ETU Welcome Magazine

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TRUSTED UNION

TROY GRAY - STATE SECRETARY

The ETU is a trusted and respected organisation. Trust and respect aren’t given – they’re earned –and our Union has proudly protected workers since 1902 and will continue to do so now and in the future.

The ETU has over $230 billion worth of infrastructure work to be built in Victoria in the coming years. With an uptake in renewables, offshore wind farms, electric cars and charging units coming on line, the ETU is well positioned to continue to represent the needs of its 20,000 plus members and their families, and will continue to evolve to meet the challenges these new industries and the future will bring.

The ETU has a strong culture, based on a militant model of organised unionism. We are not afraid to stand up and fight to protect pay and workplace conditions, and deliver outcomes that make a difference to members’ lives. From 1902 to today, we proudly stand stronger than ever!

Through the combined strength of the Union and many long, hard-fought campaigns, Victorian ETU members enjoy some of the best workplace conditions and wages anywhere in Australia.

But our role goes way beyond that, demanding that members are treated with respect and dignity both on and off the job. This is the reason why we’ve campaigned so hard for family-friendly working hours, to ensure that members have genuine time off to spend with, and enjoy raising, their families through their entire working lives.

Strength in Unity.

INTERNAL OPERATION & DECISIONMAKING STRUCTURE

ELECTED LEADERSHIP TEAM

WORKPLACE REPRESENTATIVES

MEMBER ELECTED BODIES

Secretary

Assistant

Secretaries

President

Organisers

Shop

Stewards

Executive

State Council

Biannual

Conference

Delegates

ELECTED LEADERSHIP TEAM

Responsibility to oversee the operations and governance of the union for all matters including industrial, political, financial, health and safety, training, welfare and more.

ORGANISERS

Elected officials with dedicated geographical areas.

SHOP STEWARDS

Job specific member representative.

MEMBER ELECTED BODIES

Govern and oversee the operation and decision making within the Victorian branch.

ETU HISTORY

1800 s AN INDUSTRY BEGINS

Electricity was introduced to Melbourne in 1867 to celebrate the Duke of Edinburgh’s visit. Parliament House, the Post Office and the Telegraph Office were lit up with arc lamps supplied from a series of chemical batteries.

In 1877, the Apollo Stearine Candle Company were the first to light their factory for night work. By appointment, the manager could take you on a tour to see this strange new technology; an arc lamp supplied by a dynamo.

At 8.30pm on the 13th of August 1879, Carlton played Melbourne at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in the first night game to be played in Victoria under electric light (8,000 candlepower). The lights proved unsuccessful as the players were either blinded or got lost in the shadows but nevertheless, 7,000 people watched Carlton win three goals to nil.

In 1882, the Athenaeum Hall was lit by arc lamps and they were so impressive the Opera House Company then lit up their auditorium with 120 lamps.

Suddenly, electricity was being taken seriously. Supply companies began to pop up across Melbourne like mushrooms; poles carrying electric wires and transformers began to line the streets. Incandescent lamps had been developed and young men were going off to college to study electricity and then looking for careers in it.

This was the beginning of the electrical industry which ultimately led to the creation of the ETU.

The first night footy match under lights at the MCG was played between Carlton and Melbourne in 1879.
Electrical Men installing some of Melbourne’s first cables at the south-east corner of Collins and King Streets, circa 1888/1890.
The Athenaeum Hall.

ETU HISTORY

PROTECTING WORKERS SINCE 1902

The magnificent history of the Victorian ETU started in 1902 when posters were put all around Melbourne and in The Argus newspaper calling for all electrical men to meet in the co-operative rooms at 288 Lonsdale Street for the purpose of forming a Union.

Shortly thereafter, Andy McPhail was voted in as the first Union Secretary. Fifteen days later, the ETU became affiliated with the Victorian Trades Hall and the broader Union movement.

Bottom right: One of our earliest prominent leaders was Albert

Henderson, held the position of Secretary for 41 years.

The Federated Electrical Trades Union of Australia Eight-Hour Day float, circa 1912.

‘Snowy’

ETU TODAY

“OUR HISTORY IS A LONG AND PROUD ONE THAT STRETCHES BACK TO THE VERY EARLIEST DAYS OF LIGHT AND POWER IN MELBOURNE, AND THAT HISTORY HAS BUILT A UNION THAT SHINES BRIGHTER THAN EVER TODAY!”
- TROY GRAY, STATE SECRETARY

MEMBER BENEFITS & SERVICES

“LITERALLY

FOR LESS THAN THE COST OF HALF A CUP OF COFFEE A DAY, ETU MEMBERS ENJOY SOME OF THE BEST LIVING STANDARDS AND INDUSTRIAL OUTCOMES IN AUSTRALIA.”

