MEDIA STATEMENT
Tuesday 21 September 2021

Stop the violence, back the science, and support our public sector health response

Today Melbourne has witnessed a repeat of the violent behaviour from some extremists who are jeopardising and undermining our Public Health response to a Global Pandemic.

This insanity must end.

Our members have worked long and hard to support Victorians manage this devasting virus.

CFMEU members are known for their proud health and safety advocacy and our members have worked tirelessly with the construction industry to keep CFMEU members working.

From our Health and Safety Inspectors, our DJCS Authorised Officers to our Hotel Quarantine Officers, Custodial Officers, Contact Tracers, Business Support, Police Support, Child Protection, and Family Violence Response, through to all our members involved in Covid surge workforces including those working in Public Health and supporting Cabinet Ministers.

Their efforts are being undermined by the thoughtless and thuggish behaviour of extremist individuals. Many of whom are not union members, and many of whom have actively sought to undermine and destroy the work of unions for many years.

CPSU members stand with the science and the public health team, led by the CHO.

Victorians are so close to achieving the remarkable.

Our take up rates show we are not vaccine hesitant and are the overwhelming majority.

I encourage all members to disregard this attack on sound health advice, health advice designed to save lives, and encourage you and your families and friends to get vaccinated so we can all return to the Melbourne and Victoria we love.

Karen Batt, Community and Public Sector Union Victorian Branch Secretary