Australian Union Strategies Since 1945

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to advance a model of union strategy and to test it using evidence of Australian unionism in the period since 1945. The model is based on several premises: first, that union practices are not the product of random choices but tend to result from overarching mutually-reinforcing strategies. Second, that the overall strategy of a given union is driven by its choice of bargaining strategy. Choice in this field has a strong if not determining influence on external relations with employers, the state and other unions, as well as internal relations within the union itself, and staffing practices. Finally, the model incorporates a feedback loop, with choices in the area of external relations, internal relations and staffing practices having an influence on bargaining strategy. The article then uses evidence of Australian union practices drawn from a variety of sources to test this model.