March 30, 2021
The Mining and Energy Division of the Construction Forestry Maritime Mining and Energy Union (CFMMEU) has launched a bid to break away and form its own, independent union.
The Division applied to the Fair Work Commission on Friday for a member ballot on the proposal.
The application was unanimously approved by the Mining and Energy Division’s Central Council.
The Fair Work Commission will now determine the process and timing for a member ballot.
The application proposes that if a majority of members vote “yes” to separating from the CFMMEU, all members would be transferred to a new, standalone Mining and Energy Union.
The Division would apply to the Federal Court seeking orders to fix a withdrawal date and transfer assets to the newly registered union
Mining and Energy Division General President Tony Maher said mining and energy members alone should determine the future of their union.
“This application is all about letting our members decide on our future direction as a union for mining and energy workers,” he said.
“Along with all our national and district leaders, I will be encouraging all members to participate in the ballot and I’m sure they will relish the opportunity.
“This application has the full support of the democratic structures of the Mining and Energy Division. I look forward to a process that is fair, timely and without interference.”
The application proposes the following question be put to members:
“Do you approve the proposed withdrawal of the Mining and Energy Division from the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union and its registration as a separate organisation under the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009 (Cth)?”
The application proposes new rules for a standalone Mining and Energy Union that reflect existing rules of the Division.
