Industrial support and advice
There is no problem too big or too small for our Member Support Centre.
Whether you want to check your pay scale, aren’t sure about what leave you’re entitled to, or want advice about how to get off that contract and into an ongoing position – the MSC can assist.
You can also access our useful member-only advice sheets, covering topics like workplans, OHS and conversion to ongoing.
Legal support
AEU members can receive a free initial legal consultation on any work-related matter. The union may provide legal assistance to members for industrial cases, employment law matters, workers' compensation claims and potential criminal matters.
Any legal assistance must be approved by the union in accordance with its internal policies and procedures prior to any legal referrals being made. Any costs incurred by members prior to or without union approval for legal assistance will not be met by the union.
Read a summary of the AEU's Legal Expenses Policy.
Members can also request a referral to a recommended legal firm for certain non-work-related matters (e.g. family law matters), and get a free standard will from our external lawyers.
If you need legal advice about work-related matters, contact the AEU first on 03 9417 2822.
Disaster and welfare support
The AEU maintains a disaster and welfare fund for members in times of need.
Members can claim up to $500 to cover the loss of possessions in incidents such as floods or fire at their workplace.
Download the Disaster and welfare fund claim form
Member Assistance Package
The AEU has established a special Member Assistance Package to support members who have experienced substantial property damage in response to the October 2022 Victorian floods.
Individual AEU members can apply for immediate financial assistance of $1000 for any member whose home was flooded, and can apply for an interest free loan to assist while insurance claims are finalised.
Download the Member Assistance Claim Form
Sub-branches in flooded schools and TAFE institutes, and Early Childhood Centres where there is a member, can apply for $1000 to be used at their discretion to support the workplace or their community.
Download the Workplace Assistance Claim Form