The Mining and Energy Union (MEU) is a union that represents workers in the coal mining and energy industry in Australia. It has existed for over 150 years and currently represents over 21,000 workers. The first mining unions formed in coal mining districts in the late 1800s and the MEU has grown and changed over that time.
In the 1990s, the MEU was formed from the amalgamation of several unions and was, until 2023, a division of the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining, and Energy Union (CFMMEU).
In 2023 the Mining and Energy Union formally withdrew from the CFMMEU and was registered as an independent organisation on 1 December 2023.
Does the MEU cover me?
The MEU is the principal union in the coal industry, including mines, power stations and ports. We also cover workers in metalliferous mining including iron ore train drivers, oil, gas, electricity and the coke industry.
What we do
The MEU protects workers’ safety, rights, wages, and conditions. We help workers improve pay and conditions through collective bargaining, provide free legal assistance and support, we provide advice and assistance on safety matters and actively support mining communities.
The MEU has a long tradition of supporting regional mining communities through sponsorships, community events and our charitable arm, the Mineworkers Trust.
We also campaign for political change on issues that affect our members’ interests, including workplace laws and industry policy.
Districts
The MEU has a district branch structure throughout Australia. Local districts provide services to members in their region.
When you join the MEU, you join your local district. For member support, please contact your District.