The ULIO Executive

Who serves on the Executive?

The ULIO Executive comprises ten volunteer union lawyers and industrial officers:

• President
• Vice President
• Secretary
• Treasurer
• Six ordinary members

What does the Executive do?

The Executive organises year-round professional development including seminars, lectures, and networking events. Our flagship event is the annual 2-day ULIO Conference (typically February-March), which the Executive organises entirely on a volunteer basis with support from Unions NSW.

Membership & Eligibility

Who can join ULIO?

NSW residents who support our objects and fall into one of these categories:

• Australian Legal Practitioners employed by trade unions or working predominantly for unions in private practice
• Union employees in industrial, research, or para-legal roles
• Students or unemployed people interested in future union employment
• Other persons deemed suitable by the Executive

How do I become a member?

• Conference attendees: Automatic membership with conference registration for eligible attendees
• Other eligible persons: via our membership form.

Can I nominate for the Executive?

You're eligible to nominate if you are a ULIO member or are currently employed by the ACTU and were eligible for ULIO membership immediately prior to ACTU employment.

When are elections held?

Members vote at our Annual General Meeting to elect the following year's Executive.

Getting involved

Do I need extensive experience?

No! While movement experience is valued, it's not a prerequisite. We welcome fresh ideas and faces. If you're ready to actively contribute, you'll be welcomed.

Our committee benefits from diversity across unions, experience levels, and time in the movement. Organising or events experience is a bonus but not required.

What's the time commitment?

The Executive plays both strategic and operational roles, requiring regular participation from all members.

Ongoing commitment:

• Regular committee meetings throughout the year
• Strategic planning and programming decisions

Conference period (intensive):

• Weekly planning meetings leading up to conference
• Approximately 3 hours per week during pre-conference period
• Minimum 3-day commitment for the conference itself

Important: The demands intensify significantly around conference time. Please carefully consider whether you can dedicate the necessary time alongside your professional and personal commitments.

Next steps

Ready to get involved?

If you're interested in nominating or want to learn more about what Executive service involves, we encourage you to speak with current members:

Contact us:

• President: Eliza Sarlos | 0410 343 352 | esarlos@meu.org.au

• Secretary: Ed Yap | 0432 591 678 | ed.yap@hsu.asn.au

We're happy to answer questions about the role, time commitment, and how you can contribute to strengthening professional development opportunities for union lawyers and industrial officers across NSW.