Introduction

Since its formation in 1927, the ACTU has been the peak trade union body in Australia.  For 90 years, the ACTU has played the leading role in advocating in the Fair Work Commission, and its statutory predecessors, for the improvement of almost every legislative measure concerning employment conditions and trade union regulation over that period.

The ACTU consists of affiliated unions and State and regional trades and labour councils.  There are currently 43 ACTU affiliates with approximately 2 million members who are engaged across a broad spectrum of industries and occupations in the public and private sector.

Relationship with the Pacific

The ACTU and our affiliates have long-standing close relationships with trade unions in the Pacific, including through the ACTU’s honorary membership of the newly formed regional trade union organisation the Pacific Island Council of Trade Unions (PICTU), successor to the South Pacific Organisation of Trade Unions (SPOCTU).

The ACTU recognises the importance of Australia’s relationship with Pacific countries and believes that relationship should be based on equality and reciprocity.  The Pacific Step Up and other Australian initiatives need to be a partnership with Pacific countries, aimed at building resilience and sustainable development for the benefit of workers and communities.