Hundreds of Australian timber workers have formally split from the CFMEU – after more than 91% of the manufacturing division’s members voted to establish the Timber, Furnishings and Textiles Union (TFTU).
“Our members have voted for change – for a union that is theirs. One that reflects their industries, values, and future,” according to Michael O’Connor, the National Secretary of the soon-to-be-established union. “This is about building a better union-worker-led, transparent, and free from the influence of the CFMEU’s construction division.”
“This isn’t just a name change. It’s a structural and cultural shift – towards more independence, integrity and member control.”
In an AEC-run ballot that ran from February 24 to April 14, more than 3,553 members voted in favour, with just 324 against (approximately 91.6%). Mr O’Connor added that the vote—which was abnormally high for a non-compulsory vote—was only allowed thanks to key legislation championed by Senator Jacquie Lambie and Tony Burke, the Leader of the House and Minister for Home Affairs and the Arts last year.
“Members won’t forget how all the MP’s voted with integrity to give workers a say on their future – except Adam Bandt and the Greens, who disgracefully backed John Setka ahead of workers.”
Earlier, Wood Central spoke exclusively to Alison Rudman, Secretary of the NSW district of newly established TFTU, who said Australia’s newest union will be ‘laser focused’ on wood supply, delivering for timber towns and, importantly, ensuring that an enlarged Koala Park does not unnecessarily impact thousands of jobs on NSW’s north coast.
“This is a vote to do what is best for timber towns,” Ms Rudman said. Adding that a “yes vote” has now led to a bespoke union focused on “good timber jobs” rather than (alleged) crime and criminality.
“The TFTU believes in robust industrial relations, where we work together to do what is best for our members. We remain laser-focused on the issues that impact our members, like wood supply, recognition of skills, and the protection of timber jobs in timber towns.”
Wood Central understands that the TFTU will become the second new union (after the Mining and Energy Union) to leave the CFMEU: “The TFTU will carry forward the proud traditions of the Manufacturing Division and its predecessor timber, furnishing trade, pulp and paper, and textile, clothing and footwear unions – whilst forging a bold new path for its members as part of Australia’s trade union movement,” Mr O’Connor said.
