These roles are now more vital than ever, given the pervasive rhetoric of 'devolution' in industrial relations, and a strong focus on workplace flexibility and individual contracts. The recent CRA dispute was about the notion that individual workers can negotiate with the employer their own working conditions and pay structures. The worker's capacity to negotiate is further diminished if he or she is isolated from the resources and expertise of a union. Initially, individual contracts can appear attractive, but there is no certainty the conditions offered will be maintained in the longer term. Unions can play a crucial role in ensuring that wages and conditions are negotiated fairly and are maintained.
Unions can help in negotiating 'family friendly' work practices.
These in turn produce increased commitment to the organisation and enhance overall effectiveness. To create a society based upon social justice demands dignity and fairness in the workplace. In the area of training, too, effective partnerships can develop between unions and employers. In the National Professional Development Program, partnerships among employers, teacher unions and parent groups have resulted in significant educational programs. Industrial relations in Australia faces a choice.