Assistance and legal aid

Many workplaces have locally elected union representatives who are authorised to represent the affairs of employees at the workplace, often during paid working hours. These local union representatives generally provide the easiest and most personal way for the member to get help and advice. It is also possible for the member to contact the regional or national office of the union for assistance and advice when necessary.

Trade unions are experts at settling disputes over terms of employment, and it is seldom necessary to take legal action. In the event that legal action must be taken to settle a dispute, the trade unions have special arrangements for providing either free or very low-cost legal aid to their members. Members generally become eligible for legal aid from the union only after a certain qualifying period of union membership.