On 21 April1856, the first of a long, hard-fought series of victories took place that led to Australia having one of the most progressive labour environments in the world by the early 20th century.
Stonemasons
in Melbourne downed tools and walked off the job in protest over their long hours, ultimately reaching an agreement with employers and government to work the eight-hour day they sought and collect the same wage they had previously been paid for 10 hours.