A new union requirement is causing controversy in NSW.

In a move criticised as compulsory unionism disguised as training, electricians in New South Wales (NSW) are facing a choice: pay $785 to join the union or shell out $1500 for a "training course" to access an additional $7,000 in annual pay.

This condition is reportedly part of the Electrical Trades Union NSW's latest pattern agreement.

The agreement introduces an hourly allowance of $3.70, which translates to $7,000 in extra pay each year for electricians who complete an “agreement interpretation” course annually. 

However, the catch is that the course is solely offered by the ETU, free for union members but costing non-members $1,500. 

The hefty price tag is twice the annual membership fee of $785, leading industry insiders to denounce it as “compulsory unionism by another name”.

The issue of non-members receiving the benefits of union agreements for free has previously prompted unions to seek the reinstatement of bargaining fees, a practice abolished by the Howard government. 

Australian Resources and Employer Association CEO Steve Knott warned that this condition could spread to other sectors, potentially becoming a common feature in future enterprise bargaining claims. 

He said it is important to protect the freedom of association in the workplace as guaranteed by the Fair Work Act.

Since then, the Fair Work Commission has approved 12 agreements with this requirement in the past two months, affecting major electrical contractors such as Fredon, Star Electrical, and Stowe. 

However, the clause lacks specificity regarding the cost of the course and the differential charges for union and non-union members.

Responding to criticisms, an ETU spokesperson defended the union's right to offer courses exclusively to its members, stressing that several training providers can deliver the course. 

The spokesperson also highlighted the high levels of existing union membership among the companies involved.

Employers and industry groups, including the National Electrical and Communications Association, have expressed concerns about the potential ramifications of this requirement. Critics argue that the condition is unnecessary given that the Fair Work Act already requires employees to understand the conditions they agree to, rendering the course redundant.