It is a well-recognised that the current availability of jobs for new graduates (particularly in times of economic uncertainty) represents an image where supply far outweighs demand. In addition to this, the sheer number of new graduates with significant debt is not only increasing but many graduates are simply not earning enough to pay back their loans.

 

People who are in the business of seeking a job or furthering their career often find the concept of networking paramount to maximise ones opportunity to gain employment, build valuable relationships through likeminded professionals and further knowledge in their chosen field of study. This in essence is what the Industrial Relations Society in many ways, helps to facilitate.

 

For what can be seen as a relatively small financial investment (particularly when weighing up the intrinsic value that membership can provide) a member (particularly a student breaking into the working world of IR) can reap significant rewards.

 

Many of the events feature influential and valuable members of the business, government and educational community. Such examples may be various, representing members of unions throughout NSW, members from local and regional councils and business across the state, as well as Educational Institutions and current and former members of the Fair Work Commission and The Industrial Relations Commission of NSW.

 

This unique group of individuals represents a rich and valuable range of interests from both the public and private sector and contributes thought provoking ideas and concepts and generates discussion in relation to current political socio-economic factors that generate employment. Discussions often canvass current and former Industrial Relations legislation, concepts and theories both objectively and interactively as well as a variety of alternative topics. 

Many of the guests that also feature in various speeches and presentations hold unique sets of skills and diverse career paths providing first hand insights into the world of business and industrial relations.  

 

Along with invitations to our events, membership also entitles you to receive the Journal of Industrial Relations.  This Journal is published 5 times a year and contains a wide variety of articles on many aspects of Industrial Relations.

 

The National Society

 

The NSW Society is linked, through the Australian Labour and Employment Relations of Australia (ALERA), with kindred societies in all States and Territories of Australia. Membership is transferable between these organisations - although member benefits differ between the organisations. 

ALERA arranges a national convention, which rotates between the capital cities. The state/territory bodies also hold annual conventions.  All members of ALERA-NSW are advised of these functions and are invited to attend.