'Cause Magazine - December 2024 by SDANewcastle

YOUR VOICE MATTERS OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SHOP, DISTRIBUTIVE AND ALLIED EMPLOYEES’ ASSOCIATION, NEWCASTLE & NORTHERN  DECEMBER 2024

THE UNION FOR WORKERS IN RETAIL.WAREHOUSING.FAST FOOD.

EDITORIAL

A YEAR OF CHANGE AND 2024 has been a watershed year for the

WAGES

SDA Newcastle and Northern Branch.

In a cost-of-living crisis the SDA

Change and progress have been

has delivered real wage increases

rapid, with seismic shifts in our working

for members over the last 3 years,

environment, our wages and conditions,

securing a 14.9% increase in minimum

industrial laws and in the Union.

Award wages which has flowed into

The achievements of the Union in 2024

most Enterprise Agreements. This

have been colossal, and none of it

includes a 3.75% increase from 1 July

would be possible without membership

this year, won by the SDA and ACTU

and activism of over 13,000 members

affiliates in the Annual Wage Review

and almost 200 Delegates in our

decision of the Fair Work Commission.

region.

Workers have also benefitted from

I’d like to thank the hard-working

a 1.5% increase in compulsory

rank and file members, Delegates,

superannuation contributions under

Officials and staff for all their work in

federal law, helping build better

2024. Without you there is no Union

retirement incomes.

and without you we could not face the

This contrasts with declining real

challenges, grow and win for working

wages prior to 2022, with a Coalition

people and their families.

Government which publicly admitted

BARGAINING

wage suppression was a “deliberate

New Enterprise Agreements have been

design feature” of Government policy,

negotiated and approved for hundreds

making life much harder for modest

of thousands of retail, fast food and

and low-income earners.

warehouse workers across Australia in

At the time of writing, challenges

the following businesses:

remain and workers continue to

4 Coles Supermarkets

struggle. However, with annual

4 Coles Liquor Group 4 Best & Less 4 Super Retail Group 4 David Jones 4 Big W 4 Woolworths Supermarkets 4 Clifford Hallam Healthcare

inflation easing from an eye-watering 7.8% in the December 2022 quarter shortly after the Albanese Labor Government came to power to a modest 2.8% in the last quarter, there are positive signs that cost-of-living pressures are abating and interest rate

4 Aldi

reductions are now more likely.

4 H&M

The combination of better wages

4 Officeworks

and moderating inflation will ease the

4 Kmart

pressure on ordinary workers and

4 Ampol QSR

their families.

These new Agreements have secured:

ADULT AGE = ADULT WAGE

4 Better wages

In June, the SDA was proud to lodge

4 Fairer rostering and more hours

the largest and most ambitious wage

4 Improved leave entitlements

claim for young workers in living

4 Your hard-won SDA Union conditions

memory.

2 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

The claim was lodged in the Fair Work Commission by National Secretary Gerard Dwyer and Sally McManus, Secretary of the Australian Council of Trade Unions.

For too long, young workers aged 18, 19 and 20 years old have been subject to lawful and sanctioned age discrimination. They have been paid up to 30% less (or $9.62 per hour less) than an equivalent casual retail worker. It is an anachronism. There is no 30% reduction in rent, food, fuel or educational costs for these workers. They are citizens with full rights to vote, serve in the military and drink alcohol. It is long overdue that this legalised discrimination ends. The principle of same job same pay shouldn’t be limited to those in mining, transport and warehousing. Service workers in retail, fast food and pharmacies deserve modern wages for modern work. It is overdue and the SDA will not stop campaigning for wage justice for our young members. The fight has just started! Support and join the campaign today www.adultageadultwage.com.au. HOUSING The Union has stepped up the campaign to fix a broken housing market. Its no longer about the great Australian dream of home ownership. The challenge is now simply putting a safe and affordable roof over the heads of workers. Housing is a human right, it is not a privilege for the wealthy, so we need to campaign hard to ensure rents are fair, there is more housing supply and Governments invest and build more social and affordable housing.

CHALLENGES

EDITORIAL

That’s why the Union’s efforts, together

These changes are not possible

They both performed their roles and

with many others, to improve renters’

without a strong Union movement

fulfilled their responsibilities with care,

rights in NSW is so important.

working in close collaboration with a

diligence and the members’ interests

The Minns NSW Labor Government has

strong Labor Government.

at the heart of their work. They have

listened and earlier this year announced

WEB AND MEMBER PORTAL

been fierce and loyal servants of the

and passed legislation to abolish no

I am excited the Branch has

fault evictions and replace them with reasonable grounds evictions and make other improvements to renters’ rights. It has also responded and will invest a staggering $5.1 billion in social and affordable housing. This is urgently needed and is a good first step. The SDA will keep working with others, such as the Hunter Community Alliance and other Unions, to put our members’ human right to shelter back at the heart of government policy and action. NEW LAWS AND WORKERS’ RIGHTS 2024 also saw further tectonic changes to workers’ rights under a federal Albanese Labor Government. Building on the changes in 2022 and 2023 which rebuilt a faulty bargaining system and other measures, the Minister for Industrial Relations, Tony Burke MP, a former shop assistant and SDA Official, kept the foot to the floor in 2024. He steered through further wide-sweeping improvements to workers’ rights and fixed loopholes in our industrial laws, including: 4 Stronger rights for casual workers to

convert to permanent jobs 4 Better protection for ‘gig workers’

relaunched our website sda.au/ newcastle and exclusive members portal members.sda.au earlier this year. These sites are now supercharging members’ access to the right advice at the right time, wages and conditions at work, to our campaigns for change and up-to-date Union news. If you haven’t checked them out yet, do so today! NEW OFFICIALS AND STAFF In 2024 we have welcomed Tracey, Brittney and Alicia. All join the SDA team with substantial experience in their respective industries or as a Delegate of the SDA. I am confident they will all make substantial contributions to the Union and its members over the coming years. Please make them welcome.

Union, its members and trailblazers for all SDA women. Both received fitting recognition of their contributions to the Union in July when they were bestowed with Life Membership. Thank you for everything you have done for the hard-working members of the SDA. And so, I follow in the footsteps of giants with my focus firmly for the future of a strong, growing and winning Union. 2024 has been a baptism of fire, we are busier than ever and, importantly, we are getting results. I wish you and your families a safe, prosperous and enjoyable Christmas and New Year break and look forward to working with every member in 2025 to continue the fight to civilise capital. Solidarity, brothers and sisters!

