For Queensland public sector workers, the union movement has been particularly influential in shaping superannuation policies that reflect the unique needs of your workforce. Our union, Together (then the Queensland Public Sector Union) and other affiliated unions had been at the forefront of negotiations and campaigns to secure fair and equitable superannuation entitlements for public sector employees.
In Queensland, public sector workers have benefited from specific superannuation schemes tailored to their employment conditions. The QSuper fund, one of Australia’s largest and oldest superannuation funds, was established to cater to the needs of Queensland government employees. Through the concerted efforts of unions, QSuper evolved to ensure that public sector workers receive robust retirement benefits.
Unions in Queensland have also been proactive in addressing issues such as gender equity in superannuation, advocating for policies that support women who often face lower superannuation balances due to career breaks and part-time work. This advocacy has led to initiatives aimed at closing the superannuation gender gap, such as increased employer contributions during periods of parental leave and flexible contribution options.
The Queensland state government also announced this year that Queensland public sector workers will continue to receive superannuation payments for their unpaid parental leave period. It is currently only paid during their paid leave. From 2025, super will also be paid on their entire leave period when the federal government will start paying super on their PPL entitlement. These policies will help improve that superannuation gender gap for women in the Queensland public sector by ensuring they do not miss out on super payments that a generation of women before them have.
The union movement in Australia has been instrumental in the establishment and evolution of the superannuation system, securing better retirement outcomes for workers. From the initial campaigns in the 1980s to the ongoing efforts to improve superannuation policies, union members have consistently advocated for fairness and equity in retirement savings. Union membership is vital to the continued success of these efforts, ensuring that workers' rights and entitlements are protected and enhanced.
Now is your opportunity to be part of the current campaigns Together members are working on to build lasting impacts for Queensland workers and communities.
