AWU nets $3M in underpayments for BlueScope workers

AWU members at BlueScope in Western Port are reaping the benefits, after their employer returned an estimated $3 million worth of unfairly deducted annual leave entitlements.

Victorian Branch Update: Winter 2024

The AWU demands justice following the death of Kurt Hourigan, a 37-year-old miner, in Ballarat on March 13th. Hourigan and his colleague, Connor Smith, who was critically injured and is now in a long recovery process, were pinned beneath fallen rocks while working 500 meters underground using the unsafe ‘air legging’ technique.

How AustralianSuper is working to assist with recovering unpaid super | An AustralianSuper Editorial

As a fund that puts members first, AustralianSuper works with employees and employers to communicate the importance of super being paid correctly and on time.

Ian Cuttler, a stalwart of the Australian Workers’ Union Victoria

Ian Cuttler, a stalwart of the Australian Workers Union Victoria and a true gentleman, passed away on April 29, 2024, at the age of 83. Born on November 28, 1940, Ian’s life was a testament to dedication, integrity, and service to others.

Ian Cuttler, a stalwart of the Australian Workers’ Union Victoria

Ian Cuttler, a stalwart of the Australian Workers Union Victoria and a true gentleman, passed away on April 29, 2024, at the age of 83. Born on November 28, 1940, Ian’s life was a testament to dedication, integrity, and service to others.

Remembering the Beaconsfield Mine Collapse

On this day, 18 years ago, tragedy struck the Beaconsfield mine, located 40 km north-west of Launceston. A rock fall trapped 17 miners underground, leaving three of them in dire circumstances. It sparked a monumental search and rescue effort that would capture the attention of the nation.

Victory for Cleanaway Members!

In a resounding display of unity, employees at Cleanaway have firmly rejected proposed agreements, with an astounding 95% majority. This victory underscores the commitment of workers to advocate for fair and reasonable working conditions.

Dodgy deal for Pakenham Roads Upgrade must be referred to IBAC

The contract for the stage three works of the Pakenham Roads Upgrade must be referred to IBAC after it was revealed a person involved in awarding the contract at Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) is now employed by the company awarded the work.

Miners in Ballarat need time to grieve, but also timely justice

While families of miners at the Ballarat Gold Mine must be given space to grieve, there can be no retreat from prosecuting the mine operator using new industrial manslaughter laws.

Celebrating Women’s Achievements in the AWU: Vanessa Garbett’s Inspiring Journey on International Women’s Day

As the world marks International Women’s Day, we spotlight Vanessa Garbett, a seasoned electrician and devoted member of the Australian Workers’ Union. Vanessa’s story encapsulates her 35-year career as an electrician and 12 years as an electrical inspector, along with her steadfast advocacy for women in the male-dominated electrical trade.

Australian Workers Union calls for local manufacturing and jobs

The Australian Workers Union Victoria welcomes the recent decision by the Albanese Government to establish an offshore wind zone in the Southern Ocean off Warrnambool, marking a pivotal moment in Victoria’s journey towards a clean energy future.

When to check your super | An AustralianSuper Editorial

While you might not be looking to access your super now, it’s still important to be regularly checking your account.

$30,000 repaid to migrant farm workers highlights need to end exploitation

The AWU has reclaimed $30,000 from two seasonal migrant workers in a large rural Victorian packhouse, reaffirming the union’s commitment to fighting exploitation in Australia’s horticulture industry.

$30,000 repaid to migrant farm workers highlights need to end exploitation

The AWU has reclaimed $30,000 from two seasonal migrant workers in a large rural Victorian packhouse, reaffirming the union’s commitment to fighting exploitation in Australia’s horticulture industry.

Racing at the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships

Simon Miller, a triathlete and representative of Australia, participated in the IRONMAN 70.3 2023 World Championships held in Lahti, Finland. Our industrial officer Simon shares his experience, the challenges he faced, and the support he received from the AWU throughout his triathlon journey.