MEMBER BENEFITS & SERVICES

IT PAYS TO BE ETU

Free family ambulance cover

$10,000 funeral cover for you and your partner

$30,000 partner bereavement payment

Access to $40,000 worth of free training and additional services - Centre For U

Cancer lump sum benefit of $10,000

Premature birth/miscarriage benefit of $5,000

Increase to Home Help Benefit (HHB) and Domestic Duties Assistance (DDA)

Free training courses for unemployed ETU members

Advice on workplace and industrial matters

Free baby pack inclusive of first aid training

Superannuation advice through CBUS

Protect - severance and income protection services with ETU agreements

CENTRE FOR U

CENTRE FOR U ( CFU )

The ETU’s Centre for U (CFU) is a state-of-the-art training facility, structured under three main pillars; CPD (Continuing Professional Development), Training & Upskilling, and Support & Health.

The CFU provides training and support services for ETU members, their families, and the broader union movement with our doors always open to the community and wider electrical industry.

The ETU commenced this new initiative predominately to support its 20,000 plus members in times of need. It is a philanthropic venture, providing high value in the form of training, health and wellbeing services, and workplace and personal support.

Our training focuses on upskilling electrical workers and line-workers to advance their careers or help them return to work if they are unemployed. This training, delivered by known experts from the electrical industry, can assist your employment prospects. Whether you are unemployed, or in some instances employed, ETU members can access training for free*.

The CFU is a beacon within the electrical industry for ETU members to gain much-needed support, both practically and emotionally, in the way of skills and training.

We will leave a legacy of contributing to the reduction of unemployed ETU members.

*Conditions apply - see website for free course details.

If you have any questions, we can help.

Call us on 1800 270 875 or scan the QR code to visit our website centreforu.com.au.

CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ( CPD )

Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) has introduced Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for the electrical trade. You must complete the CPD course within the 2 years before renewing your licence. Thanks to the ETU, you can do your CPD course for free at the stateof-the-art CFU training facility, with the CPD Skills Maintenance course taking just 8 hours.

TRAINING & UPSKILLING

The ETU understands how hard it is when you are out of a job, or seeking to upskill, to improve your career prospects and secure your family’s future.

The CFU delivers courses and has also partnered with other RTOs to ensure access to high quality industry skills training and opportunities to advance your career and get you back to work.

Whether you are looking to learn something new, change your career direction or work in a new industry, we have you covered.

• Construction Wiring

• Construction Wiring Refresher

• Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure (RTO 22719)

• Mandatory Testing

• REC Course

• Provide First Aid, CPR & LVR (RTO 22719)

• CPR & LVR (RTO 22719)

• HSR Initial OHS Training Course

• HSR Refresher OHS Training Course

• Working Safely in the Solar Industry (RTO 0416)

• Solar Grid Connect (RTO 22719)

• Electrical Spotting (RTO 21830)

• Elevating Work Platforms (RTO 3688)

• Working Safely at Height (RTO 21830)

• Licenced Electrician Theory (LET) Assessment (Future Energy Skills)

• Safe Working Practice (SWP) Assessment (Future Energy Skills)

• Train Track Safety Awareness (RTO 45462)

CENTRE FOR U

SUPPORT & HEALTH

The ETU is committed to looking after the wellbeing of all our members, both on and off the job, and from cradle to grave. We offer a range of health services free for you and your family, to ensure you are all in good health all year round.

PERSONAL AND FAMILY SERVICES

• Emergency transport cover

• Family baby pack

• First Aid for babies and children

• Counselling

• Dads in distress

• Financial counselling

• Legal advice

• Banking services and advice

• Will consultations

• U-Turn educational program

• Youth drug and alcohol awareness

• Funeral grants

• Autism information session

• Emotional wellbeing for expecting and new parents

• Retirement planning

• Family violence awareness training

HEALTH

SERVICES

• Skin and health checks

• Myotherapy

• Hearing checks

• RT Health Insurance

WORKPLACE SUPPORT

Our workplace support training provides you with the tools and skills you need to make your workplace an inclusive environment for all. These services are offered for free to you and your family.

• Apprentice Development Days

• Preparation for work

• Alcohol and drug awareness

• Suicide prevention and awareness

• Mental health in the workplace

• Anxiety and stress management

• Workers’ compensation

APPRENTICE DEVELOPMENT DAYS

This well-supported new industry initiative aims to prepare apprentices with the skills and knowledge they need to successfully navigate the difficulties of modern life, and to help them better support their colleagues, family and friends in times of need.

