The tribunal rejected an appeal by the Australian Industry Group in a decision that will affect about 10,000 Victorian electricians, but will be used by unions in other industries. It could have implications for Qantas.

The ETU had an agreement with an employer group that requires consultation over the use of contractors and that temporary workers be paid the same as in-house workers.
 
AiG chief executive Heather Ridout said the decision was ''disappointing'' and called for changes to the Fair Work Act. She said the ETU agreement could see a return to the ''damaging practices of the past''.

ETU state secretary Dean Mighell said the decision protected the rights of workers to receive superannuation, penalties and other benefits.