Joining Unite is easy. The more who join, the stronger we are, and the better your working conditions.

Before we sign you up we need you to read and agree to a few things. Please read the following and if you want to proceed with your application add your name into the box at the bottom of the page. From there you will be redirected to our online application. 

Who can join Unite?

Unite mainly covers workers in the following areas:

• Fast Food Restaurants (Restaurant Brands, McDonalds, Burger King, KFC, Wendys)
• Hotels
• Call Centres
• Casino
• Cinemas
• Security

If you work in one of these areas and we already have a collective agreement with your employer then your application will normally be approved.

We may accept members working for employers we do not bargain collectively with. If accepted such members pay the minimum fee of $2 a week but we will not engage in wage bargaining on their behalf and support may be limited to advice by phone or email.

If there already is another union on your worksite you should join them. 

If we decline your membership we will either refer you to another union or advise you which other agency may be able to assist you.

How much does it cost? 

For most of our members the weekly union fee reflects the reality that their income can vary pay to pay. The fee is 1.1% of your wage with a minimum of $2 a week and a maximum of $5.75.

All members receive a discount voucher book annually, access to hundreds of additional discounts using their membership card and free life insurance. Some members receive regular additional benefits (shopping vouchers, movie tickets etc) that we have negotiated with some employers.

Unite’s Terms and Conditions

These are the basic rules we ask members to understand and agree to before joining. The full Union Rules are available to download here. 

1. You have the right to union representation with any work problem. Try to resolve any matter first. Follow any reasonable request from your union representative.
2. When you leave your employer let us know. You can remain a member or become a supporter
3. Members wishing to resign need to do so in writing. Union benefits are only for union members and will cease immediately if you resign from Unite.
4. Fees are set by members and paid by deduction by your employer or by automatic bank payment.
5. To keep fees down email, texts and online information are our main forms of communication. Information is also distributed at worksites.
6. Your email and personal information will be used for union authorised purposes only.
7. It is illegal for an employer to approach you to leave Unite. Let us know if that happens.
8. Whatever the rules are, our guiding principle is that we deal with each other in good faith.

What if I already have a problem with my employer?

When it comes to helping members with individual employment issues (eg disciplinary meetings, rosters etc) the union fee is much like an insurance premium. Members join the union and pay a little each week so when they need professional help they  get it without having to worry about paying hourly fees at their time of need.

Just as you can’t insure your car the day after you crash it, the union can’t just accept members who only join when they have a problem. It would be unfair to existing members. 

That doesn't necessarily mean we won’t take you as a member and help, but it may mean that we negotiate additional fees for helping with the pre-existing issue. 

What if I change my mind?

Union membership is voluntary. You can leave the union at any time.

Your right to join and be active in a union is strictly protected by law. If you are pressured by anyone not to join or to leave the union you should let us know immediately.

If you have read the above and still want to join then please add your details below and you will be directed to our online membership application.

Thanks.