AWU launches the NSW Mine Workers’ Alliance

The AWU NSW Branch is proud to launch a new Mining Union Alliance with the Mining and Energy Union, starting this month!

The NSW Mine Workers’ Alliance, which officially began accepting members on the 1st of July, represents all workers in metalliferous mining in NSW.

This alliance brings together two strong unions to fight for mine workers and their communities. With two local organisers in regional NSW, a new local office, and greater support, NSW Branch is looking forward to organising more mine workers and growing the Alliance across NSW Mine sites.

^{AWU NSW Assistant Branch Secretary Paul Delaney, AWU NSW Branch Secretary Tony Callinan, AWU National Secretary Paul Farrow, and AWU NSW Assistant Branch Secretary Ron Cowdrey}

AWU NSW Branch Secretary Tony Callinan said the Alliance brought together two strong unions who would together provide workers with excellent representation and advocacy.

“Our two unions have a long and proven track record in representing mineworkers and their communities,” he said.

“Through this Alliance, members will benefit from our combined strength to deliver better jobs, pay, support and safety.”

The Alliance will also fight to ensure western NSW mining hubs get their share of the profits as mining increases for critical minerals and metals vital for Australia’s transition to Net Zero.

The NSW Mine Workers’ Alliance is the second alliance between the two unions – the Western Mine Workers’ Alliance launched in the Pilbara in 2013, covering BHP and Rio Tinto mine workers.

^{NSWMWA organisers Todd Ferguson and Daniel Blackman}

In June, NSW Branch leadership hit the road to visit members in Cobar and Broken Hill, discussing what the new Alliance means for members and what issues are affecting workers most on NSW mines. Thank you to everyone who came to say hello!