The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) is set for a leadership change following the surprise announcement that secretary Sally McManus and president Michele O’Neil will be stepping down. The pair, who formed the first all-female leadership team in the ACTU's 99-year history, have served for eight years.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised McManus and O’Neil, calling them personal friends and "giants of the labour movement." He stated that working families are in a stronger financial position due to their "tireless advocacy and strong leadership."
During their tenure, the ACTU leaders played a significant role in shaping the Albanese government’s workplace agenda. They successfully campaigned for new legislation including the right to disconnect law, same job, same pay protections, and the criminalisation of wage theft. They also ensured minimum pay, insurance, and safety standards for gig economy workers.
McManus is scheduled to depart next month, while O’Neil will assist the new secretary before leaving her position by the end of the year. In a social media video, the pair indicated it was time for renewal.