Tradies See Unprecedented Shift Towards Professionalism and Safety

0

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

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

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

AUSactive and Health Partners Collaborate to Enhance Fitness Service Accessibility

13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

AUSactive, Australia's peak body for the exercise and active health sector, has announced a significant partnership with Health Partners, a not-for-profit health fund with over 85 years of service to South Australians. This collaboration recognises eligible AUSactive Personal Trainers and fitness businesses as approved providers, allowing Health Partners members to claim benefits for personal training sessions, classes, and gym memberships under their Extras policy when part of a medically necessary health management plan. - read more

AIA Australia Teams Up with Peloton and Specialized to Encourage Active Lifestyles

13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

AIA Australia, a leading life, health, and wellbeing insurer, has announced partnerships with global fitness company Peloton and premium cycling brand Specialized. These collaborations aim to provide AIA Vitality members with significant discounts and incentives to promote cycling, both at home and outdoors. - read more

Australian Insurers Achieve Record Profits Amid Rising Premiums

13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In 2024, Australia's insurance sector reported an after-tax profit of $6.1 billion, a significant increase from the five-year average of $2 billion. This surge is primarily attributed to substantial premium hikes and a relatively calm year concerning natural disasters. - read more

Government Consultancy Contracts Near $1 Billion Amid Outsourcing Reduction Efforts

13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent research indicates that the Australian federal government signed contracts worth nearly $1 billion with consultancy firms in the last financial year, marking a 48% increase from the previous year. This development comes despite the government's commitment to reduce reliance on external consultants. - read more

Construction Cost Surge and Labour Shortages Reshape Australian Insurance Claims

13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian insurance industry is currently navigating a challenging landscape shaped by escalating construction costs and persistent labour shortages. These factors are significantly influencing the nature and volume of insurance claims, particularly within the construction sector. - read more

NSW Court Decision Heightens Builders' Liability for Defects

13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In a landmark decision, the New South Wales Court of Appeal has significantly altered the landscape of construction liability, particularly concerning builders' responsibilities for defects. The case, known as Pafburn, has removed the previously relied-upon proportionate liability defence, thereby increasing the accountability of builders and developers for construction defects. - read more

Queensland Integrates Heavy Vehicle Compliance with National Regulator

12 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant move towards regulatory uniformity, Queensland has transitioned its heavy vehicle compliance responsibilities to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR). This change, effective from February 19, 2024, positions Queensland alongside New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and the Australian Capital Territory in adopting a cohesive approach to heavy vehicle oversight. - read more

Elevated Road Risks Amid Holiday Freight and Travel Surge

12 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

As the Australian summer school holidays approach, a convergence of increased holiday travel and peak freight activity is raising concerns among insurers and transport specialists about heightened road risks. This period sees a significant uptick in both passenger vehicles and heavy trucks on the roads, amplifying the potential for accidents and necessitating heightened vigilance among all road users. - read more

Growing Collision Risks Challenge Australian Fleet Operators

12 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia's transport and haulage sector is currently navigating a period of heightened operational risk, marked by an uptick in both the frequency and severity of motor collision claims. This trend underscores the pressing need for fleet operators to adopt proactive risk management strategies and leverage advanced insurance solutions to safeguard their operations. - read more

Calls for Super Funds to Accelerate Mental Health Insurance Claims Processing

11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Consumer advocates are raising concerns over significant delays in processing mental health-related insurance claims by Australian superannuation funds. As mental health conditions become a leading cause of total and permanent disability (TPD) claims, the efficiency of claim processing has come under scrutiny. - read more

Click for more Insurance News