Training Course Description

Delegates and Workplace Leaders: The Role of the Delegate

One-day course

This course is designed to equip workplace delegates with the skills, knowledge and confidence to build power and strengthen union presence in their workplaces.

Participants will explore the role and purpose of unions, their history and core values, and how these continue to shape effective organising today. You will develop practical skills using tools such as workplace mapping, recruitment conversations and structured problem-solving to grow union membership and influence.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Clearly understand your role as a delegate and how it contributes to building a stronger union
  • Confidently recruit new members and respond to common concerns about joining
  • Empower and engage colleagues to become active in the PSA
  • Build workplace capacity through mapping and strategic planning
  • Understand union structures and history
  • Assist in establishing and strengthening union structures in your workplace

Women in the Union

One-day course

This course explores the vital role women have played and continue to play in building strong unions and fairer workplaces.

Participants will examine the history of women’s participation in the workforce and unions, alongside contemporary issues such as sexual harassment, power and assertiveness at work. You will gain a clear understanding of your rights, entitlements and responsibilities, and explore the barriers that women still face today, including pay inequity and access to flexible work in the public sector.

This course aims to empower participants with the confidence and tools to drive positive change and create more equitable workplaces for women.

Content warning: This course includes discussion of sexual harassment and assault. While not graphic, the content may be triggering for some participants. Please enrol with care if this may affect you.

Dealing with Workplace Issues

This practical course equips new delegates with the skills and knowledge to effectively support members experiencing workplace challenges, including disciplinary processes and bullying.

You will learn how to apply structured problem-solving frameworks, understand and communicate rights and entitlements, and develop clear plans to assist members through complex workplace issues.

By completing this course, you will be better prepared to advocate confidently and competently for members in difficult situations.

Work, Health and Safety

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the rights, responsibilities and obligations that underpin safe and healthy workplaces under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

Topics include:

  • Navigating the WHS Act
  • Understanding WHS duties and who holds them
  • Effective workplace consultation: when, how and why
  • Resolving issues using WHS legislation
  • The role of Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) and how to establish one
  • Risk management and conducting workplace inspections

Participants will leave with a strong foundation to promote and enforce health and safety in their workplace.

Mental Health at Work

Unsure how to support a colleague who is struggling? Want to help create a more open and inclusive workplace culture around mental health?

This course explores key information, practical strategies and resources to support people experiencing mental health challenges and encourage early professional help-seeking. You will also learn techniques to manage stress, build resilience and foster a mentally healthy workplace.

Content warning: This course includes discussion of suicide and suicide prevention. Please consider your own wellbeing when deciding to enrol.

Dealing with Workplace Bullying

This course helps members and delegates understand what constitutes workplace bullying and harassment, and how to prevent and respond effectively.

Participants will explore relevant legislation and guidance materials, incident reporting processes, and practical strategies to address and resolve bullying in the workplace.

You will leave better equipped to support members and promote respectful, safe work environments.

Meeting and Negotiation Skills

This two-part course builds essential skills for effective workplace and union leadership.

The first part focuses on running meetings that are smooth, inclusive and productive, both in union settings and more broadly.

The second part develops your negotiation skills, helping you confidently advocate and tip the balance of power in discussions with management and decision-makers.

While aimed at delegates and activists, this course is highly beneficial for any member looking to strengthen their leadership and communication skills.