The Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) Quadrennial National Conference was held from 3 – 6 March. The theme for the conference this year, for the first time ever, was in Aboriginal language – ‘Tjungu’. ‘Tjungu’ means to do things collectively and in unity, and that was the word that encapsulated the essence of this year’s conference.
ITF Vice President and SMOU General Secretary, Mary Liew reaffirmed solidarity between SMOU and MUA. She expressed that being a part of the ITF family resounds the conference theme, and that in adversity should the family stand together.
Speaking on the recent tragedy of the bushfires in Australia, Mary lauded MUA for their admirable efforts to provide aid. She commended MUA for their good work, and praised MUA members for their swift action during the crisis to rescue stranded people and deliver relief supplies. MUA has also been involved in other areas of social responsibility such as a donation that was raised by union members for Starlight Children’s Foundation, and the “Share and Dignity Drive” initiative that helps women who are homeless or in financial crisis.
The national conference touched on various maritime industrial relations issues, as over 500 delegates shared their views across the four days.
