Collective Action draws upon the rich history of protest and activism in western Sydney through a collection of selected photographs from the Fairfax Media archives. These photographs document the 2006 protests of the Howard government’s industrial relations reforms.

The reform saw the introduction of WorkChoices which was very unpopular amongst unions for the way it stripped away basic employment rights for workers. This led to mass protests, action and the downfall of the Howard government.

As part of a National Day of Action in 2006, approximately 40,000 workers rallied together at Blacktown Showgrounds to air their objection to the reforms.

The photographs in this exhibition celebrate the importance of activism and affirm that western Sydney has always been a location of political agitation, community togetherness and a multiplicity of voices.

Curated by Talia Smith.

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Collective Action is presented by Blacktown Arts and supported by Blacktown City Council and NSW Government through Create NSW.