“I’m Not Refusing — I’m Just Calling MYUNION First”
- Brian AJ Newman LLB
- Jan 2
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 4
It’s a situation many workers recognise instantly.
You’re finishing your shift.
You’re off the clock.
And suddenly, a manager demands you stay back and “just get it done” — unpaid.
When you hesitate, the pressure escalates.
Threats. Intimidation. Implications that your job might be on the line.
This is not leadership.
This is workplace bullying — and often, wage theft.
Have you been forced to work unpaid overtime?
0%Yes
0%No
Unpaid Work Is Not “Helping Out”
Unpaid work is still work.
If you are required to perform duties, remain on-site, or respond to instructions, that time is generally work time. Employers cannot simply demand unpaid labour because it is convenient, urgent, or “expected”.
Yet many workers are bullied into silence because they fear the consequences of pushing back.
That fear is exactly what some managers rely on.
The Most Powerful Response Is a Calm One
The most effective response is not confrontation.
It’s clarity.
“I’m not refusing. I’m just going to call MYUNION first to find out my rights.”
Those words change the power dynamic immediately.
Suddenly:
The shouting stops
The threats soften
The demand is withdrawn
Why?
Because bullying thrives in isolation.
It collapses under scrutiny.
Knowing Your Rights Is Not Misconduct
Workers are entitled to:
Ask questions about pay and hours
Seek advice about their rights
Contact their representative before complying with questionable instructions
Seeking advice is not insubordination.
It is not refusal.
And it is not misconduct.
In fact, retaliation for seeking advice can itself be a serious workplace breach.
What MYUNION Does Differently
MYUNION exists for moments exactly like this.
We specialise in individual representation, not enterprise bargaining agreements.
We do not negotiate EBAs.
We do not engage in party politics.
What we do is stand beside workers when it matters most.
That includes:
Unpaid work demands
Bullying and intimidation
Disciplinary threats
“Just do it” instructions that don’t feel right
Our focus is practical, immediate support — before situations escalate into disciplinary action, investigations, or psychological injury.
Early Advice Prevents Bigger Problems
Many serious workplace disputes start with something small:
One unpaid shift
One threat
One moment of pressure
When workers feel they have no choice, problems compound.
Early advice changes outcomes.
That’s why the smartest thing a worker can say is not “no”.
It’s:
“Let me check my rights first.”
You Don’t Have to Face It Alone
If something at work doesn’t feel right, pause.
You are allowed to ask questions.
You are allowed to seek advice.
You are allowed to protect yourself.
And you are allowed to call MYUNION first.
Know your rights.
Protect your work.
Don’t let bullying decide your future.
MYUNION
No politics. Just help.
📞 1300 MYUNION
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