Research
Bringing the community in: possibilities for public sector union success through community unionism.
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.
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
More work
People Power Strategies in Contemporary Housing Movements.
This is a peer-reviewed article that explores different ways in which social movements and urban coalitions are seeking…
Rethinking People Power Strategy in the Climate Movement: lessons from organising with Multicultural Communities in Western Sydney
Over the last decade, several groups in Australia have successfully mobilised against fossil fuel interests. But which ones have gone…
A Real Deal for Geelong: Community Listening Report for Climate Transition
This report outlines a new approach to generating strategies for climate transition, created through a community-led agenda built…