Massive Rallies in Melbourne and Sydney: Workers Protest Government Takeover of CFMEU
September 18, 2024In 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
news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site • Sep 17, 2024
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