Over the past decade, the Queensland Teachers' Union (QTU) has developed into an organisation which is highly respected because of its track record on protecting and advancing the professional and industrial interests of the teaching profession. The QTU has experienced sustained membership growth with membership numbers having risen by 45% between 1990 to 2009. The QTU now represents 43,000 teachers, principals and administrators in Queensland state schools and TAFE colleges. The QTU is now the largest registered industrial organisation in Queensland.

John Battams has been the General Secretary (Chief Executive) of the QTU since May 1990, being responsible for its management and administration. The Union has 95 officers and staff employed with its head office in Brisbane, as well as nine regional offices; Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba, Maryborough, Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns. The QTU has a turnover of approximately $14m per annum and enjoys a membership rate of 96% of eligible permanently appointed teachers, administrators and principals.

Apart from his role in the QTU, John is also Honorary President of the Queensland Council of Unions, the peak union body in Queensland. John is also Chair of Queensland's biggest industry superannuation fund, Sunsuper. He has previously held a range of other positions including being a director of WorkCover Queensland.