Course coordinator
Dr Samantha Cooms
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2025 (24/02/2025 - 21/06/2025)
- Study level
- Postgraduate Coursework
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Business School
This course will focus on employment relations in the workplace in both the Australian and International context. The course begins with an examination of international standards for and approaches to managing employment relations. The course discusses the relationship between the various stakeholders in the employment relationship and employment relations and the law. The focus then moves to workplace strategy including workplace bargaining and managing conflict at both theoretical and skills levels.
Successive waves of employment relations legislative reform underscore the importance to managers of keeping abreast of employee relations at the workplace. In this course you will be exposed to the field of employment relations at both the enterprise and institutional levels. Students will however gain practical experience through weekly tutorial work.
You should read this outline very carefully to gain a general understanding of the aims, structure, expectations and organisation of the course, the assessment which you will be required to undertake, and the specific rules that apply to this course which may vary from other courses that you have undertaken at UQ.
Contemporary Employment Relations seeks to explain the nature of relations, both individual and collective, that arise between the state (governing bodies), employers, managers, employees and their representatives in the context of paid employment (including the role of unions and employee associations). Given the complexity of workplace behaviour, this course draws on several academic disciplines, including economics, law, politics, sociology and history, and each provides different insights into the study of employee relations.
The course therefore is a multi-disciplinary approach to employment relations focusing on both the Australian and international contexts, comprising elements of social, economic, legal, political and historical analysis.ﾠ A wide variety of topics are investigated, including types and determinants of conflict at work; the activities of industrial tribunals, employer organisations and trade unions; the various methods of determining pay and conditions of employment (awards, collective agreements and common law contracts); managing diversity; Indigenous Australian experiences of work and management and work health and safety.
A brief note on terminology. The field of 'employment relations' is wide-ranging. It includes not just those topics with which it is traditionally associated with industrial relations (e.g. trade unions, industrial tribunals, enterprise bargaining) but also relations between employers and workers at the enterprise more generally. In order to indicate the breadth of material canvassed by this course, at times we use the term 'industrial relations' in place of 'employment relations', however, your teaching staff will be using the terms interchangeably through this course.
Class Attendance: While lectures are recorded, attending in person will significantly enhance your engagement with the course material. Attendance at tutorials is expected, as they are a crucial part of your learning. If you are unable to attend a class, please inform your tutor as soon as possible so they can assist with any missed content.
Student Well-being and Inclusion: We prioritize a supportive and inclusive learning environment. If you have specific needs, please reach out to your teaching staff to discuss accommodations. Discriminatory or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated. If you experience or witness such behaviour, report it immediately to your teaching staff.
Active Participation: Your participation in group discussions is vital for your learning. We strive to create a safe and supportive space where all students feel confident to contribute.
Sustainable Development Goals - UQ Business School is a proud supporter and Advanced Signatory of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Management Education (UN PRME). As part of the largest global collaboration between business schools and the UN, the school emphasises its role in empowering students to drive societal transformation through the Sustainable Development Goals. The SDGs highlight that a thriving economy relies on a healthy environment, aiming to balance economic growth, social well-being, and environmental protection for a sustainable future.
Course requirements
Assumed background
Before attempting this course, students are advised that it is important to complete the appropriate prerequisite course(s) listed on the front of this course profile. No responsibility will be accepted by the School of Business, the Faculty of Business, Economics and Law or the University of Queensland for poor student performance occurring in courses where the appropriate prerequisite(s) has/have not been completed, for any reason whatsoever.
It is the student's responsibility to attend classes and consult designated notice boards and websites for correct and up-to-date information regarding the course, including examination times. Relying on fellow students to pass on information may result in incorrect information for which the University will not be held responsible.
APPROACH TO THE COURSE
Employment relations seeks to explain the nature of relations, both individual and collective, that arise between employers, managers, employees and their representatives in the context of paid employment. Given the complexity of workplace behaviour, this course draws on several academic disciplines, including economics, law, politics, sociology and history, and each provides different insights into the study of employment relations.
