Assoc Prof Anthony Young

What’s your name and your official role in the NTEU?

Anthony Young, President of the Gatton Sub-branch of the UQ Branch of the NTEU.

How did you get that role – is it a paid role? Is it elected, or did you apply for it as a job?

I was elected by Gatton members. No pay.

What does it involve, day-to-day?

Being visible and present, and assisting members and non-members alike when they require support. Contributing to UQ Branch activities.

How and why did you get involved in the NTEU?

I witnessed management actions that were impacting my colleagues badly. I decided then that our workforce needs to act collectively to hold management to account and thereby improving management of our academic institutions. So I got involved in the NTEU.

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever had to deal with through the NTEU?

When non-members are affected by management decisions and only join the Union after this moment. This limits our ability to support them.

If you could change one thing at UQ/Higher Ed sector, what would it be?

Greater transparency and democracy in decision making, especially appointments to leadership roles. These positions affect so many people through the decisions that they make, so improved input from the collective can ensure the best people are selected.

What are you most proud of that our Union has achieved?

I think improvements in the workload models have helped, and casual conversion, and a real pay rise, but there is so much more we need to achieve! Bring on bargaining for a new agreement in 2026.