ACTU Secretary Sally McManus and President Michele O'Neil Resign

Secretary Sally McManus and President Michele O'Neil of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) announced their resignations on July 27, 2026. McManus will depart at the end of August, while O'Neil will remain in her post until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition. The ACTU Executive will appoint temporary replacements until formal elections occur at next year's Congress, which marks the organization's 100th anniversary.

During their joint tenure, the leadership team oversaw the legislation of 47 new rights and five major bills for workers and unions. Their work included managing criminality within the CFMEU and implementing labor-friendly industrial laws under the Albanese government. McManus is specifically recognized for grassroots campaigning and initiatives that empowered women to challenge systemic gender inequality in the media and workplace.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the leaders for their advocacy, linking their work to recent wage increases and record-low gender pay gaps. McManus noted that the personal toll of her leadership included safety threats that required police advice. Both leaders expressed that it is time for new leadership to take over the roles of custodians for the union movement.