Workplace relations

What are the roles of human resource managers in the workplace?

• Negotiating employment agreements with employees and their representatives

• Training other managers and supervisors to facilitate the implementation of agreements

• Representing employees in the bargaining process of new employment agreement

• Dealing with disputes and conflict that may arise

Employees today

• are more highly educated

• demand more challenging work

• want to be involved in the decision-making processes

• All of the above

Can employees vote to approve a new employment agreement?

• Yes

• No

What could be one downside of having employees collectively bargain for better working conditions?

• It can be time-consuming.

• It creates a 'win-win' situation.

• Employee's morale will increase.

What can human resource managers do to successfully negotiate an employment agreement?

• Be aware of all relevant Awards and legal requirements

• Identify the employees that they dislike and exclude them from the negotiation process

• Consult widely with relevant managers to determine on the best work practices

• Keep an open mind

• Make sure that ambiguous language is excluded from the agreement

What is the main role of employer associations?

• to represent employees

• to speak on behalf of the employees

• to represent employers

• to assist employees with their workplace claims

Trade unions or unions

• represent employers

• advocate for employer's rights

• have a direct stake in the employee relations processes

Union membership as a proportion of the total workforce

• has been falling in recent years

• has been increasing in recent years

• has not changed at all

What do peak union bodies such as the Australian Council of Trade Unions do?

• formulate and coordinate national union policies

• assist in the settlement of disputes, particularly those involving small companies

• campaign politically on behalf of unions and their members

What does Fair Work Commission do?

• FWC approves agreements reached at the enterprise level.

• FWC resolves disputes between an employer and the employees when no agreement can be reached.

• FWC promotes compliance with the legislation through education, information and assistance.