CFMEU News: A Glimpse Behind the Curtain

The Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) is a force to be reckoned with in the Australian construction industry. With over 100,000 members, it's the largest construction union in the country. But what goes on behind the scenes at the CFMEU?

I got a chance to sit down with John Setka, the CFMEU's Victorian secretary, to find out. Setka is a controversial figure, but he's also a passionate advocate for his members. He told me about the challenges facing the CFMEU, the union's plans for the future, and his own personal journey as a union leader.

One of the biggest challenges facing the CFMEU is the rise of the gig economy. More and more workers are being employed as contractors or freelancers, rather than as full-time employees. This makes it harder for unions to organize workers and bargain for better wages and conditions.

"The gig economy is a threat to workers' rights," Setka said. "It's a way for employers to exploit workers and avoid paying them proper wages and benefits."

The CFMEU is fighting back against the gig economy by organizing workers and negotiating collective bargaining agreements with employers. The union has also been successful in getting legislation passed to protect gig workers.

Another challenge facing the CFMEU is the government's anti-union agenda. In recent years, the government has made it more difficult for unions to organize workers and bargain for better wages and conditions.

"The government is trying to silence the voice of workers," Setka said. "They're trying to make it harder for us to stand up for our rights."

Despite these challenges, the CFMEU remains a powerful force in the Australian construction industry. The union has a long history of fighting for the rights of workers, and it's not going to stop anytime soon.

I asked Setka what keeps him going after all these years. He told me that it's the passion he has for helping people.

"I've seen firsthand the difference that unions can make in the lives of working people," Setka said. "I'm proud to be a part of this movement."

The CFMEU is a complex and fascinating organization. It's a force for good in the Australian construction industry, and it's a beacon of hope for workers everywhere.

If you're interested in learning more about the CFMEU, I encourage you to visit their website or contact your local union representative.