There are fewer areas tougher to organise than Australian agriculture," Mr Walton said. "As a result, the sector is rife with unscrupulous employers who exploit and abuse their workers. These workers need a strong union presence.”
According to queenslandcountrylife.com.au, this week's AWU conference has voted to assess alliance opportunities. Discussions have already begun with the Transport Workers Union and the Shop Distributive and Allied Employees Association about a potential agriculture alliance.
"These unions have the strength and coverage to really make an impact," Walton said. "It is only logical that we look to pursue a similar alliance in agriculture.
