Looking back on 2024

2024 has been a fantastic year for the Union movement, thanks to the hard work and staunch activism of workers. 

And here’s something to celebrate: Union membership has officially risen by 12.3% over the past two years, marking the first increase in density since 2011! 

This result proves that new Union-won work laws are working as intended to improve the rights, pay, and conditions of Australian workers.

Here’s a recap of triumphs of the year:

The Future Made in Australia Bill was enshrined in law in a huge win for workers, jobs and climate. A Future Made in Australia will protect our current jobs, expand local supply chains, strengthen industrial capabilities, reduce cost of living pressures for working people, and enrich our regional communities. 

The Federal and State governments committed to establishing the Hunter Net Zero Manufacturing Centre of Excellence, securing Hunter workers the education and opportunities we need into the future.

Annual wage growth reached 3.7% on average since the change of Federal government, almost double the average rate of 2.1% under the previous Coalition governments.

Same Job, Same Pay laws came into effect this year and saw thousands of workers receiving well-deserved pay rises of up to $30,000.

The Right to Disconnect came into effect, protecting workers who refuse unreasonable communications outside of their working hours.

Paid parental leave was expanded for the first time in a decade, plus parents accessing government-funded leave will soon receive superannuation on their payments.

Newcastle TAFE campuses received $4 million to improve digital infrastructure and ensure all students have access to the the technology they need to succeed.

Early childhood educators have received a 10% federally-funded pay rise, helping drive a reduction in the gender pay gap.

These are just a few of the wins of 2024, but they’re a powerful testament to the strength of Unity.

Thank you all for your support and solidarity over the last year, and wishing you a happy New Year's.

In Unity,

Leigh Shears

Hunter Workers Secretary