My work area voted for an ECA. What happens now?

March 30, 2009

Despite the fact that a solid majority of non negotiated, non union “Employee Collective” agreements have been defeated there are now a minority of areas where union members are covered by an ECA.

Be in the union and be active!

The most important message for employees in these areas is that it’s more important than ever to be in the union and be active!
 
The most immediate impact for members where the entire workplace is covered by an ECA, is that under current WorkChoices laws your union will not be able to visit you in that workplace to conduct meetings and hold discussions with employees unless we are invited in by Telstra. But this doesn’t mean our organisers won’t come to see you! It just means we will have to do so at venues outside your workplace.

However, now that the new Fair Work Bill has been passed by the Senate, union organisers will be allowed into all workplaces (regardless of the type of agreement they are covered by) from the start of July.

How can I get off my ECA and onto a union negotiated agreement?

There are essentially two ways this could occur:

  • By the negotiation of a replacement agreement under new workplace laws. It would be possible to make a new “fair work” agreement after 1 July that covered all of Telstra. If this occurred current ECAs would be automatically terminated. This however does not apply to those on current AWAs or ITEAs. The new agreement could only apply to those on AWAs or ITEAs once they have expired and are terminated or are terminated by consent.
  • By the negotiation of a new agreement(s) to apply once the current ECAs expire.   

How can I ensure my rights are protected in the workplace and my agreement enforced?

The best way to ensure this is by being active in your workplace and continually taking up issues collectively as they arise.

Your organiser can help with this but more than ever when you’re on an ECA it’s critical that we are well organised in your work area with high levels of union membership and active workplace representatives.

Your organiser will be visiting soon to call for expressions of interest to be a workplace delegate and training and support will be provided.

You can join the union today, simply by calling 1300 362 223.

Written by TelstraUnions · Filed Under News 

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