It is undeniable that Tasmanian unions’ bargaining power has dramatically weakened since the 1970s.

This is due to a variety of factors, including the changing nature of traditionally union-strong industries such as manufacturing, mining and forestry. As jobs disappeared, or became casualised, so too did militant unionism.

The big employers in the state are in the healthcare and social welfare sectors. These, together with agriculture, forestry, fishing, construction and tourism, account for more than half of the state’s total employment.

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However, union coverage remains small, largely because these industries are based on casual, seasonal and contract-based jobs — which undermines collective organising.

Jessica Munday, secretary of Unions Tasmania — the peak body representing trade unions — told Green Left that while Tasmania retains the highest union density in the country, the rate has declined........

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