Apprentice Development Days cover the following:

• Alcohol and drug awareness

• Gendered violence awarenessat home, at work

• Protecting mental health

INCOME AND SEVERANCE PROTECTION

Established in 2000, Protect is now Australia’s leading industry scheme preferred by 50,000 workers and 1,200 employers across diverse trades and industries including; electrical, maritime, metals, manufacturing, fire rescue, rail, oil and petrochemical, construction, power supply, and distribution and service maintenance.

Our primary purpose is to support our member employers, workers and their families during any period of unemployment, illness, injury, or personal difficulty.

SEVERANCE AND REDUNDANCY SCHEME

Employers contribute to a Protect severance account on behalf of their workers to provide them a safety net should they become unemployed.

Our worker members can claim payments in a wide range of circumstances AND take advantage of a tax free component, in the case of redundancy, all from the one Protect account.

INCOME PROTECTION INSURANCE

Protect administers Australia’s leading range of personal income protection insurance policies for workers. The insurance policy schedules are held by the relevant union and are issued by ATC Insurance Solutions.

Our income protection insurance pays out benefits to members who are unable to work due to a non-work related injury or illness. The cover is global, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you have any questions, we can help.

Call us on 1300 344 249 or scan the QR code to visit our website protect.net.au.

UNITY BANK

THE BANK THAT WORKS FOR WORKERS.

For over half a century, we have proudly supported the backbone of Australia—our workers and their communities. As a member-owned bank, we really do look after you. Unlike traditional banks, we don’t exist to make profits to pay shareholders.

Our commitment runs deep. We have consistently stood with unions during disputes, offering support where it matters most. We believe in more than just banking; we believe in building relationships. That’s why we assign dedicated Relationship Managers to each of our members, ensuring personalised care tailored to meet your financial needs.

Whether you’re stepping into your first home, upgrading your vehicle, or expanding your investment portfolio, Unity Bank is here to help. We offer a comprehensive range of services, from savings accounts to home and car loans, all designed with you in mind.

At Unity Bank, we’re proudly more than a bank. We’re a community partner and a steadfast supporter of the people who work hard to keep Australia thriving. Join us, and experience what it means to bank with a bank built on a foundation of care for workers.

Choose Unity Bank—the bank that works for you.

MEMBER ADVANTAGE

OFFERS & DISCOUNTS

Member Advantage is Australia and New Zealand’s leading benefits provider for Unions and Professional Associations. Since our founding in 1998, we have worked to build an Advantage for you, our Members.

We offer an incredible range of offers and discounts, helping you save thousands of dollars each year on your shopping, business, and lifestyle needs.

Your ETU membership gives you exclusive access to Australia’s leading member benefits platform. Your benefits platform is easy to navigate and use, and the platform provides you with great savings on groceries, fuel, dining, entertainment, travel, automotive and more. You also have access to a range of business products and services to help you save on your practice or trade!

Join us to explore new rewards, offers and contests. We love helping you save and hearing about your experiences. Your Member Advantage is available online, 24/7.

Login and save with your Member Advantage!

If you have any questions, we can help.

HUNTER LINK

IT AIN’T WEAK TO SPEAK!

Hunterlink is a workplace wellbeing program that has been supporting ETU members and their families for more than seven years through Protect Counselling.

Hunterlink was founded in 2010 by union members for union members and although we have grown to now support more than 140 organisations and over 15 industries our core value remains. We provide psychological support to workers.

Through Protect Counselling you can access our qualified and registered counsellors and mental health specialists 24/7, 365 days a year. This includes unlimited support, and the ability to work with our counsellors through a treatment plan. There is also access to face to face sessions with psychologists and counsellors that we can link you with. If you are struggling with an income protection claim through Protect, we can talk you through the process of a psychological claim.

To access our service all you need to say is you are an ETU member and you or your family member will be supported. Call Protect Counselling on 1300 725 881, Hunterlink on 1800 554 654, WhatsApp text message service on +61 439 382 204, Facebook, Instagram and by emailing at enquiry@hunterlink.org.au.

The service is confidential, non-judgemental and there are a variety of counsellors and support that Hunterlink can link you to. If you are in crisis, seeking relationship support, struggling with AOD addictions, grief, trauma, workplace bullying and harassment, or if a family member or comrade is in need of assistance, give Hunterlink a call as we are here to help.

