Parties are encouraged in law to resolve their own workplace issues but there are some rules for collective bargaining.
Unions have a critical role in representing their members’ interests in collective bargaining. The requirement for democratic and reasonable union rules reinforces the importance of this representative role. Employees who wish to take part in collective bargaining will need to join a union.
If an employer wants to introduce a collective agreement into the workplace, the employer, or their representative, needs to bargain with an independent union that represents the employees. Employers can access advice and advocacy support by contacting an employers’ association, an employment lawyer or community organisation specialising in employment advice.
On the right of the screen you will find links to useful information, including a list of unions registered under the Employment Relations Act 2000 and a link to a website where you can download the Act.