The dairy industry is currently facing a crisis. From fluctuating milk prices and environmental challenges, the industry is at a crossroads. As they face these challenges, workers, who are on the frontline, must be given a seat at the table. Their insights, experiences, and dedication are invaluable in shaping the future of the dairy sector. The plummeting levels of milk production in Australia to a 30-year low is not just a crisis for the dairy industry, but a pressing issue for the working class and the nation at large. Skyrocketing prices for dairy products disproportionately affect everyday Australians, especially those on fixed or lower incomes. Moreover, the dwindling milk supply has a direct impact on job security for union members who are dairy workers—both farmers and those employed in processing plants. If the industry falters, it's the workers who'll bear the brunt, facing lay-offs and financial instability, further undermining already vulnerable regional communities where many of our members live and work. This dire situation demands that union voices be front and centre in shaping any solutions. State and federal governments must consult with union representatives to invest urgently in the industry's future. The challenges of climate change, which affect both supply and worker conditions, and the unfair pricing dictated by supermarket duopolies like Coles and Woolworths, require a united, collective response. Now, more than ever, we need to mobilise to secure fair pay, conditions, and job security for our members. Our union is committed to fighting for these rights, and we urge all stakeholders to act before the industry reaches a point of no return.

Self ID refers to an individual's ability to self-identify or define their own identity, particularly in the context of gender identity and sexual orientation. It is an important concept in discussions surrounding gender identity and LGBTQ+ rights. Self-ID is most commonly associated with gender identity, allowing individuals to identify and express their gender in a way that feels authentic to them. For transgender and non-binary individuals, self-ID means they have the right to identify and present themselves as the gender with which they identify, rather than being constrained by societal expectations based on their assigned gender at birth. Self-ID is considered important for respecting an individual's dignity and autonomy. It acknowledges that each person is the best authority on their own gender identity and that their self-identification should be honored and respected by others. This isn't a new concept either. Canada passed Self ID legislation in 2017, Ireland passed the Gender Recognition Act in 2015 for everyone over 18, New Zealand modified existing legislation to allow self ID in 2020, and Victoria passed self ID legislation in 2019. Most of South America and several US states have also passed self ID legislation. In summary, self-ID is the concept that individuals have the right to define and express their own gender identity and sexual orientation, and it is seen as a way to respect their autonomy and protect them from discrimination. It is an important concept in the ongoing discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality.

Right now, only 1.3% of public schools are funded at the benchmark set by governments. Just imagine if public schools were fully resourced. That would provide more teachers, smaller class sizes and more specialist support for children needing extra help, and the PM's promise could become reality.

Work placements or internships are currently a requirement for many degrees in Australia. These placements provide essential on-the-job learning, however, students studying Community Services Degrees are required to work excessive hours unpaid. Students studying social work are required to complete 1,000 hours of unpaid placements. That’s almost a third of a year, working full-time. These hours are compulsory and yet this work is not paid. This situation is causing dropout rates to increase, with over 1 in 5 studying a Community Service degree withdrawing from study due to financial stress. Many community services workers undertake social work or other degrees to boost their qualifications, but right now they are being forced to choose between doing unpaid work placements or having enough money to pay the bills. No one should have to choose between feeding their families or not to complete their studies. Additionally, both students and employers would benefit by building an employment relationship to help with career opportunities down the track. It’s time to end unpaid placements and ensure students are supported throughout their education and into their careers.

Repeated studies have shown that migrant workers are being systemically paid less than their minimum entitlements. There is ample evidence that fear of visa cancellation is one of the key factors that prevents temporary visa-holders from acting on their rights at work, even if they know they are being mistreated. Only by removing the threat of visa cancellation can migrant workers enjoy the same rights and protections as everyone else who works in Australia. As part of its migration review, the Federal Government should introduce a strong, predictable, and clear guarantee that a worker's visa will not be cancelled where the worker has been subjected to workplace exploitation.

For too long LGBTQIA+ and Gender Diverse Students have been hidden away, given a space with a lack of accessibility and pushed a position of shared sentiment in regards to marginalisation. By not having a location where their community can come together in safety these issues are being perpetuated.

Renters shouldn't be left at the mercy of landlords gouging them when lease renewal time comes up. The Victorian government must take further steps to ensure tenants aren't subjected to unfair rent increases, and that renters have the power to exercise their tenancy rights. Owning property is not a service to the community and it's not a job. Renters don't owe landlords a profit on their investment - but we are owed reasonable standards for the rent we pay! Landlords must stop treating renters like a cash piñata. We deserve affordable, quality housing.

As union members, we believe that having a voice in issues that affect us is a fundamental requirement for strong communities and a respectful country. We support the Uluru Statement from the Heart and, by extension, the Unions for Yes campaign for First Nations Constitutional recognition and a Voice to Parliament. We believe that all Australians will benefit from hearing the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and sharing in First Nations contributions to our national identity.

Without minimum living standards that is protected by legislation, students are able to be easily exploited by universities and private accommodation providers. There is also no protections of the student's bond being returned in an adequate amount of time. Housing is a human right, and everyone deserves to feel safe and empowered at home.

At BSL we believe everyone should have a meaningful say over the issues their daily lives. Input from those directly impacted by decisions and policies results in better solutions. Australians will all benefit from hearing the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People and sharing in First Nations contributions to our national identity.

Cleaners have had enough. They want IKON to come to the bargaining table now and start treating their workers with respect. But IKON is refusing to bargain. Sign the petition today to call for justice for Melbourne Airport cleaners! -Melbourne Airport cleaners employed by IKON

If Knox Council abandons kindergarten programs, it would mean that the families of 3- and 4-year-old children in the Knox area would no longer be able access Knox Council-delivered free kindergarten programs. Currently the Council delivers high-quality play-based early childhood education. We know that children benefit from local kindergarten services that reflect the context and makeup of the local community. Families rightly expect their local council to provide kindergarten programs as part of the services they deliver. Why should the children of Knox miss out? Sign and share the petition with others so they can tell Knox Council that all local children deserve high-quality kindergarten education provided by their local council.