By forming an association workers could obtain better wages and working conditions. However the employers wanted the highest profit margins so wished to keep wages low and spend little money on the working environment. The law of supply and demand in the labour market often determined which group was dominant.

A third factor in the balance in Australia was the government. A successful strike by newspaper workers in 1829 for better wages and conditions resulted in the Masters and Servants Act being implemented which discriminated against the workers, who could be gaoled for minor revolts.

Early in the colony, skilled labours were in short supply but in the 1840's after active promotion of emigrants by Britain this improved and a depression forced wages down and jobs were lost. With the discovery of gold, prices and wages rose, labour was scare and licenses imposed on miners and the Eureka incident occurred. Bust and boom economic conditions paroled surges recessions fo

The global nature of unionism has also resulted in international campaigns where strong unions in Australia have assisted in the establishment of unions in developing countries and supporting industrial action by unions in other nations.

At the beginning of the industrial revolution, employers knew their workers and felt responsible for them. After the industrial revolution gained momentum they employed more people and lost empathy for their staff.

The MUA "has notified the Industrial Relations Commission of the dispute after Patrick failed to give an undertaking its workforce would not be sacked. The union plans a four day strike at the Port of Brisbane."

The conflict between the MUA and NFF may be long and bitter with many casualties, Patrick among the first, but with the present federal and state governments prepared to become involved. Changes will take place soon.

The philosophy of a 'win-win' situation compared to the 'win-loss' is in the past as a resolution of conflict also softens the influence of unionism.

Some topics in this essay:
Parliament Unions, Labour Party, Workplace Reform, , Servants Act, MUA NFF, Howard Government, April Edition, Council Australia, Farmers Federation, labour market, maritime union, union australia, workplace reform, conditions workers, workers unions, maritime union australia, wages low, dispute patrick, patrick stevedoring, various occupations, workers various occupations,