Labor is stopping workers from being scammed and stamping out hate groups with new laws.
The Carroll Labor Government has introduced the Associations Incorporation Reform Amendment Bill 2026 to the Victorian Parliament.
These new laws will stop workers being scammed out of real union protection, and stop hate groups from hiding behind community group status.
Closing the loophole on fake unions
Right now, some so-called ‘Red Unions’ register as ordinary community associations instead of real unions.
Many workers sign up believing they’ve got industrial protection and representation, but they don’t.
This Bill closes that loophole, so that these unions who can’t offer real protection to workers won’t be able to register as an incorporated association.
Consumer Affairs Victoria will be given powers to wind up these fake unions.
Blocking hate groups from incorporating
The Bill also stops hate groups from incorporating – taking away the legitimacy and financial structuring benefits that come with it.
It’s another tool in Labor’s fight against antisemitism and extremism, stopping neo-nazi groups from pretending to be like any other community organisation.
Only Labor has new solutions to make life easier, safer and more affordable.
As stated by Minister for Consumer Affairs Tim Richardson
“If you’re calling yourself a union, you should have to act like one.”
“Workers deserve a union that actually fights for them – not one that takes their money and leaves them exposed.”
“Hate groups don’t get to dress themselves up as legitimate community organisation – and this is one of the many actions we’ve taken to stamp out hate in Victoria.”