Three main social forces are involved in shaping industrial relations in Australia: capital, labour and the state. This course therefore considers the differing perspectives of all parties involved in employment relations. While at times considering international experience, the focus of the course is on Australia.
The assessment for MGTS7609 is designed to test your understanding of both the theoretical and applied aspects of employment relations.
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
MGTS2607
Restrictions
Quota: Minimum of 15 enrolments
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Samantha Cooms
Tutor
Dr Samantha Cooms
Mr Paul Dibley-Maher
Dr Kaye Broadbent
Dr Kohinur Akter
Dr Angela Bowles
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
Please note: Teaching staff do not have access to the timetabling system to help with class allocation. Therefore, should you need help with your timetable and/or allocation of classes, please ensure you email business.mytimetable@uq.edu.au from your UQ student email account with the following details:
- Full name
- Student ID
- Course Code
Aims and outcomes
While this course is particularly aimed at managers seeking to specialise and develop their career in the fields of Employment Relations and/or Human Resource Management, the nature of modern management is such that an understanding of employment relations is required for all practising managers. This course is therefore aimed at both the specialist and generalist manager.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Interpret and reflect upon the major concepts and theories that underpin the employment relationship.
LO2.
Recognise and examine the current major political, legal and economic themes, debates and key parties involved both nationally and internationally in the employment relationship.
LO3.
Quantify the significance of managing diversity, workplace discrimination and workplace health and safety for workplaces.
LO4.
Construct methods for determining conditions of employment relating to the award system, arbitration, enterprise bargaining and individual contracts and managerial prerogative.
LO5.
Practice critical thinking and problem-solving skills through research into a broad range of workplace issues within the Australian and international context, in a manner consistent with personal, professional and academic conventions.
LO6.
Collaborate effectively in teams to communicate ideas, present findings, and solve problems within the context of employment relations, while demonstrating respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and integrating Indigenous knowledges into workplace analyses.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation | ER Annotated Bibliography | 30% 2000 words |
17/04/2025 5:00 pm |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Presentation | In class case study discussions | 20% |
Week 4 - Week 13 |
| Essay/ Critique | Essay | 50% |
9/06/2025 5:00 pm |
Assessment details
ER Annotated Bibliography
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 30% 2000 words
- Due date
17/04/2025 5:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
Assessment 1 and 2 for this course are connected, Assessment 1 will lay the foundations for your assessment 2 topic.
For assessment 1 you are required to select one (1) of the following topics for this assessment:
1 Comparative Analysis of Employment Relations in Two Countries
Focus: The International Context of ER: Compare approaches to employment relations of two different countries
Description: Compare and contrast the employment relations systems of two specific countries. Explore the social, cultural, historical and political context and analyse the distinct theories, values, and practices influencing how parties involved in the employment relationship (such as unions, employer associations, and the state) operate within each country. Highlight the differences, similarities, and potential impacts on the workforce and society.
2 Employee Participation and Voice in Workplace Decision-Making
Focus: Employee Participation and Voice
Description: Explore the role and significance of employee participation and voice in the decision-making processes within organizations. Analyse cultural and political contexts, discuss theories and values driving employee involvement, the impact on workplace dynamics, conflict resolution, and organizational performance. Evaluate different models or methods of employee participation, such as the role of unions, emphasizing how they contribute to improvements in the organisational performance and working conditions.
3 Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the Workplace
Focus: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Description: Investigate the concepts of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the context of employment relations and the parties involved in the employment relationship (e.g. union/employer/state). Examine how these principles influence workplace practices, policies, and the experiences of various groups, including the Indigenous perspective, within the workforce. Discuss the theoretical frameworks and values underpinning these concepts, and explore their impact on creating a more inclusive and respectful work environment. You may consider the challenges and benefits from the successful implementation of EDI in the workplace.
There are 2 parts for this assessment:
Critical reflection (200 words): Why have you chosen this topic? Why is this topic of interest to you? Do you have any personal experiences/preconceived ideas/values/cultural influences or bias etc you have that influenced your perspective.
