The need for fair bargaining laws will be at the top of the list of unions’ demands for better workplace laws.

The ACTU Executive met this week to discuss the union movement’s way forward in the new political environment, said AMWU National Secretary, Dave Oliver.

"Collective bargaining is the primary means for workers to improve their wages and conditions.

'This means that we need fair bargaining laws, which we don’t have at the present time."

Unions want laws that respect democratic rights to collectively bargain, promote good faith in bargaining and enable parties, subject to a no disadvantage test, to reach such agreements as they decide.

Mr Oliver said that it was important for unions to address the financial pressure that many working families are experiencing.

“Increased costs of petrol, healthcare, childcare, interest rates and education mean that many workers are struggling to meet their living costs. 

“It’s just not good enough for full-time workers to be struggling while company profits are at a record high and executive salaries have doubled in the last three years.”

Unions will respond by continuing to campaign for reform of industrial laws to undo the damage caused by WorkChoices.

“Through collective bargaining we can address issues such as recognition of skills, the negative impact of casual labour, the underpayment of migrant workers, adequate retirement incomes and achieving a better work/life balance.”

Mr Oliver said that the ACTU executive also addressed the issue of climate change and the effect that it will have on working people.

“Regardless of the sector, all enterprises should identify the risks and opportunities that climate change presents and develop plans to make the necessary adjustments.

“We intend to campaign so that workers are engaged and consulted in the development of strategies required to address climate change and the introduction of emissions targets and carbon trading schemes.”