TRIBUTE Finally, I would like to acknowledge and pay tribute to my good friends, colleagues and Union sisters, Barbara Nebart and Lyn Wiebe. Both Lyn and Barbara retired during 2024 following exceptional careers with the SDA.

4 The right to same job, same pay 4 Delegates rights 4 Wage theft becomes a criminal

offence and increased penalties for underpayment 4 The ‘Right to Disconnect’ introduced

into Australian law

DAVID BLISS, BRANCH SECRETARY

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

YOUR UNION

2024 HAS BEEN A New Enterprise Agreements have been secured with:

SHOP, DISTRIBUTIVE AND ALLIED EMPLOYEES’ ASSOCIATION, SDA NEWCASTLE & NORTHERN BRANCH

SDA.AU/NEWCASTLE 1300 SDA HELP (1300 732 4357) POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 2211, Dangar NSW 2309

Coles Supermarkets Coles Liquor Group Best & Less Super Retail Group

BY DEB DUNNING, BRANCH ASSISTANT SECRETARY

David Jones Big W Woolworths Supermarkets Clifford Hallam Healthcare

EMAIL ADDRESS:

2024 has been an exceptionally

secretary@sdan.org.au

busy and successful year for

’CAUSE

bargaining. With most major retailers

Published by the Shop Assistants and

negotiating new Agreements

Officeworks

Warehouse Employees’ Federation of

and bargaining occurring across

Kmart

warehousing and fast food, the

Ampol QSR

Australia, Newcastle and Northern NSW. Editor: David Bliss UNION OFFICIALS President:

Mr G Luxton

Vice Presidents:

Mr T Coggan

Ms R McGuire

ALDI H&M

Union has made the most of new

Proposed new Agreements have

federal “Secure Jobs, Better Pay”

been endorsed by members and

bargaining laws to lock in new

await approval in the Fair Work

Agreements covering hundreds of

Commission for:

thousands of Australian workers.

Freedom Furniture

Branch Assistant Secretary: Deb Dunning

We must never forget the bargaining

Krispy Kreme

INDUSTRIAL OFFICER:

malaise under the former Liberal

Sephora

Brendon Lott

Government during which new

CASE MANAGER:

Agreement negotiations stalled, and

Isobel Carr

wages were suppressed. In 2019,

ORGANISERS:

former finance minister Mathias

Susan Sneesby, Karla Gunther,

Cormann said low wage growth

Branch Secretary-Treasurer: David Bliss

Troy Woods, Greg Moore, Brittney Chaplin RECRUITMENT OFFICERS: Belinda Urquhart, Michael Owen, Ruby Coventry, Tracey Ryan INFORMATION OFFICERS: Zak Holgate, Claudia Nock COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER: Rachael Harris COMMITTEE:

was “a deliberate design feature of our economic architecture’’. It was a calculated decision to hurt working people and make their lives much harder. With new laws and more leverage available, the Union has rolled up its sleeves and members have been

At the time of writing, the Union continues to bargain with: Dan Murphy’s Hungry Jack’s Jaycar and Road Tech Marine Fantastic Furniture Luxottica/OPSM Bargaining is anticipated to commence in early 2025 with the following employers: BWS KFC

active in bargaining to secure better

Taco Bell

wages, fairer rostering and more

Tasty Fresh

L Farrell (Coles)

hours, improved leave entitlements

Myer

C Morris (McDonald’s)

and protecting your hard-won SDA

Prouds, Angus & Coote

V Rakocevic (David Jones)

Union conditions.

and Goldmark

R Simmons (Woolworths) J Crotty (Woolworths)

4 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

INDUSTRIAL NEWS

BARGAINING BONANZA!

Every national bargaining round is emails to members, text messages

This has delivered real results with progress across a range of employers in the last 12 months, including:

supporting access to information and to

supported with online information,

encourage participation in voting. Our Delegates have played a crucial

role in these negotiations coming together to craft and endorse

comprehensive logs of claims, giving workers a voice in bargaining and

then reconvening when a proposal in-principal is available for their detailed consideration and vote. Only then will

a new proposed Agreement go to members for their approval and vote.

secure more hours l

Sign-on bonuses with some employers

The right to ratchet additional part-time hours into base contract hours

Additional annual leave with some employers

Growing the wage premium above the Award minimum

Increasing minimum part-time hours of work

Voluntary additional shifts to

Additional paid compassionate leave Improvements to paid parental leave

Superannuation on employer paid parental leave

In 2025, the Union will continue to work hard to negotiate and lock in

The right to care embedded in rostering principles

new Agreements where possible

Voluntary multi-site work

award conditions.

and to defend and improve minimum

Fill up courtesy of the SDA!

Win a fuel voucher worth $150

Enter this competition, and you could win a tank (or two) of fuel on us! We’ve got 5 x Woolworths/Caltex fuel vouchers, each worth $150 to give away. Click here or scan the QR code below right. Entries will close at 12 noon on 3 February 2025 *The first 5 entries drawn from the barrel will win. Winners will be notified by mail. Entries are limited to one per member. Valid only for members who are financial with the SDA Newcastle & Northern Branch. Visit our website to read the full terms and conditions.

Congratulations to our winners

The winners of our last competition were: l Tori Sharp, Coles Lake Haven l Fiona Pickard-Ling, Kmart Maitland l Sunday Cimi Ross, Rebel Sport West Gosford l Rebecca Smith, Woolworths Supermarket Kotara l Michelle Lane, Coles Fletcher ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

WAGES AND CONDITIONS

UNIONS FIGHT THE COSTThere are countless millions of other Australian workers who indirectly benefit as their employers use this decision as a gauge for their own increases. Disappointingly, very few workers appreciate the role of the independent

BY DAVID BLISS, BRANCH SECRETARY

industrial umpire, trade unions and (even) employer lobby groups in this process.

