In 2021, striking General Mills workers in Rooty Hill hosted Australia’s first Wage Crisis Forum from their picket line, combining industrial action with public advocacy. Their innovative approach brought national attention to wage stagnation while fighting for their own pay rises and job security.
Workers at General Mills’ Rooty Hill plant didn’t just strike for fair pay and job security – they turned their picket line into Australia’s first Wage Crisis Forum, bringing the fight against wage stagnation to the national stage. The groundbreaking forum featured heavy hitters including Dr. John Falzon, David Richardson, Sally McManus, and our union President Jo Schofield, who joined workers to expose how wage suppression hurts working families. By combining industrial muscle with public education, General Mills workers transformed their dispute into a platform for change. Their innovative approach put wage stagnation in the spotlight and showed how workers can build public support while maintaining strong picket lines.