Michael Kaine
Michael Kaine | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1974 (age 51–52) New South Wales, Australia |
| Education | University of New South Wales (BA, LLB) |
| Occupations | Trade union leader, solicitor |
| Known for | Gig economy regulation; "Safe Rates" strategy; Qantas illegal outsourcing litigation |
| Title | National Secretary of the Transport Workers' Union of Australia |
| Term | 2018–present |
| Predecessor | Tony Sheldon |
| Board member of | Australian Council of Trade Unions (Vice President) |
Michael Kaine (born c. 1974) is an Australian labor leader and legal professional currently serving as the National Secretary of the Transport Workers' Union of Australia (TWU). Since assuming leadership in 2018, Kaine has been a central architect of modern industrial reforms in Australia, notably the "Safe Rates" strategy and world-first regulations for the gig economy.
Kaine is recognized for leading the successful legal challenge against Qantas in the High Court of Australia, which resulted in the largest employment-related penalty in Australian corporate history in 2025. He also holds senior leadership roles in the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF).