BWI Asia-Pacific Conference slams Australian government’s takeover of CFMEU
This was the resounding cry of trade union delegates at the second and final day of the 5th BWI Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on 12 September in Malaysia. The event concluded with crucial discussions on the Regional Action Plan, alongside a significant development: the adoption of several important resolutions. Chief among these was a strong condemnation of the Australian government’s overreach in controlling the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU).
Representing 93 affiliated unions with over 2 million members across 20 countries in the region, the 130 delegates unanimously adopted a resolution condemning the Australian government’s appointment of an administrator to control the union, which removed 270 elected officials—most of whom were ousted without any charges or allegations of misconduct. The resolution further criticised the imposition of administrative control on the union for up to five years, depriving its members of their democratic rights. The financial burden placed on the CFMEU, including an exorbitant salary allocated to the government-appointed administrator was also condemned.
The Australian government justified its anti-union action as a crackdown on alleged organised crime and corruption within the CFMEU. However, BWI stressed that the government’s approach was reckless and authoritarian, eroding democratic principles and the rule of law. BWI warned that this move sets a dangerous precedent, threatening union autonomy not just in Australia but globally. It reaffirmed that while it stands firmly against criminal conduct and corruption within the trade union movement, such cases must be investigated by appropriate authorities and prosecuted in court. Trade unionists, like all citizens, are entitled to the presumption of innocence.
BWI also condemned the hypocrisy of the Australian government. While it exerts oppressive control over a trade union in the name of combating illegalities, it simultaneously allows big corporations to exploit workers with impunity, trampling on their rights.
As the conference closed, BWI reaffirmed its solidarity with the CFMEU in its fight for democratic rights and union independence. It also reiterated its commitment to defending workers' rights and upholding strong democratic processes within the labour movement. The discussions and resolutions from the conference will guide the region’s collective actions in the coming years, with a clear focus on solidarity and resistance against anti-union tactics.