As we look ahead to 2026, one thing is clear: this will be a year that calls for the very best of our movement.
But before we turn to what’s coming, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported our Festive Appeal, Give the Gift of Action.
Why 2026 matters
Across the globe, working people are facing mounting pressure. Climate impacts are accelerating. Inequality is deepening. And many political leaders are stepping away from international cooperation and shared standards.
What’s worse is activists who do stand up and fight back are facing ever increasing threats, even death. Here in Australia, we’ve seen an invasion day protest targeted, not to mention that horrifying scenes coming out of the US.
When world leaders like Donald Trump retreat from multilateralism and global responsibility, it’s workers and communities — especially in the Global South — who pay the price. At moments like this, internationalism isn’t optional. It’s essential.
Workers and communities are paying the price, and your support helps ensure unions and grassroots organisations are not left to face this alone.
That’s why in 2026, Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA is stepping up our work to build awareness of global solidarity across the Australian union movement. Our focus is on building more networks and sparking meaningful conversations in workplaces, because real change begins when workers talk, organise and act together.
We can only do this with committed supporters like you.
What’s next? Power to the people
This year, as try to comprehend a path forward out of the current state of the world, we’re theming our work around what we know works – collectively organising, building community and vesting power in the people.
We’re reinforcing our efforts in climate justice, standing alongside unions and grassroots organisations responding to climate impacts they did not cause, but are forced to confront every day.
As global leadership falters, union solidarity becomes even more critical. Your support helps ensure workers are not left to face climate disruption, job losses and unsafe conditions on their own — and that solutions are shaped by those most affected.
We’re also growing our efforts to improve decent work and workers’ rights in the Pacific and Southeast Asia. New projects are responding to urgent needs on the ground, supporting unions and community organisations as they organise for fair wages, safe jobs and dignity at work.
This is long-term, movement-building work — and it only succeeds because people like you believe in solidarity that crosses borders.
A growing activist movement
There’s exciting momentum here at home, too. Our activist groups are growing , not just in number, but across new locations. We’re thrilled to be launching a new activist group in Newcastle this February, with more updates coming soon.
This growth reflects something powerful: more unionists and supporters are ready to move from concern to action.
What can you do
If you’re looking to get more involved in 2026, there are plenty of ways to do so:
- Get active or volunteer: Email us at activists@apheda.org.au or sign up here.
- Join as a member: If you’re not already a member, now is a great time to join. Membership is one of the strongest ways to support our long-term work and strengthen global union solidarity. Join here
- Stay connected: Follow us on social media for campaign updates, events and opportunities to take action throughout the year.
Thank you for being part of this movement. In 2026, internationalism will need the best of us – and together, we’re ready to act. All power to the people. Everywhere.