A new application by the Mining and Energy Union (MEU) with the Fair Work Commission for a ballot of members to withdraw from the Construction Forestry Maritime Mining and Energy Union (CFMMEU) and form a standalone union was supported by a petition of 2,938 members from across all district branches.
It is made under s94a of the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act based on the 1992 amalgamation to form the CFMEU. The previous application lodged in March 2021 under s94 was dismissed on technical grounds.
MEU General President, Tony Maher, said that legal setbacks had not dimmed the union’s determination to give members a vote over their future.
“Our Central Council has again this week reaffirmed its unanimous support for pursuing a ballot to give members a voice,” Mr Maher said.
“Our members across the mining and energy industry face considerable challenges and they want a union fully committed to their interests.
“They want to vote on their union’s future and we are hopeful that today’s application means they will get the opportunity soon and without further legal interference.”
