Labour Day online in 2020

Unions and community supporters celebrated achievements of working people online over the weekend as Coronavirus restrictions prevent Queensland workers and community supporters from holding traditional Labour Day marches.

Queensland Council of Unions General Secretary Michael Clifford made a video address to commemorate the 129th observance of Labour Day in Queensland, including messages from union members and community leaders.

“As we battle this pandemic it’s workers who are on the front lines,” Mr Clifford said.

“This Labour Day we celebrate and value those workers in healthcare, community safety, transport, in essential services, education and in retail and all those out there working hard protecting and caring for our communities in difficult circumstances.

“Our communities can count on them because most of these workers have secure jobs they can rely on, so you can rely on them.

“Fighting for secure jobs and healthier communities is central to why unions exist – to make our society better for all,” he said.

Unions fought for paid leave entitlements for workers, for universal superannuation, for stronger health and safety laws, for fair wages and conditions, as well as anti-discrimination and unfair dismissal legislation.

In response to the Coronavirus pandemic, unions have also been instrumental in making sure the federal government’s JobKeeper scheme included as many workers as possible.

Mr Clifford said Queenslanders tuned into regional and metropolitan radio stations for Labour-Day themed music, as well as workers posting pictures in union gear to social media

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