The Role of a Union

PSA is a trade union that represents and supports more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, Health and community groups within Aotearoa New Zealand. The largest in the country.

Our purpose is to influence the political, economic, industrial and social environments in the interests of our membership.

We are a powerful public voice and a key player in New Zealand politics, arguing for policies that improve public services and better working conditions that benefit all New Zealanders.

The role of the Union includes:

• Representing members on issues involving their collective employment interests

• Negotiating CEAs

• Representing members’ individual rights as employees

• Giving advice and assistance on the rights and obligations of employers and employees

• Representing members in the event of a dispute or personal grievance

Not only do unions look after members on an individual level, they look after members by advocating for positive social changes to improve the societies they live in. We have unions to thank for many of the basic rights we take for granted, including the right for sick leave, parental leave, the five-day week, holiday leave, the right to refuse unsafe work and many other benefits.