ACTU resignations have sent shockwaves through Australia's labour movement as Secretary Sally McManus and President Michele O'Neil step down. The pair, who led the Australian Council of Trade Unions for eight years, announced their departure on Monday night, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calling them "giants of the labour movement."
The Legacy of McManus and O'Neil
As the first all-female leadership team in the ACTU's 99-year history, McManus and O'Neil were instrumental in shaping the Albanese government's workplace agenda. Their tenure saw the introduction of landmark reforms including the right to disconnect law, same job, same pay protections, and wage theft criminalisation. They also fought for minimum pay, insurance, and safety standards for gig economy workers.
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Key Achievements Under Their Leadership
The pair successfully campaigned for over 47 new workplace rights for Australian employees. Union membership grew for the first time in decades, the gender pay gap reached a record low, and significant wage increases were secured in critical sectors like aged care and early childhood education.
| Reform | Impact |
|---|---|
| Right to disconnect | Gives workers the right to ignore work calls/emails after hours |
| Same job, same pay | Closes loopholes for labour-hire workers |
| Wage theft criminalisation | Penalties for employers who underpay staff |
| Gig economy protections | Minimum pay, insurance, and safety standards |
Strategic Shift: Targeting Pauline Hanson and One Nation
In a notable move, the ACTU recently began targeting Pauline Hanson, signalling that the union movement now views One Nation as the biggest political threat—ahead of the Coalition. This shift reflects growing concerns over economic risks for working people posed by populist policies.
Transition Plans
McManus will depart in August 2025, while O'Neil will stay on to help the new secretary settle in before leaving by the end of the year. In a farewell video, McManus said: "Union membership is growing and workers have over 47 new workplace rights. But, of course, there are still big challenges with cost-of-living pressures, AI and billionaires who have too much wealth and power."
What This Means for Australian Workers
The departure of these two influential leaders raises questions about the future direction of the labour movement. However, the Albanese government's workplace reforms are now enshrined in law, providing a solid foundation for continued progress.
- Union membership is growing for the first time in decades
- Gender pay gap is at a record low
- Cost-of-living pressures remain a key challenge for workers
- The Coalition is no longer seen as the primary threat—One Nation is now targeted
FAQ
Why did Sally McManus and Michele O'Neil resign from the ACTU?
They stepped down to allow for renewal, citing that union membership is growing and many new workplace rights have been achieved. Both said it was the right time for new leadership.
What are the key achievements of the ACTU under McManus and O'Neil?
They secured the right to disconnect law, same job same pay protections, wage theft criminalisation, and minimum standards for gig workers. They also helped shrink the gender pay gap and increase union membership.
When will the ACTU leaders officially leave their positions?
Sally McManus will depart in August 2025, while Michele O'Neil will stay until the end of the year to assist with the transition.
The ACTU resignations mark the end of an era for Australian labour, but the groundwork laid by McManus and O'Neil ensures workers' rights will continue to evolve. For ongoing coverage of Australian trade union news, stay tuned to GrandGoldman.com.
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