Annotated bib (1800 words): 6 peer reviewed academic articles that are recent (10 years) and drawn from employee and industrial relations literature related to your chosen topic. These sources will go on to form the basis of your essay due later in the semester.
NOTE WELL:
- The topic you choose must relate to the context of Employment Relations.
- This annotated bibliography will help you complete Assessment Task 2 (Essay).
- You must read widely and draw on relevant literature to inform your thinking.
- Use a minimum of six (6) relevant and recent academic references in your annotated bibliography.
- Must include a critical reflection (200 words) outlining why you chose this topic. The section ONLY can be written in 1st person (i.e. my, I)
FORMATTING YOUR ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY
- Font Style: One style only: either Times New Roman, Arial or Calibri
- Font Size: 12
- Line Spacing: 1.5 throughout
- Margins: Justified
- Referencing: APA7
- Writing Style (Narrative): Third person (e.g. The author’s view is that ... The author’s experience is that ... The author’s research indicates that ... etc)
- Presentation: Must include Title Page plus full Reference List
AI Statement:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
You should upload your assessment through Turnitin on the Blackboard course site using the Assessments link.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
In class case study discussions
- Mode
- Oral
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Presentation
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
Week 4 - Week 13
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06
Task description
Overview
Students will analyse employment relations case studies throughout the semester, presenting in pairs and actively engaging in weekly discussions. The assessment focuses on both presentation skills and individual contributions to class discussions.
Assessment Components
1. Pair Presentation and Defence (70%)
Each pair will deliver one scheduled presentation during the semester, consisting of:
- 12-minute analysis of an assigned case study
- 8-minute defence session, including:
- Questions from the teaching team
- Live student questions from the class
Presentation Requirements:
- Identify and explain key employment relations issues
- Apply relevant theories and concepts from the week's topic
- Propose practical solutions or recommendations
- Demonstrate the ability to critically engage with in-class questions
All pair members must actively participate in both the presentation and defence session, and may be called upon to answer specific questions individually.
2. Individual Participation (30%)
Assessed throughout the semester based on:
- Quality of contributions to class discussions
- Engagement with in-class Q&A sessions
- Preparation for weekly case studies
- Regular attendance and active participation
Active participation enhances:
- Critical thinking and analytical skills
- Exposure to diverse case analyses
- Professional communication and presentation skills.
Weekly Tutorial Format (2 hours)
For Presenting Pairs (20 minutes per pair):
- Presentation (12 minutes)
- Q&A discussion (8 minutes)
For Non-Presenting Students:
- Read assigned case studies before class
- Participate in discussions and ask questions during presentations
Teaching Staff:
- Present case studies not selected by students
Schedule and Organization
- Presentation schedule released in Week 2
- Pairs assigned in Week 2
- Each pair presents once during Weeks 4-13
- 20 case studies available—students choose one, remaining cases covered by teaching staff
Assessment Submission
- Presentation slides must be submitted via Turnitin before the scheduled tutorial
AI Statement:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Essay
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Essay/ Critique
- Weight
- 50%
- Due date
9/06/2025 5:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
Drawing on the annotated bibliography (Assessment 1) and the feedback received from your one page pitch, you are required to prepare a research essay on the topic/question you pitched in Assessment 2 and as approved by your tutor.
Your essay must have a title page, introduction, background, body, and conclusion and draw widely on recent and relevant employee and industrial relations literature to inform your essay. You are required to use a minimum of 12 recent and relevant academic peer reviewed articles from within the last 10 years in your essay.
Introduction should be compelling and include a thesis statement that lays the foundation for deep analysis.
Background should identify and define key issues and terms and outline contextual factors.
Body should provide a substantial and critical analysis of identified issues and reflect your thesis statement with extensive and astute consideration of academic literature.
Conclusion should effectively summarise and reinforce the key points of your topic and analysis.
NOTE WELL:
- You have the option of changing or creating your own essay question/topic but this MUST BE APPROVED IN WRITING (via email) by the Co-Course Coordinator (Dr Sam Cooms) BEFORE you begin.
