Elections In Australia Research Articles

Regulation of Union Elections in Australia

Regulation of Union Elections in Australia

Regulation of Union Elections in Australia

Inherent in the ideal of the union as a voluntary organization whose sole function is promotion of the welfare of its worker-members is the concept that its government and operations should be democratic. Much of the criticism of unions involves allegations about their lack of democracy. In the United States, matters of internal government have largely been left to the conscience and control of the unions themselves. In Australia, in contrast, the government, through the Commonwealth Court of Conciliation and Arbitration, has attempted to insure democratic union behavior through direct and rather detailed regulation. This article reviews the Australian experience, especially in reference to union elections. (Author's abstract courtesy EBSCO.)