Compare Life Insurance :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Tradies See Unprecedented Shift Towards Professionalism and Safety

Tradies See Unprecedented Shift Towards Professionalism and Safety

In recent years, Australia's tradie culture has undergone a significant transformation, moving away from its rough-and-tumble past to a more professional and disciplined environment.

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Understanding the 4.41% Increase in Private Health Insurance Premiums for 2026 Understanding the 4.41% Increase in Private Health Insurance Premiums for 2026
22 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Australian private health insurance premiums are set to rise by an average of 4.41% from 1 April 2026, marking the most significant increase since 2017. Health Minister Mark Butler stated that this adjustment reflects the escalating costs of medical and hospital services, which have risen by 5% over the past financial year. This increase is expected to impact over 15 million Australians who hold private health insurance policies. - read more
Health Insurers Respond to Rising Costs with Increased Payments to Private Hospitals Health Insurers Respond to Rising Costs with Increased Payments to Private Hospitals
22 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

In response to escalating operational costs faced by private hospitals, health insurers have increased their payments to these facilities. Recent data indicates that payments to private hospitals have risen by 7.7% in the year leading up to March 2025. This adjustment aims to support private hospitals during a period of financial strain and to ensure the continued delivery of quality health care services. - read more
Health Insurers to Include Natural Therapies in Coverage from 2026 Health Insurers to Include Natural Therapies in Coverage from 2026
22 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant policy shift, Australian health insurers will begin offering rebates for a range of natural therapies, including Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Shiatsu, Naturopathy, Western herbal medicine, and the Alexander Technique, starting early 2026. This change follows legislative amendments allowing these therapies to be covered under private health insurance for the treatment of health conditions or as part of health management programs. - read more
Australian Insurers Highlight Key Challenges for 2026 Australian Insurers Highlight Key Challenges for 2026
22 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

As 2026 approaches, Australian insurers are facing a trio of pressing challenges: rising premium costs and shrinking insurability, escalating cyber and data risks, and increasing difficulty in hiring and retaining skilled workers. These concerns have been highlighted in industry feedback cited in Gallagher Bassett’s upcoming report, 'The Carrier Perspective: 2026 Claims Insights.' - read more


Life Insurance Articles

Trauma Cover: Calculating Adequate Protection for Life's Unexpected Moments Trauma Cover: Calculating Adequate Protection for Life's Unexpected Moments
The financial fabric of our lives consists of both planning and safeguarding against the unforeseen. Trauma cover, a lesser-known but crucial aspect of personal insurance, provides this protection by offering a lump sum payment upon diagnosis of specific serious illnesses or injuries. In the tapestry of financial planning, it acts as a vital safety net, ensuring that unexpected health crises do not lead to monetary distress. - read more
Income Insurance: The Safety Net for Your Financial Goals in Australia Income Insurance: The Safety Net for Your Financial Goals in Australia
Financial security is pivotal for anyone striving to meet their life goals, be it owning a home, educating children, or ensuring a comfortable retirement. In Australia, where uncertainties can disrupt our best laid-out financial plans, having a safety net in place is essential. Income insurance offers just that—protection against the unforeseen events that could impact your income earning abilities. - read more
Income Protection Insurance Explained: Ensure Your Livelihood in Times of Uncertainty Income Protection Insurance Explained: Ensure Your Livelihood in Times of Uncertainty
When life takes an unexpected turn, whether due to illness, injury, or other unforeseen events, the financial repercussions can be devastating. This is where income protection insurance becomes an essential component of maintaining financial stability. Income protection insurance acts as a safety net, ensuring that even in times of hardship, your financial obligations can be met, and your standard of living maintained. It provides peace of mind, knowing that your earnings are safeguarded should you become unable to work due to health reasons. - read more
The Comprehensive Comparison: Evaluating Different Insurance Providers in Australia The Comprehensive Comparison: Evaluating Different Insurance Providers in Australia
Welcome to the comprehensive guide on evaluating different insurance providers in Australia. Navigating through the plethora of insurance options can be overwhelming. With a market full of competing insurers, choosing the right provider is critical to ensuring ample protection for your assets, health, and peace of mind. This introduction aims to underscore the significance of this decision for Australian consumers. - read more


Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Life Cover Amount:
Postcode:


All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Knowledgebase
Insurance Underwriter:
An insurance company, a financial institution that sells insurance.