Key unions back Tasmania independents, deliver blow to Labor candidates in tight seats

Unions have ditched traditional ties to the ALP in Tasmania, instead backing a group of green-left independents by providing donations and help at the polling booths.

The Local Party candidates Leanne Minshull and Anna Bateman. Picture: Zak Simmonds

Unions in Tasmania are getting behind a group of green-left independents, offering help with campaign donations, TV advertisements and handing out how-to-vote cards at polling booths.

The Local Party on Wednesday confirmed members of three trade unions were handing out how-to-vote cards for it in booths across Tasmania’s northern marginal seats.

The party – which prioritises climate change action and an anti-corruption body – has also recently received $20,000 from two branches of the Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union.

The Maritime Union of Australia has also chipped in $10,000 in recent weeks, adding to donations from actor Essie Davis, MONA-founder David Walsh, climate activists and Green-backing businesspeople.

Local Party founder and Senate candidate Leanne Minshull confirmed members of the MUA, CEPU and Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (construction division) were handing out how-to-vote cards for her.

The union support is bad news for Labor, whose candidates are locked in a tight tussle with the Liberals for marginal seats in Bass, Braddon and Lyons. 

Labor Bass candidate Ross Hart and Labor leader Anthony Albanese. Picture: Liam Kidston

Labor is also competing with Ms Minshull, among others, for Tasmania’s sixth Senate seat.

Ms Minshull said the union support related to her “strong commitment to ensuring working Australians have secure, well-paid jobs”.

“We have seen real wages decrease for almost a decade – there are many ways the government can improve the wages and working conditions of Australians,” Ms Minshull said.

“It could throw its weight behind an increase in the minimum wage. The government could give its own workforce a pay rise and more job security, but instead is looking to cut jobs in the public sector. 

“In Tasmania, the last senate seat will most likely go to either (Liberal) Senator (Eric) Abetz, Tammy Tyrell, the office manager for Jacqui Lambie, or me. If they are your choices, then I am the obvious one to support if your job is to secure wins for workers.”

Ms Minshull said the CFMMEU had provided “in kind support … via TV ads”.

Labor had not responded to requests for comment before publication deadline but unions have defended their support for The Local Party.

“We are very proud to be supporting a candidate like Leanne, with the same values as us and our broader memberships,” said Alisha Bull, senior official with the MUA and CFMMEU in Tasmania. 

“This country is crying out for political change and the Maritime Union of Australia … does not apologise for supporting candidates that will deliver just that.”