Susan Neighbour

Susan Neighbour is a Refugee Health Social Worker at the Launceston General Hospital and a passionate believer in social justice. Through her work, she sees people who have newly arrived on humanitarian visas, people on temporary visas and seasonal workers, as well as the established refugee community.

An average working day is usually full of surprises and is very difficult to predict, but advocacy is a usual part of Susan’s daily practice.

“I care very much about human rights, and disadvantage versus privilege. I am a strong believer in one world, one people – and therefore whatever impacts upon others in the world brings me a responsibility to speak out about the many injustices that occur in Australia and all other parts of our global home.”

Being a union delegate is just one way to speak out about injustices. Susan’s father was a strong unionist who always drilled into her that everyone needs a fair go in the workplace and that we have to fight for our rights. “I see union membership as crucial in the workplace to help to address employment conditions,” Susan says.

Her biggest hope for her workplace is transparency, equitable treatment, and inclusiveness for all employees. “I would like to see a true commitment to a bottom-up approach, including genuine consultation, so that those of us who are grassroots workers and know what is needed in our areas can contribute to decision-making.”