An Essential poll has shown that support for unions is at an all time high, with 50% of Australians indicating that we would be better off with strong unions, compared to 25% who stated the opposite.
This polling shows a marked increase in the perceptions of unions, particularly in comparison to the the early 2010s where support for the statement dipped below 40%.
Further, 74% of respondents said that unions were “essential” for safe working environments, proper pay, and to give workers a collective voice in the workplace.
Over two-thirds also viewed them as crucial in fighting back against power imbalances between workers and their employers.
Australian Unions Secretary Sally McManus said that the research shows that Australians know “who has their back”.
“Unionised workers have steered the country through this pandemic and will continue to play a leading role in the economic rebuild.
“Pay cuts and cuts to workers’ rights will not help Australia recover. We are working to win more secure jobs and fairer wages.”
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