STATEMENT FROM AEU FEDERAL PRESIDENT CORRENA HAYTHORPE

The AEU today pays tribute to ACTU greats Sally McManus and Michele O’Neil after their announcement they will be stepping down from their roles in coming months.

We recognise their extraordinary leadership, both together and individually, and the pivotal role they have played improving lives for workers across the country.

Over the course of their time as Secretary and President of ACTU they have led our movement with courage and conviction despite challenges such as Covid. They have presided over some remarkable achievements, including in education, and worked to build a strong and effective union movement.

Their support, leadership and commitment to public education has been exemplary, with the last few years seeing significant wins in the sector including securing Free TAFE, pay rises for ECEC workers, and commitments by the Albanese Government to fund schools as set out by Gonski.

Their focus on women's issues in the workplace and progress towards genuine gender pay equity under their leadership has been a particularly important accomplishment for the AEU as a feminised union.

With significant wins for workers in terms of wages and workplace law reform, recent increases in union membership, and the raised profile of unions, Sally McManus and Michele O’Neil have provided consistent and stable leadership with a united purpose. They always have the needs of workers at the forefront of union organising and campaigning.

There is no doubt that the Australian union movement is stronger for their leadership.

The AEU thanks Sally and Michele for their tireless courage, guidance and leadership and we wish them well for the future.

ENDS

Media Contact: Kylie Jensen 0402 298 728