Brief

The Australian Workers' Union of Employees, Queensland is currently seeking to employ an two Industrial Advocates for a 12 month period (contract) with a potential option for permanency at the Branch Office located in Brisbane to assist members and Organisers of the union by providing advice in the area of industrial relations and employment law.

About the Union

The Australian Workers’ Union is the nation’s oldest blue-collar trade union representing over tens of thousands of working men and women and their families from a large range of industries.

Duties and Responsibilities

The position will be based in Brisbane and will be responsible for:

• advising members both verbally and in writing of their rights and obligations under employment law and industrial instruments;
• advising staff of the union about any query they may have in the area of industrial relations and employment law;
• representing members and the union in cases before courts and tribunals including preparation of claims, evidence and advocacy;
• drafting of documents including claims and applications, statements and enterprise agreements;
• participate in enterprise bargaining negotiations and ensure compliance with the legislative regime in all aspects of the bargaining process;
• representing members and the unions in collective and individual meetings with employers and peak bodies;
• preparing communication for members and workers in relation to the union’s industrial activities;
• researching industrial matters to ensure that members’ cases and the unions strategy is effectively utilising the industrial landscape; and
• any further instructions or actions of the Secretary and Senior Industrial Advocate.

Selection Criteria – Values

The selection criteria in terms of values are:

• a passion for improving the industrial rights of workers;
• an understanding that your work will always be focused and centered around building power for workers;
• independent, resilient, takes initiative and is always a team player; and
• energy and enthusiasm to lead and follow.

Selection Criteria - Abilities and Experience

The selection criteria for abilities and experience are:

• sound literacy and computer skills;
• ability to understand and interpret industrial instruments and workplace laws at the state and federal level;
• strong planning, time-management and strategic-thinking skills;
• familiarity with contemporary digital media;
• strong work ethic and ability to work independently;
• proven negotiating skills;
• preparedness to travel from time to time;
• sound level of skill in exercising initiative and independent judgement, analysing and resolving problems;
• ability to obtain and hold a Right of Entry Permit; and
• hold a current driver licence.

Qualifications

• Qualifications in law, human resources or practical experience in the area of industrial relations and employment law will be highly regarded.

Salary:

The salary will be discussed with the candidates nominated to participate in an interview.