It ain’t weak to speak and Hunterlink is only a phone call away to provide support.

If you have any questions, we can help.

Call us on 1800 554 654 or scan the QR code to visit our website hunterlink.org.au.

GORDON LEGAL

WHATEVER YOUR LEGAL NEEDS, WE CAN HELP

We have more than 200 years of combined legal experience helping people just like you. Our team of experienced lawyers bring together decades of legal experience, ensuring your case is handled with utmost expertise and care.

If you need legal advice and assistance for personal, professional, or commercial matters, our lawyers can help.

We provide excellent legal advice and take you through everything step by step, so you can fully understand your rights and make properly informed decisions.

CONTACT US

We will be in touch within 24 hours when you email us at enquiries@gordonlegal.com.au. Or you can call 1800 21 22 23, 8.30am-5pm, Monday-Friday or contact your Union for a referral.

MEET US

We can assist you anywhere in Victoria. We can travel to you, or we can talk via video call or over the phone, or at one of our offices.

If you have any questions, we can help.

Call us on 1800 21 22 23 or scan the QR code to visit our website gordonlegal.com.au.

Peter Gordon Senior

RT HEALTH

WE’VE HAD A LONG TIME TO GET IT RIGHT

At RT Health, we’ve spent 130+ years learning what Aussies need and value from their private health cover. We’ve been looking after rail, transport, electrical and energy workers, and their families, for decades. That means we’ve had a long time to get it right, so we’re experts in helping everyday people to protect their most important asset – their health!

HISTORY OF RT HEALTH

It all started back in 1889 at the Eveleigh Railway Workshops in Sydney when a small but enterprising group of rail workers got together to collectively look after their healthcare costs - and so, RT Health was born. We became the first registered health insurer in the country, formed by hardworking Aussies who knew there was a better way to share the cost of healthcare. In many ways, we’re still the same today and we hold tight to the mutual and not-for-profit roots our forefathers laid down all those years ago - we’d like to think we continue to make them proud.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

We don’t answer to anyone but our members. We’re proud to fly the not-for-profit flag which means we’re here just for our membersaverage Aussies who are looking for the best way to access affordable healthcare. Not shareholders.

COVER WITH CARE

We know that no two members are the same. That everyone needs something different when it comes to health cover. That’s the RT Health difference. We call it cover with care. No nonsense, personalised service, with all the care and support you need.

INDUSTRY EXPERTS

When you’re with RT Health, you’re part of 130+ years of history, care and support that’s helping hardworking Aussies look after their health. If you have any questions, we can help.

ADA AUSTRALIA

LIVE WELL, BE WELL!

ADA (Alcohol and Drug Awareness) Australia has been proud to provide wellbeing help, support, and training services around drugs and alcohol, and mental health, to union members and their families since 2016.

ADA Australia’s team of accredited workplace trainers carry ‘lived experience’ and/or qualifications in counselling (among other qualifications and professional experience). Key trainers have their own journeys through depression, anxiety and alcohol and drug dependence.

Our training ‘finds the mark’, and opens conversation around difficult topics, things that need to be talked about – like alcohol and drugs, like depression and anxiety, like gambling, violence against women, and troublesome topics like suicide and self-harm.

Our trainers cover Australia, visiting on-site for Toolbox Talks, and for half-day and full-day training sessions proudly working with ETU delegates and union members. Additionally, over the past 12 months, ADA Australia has delivered its BEST LIFE: BEST WORK Apprentice Training intervention program to more than 1500 construction industry apprentices.

ADA Australia is also proud to provide 24/7 help and support through our FRIENDLY EAR support line and our online advice and information WELL CONNECT APP.

ADA AUSTRALIA’S FRIENDLY EAR SUPPORT LINE

If struggling with dark thoughts, or if things in life are getting out of control – “call us, we’re here for you, and we’d love to chat”.

ADA AUSTRALIA’S WELL CONNECT APP

Accessible 24/7 anytime, anywhere, “and it sits right in your pocket”. The Well Connect App carries a range of wellbeing resources, and guidance and support around anxiety, depression, chronic stress, and alcohol and drug use.

If you have any questions, we can help.

Call us on 1300 378 429 or scan the QR code to visit our website adaaus.com.au.

If you are:

• Carrying worries about your alcohol or drug use, or gambling, or related family problems?

• Feeling anxious (and it won’t go away), or living with depression and thoughts of self-harm?

• Worried about others, or affected by others, who may be experiencing these difficulties?

