Tradies See Unprecedented Shift Towards Professionalism and Safety
Tradies See Unprecedented Shift Towards Professionalism and Safety
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:
| Cyber Insurance Becomes Essential Amid Rising Digital Threats 12 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori The recent cyberattack on Fortnum Private Wealth, accompanied by ASIC's legal action, has spotlighted the critical risks cyber threats pose to financial advice companies in Australia. With digital integration intensifying across the finance sector, the owner of Fortnum, Entireti, plans to defend the case, underscoring the necessity for ongoing vigilance in cybersecurity measures. - read more |
| Swiss Re Foresees Rising Premiums Amid Increasing Global Risks 10 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori In a comprehensive analysis, Swiss Re Institute predicts that global property and casualty insurance premiums will rise in tandem with GDP over the upcoming decade. This growth is driven by amplified natural catastrophe losses, asset accumulation, and heightened economic and litigation claims inflation. The institute's report outlines the evolving insurance landscape amid increasing global risks. - read more |
| Insurance Council of Australia Assists NSW Flood Claimants 09 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori In response to the devastating floods that swept across New South Wales' Mid North Coast in May, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is taking proactive steps to support the affected residents. Insurers, organised by the ICA, will be meeting with flood victims in Kempsey, Taree, and Port Macquarie to provide guidance and support as they navigate their insurance claims. - read more |
| Ombudsman Upholds Policyholder’s Claim Despite Fraud Allegations 08 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori A motor insurance policyholder has won a significant dispute over fraud allegations, with the industry ombudsman ruling in favour of a payout following a controversial car accident claim. The case revolved around an incident where the claimant's wife crashed at an intersection one evening, reportedly failing to yield. The lack of photographic evidence due to shock and subsequent involvement of towing services complicated matters. - read more |
| Decoding Disability: How Your Policy's Definition Affects Your Security In the quest for economic stability and peace of mind, income security stands as a critical foundation. The assurance that one can rely on a stable financial inflow, regardless of life's unpredictabilities, is what keeps many individuals focused on their present while confidently planning for their future. However, the seldom-discussed intricacies of disability definitions within insurance policies can significantly influence this security. - read more
|
| Estate Planning and Insurance: Safeguarding Your Legacy in Australia Estate planning is a critical process often overlooked, yet it serves as the cornerstone of ensuring that your legacy is protected and seamlessly passed on to your loved ones. It's about securing your financial future and guaranteeing that the assets you've toiled to amass are distributed according to your wishes. In the intricate world of asset protection and family security, being well-informed can make all the difference. - read more
|
| Avoiding Overinsurance: How to Choose Adequate Coverage Without Wasting Money Income protection insurance is a key component of financial planning that safeguards your earning potential in the untimely event of illness or injury. In Australia, it reassures individuals that their most valuable asset, the ability to earn, is shielded against unforeseen circumstances. Adequate income protection can provide peace of mind, with the security of a regular income even when you're unable to work. - read more
|
| Understanding the Tax Benefits of Income Protection Insurance in Australia When hardship hits and earning a steady income becomes a challenge due to illness or injury, income protection insurance steps in as a crucial lifeline. This insurance acts much like a monetary buffer, providing you with a percentage of your regular income during times when you're unable to work. It's designed to offer peace of mind and stability, not just for you, but also for your dependents who rely on your financial support. - read more
|
In law and economics, insurance is a form of risk management primarily used to hedge against the risk of potential financial loss.