When the new Local Government (State) Award was endorsed in June, it delivered our Local Government members a 12% pay increase over three years, along with improved leave entitlements, and stronger workplace protections. This was a win built by members standing together.
Your union has also been pivotal in securing the state government funding for the Fresh Start initiative creating 1300 new apprentices, cadets and trainees for local government over the next 6 years.
Following these wins, we’re making two key changes to union membership fees, commencing 1 August 2026.
Your Fees will change from 1 Aug
Our union rules require an annual fee increase that matches the pay rise in the Local Government (State) Award – this was previously delayed until the end of December.
We’re shifting the fee adjustment back to align with when most of our members in all sectors receive their annual pay rise, so that the small fee increase happens at the same time your income increases.
What Does This Mean for You?
For members paying full fees, the adjustment is a maximum increase of $0.51 per week.
To give you plenty of notice, this change will only take effect from 1 August 2026. Importantly, there will be no fee increase in January 2027. The next adjustment won’t occur until 1 July 2027, returning to the new July cycle.
Your union fees remain fully tax-deductible, providing an additional offset at the end of the financial year.
Lower Fees for Apprentices, Trainees and Cadets
We know cost-of-living pressures hit younger workers and those starting their careers especially hard, so we’re introducing reduced fixed fees for apprentices, trainees, and cadets, starting at $0.50 per week, with rates dependent on the year of apprenticeship, traineeship, or cadetship.
This is about removing barriers to joining the union and ensuring the next generation of workers can access the benefits of collective strength from day one. It’s also an investment in the future of our union—building a strong, diverse membership that reflects all workers.
Please see the full fee table here.
These changes are not taken lightly and are part of a broader effort to ensure our union is fair, accessible, and sustainable.
They coincide with major wins for members; every member and their contribution strengthens our ability to negotiate better pay and defend workers’ rights and allows us to continue delivering value through future wage increases, industrial services and member benefits including journey to work insurance, Union Shopper and free wills.
Thank you for your continued membership. Together, we keep the union strong.
