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Comment by tomlockwood

2 years ago

I work for one of the union organisations (the ACTU) that pushed for this ban.

Software devs are notoriously anti-union. Software companies notoriously have huge cash reserves that didn't go into the pockets of those devs.

Join your union.

If you're in Australia you can start the process, here: https://www.australianunions.org.au/join/begin-join/#/

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tomlockwood

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quickthrower2  2 years ago

Are software devs who join unions getting paid more than those who do the classic either: (a) 2 year hops or (b) find a company that gives good rises to take you above market rate.

  • tomlockwood  2 years ago

    The good news is you can do both of those things and still be a member of a union! And additionally, there's lots of evidence to suggest that union members get paid more https://www.australianunions.org.au/factsheet/union-members-...

    Union penetration is decidedly low in tech, and tech companies coincidentally have some of the highest cash reserves of any industry. People in tech often think, why should I join my union, I already get paid a lot! Bosses love that attitude.

    • billy99k  2 years ago

      "Union penetration is decidedly low in tech, and tech companies coincidentally have some of the highest cash reserves of any industry. People in tech often think, why should I join my union, I already get paid a lot! Bosses love that attitude."

      If unions are anything like they are in the US, you lose your individual bargaining power in favor of the collective. IE: if you want a raise as a software developer, everyone at your level will also need to get a raise.

      In addition to this, you end up paying the unions a tax in the form of dues, like a small government and you are forced to strike (like the UAW), even when you are satisfied with your current position/salary.

      I can negotiate my own salary with any employer and I am normally well compensated. A union will not help me and will only hinder my future success.

      Unions are normally for people that have lower-skilled jobs that can easily be replaced by the thousands of other people that can do the same thing (hence, having no individual negotiating power and needing someone to protect them).

      This generally doesn't apply to people in the tech industry.

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