WITHOUT UNIONS IN YOUR CORNER … To illustrate the essential work of unions, let’s consider what would happen if unions did not actively participate and advocate for wage increases each year during the Annual Wage Review Case. Each year, the SDA works together with the ACTU and the wider

When asked how minimum wages increase, most workers will respond with ‘the boss’ or ‘the Government’. Unfortunately, very few workers, especially young workers, are aware that the Annual Wage Review decision determines these increases. Employees can and often do receive better than minimum increases through enterprise bargaining, over-Award wage increases and salary arrangements. In some other countries, minimum wage increases are determined by the Government. Consider the United States where the federal minimum wage has stagnated at a pitiful US$7.25 per hour for years. In Australia the National Minimum Wage is $24.10 per hour and the minimum award rate of pay for a Level 1 retail worker and fast food worker is $25.65 per hour (from 1 July 2024). In USD terms this is $16.30 per hour (as at 16 December 2024). HOW DO MINIMUM WAGES INCREASE? In Australia, wage increases are underpinned by minimum award increases as part of the safety net for all workers. In 2023 there were 2.6 million workers covered by modern awards1.

6 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

The Australian labour movement is responsible for every major industrial achievement of the last 150 years, from minimum wage increases and unfair dismissal protection to penalty rates and superannuation. These conditions of employment are now national minimum standards but they are increasingly taken for granted. We should never forget that all of our achievements have been bitterly opposed by employers and their own unions, the employer associations. This rich legacy is worth defending and continuing the fight. It has improved the living standards of countless millions of working Australians and every one of our gains has benefitted our community and the wider economy, making Australia a better, fairer place.

movement to provide submissions, statements and other evidence to the Expert Panel of the Fair Work Commission (FWC). This year the ACTU sought a 5% increase for all minimum wage workers2. In response, retail employer associations sought between no more than 2.0% and 3.1% 3. After considering all the evidence the FWC determined a 3.75% increase which equates to a minimum $34.96 per week increase for full-time adult retail and fast food workers. WHAT IF ONLY EMPLOYERS HAD A SAY? Let’s assume for a moment that trade unions were absent from this process. The Expert Panel would only hear evidence from employers

WAGES AND CONDITIONS

OF-LIVING CRUNCH and make its decision in the absence of a voice for working people. It is reasonable to assume that the decision would be more in line with the employer submissions.

better off compared to if the FWC had accepted the average of the employer submissions over the last 15 years. HOW MUCH?

The difference between the average of the various employer submissions and the FWC decision is ‘the union minimum wage premium’. Let me explain. Every dollar paid above the average of the employer submissions is a dollar fought for and advocated by unions and their members. Every dollar determined by the FWC and paid above the employers’ collective submissions to the millions of awardreliant workers is generated by the advocacy of unions. And this, we know, has far reaching effects on millions of other Australian workers who are not directly award-reliant but whose wage increases are underpinned by these minimum award increases.

But how much does that mean in the back pocket of an ordinary retail or fast food worker? From 1 July 2010 until 31 December 2024 the difference between the FWC decisions and accumulated rolling average of the employer submissions is a gross $76,426.12 in extra wages (not including penalties or overtime)! This is the union minimum wage premium, directly attributable to the work of unions. Assuming the FWC would deliver no more than the average increase sought by employer associations over the last 15

So how does this stack up over the years?

years4, award-reliant minimum

Calculations show that retail and fast food workers are $5.38 per hour

$76,000 worse off without the

wage earners would be over voice and advocacy of unions.

WITHOUT A VOICE, WITHOUT A SAY So rather than allow the boss or Government to determine wage increases, i.e. let the so-called free market rip or have a political bung fight, Australia maintains a unique heritage which takes this important decision out of the hands of employers and politicians and ensures working people have a real say through the trade union movement. We should appreciate this independent process because without it the evidence

MINIMUM AWARD RATE OF PAY INCREASES V EMPLOYER SUBMISSIONS OVER THE LAST 15 YEARS

shows workers would be much worse off. And the next time a co-worker suggests they can get by without unions, invite

$30

them to give back $76,000 to their

$25

employer because that’s the difference

$20

between an active trade union

$15

movement working on behalf of the people and a system where we beg for

$10

our next wage increase.

$5 $00

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

MINIMUM AWARD HOURLY RATE

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

EMPLOYERS� PREFERRED HOURLY RATE

2023

2024

1. Annual Wage Review 2023-24 [2024] FWCFB 3500, p16, Table 2 2. Annual Wage Review 2023-24 [2024] FWCFB 3500, p68, Appendix 3. Annual Wage Review 2023-24 [2024] FWCFB 3500 Appendix 4. Up to 31 December 2024

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

YOUR SDA

OUR AWARDS AND AGREEMENTS... AWARDS l l l

l l l

General Retail Industry Award 2020 Fast Food Industry Award 2020 Storage Services & Wholesale Award 2020 Pharmacy Industry Award 2020 Pharmaceutical Industry Award 2020 Vehicle Repair, Service & Retail Award 2020

AGREEMENTS l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l

ALDI Apple Ampol QSR Barbeques Galore Best & Less Betts Shoes Big W Bunnings BWS Clifford Hallam Healthcare Coles Supermarkets Coles Express Coles Liquor Group Costco Dan Murphy’s David Jones Dulux EG Fuels Fantastic Furniture Freedom Furniture H&M Harris Scarfe Hungry Jack’s Just Group KFC Kmart Lovisa Michael Hill Myer Officeworks Priceline Prouds The Reject Shop Sephora Super Retail Group Taco Bell Target Tasty Trucks Woolworths Supermarkets

8 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

STANDING IN SOLIDARITY - MAY DAY ’24 Each year, workers stand together across the nation in solidarity, celebrating the contributions of workers past and present and acknowledging the hard-won working conditions we enjoy today. This year, the SDA, joined by our Delegates, marched in the annual May Day Parade, representing retail, fast food and warehousing workers of Newcastle, the Hunter and the Central Coast. It was an inspiring day for all involved, and we were privileged to march alongside other Unions, rain, hail and shine! Set a reminder in your calendar to join us next year, as we stand together with workers, for workers!

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

ANZAC DAY IS FOR REMEMBERING, NOT SHOPPING, IN 2025 The then-Minister for Industrial

was restored to a full-day restricted

Relations simply issued a notice

trading day where shops close.

in the Government Gazette that allowed general shops to open on Anzac Day. There was no consultation with the public – just

BY DEB DUNNING, BRANCH ASSISTANT SECRETARY 25 April 2025 is Anzac Day, a time for the community to stop and commemorate the sacrifices of both veterans and our current service men and women. Next year on Anzac Day, retail workers will also be able to join the rest of the community to properly stop and commemorate.

