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The SDA is the union for Victorian workers in retail, warehousing and fast food.

With over 200,000 members across Australia, the SDA is one of the country’s oldest and largest unions. Our collective strength delivers real results including better pay, stronger rights and safer workplaces. Every member makes us stronger.

What is a union?

A union is an organised group of workers in a specific trade or industry who unite to protect and improve their wages, working conditions, and rights through collective action.

Unions achieve this by:
  • Negotiating strong workplace agreements
  • Lobbying for better labour laws
  • Providing support and representation for members

Flags at an SDA rally

What we advocate for

Better wages & conditions
The SDA negotiates for strong pay rises and better conditions with employers and pushes for improvements. On average, union members earn more than non-members.

Protection & security
The SDA is committed to safeguarding your rights and ensuring your wellbeing in the workplace. Our support ranges from offering workplace advice to legal representation.

Workplace health & safety
Your safety is union business. The SDA is here to take action on any safety concerns and ensure your physical and psychological safety.

Four SDA members at Bunnings

Who does the SDA represent?

The members of the Victorian Branch of the SDA come from many different workplaces. The SDA can represent people who are employed in the following industries:

  • Retail:
    • Department stores
    • Supermarkets
    • Discount stores
    • Hardware stores
    • Liquor
    • Administration in retail organisations
  • Warehousing and distribution
  • Fast food
  • Petrol stations
  • Pharmacy
  • Hairdressing and beauty salons
  • Models and mannequins

The SDA is your union: your voice, your strength, your power at work. Together, we are united and strong.

Your voice, united

The union is the collective strength of its members. Together, we make sure workers’ rights are protected, respected, and advanced.

The more members who stand together, the greater our power to achieve real change.

Through the SDA, members are represented everywhere it matters, whether it’s running cases in the Fair Work Commission, pushing for stronger workplace laws, or winning outcomes directly on the shop floor.

A group of SDA members at Coles stand together with SDA Organiser Toni on the shop floor

Two SDA members with SDA Organiser Aleks in Woolworths Highpoint

Our representation and advocacy helps to deliver:

  • Fair & reasonable pay rises
  • Secure & decent jobs
  • Stronger rostering rights
  • Safer workplaces
  • More time off with pay
  • Gender equality & equity

Read more about what we do

When you're a member of the SDA, you're never alone at work.

SDA member from BWS Highpoint

SDA Member at Coles Services