New Union Dues

The 2004 National Delegates' Conference adopted the following resolution: "The rates of Union dues to be adjusted to reflect a more consistent and relevant structure than the one that currently exists. Taking into consideration the existing multitude of levels and the huge administrative workload a streamlining of the current system is necessary."

Deputy National Secretary Jim Tannock outlined the new structure which will be rolled out from January 1, 2006.

All permanent members are allocated a division based on their wage or salary (see table below). Permanent part time workers and regular supps will pay union dues based on the average wage. Irregular sups will pay a minimum of $170.50 a year ($3.28/week). Seafarers who relocate between ships and offshore will pay dues based on their average salary.

The restructure will see fewer brackets, a reduction in administrative work, and will provide a better reflection of the membership. This will reduce anomalies in the current system where a member earning $50,292 on a TT Line vessel is paying the same union dues as a seafarer working for Cement Australia earning $80,000 or a stevedoring worker on $78,414.

Branches have identified some anomalies in the new system, however any members adversely affected will have the new dues phased in to reduce the impact.

The increase in union revenue from the revamp of union dues will go towards setting up a MUA Fighting Fund to protect members and their families in the current anti-union, anti worker political environment. The Fund will be used in the campaign against WorkChoices and the defeat of the Howard Government at the next election.

"We need to continue to fight for our rights at work," said National Secretary Paddy Crumlin. "And it will require putting together a specific fund for that fight."

The new rates come into effect on January 1