FAQs

The Union receives a large number of enquireies from our members on a broad range of issues.

Below you will find some of the most frequently asked questions and responses.

If you have a question for the Union that is not outlined below please contact us on:

Freecall 1800 060 556 and ask to speak to your organiser.

Alternatively, you can email your question to us at admin@cfmeuffpd.org.

Latest items

How can I get a collective agreement at my workplace?
Workplaces with full union membership are in a very strong bargaining position, so it's no accident that these workplaces are on the best deals. So the best way to get a good agreement for your workplace is to sign up your workmates! If you want a Union collective agreement at your workplace contact your Organiser on Freecall: 1800 060 556. » more

How can I get more involved in my Union?
Get in touch with the CFMEU FFPD Delegate at your workplace. If you are unsure of whom your Delegate is or you do not have a Delegate, contact the CFMEU FFPD on Freecall 1800 060 556. Contact details for all CFMEU FFPD Districts and Branches can be found by clicking on “Your Industry” on the left hand side of the page. » more

How can I join the Union?
Speak to the CFMEU FFPD delegate at your workplace. If your workplace does not have a Union delegate or shop steward contact the Union: Freecall: 1800 060 556 email: admin@cfmeuffpd.org Fax: (03) 9274 9284 or Write to: 148-152 Miller Street West Melbourne VIC 3003 » more

I am a student and I need information and resources for my school projects – where can I find them?
The ACTU's Worksite for Schools (www.worksite.actu.asn.au), is full of resources for students. So if there's anything you can't find here visit the Worksite website at the link below. » more

I have not been getting a payslip from my employer. Should I get a payslip and what should be on the payslip?
Employees are entitled to a pay slip which should show: • Name of employee • Date of payment • Classification • Award or Agreement paid under • Period for which the payment is made • Hours worked • Deductions • Superannuation employer contribution » more

What do I do if I have an issue or problem at my workplace?
If you are a union member, speak to your CFMEU FFPD Workplace delegate or contact your CFMEU FFPD Organiser for assistance in resolving the problem. If you are not a union member and work in one of the industries that we cover, you can join the CFMEU FFPD by clicking on the 'Join Now' button on the home page. For more information, contact your Union on: Freecall - 1800 060 556 Contact details for all CFMEU FFPD Branches and Districts can be found on the “Your Industry” page of this website. » more

What have Unions won for workers?
Hours The 40-hour week was adopted in January 1948. The 1983 national wage case reduced this to 38 hours and in 2002 an ACTU test case won the right for workers to refuse unreasonable overtime. Wages Indexed to inflation during the 1970s. The Accord from 1983 to 1996 improved the "social wage" by raising the living standards of working people through Medicare, welfare, family payments and housing. In 1997, the Living Wage determined Award minimum rates of pay. Since that time the ACTU has won a $100 increase in the minimum wage - a 10 per cent increase in real terms. In May 2004 the ACTU won a $19 a week increase and is seeking a $26.60 a week pay rise in 2005. Annual leave The right to one week paid annual leave was granted in 1941, along with sick leave. By 1970, annual leave had been extended to four weeks. Long service leave was adopted in 1953. Maternity leave Unpaid maternity leave was granted in 1971 and now stands at one year. A long-standing ACTU campaign for 14 weeks paid maternity leave has finally paid off with the Federal Government now providing all new mothers with a payment of up to $5000 on the birth of a child. The Work and Family Test Case is also currently considering an ACTU claim to double unpaid maternity leave from one year to two, as well as the right to return to part-time work if desired. Equal pay By 1974 all Australian women were finally entitled to equal pay for work of equal value, although statistically, women still earn less than men. Superannuation The 1986 National Wage Case won 3 per cent universal super for all Award workers. Compulsory super has since risen to 9 per cent through the Super Guarantee charge. Redundancy A 1984 test case established eight weeks severance pay as an award right for sacked workers. A 2004 test case achieved a doubling of this entitlement to 16 weeks redundancy pay and the extension of redundancy pay to small business employees. » more

What is the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU)?
The ACTU is the peak organisation which represents unions in Australia and internationally. The ACTU was established in Melbourne in 1927 when the State Labour Councils and the then federal unions recognised the need for an organisation to represent the national interests of the unions. Today the ACTU speaks on behalf of all its member unions on issues that are of interest to all Australian workers. » more

Who does the CFMEU FFPD cover?
The Forestry and Furnishing Products Division of the CFMEU has 18,200 members in all areas of the Forest and Wood Products and Furnishing Industries. For example: Forest Growing & Management; Harvesting; Sawmilling & Processing; Reconstituted Wood Fibre Board & Panel Product Manufacturing; Pulp & Paper Manufacturing; Timber Merchandising/Retailing; Engineering & Fabricating Products Manufacturing; Joinery; Soft Furnishing; Floor Covering; Upholstering; Picture Framing; Cabinet Making; Bedding and Glass & Glazing. Members work outdoors in forests, inside factories and everywhere wood and paper products can be found. » more

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