CBUS SUPER

THE NATIONAL SUPER FUND FOR YOUR INDUSTRY

Cbus Super is the industry super fund for workers who help shape Australia. Created in 1984 by workers for workers, we’re now one of the largest super funds in Australia.

Despite our size, we haven’t forgotten where we came from and why we’re here. We are a proud industry super fund, representing hard-working Australians.

Through strong long-term returns#, competitive fees, affordable insurance options for workers in dangerous industries, and investing back into the sectors where our members work, we help our members’ hard work pay off in their retirement.

#The Cbus Growth (MySuper) investment option has delivered a return of 8.89% p.a. since inception in 1984 to 30 June 2023. Investment performance is based on the crediting rate, which is the return minus investment fees, taxes and until 31 January 2020, the percentage-based administration fee. Excludes fees and costs that are deducted directly from members’ accounts. Past performance isn’t a reliable indicator of future performance.

Call 1300 361 784

8am to 8pm AEST/AEDT Monday to Friday cbussuper.com.au

Your local coordinators

Your local coordinators

Your Cbus Super Coordinator is available to visit your workplace to provide information and general advice on super. Depending on your workplace preference, you could have a group information session or have individual questions/issues answered onsite. This onsite service is available to Cbus Super members at no additional cost.

Call 1300 361 784 today to arrange for a Coordinator to visit your workplace.

Graeme Barlow

m: 0400 045 448

e: graeme.barlow@cbussuper.com.au

Eamonn Wolfe

m: 0429 801 553

e: eamonn.wolfe@cbussuper.com.au

Tim Jovic

m: 0437 467 840

e: tim.jovic@cbussuper.com.au

Peter Muldeary

m: 0419 594 794 e: peter.muldeary@cbussuper.com.au

Gerard Benstead

m: 0437 942 826

e: gerard.benstead@cbussuper.com.au

Glenn Musgrove

m: 0401 990 024

e: glenn.musgrove@cbussuper.com.au

Graeme Barlow

Luke Petersen

m: 0400 045 448 e: graeme.barlow@cbussuper.com.au

m: 0448 895 199 e: luke.petersen@cbussuper.com.au

Eamonn Wolfe

Nathan Stott

m: 0429 801 553 e: eamonn.wolfe@cbussuper.com.au

m: 0419 500 465 e: nathan.stott@cbussuper.com.au

Tim Jovic

m: 0437 467 840 e: tim.jovic@cbussuper.com.au

This information is about Cbus Super. It doesn’t account for your specific needs. Please consider your financial position, objectives and requirements before making financial decisions. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination to decide if Cbus Super is right for you. Call 1300 361 784 or visit cbussuper.com.au Insurance is issued under a group policy with our insurer, TAL Life Limited ABN 70 050 109 450 AFSL 237848. United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 as Trustee for the Construction and Building Unions Superannuation Fund ABN 75 493 363 262 (Cbus and/or Cbus Super).

Your Cbus Super Coordinator is available to visit your workplace and general advice on super. Depending on your workplace a group information session or have individual questions/issues onsite service is available to Cbus Super members at no additional Call 1300 361 784 today to arrange for a Coordinator to visit

Peter Muldeary m: 0419 594 794 e: peter.muldeary@cbussuper.com.au

Gerard Benstead m: 0437 942 826 e: gerard.benstead@cbussuper.com.au

Glenn Musgrove m: 0401 990 024 e: glenn.musgrove@cbussuper.com.au

THANK YOU MEMBERS

MEMBER BENEFITS - QUICK REFERENCE

ETU financial members get access to a variety of benefits, including everything from health and wellbeing services to legal services, insurance, banking, funeral and bereavement support and more.

STATE-OF-THE-ART TRAINING FACILITY

The CFU provides training and support services for ETU members and their families. CPD, Training/Upskilling and Support/Health.

LEADING INDUSTRY INCOME PROTECTION, REDUNDANCY AND SEVERANCE FUND

Our primary purpose is to support our member employers, workers and their families during any period of unemployment, illness, injury, or personal difficulty.

A

For

That’s

ETU HEADQUARTERS

Level 1, 200 Arden Street

North Melbourne VIC 3051

PHONE-VOLUME 03 8329 0000

GEELONG

67 Gheringhap Street

Geelong VIC 3220

PHONE-VOLUME 0400 982 292

BENDIGO

38 View Street

Bendigo VIC 3550

PHONE-VOLUME 0427 288 290

MORWELL

42 Buckley Street

Morwell VIC 3840

PHONE-VOLUME 03 5134 3847

✉ etu.members@etuvic.com.au

�� www.etuvic.com.au

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