Builder Steven Sousamlis, 28, who started his apprenticeship a decade ago, shared his experiences with news.com.au, recalling the harsh treatment he faced. “I endured verbal abuse that was demeaning and relentless,” he said. However, he acknowledged that this kind of treatment is no longer tolerated, especially on larger construction sites.
Sousamlis credits the cultural shift for fostering a healthier work environment. "Everyone now aims to build a positive working culture. Abusing someone not only damages their morale but also decreases productivity,” he noted.
Charlie Trewin, now a manager at Apprenticeships Are Us in Western Australia, has also observed this radical cultural shift. "It used to be common for practical jokes, like filling someone's work boots with expander foam. Nowadays, that kind of behavior just wouldn't fly," Trewin shared.
Trewin noted that Friday afternoon beers, once a staple of tradie culture, have also disappeared. "The focus has shifted towards safety and professionalism, which while making the workplace safer, has perhaps taken some of the fun out of the job," he added.
Dane McKay, a 22-year-old Gen Z tradie, has only ever known the newer, more professional tradie culture, affirming that it's understandably stringent. "We don't really socialize outside of work except for special occasions, and there are no beers during work hours," he said.
Although he finds the environment stricter than before, McKay acknowledges the importance of these changes for safety and efficiency.
Published:Sunday, 4th Aug 2024
Source: Paige Estritori
| Health Insurance Premiums to Rise by 4.41% in 2026 11 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori The Australian government has approved a 4.41% increase in health insurance premiums, set to take effect in 2026. This adjustment reflects the rising costs associated with healthcare services and the need to maintain the sustainability of the health insurance sector. - read more |
| Australian Insurers Address Premium Affordability Challenges 11 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori The Australian insurance sector is currently grappling with significant challenges, notably the affordability of premiums for consumers. A recent survey by Gallagher Bassett highlights that premium affordability, cybersecurity, and labour shortages are the top concerns for insurers in 2026. ([insurancenews.com.au](https://www.insurancenews.com.au/daily/industry-reshapes-priorities-amid-price-cost-pressures?utm_source=openai)) - read more |
| Declining Commercial Insurance Rates in Australia 11 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori The Australian commercial insurance market is witnessing a notable decline in rates, driven by intensified competition and an increase in insurer capacity. According to reports from global brokers Marsh and Aon, the Pacific region experienced a 12% reduction in commercial insurance rates during the last quarter of 2025, marking the most significant drop since early 2024. ([insurancenews.com.au](https://www.insurancenews.com.au/local/commercial-pricing-tipped-to-stay-soft?utm_source=openai)) - read more |
| Impact of Hailstorm Claims on Australian Insurers' Profits 11 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori The Australian insurance industry has recently faced a substantial decline in profits, primarily due to a series of severe hailstorms that occurred in October and November 2025. Data from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) reveals that the general insurance sector reported a net profit of $132 million in the December quarter, bringing the annual total to approximately $5.8 billion. This marks a decrease from the $6.8 billion profit recorded in 2024. ([insurancenews.com.au](https://www.insurancenews.com.au/local/industry-profit-sinks-as-hail-hits-home?utm_source=openai)) - read more |
| Choosing the Right Life Insurance Policy for Your Growing Family For many families, life insurance isn't just a financial product but a vital part of ensuring financial stability. As parents, the well-being of your children and the ability to provide for them, even in unforeseen circumstances, is of paramount importance. - read more
|
| How Life Insurance and Estate Planning Work Together for Your Benefit For many Australian families, the concept of estate planning might evoke imagery of vast wealth and complex legal documents, reserved for the very affluent. However, this misconception overshadows the universal importance of having an estate plan, which at its core, is about ensuring your loved ones are cared for and your wishes are honored upon your passing—even if you don't consider yourself wealthy. - read more
|
| Understanding the Differences: Income Protection vs Total and Permanent Disability Insurance Income protection insurance is a type of policy that provides financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to an illness or injury. The insurance company will pay a portion of the policyholder's earnings, which can be used to cover everyday living expenses and bills. This type of insurance is different from total and permanent disability insurance (TPD) in a few key ways. - read more
|
| Income Protection for Health Workers: What You Need to Know Income protection insurance is a crucial financial safety net designed to replace a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. For many, it's a vital component of a robust financial plan, offering peace of mind and stability. But why is it particularly important for healthcare professionals in Australia? - read more
|