May 16, 2025
Members of the CFMEU Manufacturing Division have voted overwhelmingly to withdraw from the amalgamated CFMEU and form their own standalone Union.
91.6% of Manufacturing Division members voted to support forming an independent union known as the Timber, Furnishing and Textiles Union.
Independence will ensure the Union will be fully dedicated to the needs of its members and free from association with the CFMEU Construction Division which has in administration due to corruption and allegations of criminal activity.
The MEU has congratulated the Manufacturing Division on standing up for autonomy, self-determination and integrity in the face of significant challenges. We have long considered the Manufacturing Division to be a close friend in our movement, and we are looking forward to working collaboratively and in solidarity with the new TFTU.
Manufacturing Division National Secretary Michael O’Connor thanked the Mining and Energy Union for support during the demerger process:
“We appreciate the solidarity shown by the Mining and Energy Union during our campaign for independence. Even when things were at their most difficult, the MEU reliably supported us and gave Manufacturing Division members a positive example of independence.
“We look forward to our continued cooperation in delivering for working people as the Mining and Energy Union and the Timber, Furnishing and Textiles Union.”
The Manufacturing Division is now working through logistics of withdrawal including separation of assets from the CFMEU, before the new Timber, Furnishing and Textiles Union is registered.
