What is an AUR?
In CEPU we call our workplace delegates "Authorised Union Representatives" or AURs. We also have Alternate AURs for workplaces to support the AUR. An alternate AUR is an easy way to start!
Who are our AURs?
We have too many to list, over 600 in NSW. In the photo at the top of the page, we have 4 full time officials. Every other person is an AUR!
What does being an AUR involve?
We ask our workplace AURs to do a few activities in their workplaces including:
- ensuring staff see the union's circular and email bulletins.
- communicating with officials about local issues affecting all staff.
- and inviting new employees and non-members to join our Union.
Do we help you?
Yes, we have a team of organisers, a lawyer and our leaders. We will also support you by giving you training on how to do your job!
Training has now been held in both Metropolitan Sydney and Newcastle. More regional courses are planned for AURs in Newcastle, Wollongong and Canberra over the next few months. We will also look at AUR's attending training provided by the ACTU in other regional areas as opportunities arise. The CEPU's AUR training is recognised and well received in many industries outside Australia Post.
How do I become an AUR or Alternate AUR?
To become an AUR you must be a financial member and nominated by your workplace friends. Just fill in a nomination form and have your co-workers nominate and second your nomination. If there is more than one nomination in your workplace, the co-workers will need to arrange a workplace election.
More Information
Should you require further information, please Email me or contact one of our officials.
UNION REPRESENTATIVE - A REWARDING ROLE
Your union is made up of people like you.
The people who run the union are elected by members to do so on their behalf. And the people who make the union work are the workplace representatives.
Workplace representatives are a fantastic way to become active in your workplace.
As a workplace rep, you receive information and training to help you be effective at what you do.
So find out more about getting active in your union:
Union representatives are chosen by other members in their workplace to be an on-the-spot representative of your union.
Their role is to promote union membership in the workplace, give members advice and help, and if necessary represent members' interests to management.
The role of a union representative
A trade union representative (also often known as a delegate) is a member of a trade union who represents their work colleagues in dealings with an employer.
They often provide advice on employment matters directly to colleagues.
Union reps are volunteers. They do not receive extra pay for their work as reps, though many are entitled to time off with pay to undertake their role as a rep.
They are there to:
Your workplace may also have a separate health and safety representative.
You can ask a trade union rep to go with you to a meeting with your employer where you have the right to be accompanied, for example meetings where:
Why union reps are important
Union delegates are very important. They play a critical role in any workplace by:
Union representatives can also make a very important contribution to creating productive and rewarding workplaces.
Most employees want to make their workplace better. They want it to be a good place to work, and if they are given the chance, will mostly be willing to apply their firsthand knowledge and expertise to doing so.
The union rep can be a conduit for this feedback to management, working with them to create good solutions that work for employees and improve their jobs, and which add value for the employer.
We are not going to solve the problems of today using the same thinking with which we created them. Union reps can play a key role in creating the new thinking we need to solve the problems of tomorrow.
What union reps do
Apart from the roles outlined above, union reps may:
Employees must not be discriminated against for being a union member or union representative.
They may also be entitled to paid leave to undertake training relevant to their role as a union rep.
Responsibilities of union reps
With rights comes responsibility. Workplace union representatives need to act in good faith, and to do the best they can for their work colleagues either as individuals or as a group.
So, you're interested in becoming a union rep. This page tells you how to go about it, and tells you how to find out what leave entitlements you have for training.
How do I become a union rep?
Being a union rep can be immensely rewarding. Instead of sitting back and feeling frustrated or powerless about what's happening, you can take action. You can help others negotiate difficult issues, like grievances. You can be a key contact point for workplace issues. You'll get training and support.
The first step to take if you're considering becoming a union rep, is to contact the state branch of your union. (See the map in the top right hand corner. Just click on your state or territory.)
Union reps are chosen by their co-workers. So the union will organise a meeting of members in your workplace so that members can consider your nomination.
Your state branch also offers training and support for reps.
Do people get paid when on union rep training?
Access to approved trade union leave is provided under your relevant award or agreement. (See your award or workplace agreement.)
Some training hours will also be available as approved leave. This is provided in addition to your normal entitlements to annual and other leave.
As a CWU workplace rep, you can count on getting support and training from your union. This page tells you where and how to get that training.
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