The SDA has always held the view

commemorate Anzac Day would not

that Anzac Day is a significant and

have been possible without you! We

sacred day for the community and

thank Premier Chris Minns and the

our members believed we should

RSL, in particular RSL NSW President

return to a full-day shop close on

Mick Bainbridge.

the day. NSW workers, their families

Anzac Day remains the most

and communities need their time preserved on significant public holidays such as Anzac Day. The recognition and commemoration of significant occasions like Anzac Day are fundamental to the building

Remembering, Not Shopping

A LONG ROAD TO THE RIGHT OUTCOME

requiring general shops throughout NSW to close for the full day! This is an appropriate outcome not only for retail workers, but also for the community at large. We thank the Minns Government for listening to veterans, to community members, to the RSL and the SDA, and for legislating to amend shop trading laws to return to shops closing all day on Anzac Day.

this step to allow retail workers to stop for the whole day to

of a cohesive society.

the RSL, has been successful in

To all SDA members and Delegates,

the stroke of a Minister’s pen.

The SDA’s Anzac Day is for campaign, working closely with

THANK YOU

significant of days for our community. Closing shops reaffirms the day’s significance to allow the community the time to come together and honour those who have sacrificed so much for all our sakes.

The efforts of the SDA, its Delegates and members and the co-operation of the RSL culminated in an announcement on 10 July 2024 by NSW Premier Chris Minns, alongside RSL NSW President Mick Bainbridge and SDA representatives, that the NSW Labor

It was back in 1999 when the practice

Government would

of opening shops in NSW at 1pm

introduce legislation

started.

to ensure Anzac Day

is for remembering not shopping ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA MEMBER BENEFITS

IT’S HERE!

Your New Members’ Area Earlier this year, the SDA was proud to launch our new Members’ Area.

The new Members’ Area provides you with more information than ever before to help you get the most out of your SDA membership. Checking your pay rate and entitlements at work, joining our campaigns, accessing discounts and benefits, and logging in to SDA Member Rewards is now just a click away.

How to log In Our new Members’ Area features a new and more secure log-in system. To log in, you’ll need to enter your mobile phone number or email address associated with your SDA membership. You’ll then be sent a code to this mobile number or email address to log in to your account. If your details have changed, call our office on 1300 SDA HELP (1300 732 4357) and we’ll update them so you can access the Members’ Area.

10 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

Personalise Your Pay Rates

Explore Our New and Improved Website!

Our new Members’ Area allows you to personalise your pay rate based on employment status and classification, making it easier to find out what you should be earning.

We’ve been hard at work improving your member experience.

Check out our new Members’ Area now! Members can simply visit members.sda.au, click here, or scan this code to log in.

It's now easier than ever to find information about your workplace rights, stay updated on Union news, and get involved in our campaigns. Take a look and explore the new site today at sda.au/newcastle, or by scanning this QR code.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

COMBATTING CUSTOMER ABUSE IN YOUR WORKPLACE Your safety when working will always be our top priority.

Chris Minns to discuss the importance and real impact increased penalties for aggressive, abusive and violent customers, have in protecting retail workers.

That’s why our customer abuse and BY ISOBEL CARR, violence CASE MANAGER campaign #NoOneDeservesAServe continues to be a strong focus of ours.

Last year, legislation passed in NSW increasing the penalties for those who abuse or assault retail workers, with offenders potentially facing sentences up to 11 years in jail.

SDA Branch Secretary David Bliss, Branch Assistant Secretary Deb Dunning, and long-term member and Delegate Wendy, who has first-hand experience with getting a proactive outcome from reported customer abuse, met with NSW Premier,

As of 29 June 2023, an individual can receive: l

A four-year jail term for anyone convicted of assault, throwing a missile, stalking, harassing or intimidating retail workers while on the job, even if no physical harm is caused;

A maximum six-year jail term for offenders who physically harm employees while at work;

A maximum 11-year jail term would be levelled at offenders who cause grievous bodily harm.

All workers deserve to feel safe at work and without fear of being abused by customers. Remember, you’re not alone. If you experience customer abuse in your workplace, make sure to report it to your supervisor, Delegate, Health and Safety Rep or get in touch with the SDA for support.

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

HEALTH AND SAFETY

CHRISTMAS IS NO EXCUSE FOR CUSTOMERS TO LOSE THEIR COOL The SDA once again calls for customers to keep their cool over

If you experience abuse or violence from a customer, it’s crucial to take immediate action:

the festive season as the shops

 Remove yourself from the situation and inform your manager

get busy. As part of our long running No One Deserves A Serve campaign, the SDA will be asking the

BY ISOBEL CARR, CASE MANAGER

community to show respect for the workers serving them at all times. Unfortunately, customer abuse remains all too common in many workplaces, but our message is clear: there is no excuse for abuse.

or supervisor.  Report the incident to ensure your employer is aware of the issue and can offer appropriate support. Reporting helps the industry track how often such incidents happen and contributes to data that can drive further protections for workers. Remember, your employer has a responsibility to provide you with a safe working environment. Even during peak trading periods such as Christmas or New Year’s Eve it’s important for protections to be in place to keep you safe and for you to report any incidents if they occur.

Every workplace should have a specific reporting process, and if you need additional support, contact our Helpline on 1300 SDA HELP for assistance. NO ONE DESERVES A SERVE: THE SDA’S WORK TO STOP ABUSIVE CUSTOMERS All year round, the SDA proactively works to ensure your safety is a priority at work. Over several years, we have looked at a range of ways to address this issue including: l

STOP

l l

Briefing Federal and State lawmakers about the severity of the issue. Consulting industry groups and employers, including hosting three national roundtables to develop industry-wide solutions. Launching two national advertising campaigns, rolling out promotional material and customer signage that calls out violent and abusive customers Commissioning research on the topic of customer violence Helping to run trials of security measures to combat customer violence in partnership with ‘icare’ and Griffith University. Tough new laws and penalties for abusive and violence customers secured in: Western Australia l South Australia l Northern Territory l New South Wales l Queensland l

12 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

NOT EVER!