- You must read widely and draw on relevant literature to inform your thinking.
- Use a minimum of twelve (12) relevant and recent academic references drawn from employee and industrial relations literature in your essay. You may reuse the references from assessment 1.
AI Statement:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Please submit through Turnitin located in the Blackboard Assessment link.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Cut off Percent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) | 0 - 29 |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 2 (Fail) | 30 - 46 |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) | 47 - 49 |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes |
| 4 (Pass) | 50 - 64 |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 5 (Credit) | 65 - 74 |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 6 (Distinction) | 75 - 84 |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 7 (High Distinction) | 85 - 100 |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. |
Additional course grading information
Grades will be allocated according to University-wide standards of criterion-based assessment.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 |
Lecture |
Introduction to Employment Relations Introduction to Employment Relations / ER V's HRM / Course Expectations Learning outcomes: L01 |
Week 2 |
Tutorial |
Introduction to Employment Relations / ER V's HRM In class activities Learning outcomes: L01 |
Lecture |
Theories and Values Driving Employment Relations Pluralist, Unitarist and Radical Learning outcomes: L01 |
|
Week 3 |
Tutorial |
Theories and Values Driving Employment Relations In Class activities Learning outcomes: L01 |
Lecture |
Parties Involved in the Employment Relationship The State Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05 |
|
Week 4 |
Tutorial |
Parties Involved in the Employment Relationship The State Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05 |
Lecture |
Parties Involved in the Employment Relationship Unions & Employer Associations Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L06 |
|
Week 5 |
Tutorial |
Parties Involved in the Employment Relationship Unions & Employer Associations Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L06 |
Lecture |
The International Context of ER Different approaches to ER in Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L06 |
|
Week 6 |
Tutorial |
The International Context of ER Different approaches to ER in national contexts Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L06 |
Lecture |
Arbitration and Awards Determinants of wages / state regulation / NES / Awards Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L06 |
|
Week 7 |
Tutorial |
Arbitration and Awards Arbitration and Awards: Determinants of wages / state regulation / NES / Awards Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L06 |
Lecture |
Employee Participation and Voice The importance of employee participation and voice in the workplace Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L06 |
|
Week 8 |
Tutorial |
Employee Participation and Voice The importance of employee participation and voice in the workplace. Good Friday Public Holiday - Friday 18 April 2025 - Check Blackboard for announcements about affected classes. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L06 |
Lecture |
Agreements / Rulemaking / Negotiations Elements of rule-making / labor contracts / enterprise agreements / negotiations Learning outcomes: L02, L04, L05, L06 |
|
Mid-sem break |
No student involvement (Breaks, information) |
In-semester break |
Week 9 |
Tutorial |
Agreements / Rulemaking / Negotiations Elements of rule-making / labor contracts / enterprise agreements / negotiations Learning outcomes: L02, L04, L05, L06 |
Lecture |
Conflict in the Employment Relationship Types of conflict / Theories / IR conflict in Australia / Industrial disputes / Dispute resolution / Protected action / Unprotected action / role of FWC in disputes / Mediation Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L06 |
|
Week 10 |
Tutorial |
Conflict in the Employment Relationship Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L06 |
Lecture |
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the workplaceﾖwhat is it and why does it matter Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
|
Week 11 |
Tutorial |
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the workplaceﾖwhat is it and why does it matter Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Lecture |
Indigeneity at work Exploring Indigeneity and the workplace Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
|
Week 12 |
Tutorial |
Indigeneity at work Exploring Indigeneity at work Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Lecture |
Workplace Health and Safety Legislation / emerging issues / workers compensation. A3 due this week. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
|
Week 13 |
Tutorial |
Workplace Health & Safety Legislation / emerging issues / workers compensation Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Lecture |
Self-directed Revision Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Additional learning activity information
Sustainable Development Goals
This course integrates the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through lectures and assessment.
Goal 3: Good health and well-being
Goal 5: Gender equality and women’s empowerment
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments - Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.