Hugh Armstrong’s industrial relations career – dedicated to advocating for the interests of workers – has spanned more than 35 years, with expertise in dispute resolution, enterprise bargaining and wage-setting.
Glasgow-born, Mr Armstrong began his career with a five-year apprenticeship before joining the British Merchant Navy as a marine engineer. After migrating to Australia, Mr Armstrong joined the South Australian Department of Marine & Harbours as a marine engineer and the Australian Government Workers Association (AGWA). He began his industrial relations career as a shop steward before being elected to office at the AGWA and then the Federated Clerks Union of Australia. Mr Armstrong’s last union posting was as the Australian Services Union’s National Executive President. He was awarded the 1977 Churchill Fellowship to study industrial democracy in the UK, Europe & USA.
In 1996, Mr Armstrong changed career path and was appointed Conciliation Officer with the Victorian Accident Compensation Conciliation Service, a role he held until 2004. His numerous offices include the presidency of the Industrial Relations Societies of Australia and Victoria; Executive Member of the United Trades and Labor Council (SA); Delegate to the International Labour Organisation; and Member of various Wages Boards and Conciliation and Arbitration Committees of the (then) Industrial Relations Commissions of Victoria and South Australia.