6TH April, 2020
CFMEU Victorian Construction Division Wins Major Court Victory
The Federal Court has today dismissed an application by the Manufacturing Division National Secretary Michael O’Connor to restrain the Victorian Construction Division from enrolling and representing floor layers, glaziers and cabinet makers who work on construction sites.
Mr O’Connor commenced court action after hundreds of members resigned from the Manufacturing Division to join the Victorian Construction Division. The case involved a dispute about the proper interpretation of the union’s rules.
Today the Federal Court ruled that the Victorian Construction Division of the CFMEU is entitled to enrol and represent floor layers, glaziers and cabinet makers who work in or in connection with the construction industry.
Maurice Blackburn Lawyers Principal Lawyer Daniel Victory said that he was pleased that his client’s construction of the rules had been upheld by the Court.
“We are also pleased that these workers will not be prevented from receiving all the benefits that come from being a member of the Construction Division.” Mr Victory said.
CFMEU VIC/TAS Secretary John Setka said:
“This decision confirms what we already believed: construction workers belong in the construction division.
Our division has fought for and achieved some of the best workplace entitlements in Australia. We look forward to representing and fighting for these members in the future.
This decision is a victory for the members who have chosen to join the construction division in order to fight for the rights and entitlements of workers in the construction industry.
If you work in construction but you’re not a member of the construction division of the CFMEU, we invite you to join our division and work with us to build a safe industry that works for the workers.
It is a shame that this matter had to be resolved in court. Matters such as these should be resolved within the union having regard to the wishes of members.”
