Industrial Relations in 1989

Abstract

This paper deals with the major issues in Industrial Relations throughout 1989: the continuing overriding influence of the centralised system and Accord; the major areas of dispute, particularly those associated with planned industry restructuring and rationalisation of services; and some interesting and innovative developments highlighting changes in direction affecting organisations and individuals. The paper concludes with a summary Balance Sheetfor the 1980's from the perspective of unions and employers and speculates as to the effect of the 1990 Federal election on Australia's unique industrial relations system forecasting that, regardless of the party in government, the predominantly centralised regulated approach will accommodate an increasing degree of decentralised, deregulated administration of terms and conditions of employment.