ITCZ
What you say with regard to the Federal Award respondents is spot on the money.
With regards to the notion of joining the AFAP and attempting to use this as an entrapment upon the employer, this has been tried before, with a lot less success than you give the impression of.
Before all you young fellows run off buying diaries and note books, first examine your circumstances. If you have entered into an agreement/contract with an employer (and this can be the shake of the hand) then you are party to a deal and have responsibilities and obligations as well as rights under that agreement.
When that deal is commensurate with the principals of the award, others have found it to be legal and binding on both sides, employer and employee.
About 9 years ago a young fellow was forced to sell his flat and pay compensation to his employer for breach of his employment contract.
Dont be a gutless wonder or one with no moral fibre.... Be up front, let your word be your bond.
If you are not happy with the pay or conditions, then talk to your employer, have some courage and say what you mean and mean what you say.
If the conditions and pay do not improve then examine your options, get legal advice specific to your circumstances then either litigate or vote with your feet and leave. WHAT EVER YOU DO DON'T PIISS & MOAN.
The trouble these days is that too many young fellows take on so much financial committment and expect to support a family, mrs, kids and mortgage on a GA salary commensurate with flying say a Cessna 402 or Beech Baron....
Don't set yourself up for a fall, think smart.