Unions seek enforceable agreements on the use of AI

29 July 2025

Australian Unions are seeking tougher regulations to guide the future roll-out of Artificial Intelligence in
workplaces in next month's Economic Reform Roundtable.

Unions are calling for a new set of mandatory enforceable agreements that would compel employers to consult with their staff before new AI technologies can be introduced into workplaces.

The measures require employers to reach AI Implementation Agreements with their workforce, including
guarantees around job security, skills development and retraining, transparency over technology use,
genuine privacy and data collection and use protections.

“We can realise the potential productivity benefits of AI while protecting the Australian fair go in the AI
age," said ACTU Secretary Sally McManus.

"AI can bring benefits if it is brought in by workers who are well-trained and well-supported in the use of
AI. This can’t happen without the knowledge, experience, creativity and skills of workers being brought
into the implementation process."

The enforceable AI Implementation Agreements would also need the backing of a new National AI
Authority and a national Artificial Intelligence Act to ensure Australian laws keep pace with the massive
technological changes workers already face in every sector and industry, with a regulator resourced to
support them.

Share this story

Stay up to date

Sign up to the ANMF website for national updates, campaigns and educational opportunities. We promise not to inundate your mailbox!

Read More

News

Stay up to date with key issues impacting nursing, midwifery and care industries.

Related

Federal Budget action urged as energy costs squeeze households

News Federal Budget action urged as energy costs squeeze households

20 March 2026

Advocates from across the country converged on Parliament House last week in a national mobilisation to highlight key pr...

Read more

Unions call for lower limits for 9 toxic chemicals

News Unions call for lower limits for 9 toxic chemicals

19 March 2026

Unions, including the ANMF are calling on Work Health and Safety Ministers to strengthen protections for workers, includ...

Read more

Application to alter ANMF Rules

News Application to alter ANMF Rules

13 March 2026

On 13 March 2026, the ANMF lodged a notice with the Fair Work Commission setting out particulars of alterations to the A...

Read more