SDA COMPETITIONS

YOU COULD WIN A

$150 NEW RETAIL EMPLOYEE SAFETY COUNCIL TO TACKLE CUSTOMER ABUSE AND VIOLENCE The SDA recognises that in order to eliminate abuse and violence towards workers, there needs to be an industry wide approach. As part of our advocacy on this issue, the SDA has been successful in bringing together the industry in a new Retail Employee Safety Council (RESC). Following an industry roundtable convened in October 2023, the SDA and the Australian Retailers Association agreed to establish the Retail Employee Safety Council which convened for the first time in August 2024. The Retail Employee Safety Council will be a tri-partite alliance between unions, employers and government that aims to address the rise of abuse, assaults and harassment in the retail sector – all of which are having a significant impact on the physical and mental health of retail workers. Given the increase in the frequency and severity of incidents impacting front-line workers, members of the Retail Employee Safety Council agreed to focus their initial efforts on customer aggression, assaults against retail workers and sexual harassment. SDA National Secretary Gerard Dwyer said that the Retail Employee Safety Council is a welcome step towards safer workplaces for retail workers.

TICKETEK GIFT CARD With the cost of living, we understand that having a night out does not fit the weekly budget. The SDA is here to help! 5 lucky members will have the chance to have a night out on us. Just click here or scan the QR code below. Entries will close at 12 noon on 3 February 2025 *The first 5 entries drawn from the barrel will win. Winners will be notified by mail. Entries are limited to one per member. Valid only for members who are financial with the SDA Newcastle & Northern Branch. Visit our website to read the full terms and conditions.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS! Congratulations to Melissa Barnard from Woolworths Belmont and Danae Robertson from Woolworths Rutherford on winning tickets to see P!nk in our last competition. We hope you enjoyed the show!

“Customer abuse and aggression is an epidemic that the industry has been wrestling with for years. Having the SDA and the retailers in the room will allow for a constructive discussion. Our latest survey shows that 87% of workers experience abuse from customers, and that number has not materially changed since 2016. There must be change and the RESC provides a solid platform for the future,” said Mr Dwyer.

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA CAMPAIGNS

ADULTS SHOULD BE PAID AS

TAKING ACTION ON FAIR PAY FOR YOUNGER young Australians in retail, fast food and pharmacies. The SDA is also seeking to lift the rates of pay for most workers under the age of 18 so they are fairer and better reflect their contributions.

BY DAVID BLISS, BRANCH SECRETARY In June 2024, the Union lodged our groundbreaking case in the Fair Work Commission to abolish junior rates of pay for workers aged 18 and over in the retail, fast food and pharmacy industries. Young workers deserve to be paid a fair wage for a fair day’s work. That’s why anachronistic and discriminatory rates of pay, paying young workers up to $9.62 per hour for the same work performed by their peers must be abolished. If principle of same job same pay applies to miners, warehouse workers and airline workers, it must also apply to

14 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

ADULT AGE = ADULT WAGE WEEK OF ACTION In August this year, the SDA held a week of action across Australia to highlight our campaign for fair pay for young workers. The week included a visit to Canberra, launching a new advertising campaign and thousands of conversations with young people. This included Officials and Delegates of the Union spending hours during workplace visits speaking with young workers about our campaign and industrial case to end age discrimination against workers who are adults in the eyes of the law but paid as juniors at work.

YOUNG SDA MEMBERS VISIT CANBERRA A delegation of young SDA members visited Parliament House in Canberra to discuss the Adult Age = Adult Wage campaign with Members of Parliament and Senators. To abolish junior rates for workers 18 and over, community education is critical. It is surprising how many people in the wider community don’t know about junior rates of pay and how it continues to apply to workers aged 18, 19 and 20 years old. Bringing the community with us, including our elected representatives, is an important step because when they become aware of this injustice, they invariably will support us. Meeting with Members of Parliament is a significant step in the campaign and each SDA member had an opportunity to talk about what fairer rates of pay means to them.

WAGES SDA AND CAMPAIGNS CONDITIONS

ADULTS

HEAR OUR STORIES

WORKERS

NEW ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN

WHAT’S NEXT?

To highlight our campaign to

The SDA has now lodged its witness

the wider community, the SDA launched a new advertising campaign. Our new ad ran nationwide on TV, social media, Spotify, radio and on billboards too.

statements, expert evidence and submissions in the Fair Work Commission. Employers will lodge their responses early in 2025. Not surprisingly, the claim has been fiercely resisted by the bosses’ industry lobbyists and lawyers. We expect the

Many Australians are not aware

case to be heard in 2025.

that adults working in our

GET INVOLVED TODAY

industries are being paid less just

Change doesn’t come easily, and the

because of their age.

employers will not give up their power

The ad campaign has helped to educate young people across Australia about this issue and what the SDA is doing about it. Thanks to our new ad, news of the Adult Age = Adult Wage campaign was also picked up by media outlets to help spread the message even further.

or pay higher wages without a fight. That’s why this claim is so important, and your voice is needed. USE THE QR CODE TO JOIN THE CAMPAIGN & SHARE OUR ADULT AGE = ADULT WAGE MESSAGE

I’m currently 20 years old and working at a retail store. I’ve been working in retail since I was 17. My hourly rate has changed from around $20 an hour at 18 to $30 an hour now.

Even though my pay has changed, the content of my work as well as my responsibilities and roles has not changed at all in the eyes of the law. I’m an adult in all respects, yet in the eyes of the Retail Award, I am still not receiving the full rate. Since 18, I have assisted in rent and paying for petrol – all while studying full time at Uni with the cost of living being so high. The extra $100 or $200 which I would have received if I was recognised as an adult by the Award, would have been incredibly useful and reduced the financial burden so many 18 and 19 year olds feel while balancing study in life. – Jenny, retail worker, aged 20 I’m 19 years old and I’m a service department supervisor at a supermarket. I’ve been working at the company for about three years now. Being a supervisor means I’m in charge of other employees in the service department on the shop floor. Unfortunately, I get paid 20% less than the people I manage, even though I have more experience and more responsibility than many of the colleagues that are older than me. Adults under 20 don’t get discounts on rent, bills, fuel or anything else. So I think companies shouldn’t get a discount on our wages. – Serena, supermarket worker, aged 19 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA COMPETITIONS

2024 Youth Essay Competition (14-26 Year Olds)

ENTER T WIN A $50O PREPAID V 0 MASTERCAISA/ RD

00 PREPAID MASTERCVISA / A RD

We want to hear your thoughts on issues that are impacting you. Tell us how one of the below topics is making an impact in your life, and you could win a prepaid Visa/Mastercard voucher valued at $500. WHO MAY ENTER: All financial members aged between 14-26 years of age. HOW TO ENTER: All financial members may submit 1 essay by email to secretary@sdan.org.au CHOOSE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING TOPICS: 1. Housing/Rental 2. Studying while working 3. Junior rates CONDITIONS OF ENTRY: l

Each essay should be between 500-700 words and double spaced. All entries must be the original material of author. In the email, please state your member number, name, address, mobile number and age on a separate cover sheet.

