Bringing the community in: possibilities for public sector union success through community unionism.

Summary:

This is an academic peer-reviewed article looking at coalition building in public sector workforces. It examines the Vinson Inquiry led by the NSW Teachers Federation and the Parents and Citizens Federation in NSW.

The article is limited access, but a PDF is avilable via Research Gate (click box below).

Abstract

Public sector employment relations are increasingly difficult for public sector unions. This paper uses the concept of community unionism to explore how and when relationships between unions and community organisations may enhance union power and success in bargaining and policy reform. The paper uses a case study of the NSW Teachers Federation (NSWTF) and their four-year campaign for public education between 2001 and 2004. This case study shows the success of long term deep alliances between parents and teachers in achieving policy reform, while highlighting some limitations for community unionism strategy in salary negotiations. The paper concludes that community unionism is a viable strategy for public sector unions, and suggests that organisational relationships, common interest and multi-scalar forms of activity are important elements of coalitions.

Citation:

Tattersall, A. (2006). Bringing the community in: possibilities for public sector union success through community unionism. International Journal of Human Resources Development and Management, 6(2/3/4), 186-199

https://www.inderscience.com/offers.php?id=10394.