Collective bargaining is the negotiation between an employer and a union or unions to agree terms and conditions of employment for a group or groups of employees.

Collective agreements provide common conditions (one contract) for employees and can significantly improve on worker satisfaction of overall working conditions, and productivity expectations.

There is no one case that fits all when bargaining for a collective agreement, every situation is different. There are differing views and expectations on what the negotiations are expected to achieve for each of the parties.

The first objective is to agree a Bargaining Process Agreement that sets out some simple but important rules of how the negotiations will be conducted, some of these may include: who will attend for the employer and the union, which work groups the union are representing, the ratification process, time lines for the negotiations, venue and conduct if there is any disputed matters at the negotiations.

It is important that both parties comply with the requirements set out in the Act.

Irrespective of the particular bargaining process agreed to the parties must abide by the requirements set out in the Act

Philip has developed a highly-regarded reputation in the area of Industrial and Union Relations, with over 15 years of experience in Collective Bargaining. He can assist by providing strategic direction and advice, streamlining the bargaining process, and ensuring all parties’ achieve a fair settlement based on the current market conditions.

Call ahead and let Philip assist with your next round of negotiations