ENTRIES WILL CLOSE AT 12PM ON 3 FEBRUARY 2025 *This is a competition of skill. One winner will be chosen. Entries are limited to one per member. Valid only for members who are financial with the SDA Newcastle & Northern Branch. For full terms and conditions, go to www.sda.au/newcastle/ competition-terms-conditions.

16 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA CAMPAIGNS

SDA members visit Parliament House with National Secretary Gerard Dwyer, National Assistant Secretary Julia Fox and South Australian Branch Assistant Secretary Jordan Mumford.

YOUNG MEMBERS HEAD TO CANBERRA TO TALK SUPER A fundamental part of the SDA’s

Once aware of such an outdated regulation, workers want

super on every dollar campaign

the discrimination fixed. Many young SDA members under

is to ensure workers who are

18 are doing the same tasks at work as those over 18.

under the age of 18 still receive

They deserve to be treated fairly which includes receiving

superannuation payments for all

superannuation payments.

time worked – it’s only fair. Heading to Canberra is one

This is particularly important for young women, as they

BY BRENDON LOTT, significant way to bring this issue INDUSTRIAL OFFICER to the attention of policy makers in

are more likely to take time off work in the future to care

Australia.

can start, the better the final account balance when it

Currently, under 18s need to work at least 30 hours a week to get superannuation. This leads to inconsistency in super payments and consequent mistrust and lack of engagement with super among younger employees. The current scheme is also confusing to young people, as an external survey found that 55% of young workers thought all under 18s got super. When superannuation was first introduced in the 1990s, the super guarantee was much lower, and payments were made in cheques which included administrative fees. At the time, paying super to younger workers may not have made sense once you did the maths, but the percentage paid to

for children which creates a superannuation gap between men and women. The earlier superannuation payments comes to retirement savings. That’s why the SDA took members to Parliament on 27 March 2024 to campaign for fair changes to the superannuation rules for younger workers. Members of Parliament need to understand the value of superannuation starts at the very beginning of your working life. Those superannuation payments add up over time. It is an outdated practice to deny super payments to those under 18 – they should be receiving super just like other workers.

Australians in super has increased significantly and cheque

SDA members met with several Members of Parliament

fees are long gone.

and Senators throughout the day to share their stories.

Today, there is no reason not to pay super to workers under

These constructive conversations about what is like to

18 years. In fact, they could be losing several hundreds of

be a young worker in Australia are fundamental to the

dollars in super payments each year which add up over time.

campaign for change.

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA PEOPLE

INAUGURAL DELEGATES CELEBRATION & AWARDS EVENING The Union recently held its Inaugural Delegates Celebration & Awards Evening recognising the outstanding work and contributions of our Union Delegates. Over 170 Delegates and special guests gathered to celebrate the achievements of 2024. It was a fantastic night and a great time was had by all!

18 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA PEOPLE

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA PEOPLE

20 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA PEOPLE

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

THE SDA’S MEMBER BENEFITS PROGRAM

SDA MEMBER REWARDS Your EWallet JOHN SMITH

Gift Cards

SDA Member Rewards provides you and your family with exclusive discounts on:

Major Retailers & Supermarkets

Accommodation

Movie Tickets

Insurance Services

Entertainment & Leisure

and much more!

How do I access SDA Member Rewards 1

Visit sdan.ewallet.com.au or scan this code with your phone camera:

Enter your details to create your account. You will need to use the same email address you have registered with the SDA.

Once you’ve registered, you’ll receive an email from SDA Member Rewards confirming your registration. Click this link to add your details and create your profile.

Add your payment details by clicking on the ‘eWallet’ icon, verify them and you’re ready to go.



You can also access SDA Member Rewards by logging into members.sda.au and heading to the Discounts & Benefits page. If you need any help setting up your account or navigating the website, please call 1300 059 257 or email sda@ewallet.com.au..

Accessible anytime, anywhere from any device. Register or log in at sdan.ewallet.com.au

WORK AND CARE LABOR’S NEW WORKPLACE LAWS HELPING WITH ROSTERS In 2023, the Labor Government changed the law so that workers can request flexible working arrangements from their employers BY DEB DUNNING, BRANCH ASSISTANT and the employers SECRETARY must consider the request. The SDA argued strongly for these changes to section 65 of the Fair Work Act. Since June 2023, employees have had greater rights to request flexible working arrangements. This includes: The ability for employees to challenge an employer’s refusal to grant a flexible work request. The obligation for employers to ensure that if they are to refuse a request for flexible work arrangements, they must meet with the employee and genuinely try to reach agreement with the employee, and consider any consequences of refusing the request. Expanding the circumstances that would apply to make a request to cover employees who experience, or have a member of their immediate household who are experiencing, family or domestic violence, and pregnant employees. This is alongside the existing circumstances of being a parent, a carer, having a disability and being 55 years or older. MEMBERS HAVE BENEFITTED FROM THIS CHANGE l A worker with over 40 years’ experience at a major retailer is the carer for his wife with an illness that results in an increasing risk of falls. A roster change was proposed by his employer which was at odds with his caring responsibilities. It meant he could no longer be with his wife for much of the day.