Esso workers secure new EA after 10-year campaign

After more than a decade of bargaining, industrial action and legal challenges, Australian Workers’ Union members at Esso have voted up a new Enterprise Agreement.

AWU drives better deal for Traffic Controllers

The Australian Workers’ Union has ensured new Traffic Controllers will be paid a fairer rate following the Fair Work Commission’s approval of a new agreement with traffic management company Go Traffic. 

Helping protect your super from financial scams | An AustralianSuper Editorial

Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, targeting you in ways that seem very convincing. Help protect yourself by knowing what to look out for in keeping your super safe.

Impressive Milestone for AWU Member

Australian Workers Union member Marko Dugec marked an impressive milestone in November, clocking up 50 years at BlueScope Steel—and 50 years in the AWU.

AWU Secures Victory in Ad Standards Complaint Against Hungry Jacks

The Australian Workers’ Union has welcomed a recommendation by Safe Work Australia for a total ban on all engineered stone, to protect workers from the deadly silica dust associated with its use.

Ron Guy: Bridging Art and Workers’ Struggles – A Unionist’s Tale

In the realm where art meets activism, Ron Guy, a dedicated member of the Australian Workers Union, has carved out a unique space. His journey as an artist is a testament to the enduring fight for workers’ rights and the vital role that art plays in capturing and expressing the struggles of the labor movement.

Artistry and Solidarity: Danny Humphrey’s Inspiring Journey as an AWU Member and Artist

A recent report from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) confirming there will now be a stable gas supply for Australian homes next year – alongside a surge in gas exports – is a powerful vindication of the AWU’s advocacy on gas policy reform. 

5 Steps to Control your Super | An AustralianSuper Editorial

With the start of a new financial year, here are steps to help take control of your super.

“For Our Elders”: Honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wisdom and Leadership

“For Our Elders”: Honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wisdom and Leadership

Union veteran Ben Davis steps down as Victorian Branch Secretary

Ben Davis is stepping down after nearly three decades with the AWU, including 10 years as Victorian branch secretary.

Ronnie Hayden takes reins as AWU Victorian Branch Secretary

Ronnie Hayden is taking the reins as Victorian branch secretary after two decades as a union delegate, organiser, and health and safety representative (HSR).

Boral Sentenced for Failing to Protect Workers

Building materials company Boral has been fined $180,000 in the Melbourne Magistrates Court today for failing to enforce the correct use of respiratory masks for workers.

OHS discovery at Alex Fraser

The Australian Workers’ Union Victoria has discovered that the company Alex Fraser is not following the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulations when it comes to crystalline silica.

Ballarat gold mine update

Bushfires this summer have stretched firefighters across the country, but the AWU is also celebrating some important wins.

Ballarat gold mine in administration

Bushfires this summer have stretched firefighters across the country, but the AWU is also celebrating some important wins.

Safety at work is our priority

It’s been a busy year for the Oil and Gas industry in Australia, with negotiations, industrial action, sales and campaigns.

Negotiations have died…

Bushfires this summer have stretched firefighters across the country, but the AWU is also celebrating some important wins.

Road Safety Update

The death of a traffic controller in Victoria’s North East yesterday has sparked outrage, Ben Davis, AWU Victorian Branch Secretary said this was the third death of a traffic controller on the state’s roads in just 2½ years.

Save local jobs!

Tens of thousands of Australian jobs have been saved after the Albanese Government responded to the AWU’s long-running call to put a stop to spiralling energy prices.

AWU farewells outgoing VIC Branch President Tanya Harrington

After 18 years as an AWU employee and then organiser, three as the union’s first female branch president, Tanya Harrington has done the heavy lifting and is moving on.

AWU firies stepping up to fundraise for mental health

The only way is up this Saturday when four AWU members take part in the gruelling Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb.

AWU firies stepping up to fundraise for mental health

The only way is up this Saturday when four AWU members take part in the gruelling Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb.

Melbourne Construction workers among highest-paid in world

News that Melbourne construction workers are among the highest paid in the world should be worn as a badge of honour by AWU members, Victorian Branch Secretary Ben Davis says.

