Commerce

The first workers’ compensation law was established in Western Australia.

1902

The Pastoral Workers Award, established by the Australian Workers Union, was the first award in Australia. Since then, awards have been the cornerstone of setting out terms of working conditions for millions of employed workers.

1908

Paid sick leave was introduced. Prior to this, workers went to work sick or stayed home without pay.

1920

A campaign by the printing workers led to the beginning of paid annual leave.

1936

Penalty rates (extra money for working outside of normal hours) were established after unions raised the issue with the Arbitration Commission.

1943

New South Wales became the first state to introduce Long Service Leave.

1950

The principle of equal pay for women was adopted by the Australian Conciliation of Arbitration Commission.

1965

The Australian Workers Union fought for protection against unfair dismissal.

1969

The first annual paid leave with a 17.5 per cent leave loading was achieved by the Metal industry and Industrial action was taken to fight for the demand of proper meal and rest breaks. Prior to this, workers had to go a whole day without a break.

1973

Trade unions were successful in banning the use of asbestos as part of their fight for safe working environments.

1978

After a long campaign, the Paid Parental Scheme was introduced, entitling parents of children born or adopted after 1 January 2011 to 18 weeks’ pay on the National Minimum Wage.

2011

The trade unions’ ‘Stand Up For Super’ campaign led to an increase to the compulsory
Superannuation Guarantee, at the time set to increase to 12 per cent by 2019. (Prior to 1986, only a
select group of employees were entitled to superannuation. Trade Unions battled for this to become an
entitlement for all.)