The Internal Authority of the ACTU

Abstract

This article seeks to examine the nature of the relationship that exists between the ACTU and its affiliated unions. After examining the ACTU's structure, and the pioneering work of Martin, it is argued that the ACTU essentially serves as an institutional mechanism through which Australian trade unions achieve their organizational goals. The distinctive feature of the relationship is the prepared ness of affiliates to avail themselves of the good offices of the ACTU. It is argued that such behaviour stems from the way in which Australia's system of conciliation and arbitration has affected Australian trade unions.