The SDA supported him with his dispute which was centred around penalty rates and poor behaviours by the manager. The SDA fought for flexible working arrangements, and after over 2 months of negotiations, a roster that suited his responsibilities was agreed. A member with multiple sclerosis got to work from home for 2 days rather than the 1 permitted under the company’s policy. SDA support and the change s.65 of the Fair Work Act meant she could better manage her multiple sclerosis symptoms. A single mum with a 3-year-old was working Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. But her care arrangements for Sundays fell through, and childcare is closed on a Sunday. The SDA wrote a Flexible Work Arrangement request which detailed her situation and her employer agreed she could work on Wednesdays instead. A member nearing retirement age had increasing fatigue levels, and it was impacting their well-being. The SDA supported the member to request a change from 10pm finish to 6.30pm instead. A member requested flexible work arrangements so she could care for her two elderly parents. She requested a reduction of hours from 24 hours in her roster to one 6-hour shift. A full-time supermarket worker who is over 55 years old requested flexible work arrangements to allow her to transition to part-time work. She requested and was given the same hours, averaging 13 hours per week but with a change to the pattern to help her transition to retirement and care for her grandchildren.

SDA FAMILIES

To raise members’ awareness of the entitlements available to new parents and to clearly explain their industrial rights, the SDA provides a Parental Pack which includes a guide to industrial rights and obligations relating to parental leave, and a gift for your new baby.

How to win!

When you register for your SDA Parental Pack, you’ll automatically go into the draw to win 1 of 5 $100 Big W gift vouchers, to help spoil your new member of the family! Winners will be drawn on 1 April 2025.

Eligibility

Parental packs are available to the mother or father of a child who is less than six months old, where that parent is a financial member of the SDA either at the time of commencing parental leave or at the time of the birth of the child.

You can register for your SDA Parental Pack immediately after the birth of your child – simply contact the SDA by calling 1300 SDA HELP (1300 732 4357).

Congratulations to our most recent winners l

Russele Molavinia, Woolworths Lisarow Lucas Tacon, Dan Murphy’s Glendale Jade Nock, Woolworths Wadalba Skye Kilpatrick, Big W Mt Hutton Jade Parnell, Coles Green Hills Mikeala Rodgers, Reject Shop Singleton Tamara King, Coles Express Erina Ajesh Kumar, Woolworths Gosford Patrick Carle, Coles Express Belmont South Melanie Daniel-Drummond, Woolworths Wadalba ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024 23

SDA PEOPLE

Good news for local Dan Murphy’s members! After a review by the SDA regarding potential breaches of rostered working hours, Dan Murphy’s members across Newcastle, the Hunter & the Central Coast have collectively been backpaid over $20,000 in overtime and interest! The SDA worked collaboratively with Dan Murphy’s to review and compensate eligible workers, who had missed out on their rostering entitlements. This is a fantastic result for those members who were affected!

Christine from Kmart Gorokan has secured a parttime contract with the help of the SDA. After the business declined her request to convert from casual to part-time, she contacted her union to assist. With the support and advocacy of the SDA, Christine secured a 35 hour a week permanent part-time contract for which she is very grateful. 24 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA PEOPLE

Me mber Wi n s!

When a worker signs a contract of employment, often known as a “letter of offer”, the minimum contracted hours are binding and legally enforceable. Chloe (right) was offered and accepted a permanent part-time contract guaranteeing a minimum of 15 hours per week. When Chloe wasn’t receiving her minimum contracted hours, the Delegate for Woolworths Lake Munmorah, stepped in to help. It was quickly resolved, and Chloe’s hours were restored. It was a great outcome, and Chloe is a very happy member who knows her Union is always there for her.

When an insurer denies your worker’s comp claim for an injury suffered at work, don’t just cop it. Get the right advice just like SDA member Patricia (right) recently did. With the support of the SDA and our expert workers compensation lawyers from MRM Lawyers that decision was overturned, and Patricia’s worker’s compensation claim was accepted.

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024 25

SDA PEOPLE

DELEGATE TRAINING BY BRENDON LOTT, INDUSTRIAL OFFICER

2024 has been a busy year for Delegate training with almost 100 Delegates attending and participating in training sessions throughout the year. This is in addition to our Annual General Conference earlier in the year which had a packed audience. We re-launched Level 2 training in the second half of the year for experienced Delegates. This included: l

l l l l

New statutory rights for workplace Delegates, gig workers and the right to disconnect 2024 closing the loopholes legislation Workers’ compensation Representing members in roster disputes Dispute resolution of terms of Awards, Enterprise Agreements and the National Employment Standards

SDA Delegates are now better equipped with the skills and knowledge to support, advise and advocate for union members in their workplaces.

26 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

WAGES AND CONDITIONS

Q+A WITH YOUR INFORMATION OFFICERS

BY ZAK HOLGATE & CLAUDIA NOCK, INFORMATION OFFICERS

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

SUPERANNUATION

Q: Do I have to work on Boxing Day?

Q: What are my rights to superannuation?

A: All employees have a right to be absent from work on a public holiday. All shops are permitted to trade on Boxing Day provided employees freely elect to work. Public holiday penalty rates apply to all hours worked on a Public Holiday.

A: Under the superannuation guarantee, employers have to pay super contributions of 11.5%* of an employee’s ordinary time earnings (OTE) when an employee is: over 18 years, or

Members should refer to their Award or Enterprise Agreement, or contact the information line, 1300 SDA HELP for individual advice regarding work on public holidays.

BREAKS

The current super guarantee percentage is the minimum required by law.

Q: What breaks am I entitled to in my workplace? A: Your Agreement or Award details your entitlement to paid rest/tea breaks and unpaid meal breaks. Rest breaks are 10/15 minutes paid breaks that must be provided for shifts of generally 4 hours or more, with a second break applying for working 7 hours or more. Meal breaks are unpaid breaks that are generally 30-60 minutes long. They should form part of your roster. Taking your paid rest/tea break does not take away your right to take toilet or water breaks throughout your shift. If you want to know what your break entitlements are, contact the information line, 1300 SDA HELP.

under 18 years and works over 30 hours a week.

*From 1 July 2025, it will increase to 12%.

If eligible, the super guarantee applies to all types of employees, including:

COMMUNITY SERVICE LEAVE Q: I am a volunteer with my local SES, and I would like to know if I am rostered to work, am I entitled to any leave to assist with the emergency? A: Community service leave forms part of the National Employment Standards (NES). The NES entitles employees to be absent from work to engage in certain community service activities such as a voluntary emergency management activity. This leave is unpaid. In addition to unpaid community service leave, many Agreements negotiated by the SDA contain provision for paid time off when

full-time employees

assisting in these circumstances.

part-time employees

If you are unsure whether your

casual employees

Agreement contains this provision,

From 1 July 2025, superannuation will also be paid on Government paid parental leave.

or unsure on your eligibility to

Super must be paid on OTE at least every 3 months and into the employee’s nominated account.

