Speeches & Opinions
Read speeches and opinion articles by ACTU officers and staff.
Our collection contains speeches delivered at conferences, forums, summits, rallies and events by Executive and senior ACTU staff. It also contains op-eds previously published in mainstream media by the ACTU President, ACTU Secretary or ACTU Assistant Secretaries.
Recent Speeches & Opinions
Sharan Burrow: Diary from Copenhagen 17.12.09
December 17, 2009
Overnight there were some developments that set the scene for more serious engagement. China declared it would not seek access to global climate funds being negotiated for adaptation and mitigation in developing countries.
Giulia Baggio: Letter from Copenhagen
December 16, 2009
Our mission is to make sure any global agreement includes reference to workers by locking in decent labour standards and good quality jobs as climate action kicks in: “A just transition” in conference parlance.
Sharan Burrow: Diary from Copenhagen 16.12.09
December 16, 2009
Anxiety, caution and pockets of distrust pose serious challenges for leaders to overcome. Yet it was always going to be the case that any agreement would depend on the political leaders to reach a deal.
Sharan Burrow: Address to the 60th Anniversary of the German Confederation of Trade Unions
October 5, 2009
The German Federation of Trade Unions, the DGB, celebrating sixty years of strong collective action for the benefit of working people and of your nation are rightfully proud of their achievements.
Sharan Burrow: Don’t deal with Burma
October 1, 2009
Doing business in Burma is not only unethical but an unwise investment strategy and Australian companies who continue to make money from the corrupt regime should sever their ties, argues ACTU President Sharan Burrow.
Jeff Lawrence: Less than best is not acceptable when it comes to workplace health and safety
September 24, 2009
Australian workers deserve the best in health and safety, not a compromise with employer lobby groups, says ACTU Secretary Jeff Lawrence.
Jeff Lawrence: How the new IR system is shaping up for employers and unions
September 21, 2009
The Fair Work Act will be better for employers and employees, our economy and society – in good times and bad. It’s time to stop arguing and get on with it, says ACTU Secretary Jeff Lawrence.
Sharan Burrow: G20 must continue stimulus and corporate reforms
September 21, 2009
Ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Pittsburgh, ACTU and ITUC President Sharan Burrow outlines the union movement’s plan for a stronger global economy.
Jeff Lawrence: Celebrating 25 years of Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA
September 18, 2009
For 25 years APHEDA has been helping sustainable development, education and health outcomes, all over the world. It is important we recognise and honour the contribution Union Aid Aboard has made.
Jeff Lawrence: Company tax should not be cut
September 18, 2009
As the Henry Tax Review prepares its final report, there is no clear evidence that a lower company tax rate would be good for Australia, argues ACTU Secretary Jeff Lawrence.
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