Delegates from across NSW and the ACT came together for three days of discussion, debate and forward thinking at the annual conference for contracting, supply authority and apprentice members.
The conference covered industry updates, workplace wins and delegate resolutions, with union solidarity also on display as delegates joined the MUA at a rally at Circular Quay.
Two issues stood out throughout the conference: the need to bring more apprentices into the electrical trade and the need to keep workers safe on the job.
With major projects driving demand for electricians, apprentice numbers are falling short of what the industry needs. Allen Hicks, State Secretary, said “meeting this demand must never come at the expense of Australia’s electrical standards,” in his address on the ETU’s commitment to ensure our regulations are not watered down to meet this goal.
Apprentices also pushed for greater representation and support, passing resolutions for apprentice delegates on construction sites and increased union education.
Safety discussions highlighted the real consequences of ignoring workers’ concerns. WA apprentice Noah told delegates how he suffered heat stroke after working on a dangerously hot rooftop and later lost consciousness while driving home and SA Organiser Max Mawby spoke of the dangers of lead exposure.
Delegates also proposed improved access to skin cancer and hearing checks in construction.
The message from the conference was clear: the electrical industry must grow, but that growth must be built around skilled workers, strong representation and safe workplaces.
