Union Summer 2006 finishes a success

Unions Summer 2006 had 23 participants, working with 8 unions. The participants, which included students from The University of Sydney, University of Western Sydney, The University of Technology Sydney, Australian National University and The University of Newcastle undertook a 3-week internship, which gave interns the opportunity to learn how a union operates.

Throughout the 3-weeks, the interns were presented with a variety of knowledge and experience that will not be forgotten. Interns were given 3 days of formal training, and 12 days 'on the ground' learning the processes and philosophy of unionism.

All interns were given the chance to talk to workers, and learn that the rights and conditions that many workers have are not automatic and natural. Interns also experienced how each union is standing up to the Federal Government's attack on workers rights. They were able to see first hand how unions are preparing for the new IR environment, and that despite the difficulties that are surely to be faced, the union movement is becoming stronger with new strategies and tactics that are revitalising the meaning of unionism.

Union Summer 2006 saw the largest student intake from unions since the program began. This is evidence that unions are putting resources back into supporting young workers, who will become union activists on campus.

Comments from Union Summer 2006:

"The union was fabulous. The organisers supplemented our original theoretical knowledge with a lot of practical advice and experience."
Sydney University student Kate Odgers

"I had a very well-rounded experience with individual and collective organising and I now understand the day to day duties of an organiser."
Sydney University student Oliver Levingston

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