Curtin University study backs AWU’s alarm at extent of workplace silicosis health risk

The Australian Workers’ Union’s long-running campaign to highlight the dangers of silica dust has been vindicated by a new Curtin University study that confirms more than 10,000 Australians are now likely to develop lung cancer from their exposure to the dust.

Don’t Risk Safety

CAMEC, a manufacturing facility in Dandenong South, caught fire this morning, stopping work on the manufacturing floor of the factory. Workers were sent to the neighbouring onsite warehouse to await further instruction.

Another fatality, no more excuses!

The death of a traffic controller in Victoria’s North East yesterday has sparked outrage, Ben Davis, AWU Victorian Branch Secretary said this was the third death of a traffic controller on the state’s roads in just 2½ years.

New VIC regulations against silicosis should be rolled out nationwide

Key steps on the road to worker safety in Victoria this month should be mirrored nationwide when dealing with silica dust.

Anzac Day holds special meaning for AWU Member Rob Macbeth

Magnetite iron ore concentrate production will be ramped up at South Australia’s Whyalla steelworks in a project GFG says will place the city “at the heart of a new industrial revolution’’ based around the use of renewable energy and hydrogen to produce steel.

West Gate TBM kicks off after two-year delay

The AWU has been part of the project since it was first launched, and helped members navigate a million-dollar underpayments case, soil contamination, three years of negotiations, and legal battles, before the TBM began operating a week after Australia Day.

West Gate TBM kicks off after two-year delay

The AWU has been part of the project since it was first launched, and helped members navigate a million-dollar underpayments case, soil contamination, three years of negotiations, and legal battles, before the TBM began operating a week after Australia Day.

Traffic control members from AWU Victoria have had a massive win with years of backpay coming their way.

It’s been a busy year for the Oil and Gas industry in Australia, with negotiations, industrial action, sales and campaigns.

John Holland up to their normal tricks meanwhile the Victorian Government are missing in action. Again.

CBUS Superannuation

Cbus, the largest industry fund for the building, construction industry and allied industries with over 760, 000 members

The Melbourne Earthquake

Denis “Junior” Williams and his father, Denis, are among about eight AWU members in the Mr Buller area, During the Melbourne earthquake/

AWU Presents: The Julia Gillard Next Generation Intern

The Julia Gillard Next Generation Intern report, The Missing Women of Australian Politics: How violence against women creates barriers to female representation, paints a bleak picture of treatment of women in politics in Australia.

AWU calls for greater accountability as National Taskforce releases Dust Disease Report

After an extensive consultation process, the National Dust Disease Taskforce has published its final report, which will advise the Federal Government’s upcoming legislative reform.

Victorian Delegate of the Year: Kylie Herriot

AWU Victorian Branch Delegate of the Year Kylie Herriot Kylie and her union – the Swim Instructors Association, an arm of the AWU – won $1.9 million in back pay for her co-workers last year.

AWU members head to Canberra in bid to save jobs at Keppel Prince

AWU welcomes critical Portland aluminium smelter deal

AWU Victoria Construction Calendar

New 2021 calendar for AWU Victoria construction members

COVID-19 Payment Update

Australians overwhelmingly back Australian-made campaign

A staggering 88 per cent of people agreed that Australia should be making more essential products.

Hawthorn RSL and AWU Victoria join forces

Union summit urges action on support for emergency services

AWU calls for more action to help front-line workers and those affected by catastrophic bushfires while in Canberra.

Costa condemned for allowing agricultural workers to live in slum-like conditions

Over 70 migrant workers were crammed into a single house, forced to pay $100 a week each in rent.

Beat the Heat

Working in excessive heat can lead to serious illnesses and sometimes even death.

Smoke Haze – Stay Safe this Summer

Protect yourself from hazardous bushfire smoke this summer.

