Review Article: Industrial Relations in Australia

Abstract

The industrial relations systems of Australia and New Zealand are unique in using conciliation and arbitration as the main form of conflict regulation. Although the concept of compulsory arbitration was devised in Australia it was first introduced in New Zealand and only later adopted by the Australians. Because this common origin exists it is interesting for New Zealanders to examine the divergent development of the two systems. One advantage of this is that it exposes possible strengths and weaknesses of the New Zealand system.