Massive Rallies in Melbourne and Sydney: Workers Protest Government Takeover of CFMEU

September 18, 2024
Massive Rallies in Melbourne and Sydney: Workers Protest Government Takeover of CFMEU
  • In Melbourne, hundreds of workers in high-visibility clothing are gathering at the Victorian Trades Hall Council for a rally scheduled to start at 11 am.

  • Simultaneously, workers in Sydney are set to rally as part of a CFMEU protest, also starting around 11 am.

  • Thousands of protesters are already gathered at Belmore Park in Sydney, chanting slogans like 'union power' ahead of their march on NSW Parliament.

  • The crowd at the CFMEU protest in Melbourne has grown to around 4,000, with expectations that it could swell to about 10,000 by the end of the event.

  • These rallies are part of a broader movement, following previous demonstrations where over 60,000 workers protested nationwide, particularly in Melbourne and Sydney, showing strong opposition to government actions.

  • The recent protests are a response to the government's takeover of the CFMEU, which was prompted by corruption allegations involving organized crime.

  • Protesters are demanding the return of power and autonomy to union members after the appointment of administrators earlier this year.

  • CFMEU administrator Mark Irving is focused on eradicating corruption within the union, particularly targeting connections to outlaw motorcycle gangs.

  • The CFMEU is currently under scrutiny due to allegations of criminal conduct within its construction and general division.

  • A legal challenge against the laws permitting the union's forced administration is being led by barrister Bret Walker SC in the high court.

  • Former CFMEU Queensland state secretary Michael Ravbar has expressed doubt over the success of this High Court challenge, describing the situation as a political campaign.

  • The 'Your Union, Your Choice' campaign was launched in Brisbane last month to challenge the union's forced administration.

Summary based on 2 sources


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Sources


Thousands to walk off the job today

news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site • Sep 17, 2024

Thousands to walk off the job today

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