Rank and file news #15: Thank You! Now, the work begins

The count is done, and while we await the official declaration from the returning officer, our scrutineers observed the final tally.

The result is clear: CPSU Vic members have voted for change.

Across the state, over 70 percent of voters backed A Voice for Members. It’s a strong and clear mandate for a new direction; and we will use it to deliver on our commitments to our members.

We have secured all 5 executive positions; and 23 out of 34 Branch Council positions.

We welcome and congratulate all of the successful candidates – United, independent, and AVFM – and look forward to getting straight to work from day one.

Thank you!

This is an extraordinary result, and we are deeply grateful to the hundreds of volunteers and supporters who made it possible.

To every single person who stood as a candidate, thank you. It takes courage to put your hand up, especially in an election like this. Whether you were elected or not, you played a vital role in revitalising our union. This was a powerful act of union democracy, and we hope you’ll stay involved.

Congratulations to all successful candidates, including those elected on the United ticket and to Fabian Adams, who ran and won as an independent. We look forward to working with all of you.

To those who weren’t elected this time, we understand it’s disappointing. But the door is always open. This union is made stronger by many voices and perspectives. Please reach out, stay connected, and continue to contribute. There is work to do, and there is room for everyone in it.

We also want to acknowledge the outgoing leadership team, Karen Batt and Wayne Townsend. Whatever the differences in approach or direction, their years of work deserve respect. These roles are never easy, and we acknowledge the challenges they’ve carried over a long period of time.

What comes next

What comes next matters most. The membership has spoken. This result is a strong vote of confidence in the policy platform we put forward. That means it is time to:

Grow the union
Respond to the Silver Review
Oppose job cuts
Rebuild trust, accountability, and transparency
Build structures that listen to members and fight for them

We know people won’t agree on everything, and that is healthy in a democratic union. What matters is how we have those conversations, and how we move forward together after. Robust, respectful debate, then moving in a shared direction. That is how we build a union that is strong and inclusive.

This is a new chapter. Let’s write it together.

In Solidarity,

Jiselle Hanna

Victorian Branch Secretary-Elect