Government employees from Queensland’s health, public works, and transport sectors continue their industrial action, demanding a 36-hour work week and more equitable conditions. The latest protest, which saw nearly 200 workers march through Brisbane’s CBD, signals escalating tensions between unions and the state government.
The workers, represented by trade unions such as the CFMEU and ETU, are dissatisfied with the government’s current wage offer. Their demands focus on securing a better work-life balance with a reduced 36-hour work week—an agreement already in place for white-collar government employees. As negotiations continue, the unions are warning of further action.
Workers Protest Inadequate Offers and Poor Conditions
The industrial action, which included a march through Brisbane’s central business district, reflects growing frustration among government trade workers. These workers are seeking a reduction in their standard work week from 40 hours to 36 hours.
Mitchell Thurlow, a QBuild stonemason and CFMEU organiser, addressed the gathering, stating that the current LNP government’s offer is not enough. “Their offer so far has been pretty subpar. To offer 3, 2.5, 2.5 [percent] over the next three years for frontline workers is absolute garbage,” he remarked.
The unions argue that their demands for a 36-hour week are justified, as other government workers in administrative roles already work the reduced hours. They maintain that construction and maintenance workers should not be treated differently, given the physical and demanding nature of their work.
Trade union delegates, representing various government sectors, highlighted that the government’s proposed pay increases over three years—3%, 2.5%, and 2.5%—are far from what frontline workers deserve, given the increasing pressure and costs of living. According to union representatives, the ongoing poor conditions are contributing to higher levels of staff dissatisfaction and, in some cases, job losses.
State Government Faces Pressure Over Industrial Action
The Queensland government’s state wage policy, which offers an 8% increase spread across three years, has not been well received by the trade unions. While the unions have stated they are willing to compromise on pay conditions, their primary focus remains on achieving better working hours and conditions.
Thurlow drew comparisons to the unpopular Newman government, which, according to him, cut nearly 20,000 public servant jobs during its tenure. “This LNP government we’ve got is no different than the Newman government… they’re doing it by stealth,” he said. The unions argue that the current government’s approach is creating a divide between white-collar workers, who are enjoying better terms, and blue-collar workers, who are left behind.
