Australian Council of Trade Unions

The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) is the national peak body for trade unions in Australia, representing a significant portion of the Australian workforce. It plays a crucial role in advocating for workers' rights, wages, and conditions through collective bargaining and policy influence. The organization is currently newsworthy due to the surprise resignations of its secretary, Sally McManus, and president, Michele O’Neil, who have served together for eight years. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has publicly praised their contributions, calling them 'giants' of the union movement. Their departures signal a potential leadership shakeup within the ACTU. The ACTU remains a key player in industrial relations and national policy debates, continuing to champion workers' interests amidst ongoing economic and social discussions in Australia.