8 HOURS LABOUR, 8 HOURS RECREATION, 8 HOURS REST
167 years ago today, Stonemasons in Melbourne downed tools and walked off the job in protest over their long hours. They ultimately reached 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.This was the first of a long, hard-fought series of labour victories that took place. It led to Australia having one of the most progressive labour environments in the world by the early 20th century and the 8-hour workday we benefit from today.