Frequently asked questions
Please browse our list of frequently asked questions below. If you have a question that is not answered here, please contact us.
Can I get the sack for joining the CEPU?
No. The law says you can not be sacked or discriminated against for being a Union member
Does my boss have to know I am a member of the CEPU?
All contact between you, your workplace representative and the union is strictly between you and them. You are under no obligation to tell your employer about your membership.
Who runs the CEPU?
Members do. Members directly elect the CEPU officials who represent them
How do I know what I should get paid?
It can be quite complicated in determining this question. First, you have to determine what agreement covers your employment. Next, you then have to interpret the terms in the agreement. If you were a member, you will get the assistance of experienced union officials and the CEPU legal department, who answers such questions like this everyday.
I am having problems with my employer and think I might be sacked. If I join the Union will they help?
Members receive the benefit of the CEPU legal department that can represent them on employment issues Non-members will have to obtain their own legal representation which can potentially cost thousands of dollars.
My son is a second year apprentice and has been working on his own and he does not get paid for overtime, is this okay for an employer to do this?
It is not okay for the Employer to do this. If your son is a member, the CEPU has a designated Apprentices Officer who specializes in issues of Apprentices Supervision and Pay and will assist apprentices who are members on these and other relevant issues to the apprenticeship.
My son has had an accident while driving the company vehicle and they have told him he needs to pay the excess which is nearly $700.00 does he need to pay?
This is quite a complicated issue that arises quite often. As a member, you will get access to both union officials and the CEPU legal department to fight for you on this issue.
I am not a member of the Union and not covered by the EBA and my employer has terminated me due to lack of work. Am I entitled to get any payment?
Yes. Upon termination, at the very least, you are entitled to payment of your accrued entitlements such as annual leave. Further, depending on your circumstances, you should be entitled to notice of termination and redundancy pay. As a member, the legal department could assess your situation and make sure you get what is yours.
My employer wants me to work away from home, are there any allowances?
Yes, you may well be entitled to "travel" and "living away from home" allowances, depending on the type of industrial agreement you are covered by. As a member, specialized union officials well versed in such allowances would be able to assess your situation and assist you.
I want to obtain an electrical licence in Tasmania. Who do I call?
Workplace Standards 1300 366 322, Outside of Tasmania (03) 6233 7657
I have just moved to Australia from overseas. How do I go about getting my trade recognised here?
You need to call “Trades Recognition Australia” on 1300 360 992
I recently had some electrical work done and I want to query the work standard and the rate charged. Who do I call?
Workplace 1300 366 322
