A GUIDE: HOW TO BE AN EFFECTIVE EMPLOYEE BARGAINING REPRESENTATIVE

Are you looking to build your representative skills to be an effective employee representative in enterprise agreement negotiations?

The role carried out by an employee bargaining representative (EBR) is critical to the success of enterprise bargaining. Despite the key role EBR’s play in bargaining, the role is often not well understood.

Whether you are a seasoned employee bargaining representative (EBR) or are undertaking the role for the first time, the truth is that the role of an EBR can be challenging and complex – even for those who are experienced representatives or negotiators.

Being an effective EBR takes knowledge, skill and often significant patience, in order to effectively represent the interests of employees to the employer. EBR’s must also have a good understanding of the Australian Workplace Relations System, including how the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) applies to enterprise bargaining.

Despite the complexity and challenge that comes with being an effective EBR, the role can be extremely rewarding and provides a unique opportunity to advance the interests of colleagues, and to improve workplace culture and productivity.

WHAT IS AN EMPLOYEE BARGAINING REPRESENTATIVE?

The best way to understand the role of an EBR is to think of the position as a conduit that helps transfer information between the employer and employees during enterprise bargaining. EBR’s work to negotiate the content that is included in an enterprise agreement and in doing so, are required to uphold the good faith bargaining provisions of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth).

HOW IS A BARGAINING REPRESENTATIVE APPOINTED?

For an EBR to be formally recognised, they must be appointed as a bargaining representative, in writing, in accordance with Section 178 of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth). Generally, this notification is referred to as an ‘instrument of appointment’ and will be provided by the employee nominating as an EBR to the employer.

The EBR is recognised formally as a representative from the date included in the instrument of appointment. Sometimes employers will create set templates for an instrument of appointment and as long as these templates comply with the requirements of legislation, they will assist EBR’s to be formally recognised as employee bargaining representatives.

This guide sets out the steps you can take to ensure you are an effective EBR. It highlights the practical steps you can take to prepare for the role of EBR, so you feel more confident carrying out one of the most important representative roles in enterprise bargaining negotiations.

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Attend our popular Effective Enterprise Bargaining Representative Workshop, delivered by highly experienced facilitators in an online classroom, this workshop offers an interactive learning environment that will equip participants with practical skills and knowledge to set them up for success in enterprise bargaining.