[3] It represented an extremely diverse and disparate range of occupations, but its core support came from workers employed in cleaning and security services.

[1] The task of organisation was a difficult one due to the casualised and isolated nature of the occupations covered.

A new rank-and-file leadership led by Ray Gietzelt took over to create a vibrant, member-driven union.

[5] Famous campaigns during the 1950s and 60s included organising workers paid to be Santa Clauses at Christmas and a group of dance instructors who were locked out for four months before winning their jobs back.

[5] In the late 1960s the FMWU absorbed the membership of the defunct Australian Leather and Allied Trades Employees' Federation.