This is proved by independent research such as a 1996 study by the Australian Centre for Industrial Relations Research and Training. Yes of course. That's what we're here for. Your union is the most effective help for work problems you can get. Apprentices in their first and second year of apprenticeship can join for free.
All Australian workers have a legal right to join a union if they want to.
That's not to say all employers respect that right. Some employers try to discourage employees from joining their union by making direct or implied threats of trouble, usually for employees in the form of sackings and other penalties if they join. This is totally illegal and the AMWU takes a firm stand with any employer we suspect of using these tactics. It's part of protecting your rights at work. It's part of our business.