Diversity in the AWU

The AWU is an organisation that draws on the incredible diversity of our country. The AWU is an equal opportunity employer and expects this of all of our member employer organisations.

AWU members - Forest Fire Management Victoria

Women in the AWU

Strong women from our earliest days

The AWU has had strong and incredible women in its ranks from its earliest days. Our most famous female member is Dame Mary Gilmore — a poet and writer who contributed to The Australian Worker and campaigned for maternity allowances, child health centres, and the rights of the aged and infirm.

Today, you can find Dame Mary Gilmore on Australia’s ten-dollar note.

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We honour Dame Mary Gilmore’s legacy via our ongoing commitment to equity and the right for all Australians to work without discrimination on any basis.

AWU Commitment to Equity

Equality in the Workplace

Closing the gender pay gap

The gender pay gap — currently measured at 14.1 per cent — remains a source of frustration for all Australian women and for the AWU. Our union has long supported campaigns for gender equity in the workplace.

The AWU is proud to support the Women of Steel film project, honouring the 14-year campaign for women to work in blue-collar jobs. We include domestic violence and family leave in all union negotiations.

14.1%

Gender Pay Gap

Breaking down stereotypes is close to the heart of our principles. Family-friendly conditions are consistently pursued in all Enterprise Agreements. The AWU values diversity — from our strong yes campaign in the same-sex marriage plebiscite to our representation of non-English speaking workers.

Our Members in Action

A union that stands together

Pride & Inclusion

Union Pride — standing for equality

The AWU proudly stands with all members of our community. At a community level, we continue to be active on important issues relevant to a better, more equal society — because equality is union business.

Resources

Bullying

Bullying is never OK in the workplace – here is some info on your rights, and steps you can take to end workplace bullying.

Gendered Violence

What gendered violence looks like in the workplace, who is at risk, and what you can do to protect yourself at work.

Discrimination

The definitions of sexual discrimination and harassment, your rights, and how the AWU can help you stay safe in the workplace.

Gender Pay Gap

A brief overview of the Gender Pay Gap, including what it really mean, the history of women’s wages, and steps employers can take towards equal pay.

Family and Domestic Violence Leave

A model Family and Domestic Violence Leave clause you can adopt in your workplace.

Negotiating FDV Leave clauses

Learn how to get this vital leave included in your Enterprise Agreement.

Superannuation

All workers are entitled to super, but women will retire with 30% less than men. Find out how you can boost your super fund here.

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