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:
| IAG Highlights Climate Change's Role in Rising Home Insurance Costs 08 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori Insurance Australia Group (IAG), a leading insurer in the Australian market, has recently raised concerns about the escalating impact of climate change on home insurance premiums. The company warns that Australians should anticipate rising costs, attributing this trend to the increasing frequency and severity of weather events driven by climate change. - read more |
| Australian Insurers Falling Behind Global Peers in Risk Preparedness 08 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian insurance industry is facing mounting challenges as it falls behind international counterparts in preparedness levels, according to the latest PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey. The findings come at a time when Australian insurers are grappling with multiple simultaneous threats ranging from digital security concerns to regulatory pressures and affordability challenges. - read more |
| QBE Insurance Faces Market Challenges as Premium Growth Slows 08 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori QBE Insurance Group, Australia's largest insurer by market value, has recently experienced a notable decline in its share price, reaching a seven-month low. This downturn is primarily attributed to a slowdown in the company's premium rate growth during the third quarter of fiscal 2025. - read more |
| Insuregroup's Remarkable Growth Reflects Surge in Truck Insurance Demand 07 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori Insuregroup, a specialist insurance brokerage serving Australia's transport and logistics sector, has recently announced a significant milestone: processing over 10,000 insurance policies since its inception, with a 25% increase in policy volume over the past year. This growth underscores the escalating demand for comprehensive truck insurance solutions tailored to the unique needs of Australian freight operators. - read more |
| Health Insurance for Young Australians: Why Starting Early Pays Off Health insurance is a crucial aspect of managing both health and financial risks. Many Australians may not realize the significance of having robust health coverage until they face unexpected medical expenses. Starting early with health insurance can not only provide peace of mind but also pave the way for better health management in the long run. - read more
|
| Protecting Your Professional Income: Understanding Income Protection Insurance Income protection insurance is a financial safety net for individuals who are unable to work due to illness or injury. It ensures that you receive a percentage of your income during times when you cannot earn a salary, helping you maintain your lifestyle as you recover. This type of insurance offers peace of mind by providing financial support when it is needed most, allowing you to focus on recovery rather than financial pressures. - read more
|
| Common Misconceptions About Income Protection Insurance Explained Income protection insurance is a crucial financial safeguard for anyone who relies on their salary to pay the bills. It provides a substitute income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury, ensuring that your financial obligations can still be met when you're not able to earn your usual wage. - read more
|
| Financial Safety Nets: Why Income Protection Should Be a Priority Unexpected sickness can disrupt your life in many ways, especially when it comes to your financial stability. The loss of income during illness can create a financial burden, making it tough to manage daily expenses and bills. - read more
|
A type of insurance protection that pays a portion of a person's income lost due to a total or partial disablement arising from either an accident or a sickness.