The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) is poised for a leadership change, marking the end of a transformative decade under the stewardship of secretary Sally McManus and president Michele O'Neil. Their tenure, characterised by a robust re-engagement with workplace issues and a significant uplift in union visibility, has reshaped the industrial landscape for Australia's 1.6 million unionised workers.
From wage stagnation to the gig economy's emergence, McManus and O'Neil navigated a complex and often hostile environment, turning the tide for a movement that, for decades, had seen declining membership and political influence. Their departure prompts reflection on a period of sustained advocacy and strategic campaigning that has arguably bolstered the power of the Australian worker.
Reclaiming the Industrial Agenda
When Sally McManus took the reins as ACTU Secretary in 2017, followed by Michele O'Neil as President in 2018, the union movement faced an uphill battle. Membership numbers were stagnant, and policy debate often bypassed the industrial voice. Their leadership ushered in a new era of proactive engagement, shifting the narrative from a defensive posture to a more assertive, policy-driven advocacy.
One of their key successes was the 'Change the Rules' campaign, launched in 2018. This broad-based initiative sought to reform Australia's industrial relations laws, with a focus on improving wages, job security, and workers' rights. While not all demands were immediately met, the campaign successfully moved industrial relations to the forefront of national political discourse, culminating in significant legislative changes under the Albanese Labor government, including the 'Same Job, Same Pay' provisions and enhanced protections for casual workers.
Navigating Economic Headwinds and the Gig Economy
The past decade presented formidable economic challenges, including persistent wage stagnation and the rapid expansion of the gig economy. McManus and O'Neil consistently highlighted the detrimental impact of these trends on working families, advocating for stronger collective bargaining and fair remuneration. The Conversation AU reported on the union leaders' success in shining a spotlight on the precarious nature of gig work, pushing for better conditions and a living wage for contractors often operating outside traditional employment frameworks.
Their sustained pressure contributed to a broader societal conversation about the future of work and the need for regulations that keep pace with evolving employment models. This advocacy has laid the groundwork for ongoing improvements in the gig sector, with several state and federal inquiries now examining fairer treatment for these workers.
Increased Union Membership and Public Profile
Under McManus and O'Neil, the ACTU experienced a notable resurgence in its public profile and, crucially, a stabilisation and modest increase in union membership, particularly among younger workers. By leveraging modern communication strategies and focusing on issues directly impacting everyday Australians, they broadened the appeal of unionism beyond traditional blue-collar industries.
The Conversation AU observed that their tenure saw a more diverse representation within the union movement, including greater female leadership and a concerted effort to engage with social justice issues beyond immediate workplace concerns. This expansion of focus helped to frame the ACTU not just as an industrial advocate, but as a voice for broader societal equity.
The Path Ahead for Australia's Workers
As the ACTU transitions to new leadership, the foundations laid by McManus and O'Neil provide a robust platform for future campaigns. The challenges remain significant: ongoing inflationary pressures eroding real wages, the continued evolution of work arrangements, and the imperative to ensure a just transition in the face of climate change.
However, the outgoing leaders leave behind a more unified, politically engaged, and publicly respected union movement. Their legacy is one of renewed optimism and a tangible shift in the balance of power, demonstrating that strategic, determined advocacy can indeed change the rules for Australian workers.
