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
| Allianz Partners Highlights Risks of Travelling Uninsured 23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Recent research conducted by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has unveiled a concerning trend: approximately 14% of Australian travellers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance. This statistic has prompted Allianz Partners to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before travelling abroad. - read more |
| Surge in Medical Claims Among Australian Travellers Highlights Importance of Comprehensive Insurance 23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori In 2024, medical incidents emerged as the leading cause of travel insurance claims among Australian travellers, accounting for more than 40% of all claims handled by nib Travel. This trend underscores the critical importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance to mitigate the financial risks associated with medical emergencies abroad. - read more |
| Qantas Travel Insurance Honoured with Mozo Experts Choice Award 2024 23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Qantas Travel Insurance has been recognised in the 2024 Mozo Experts Choice Awards for Travel Insurance, showcasing its exceptional value for their Annual Multi Trip Travel Insurance policy. - read more |
| Australian Insurers Falling Behind in Cybersecurity Readiness 23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey reveal that Australian insurers are lagging behind their global counterparts in preparedness for emerging risks, particularly in the realms of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). This survey, encompassing insights from 698 insurance executives across 42 territories, highlights a concerning trend for the Australian insurance sector. - read more |
| How to Prepare Financially for Unexpected Sickness Life is full of surprises, and unfortunately, not all of them are pleasant. Unexpected sickness can strike anyone at any time, and when it does, it can have a significant impact on your income. Whether it’s a sudden illness, a chronic condition, or an accident, the loss of income can add stress to an already difficult situation. - read more
|
| How Much Should You Budget for Insurance in Australia? Welcome to the comprehensive guide on navigating the diverse world of insurance in Australia. Whether you're safeguarding your personal assets or protecting your business interests, insurance plays a pivotal role in financial security. In this introductory section, we'll explore why budgeting for insurance is crucial for Australians, delve into the various types of insurance available, and illustrate how insurance should integrate into your broader financial planning strategy. - read more
|
| Income Protection: How to Safeguard Your Earnings in Uncertain Times In the landscape of personal financial planning, income protection insurance emerges as a critical safeguard against the unpredictable nature of life's many uncertainties. As we navigate through economic turbulence and job market volatility, the importance of income protection becomes ever more apparent. This type of insurance serves as a financial backstop, designed to provide a stable flow of income when you're unable to work due to sickness or injury. - read more
|
| Understanding the Tax Benefits of Income Protection Insurance in Australia Income protection insurance is a crucial safeguard for many Australians, designed to provide financial stability in the event that you are unable to work due to illness or injury. This type of insurance delivers a regular income, usually up to a certain percentage of your regular earnings, ensuring that you can meet your financial obligations even when your health prevents you from earning a wage. - read more
|