QNU Training

The QNU has a specialist training unit, and provides members with training on a wide range of industrial and skills based issues including:

• unionism in the workplace
• collective bargaining
• workplace change and industrial relations
• negotiation and meeting skills
• the role of unions
• current economic and industrial issues
• campaigning in the workplace
• award interpretation.

The focus of the QNU’s training is on empowering members to take up issues at the workplace with the support and assistance of the QNU.

Training courses are conducted throughout the state in metropolitan, regional and rural areas and the QNU can also provide workplace specific training.

Most QNU members have access to some form of industrial relations training leave through either their award or collective bargaining agreement.

The QNU can assist with organising leave from work to attend training as well as travel and accommodation if necessary.

All active members are encouraged to attend QNU training courses.

Who can attend?

All QNU members can attend our union training courses. QNU courses aim to equip members to further develop the necessary skills and knowledge required by employees to participate in and effectively contribute to workplace change.

All QNU courses recognise the needs of nurses as employees.

QNU members in management positions who are seeking information and education to further develop their understanding of industrial issues from a management perspective should contact their employer for information regarding appropriate management training programs.

What does it cost?

There is no cost, QNU training is included in your union membership. The following leave provisions apply.

Paid leave provisions

Public sector

All nurses working in the public sector are entitled to PAID Leave. This provision allows for members to attend Trade Union Training for up to 5 working days per calendar year (refer to QH - HR Policy C39 Industrial Relations Education leave).

This leave can not be unreasonably refused by your employer. This leave is not Conference Leave, it is specifically for Industrial Relations Education Leave.

All members are entitled to this Leave as part of their current employment conditions. If you experience any difficulty getting paid Industrial Relations Education Leave, contact your QNU Organiser or the Training Unit immediately.

Private sector

Many agreements in the Private Sector have member provisions for Education. For specific information about your entitlements call the QNU Connect on (07) 3099 3210 or 1800 177 273 (toll free for members outside of Brisbane).

Child care

Should child care be required, please contact the Training Unit as soon as possible on (07) 3840 1431. Child care assistance will generally only be available on the basis of reimbursement of additional costs.

Travel & accommodation

Members requiring travel or accommodation assistance in order to participate should, in the first instance make application to their employer as some courses may be funded by the employer. Requests for QNU assistance with travel, accommodation or child care must be made prior to the commencement of the course, by contacting the QNU Training Unit on (07) 3840 1431 or toll free 1800 177 273. Child care assistance will generally only be available on the basis of reimbursement of additional costs.

For more information please contact Helena Dalton-Bridges, Education Officer, in the QNU Brisbane Office on (07) 3840 1431 or toll free 1800 177 273, or speak to your Union Organiser.

Important

Enrolments should be received 10 days before commencement of the course. Should you experience delays in receiving employer advice concerning approval of paid leave, accommodation or travel assistance, contact QNU ASAP.