Hairstylists retain penalty rates in landmark Fair Work decision

In a massive win for Hair Stylists Australia (HSA), the Fair Work Commission has rejected Hair and Beauty Australia’s (HABA) bid to slash penalty rates for hair and beauty workers.

2019 proves a tough year for AWU Firefighters

Bushfires this summer have stretched firefighters across the country, but the AWU is also celebrating some important wins.

2019: A look back on the Aluminium Industry

Negotiations, energy policy, and smelters under threat – here’s a look at the news that’s shaped the Aluminium industry this year

Reviewing the Steel Industry in 2019

We look back on the highs and lows in the Steel industry in the last 12 months.

2019: A Year in Review for the Oil and Gas Industry

It’s been a busy year for the Oil and Gas industry in Australia, with negotiations, industrial action, sales and campaigns.

Work Shouldn’t Hurt – Don’t take a chance on musculoskeletal injuries

Each year 600,000 Australian workers are exposed to silica dust.

Don’t Risk Roundup – Get the Facts on Glyphosate

Each year 600,000 Australian workers are exposed to silica dust.

Is your workplace safe from SILICA DUST?

Each year 600,000 Australian workers are exposed to silica dust.

PFAS Class Action

According to Radio National’s Law Report 40,000 people who live and work on land contaminated by the chemical compound PFAS are suing the Australian Government, arguing that their property values have plummeted.

2019: A Year in Review for the Civil Construction Industry

2019 has been a big year for Construction, with negotiations, industrial action, and some major projects on the horizon.

AWU Members stand up to Rocla

In Campbellfield on Monday 11th November Rocla employees took to the picket line for a stoppage on all shifts throughout the day, as part of an enterprise bargaining dispute.

Polly Trade Investigation – Yet Another Wage Theft Story

AWU Victoria has described the revelation of under payment at Polytrade to be a national disgrace. Workers were found to be underpaid by approximately $40,000 per year, as well as working a staggering 7 days a week continuously throughout the year.

Who are we? An AWU Member Story

Tahani studied welding to create sculptures. She was unable to pursue her passion for sculpting, because she needed to find a job in order to make a living. In October of 2015, with her newly learned welding skills, she found herself a job in the steel industry. Working long hours, she would come home physically exhausted and mentally drained.

Cleaning up the Waste Management Industry

Truly horrific conditions have been exposed at the waste management factory that exploded in April.

Showing AWU Pride

“We’re proud AWU members and we’re proud to be working on the tunnel. Union workplaces are safer workplaces and being visible is part of that.”

Delegates Profile – Dave Milkins

AWU delegates play a fundamental role in keeping our union strong. Meet Dave Milkins…

Victoria’s Recycling Crisis

Recycling remains a hot topic for most Victorians with the recent collapse of recycling company SKM.

AFP Media Raids — A Disturbing Threat to Press Freedom

Lately, we have seen a series of raids by the AFP on media outlets.

New hope working on the West Gate Tunnel Project

Check out AWU member Gideon Kori’s inspiring story; working hard on the West Gate Tunnel Project.

AWU No Vote at Altus Gets Up

AWU Members have taken up the fight and sent a clear message; the current Altus offer does not cut the mustard!

AWU Delegates of the Year

One of the new initiatives to honour members is the Delegate of the Year Award.. This award recognises those delegates who go above and beyond each year to service their members.

The Gas Crisis is Here and it’s Going to Cost Countless Jobs

Last week Dow Chemical announced it will close it’s Melbourne plant partly due to high gas prices and they’re unlikely to be the last. Australia is now the worlds largest gas exporter yet still imports gas from other countries at an inflated price.

New AWU Victorian Branch Assistant Secretary and President

It gives me great pleasure to announce that the AWU Victorian Branch Committee of Management last week appointed Jimmy Mastrandonakis as Assistant Secretary and Tanya Harrington as Branch President for the rest of the term expiring 30th June 2021.

A Life Sentence

He’s seeing a doctor about his next round of surgery, this time to prepare for the fitting of his third prosthetic. This one will screw into the bone and open up a whole new range of movement for him.