Collective action works! Well done to all members who attended rallies in Cairns and Brisbane to send a clear message to the government about your wages and conditions! During the rally at 1 William Street, the Minister requested a meeting with a delegation from the rally to talk about the EBA and listen to corrections members' frustrations. This is unprecedented and it's thanks to the staunch action of members - every bit of action works and adds pressure to the cause! The delegation of Gordon Murray (BCC), Stuart Crichton (Woodford) and Adam Neary (Borallon) as well as Assistant Branch Secretary, Michael Thomas and Lead Organiser, Ashleigh Saunders met with the Minister and his staff. While we didn't receive an offer from the Minister, Gordon, Stuart and Adam made it very clear that members are demanding a reasonable and fair offer now! Minister Ryan listened to your delegates and the points were very clear. Minister Ryan is still waiting for financial sign off from Cabinet, so the views put forward this week are vital to influencing the government and ensuring the Minister hears these frustrations first hand. Well done to all involved this week - let's keep the pressure on! Delegates have endorsed a plan for members to speak to their local MP to ensure that the message is heard across the state! Members should get in touch with the union office to assist in organising this! Remember - this win is only because union members came together and collectively spoke out on important issues in their workplace. If you are not yet a Together member - now is the time to join. You can join Together here.
A BIG CONGRATULATIONS to Gordon Murray who was presented with life membership last week! Gordan started in Corrections in 1979 and has been an active member and delegate of our union ever since. During his career he has held various positions in our union including State Council representative, Branch conference delegate Chair of the Awards Committee, Union Trustee and Corrections Organiser. He has participated in many union meetings, had thousands of conversations with members and potential members, represented members in bargaining and disputes, and attended numerous rallies and marches. Thank you Gordon, for your advocacy and commitment to members for over the last 40 years!
This Friday young people across Australia are taking action on climate change. Together proudly supports the students who are stepping up and demanding real and immediate action to tackle climate change. Join them in your local area by registering for a School Strike for Climate event here. Whether you are joining online in lockdown or in person in your local area, there are events all over Australia! In just a few weeks’ time global leaders will meet at the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference or COP26 to ramp up targets on emission reduction and improve measures to reduce the devastating effects of climate change. Leaders from around the world are showing up, the kids are showing up. So where is our Prime Minister Scott Morrison? The longer our leaders wait to act, the harder it will be to fight for a safe future. Show your solidarity on October 15 and demand the Morrison Government take immediate action on climate change.
