Get involved in our Union
Published: 13 August 2010
I decided to become active in our Union over 20 years ago. I admire and respect the values and mission of the QNU and the ongoing support, passion and motivation that drive our Union.
We are a strong Union that can make a real difference for nurses and midwives. I am proud of our many achievements and I know there is so much more we can accomplish together.
It is essential that we continue to maximise our influence in the many opportunities that are presented to us, and have the capacity to meet our challenges head on.
QNU Council plays a significant role in ensuring we are best placed to address these challenges and opportunities by steering the Union forward.
With nominations now being called for both Councils of the Queensland Nurses’ Union and the Australian Nursing Federation Queensland Branch (see pages 36 and 37) it is worth all members, from all sectors, considering whether you are willing to help steer our ship.
The QNU Council consists of 24 elected honorary positions, which includes six of the eight Executive members and 18 Councillors, who are all elected every two years. The other two members of the Executive—the Secretary and the Assistant Secretary—are elected every four years as full-time officials.
The ANF Council, which runs parallel to the QNU Council, consists of the same number of elected and honorary positions.
Both the QNU and ANF Councils combine for one general Council meeting at least six times a year, while the Executive meets between these general Council meetings to oversee the Union’s activities.
The QNU Council is responsible for the management of the affairs of the Union, and oversees the implementation of Annual Conference decisions. The Council does all the things necessary to achieve all or any of the objectives of the Union’s Strategic Plan.
In addition, the QNU Secretary is responsible for the day-to-day management and administration of the Union and its staff. The Assistant Secretary is responsible for assisting the Secretary to ensure the efficient functioning of the Union and the implementation of all Council decisions.
As you can see the Union’s Councils, including the Executive, ensure there are checks and balances in place as we make decisions for now and for the future of our Union.
I encourage nurses and midwives from all sectors to nominate for a position on our Councils. A diverse representation on our peak body is important to ensure we can make informed decisions which best reflect the values and interests of members.
Any member who has been fully financial for twelve months may nominate for election to either of the Union’s Councils. All positions are elected by secret ballot of all members.
Go to pages 36 and 37 to read the election notices for both Councils.
If you are interested in nominating for any position remember that because we have two Councils there are two separate nomination forms (with two different deadlines for nomination), and subsequently there could be two elections!
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