United Workers’ Union denies bullying and harassment claims

One of WA’s biggest unions has denied claims of staff bullying and harassment. The union has responded to a report in a national newspaper on Saturday that alleged an east coast law firm was gathering evidence for a potential class action against the WA branch of the United Workers’ Union over its treatment of staff. According to the report, union employees had been sacked for complaining about their treatment. It also claimed the union was forcing employees to do unpaid volunteer work for the Labor Party in the run up to elections. United Workers’ Union national president Jo Schofield said the union was completely unaware of the bullying allegations. “United Workers Union has not been provided with details of any allegations being made, so is not in a position to respond fully,” she said. The law firm named in the report was Adero Law, which has offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Adelaide. Ms Schofield said the union was unaware of any class action from Adero and would respond accordingly if any such action was taken. “The union is committed to providing safe, supportive workplaces, and addresses issues when they arise in a fair and considered manner,” she added. Adero Law was unavailable for comment on Saturday.