Maritime Union Publications

Throughout the long history of trade unionism, one of the most effective ways unions have communicated with their members has been through their regular publications. For the maritime trade unions, this has included the Seamen's Union of Australia Seamen’s Journal, the Waterside Workers' Federation Maritime Worker and the Maritime Union of Australia Journal. 

With thousands of members scattered across Australia, these publications, ranging from official organs to member newsletters, have long been “a vital forum for discussion within the membership and between officials and members” (Kirkby 2008, p. 154) as well as a way of informing members about important campaigns, changes impacting wages and conditions, social events, and activities in other branches. 

As historian Diane Kirkby explains (2008, p. 154), the Seamen’s Journal had a policy of inclusion, championed by long-term editor Della Elliott, with a section titled Voices from the Ships that encouraged contributions from rank and file SUA members on any topic. Pages of the journal were devoted to letters, poetry, obituaries, accident reports, and retirements, often accompanied by photos which “maintained a personal and comradely interest in the people who made up the union membership”. 

In addition to national publications, state branches of the WWF and SUA also produced their own newsletters and bulletins to keep members informed of local events.   

References

Kirkby, D 2008, Voices from the Ships, UNSW Press, Sydney.