Line on 1300 SDA HELP.

access community service leave, please contact the SDA Information

If you have any concerns that you have not been paid superannuation correctly, please contact the SDA information line on 1300 SDA HELP for advice.

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA PEOPLE

RETIREES LUNCH 2024

28 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA PEOPLE

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024 29

HEALTH AND SAFETY

WORKING IN THE HEAT u

BY DEB DUNNING, BRANCH ASSISTANT SECRETARY During the warmer months, many SDA members may be faced with having to work in very hot environments. The majority of problems that occur are related to transient heat – that is, heat which has the potential to increase the temperature of a building or other area. HEALTH AND SAFETY EFFECTS Factors such as the type of work being undertaken, humidity, air temperature, sun penetration, clothing and air movement should always be taken into account when considering the health and safety risks associated with heat. Heat and uncomfortable temperatures can have different effects on different people. Working in hot conditions may result in health effects, ranging from mild discomfort and headaches to lifethreatening problems. These more serious health conditions can generally be grouped together as the effects of heat stress. Some of these effects are: u

reduced ability to concentrate and therefore an increased risk of accidents; increased discomfort in the use of protective clothing and equipment; aggravation of the effects of other hazards, e.g. noise; aggravation of pre-existing illnesses, e.g. heart disease;

30 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

heat cramps (painful spasms in one or more muscles); heat exhaustion characterised by weakness and fatigue, vomiting, headaches and giddiness as well as unconsciousness and, in some cases, death.

Working in hot conditions not only affects a person’s physical health but can also affect a person’s mental state, and often contributes to stress levels. WHAT CAN BE DONE? Your employer has a duty of care to provide you with a workplace that is safe and healthy, particularly in extreme conditions. This extends to ensuring that heat risks are identified, assessed and controlled within the workplace when environmental conditions affect the health and safety of employees. An employer must ensure that: u

adequate ventilation and air movement is provided in indoor environments that may become hot, and appropriate work and rest regimes are implemented for each employee exposed to heat, relative to their physical fitness, general health, medication taken, body weight and the particular circumstances of the worker, including for women who are pregnant or experiencing menopause.

Issues relating to transient heat in the workplace, particularly over the summer months, must be addressed immediately and resolved effectively. CONTACT YOUR UNION For more information about heat or working in uncomfortable temperatures, please speak to your Delegate or Organiser or contact the SDA on 1300 732 4357.

INTRODUCING TRACEY

SDA PEOPLE

Hi, my name is Tracey and I joined the SDA team this year as a Recruiter. My area is the Hunter Valley region, which covers from Beresfield all the way to Quirindi at the top of the valley. I came to the SDA after 5 years with Bunnings Cessnock, where I was a Union Delegate. My first retail job was at Fosseys, which is where I got my first taste of the strength of a union. Prior to working in retail, I worked in and managed car dealerships for 25 years, as well as working as a loan officer in banks. I am a dog enthusiast, avid gardener and enjoy spending time with my grandchildren in my down time. I am passionate about sharing union values with new workers. I look forward to giving a new generation an induction into how far unions have progressed, and sharing all the achievements and entitlements we enjoy nowadays. I look forward to meeting you all in stores and growing the Union!

INTRODUCING BRITTNEY

Hi there! My name is Brittney, and I am the new Central Coast Organiser for the SDA Newcastle & Northern Branch. I have lived on the Central Coast most of my life – starting my working life at the age of 13 as a pharmacy assistant. I spent 8 years in that industry, the following 5 in Business Operations in the NDIS and before starting with the SDA, I was working back in a local pharmacy group as a HR Manager. I came across to the SDA because I am passionate about empowering workers to feel safe, secure and happy in their workplaces. I am most excited about working closely with Union Delegates and young members to increase awareness of the Union and grow our strength on the Central Coast. When I’m not working, you are likely to find my husband and I chasing after my two boys at the local park or curled up in a quiet corner with a book and some sweet treat in hand.

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA MEMBER BENEFITS

ACCIDENT INSURANCE FREE to all sda members

Now up to $83,000

For many years, all financial members of the SDA have been covered by the Union’s free Accident Insurance Scheme. The SDA works hard to continually improve our cover to provide additional benefits, as well as increasing the amount payable for injuries — still at no cost to you.

The buying power of more than 200,000 SDA members nationally enables the Union to cover you for free.

The SDA’s Accident Insurance Scheme covers you in the event of: l death, l total incapacity to work in the job you were trained and/or educated to perform, l the need for knee reconstruction or arthroscopic surgery, l the breaking of bones, l the loss of limbs, sight or hearing, l the complete or partial tear of achilles tendon, and l other defined injuries as listed in the policy,

When are you covered? The SDA Accident Insurance Scheme is intended to cover you at all times when you are not covered by workers compensation. In this way, you have 24-hour cover: workers compensation while at work, and the SDA Insurance Scheme at other times.

when they are caused by violent, external and visible means outside working hours and are not attributable to an illness.

Up to $3,000 funeral benefit refund 7% increase in fracture and dislocation benefits

Want to know more? 32 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

sda.au/newcastle

The SDA Insurance Scheme is absolutely free for every financial member of the Union. If you had to insure yourself with a similar type of policy, it would cost you more than $450 each year.

Accidents can happen

Up to $30,000 educational supplement for dependent children

What you save

SDA members aged up to 80 are covered by the policy world-wide (subject to sanction exclusions), irrespective of where the accident occurs – absolutely free to every financial member of the SDA.

How to claim If you suffer an injury, please contact the SDA for advice on the procedure to follow. Claims should be submitted within 30 days of the accident. The benefits of the SDA Accident Insurance Scheme are not affected if you have other insurance cover. Conditions apply.

secretary@sdan.org.au

1300 732 4357

SDA PEOPLE

FAREWELL TO OUR SUPER UNIONISTS! LYN WIEBE, SDA ORGANISER

After 35 years of exemplary union service and solidarity with retail, fast food and warehousing workers, our powerhouse Organiser Lyn has retired! Her passion for the Union, and commitment to the members will be dearly missed. This is a phenomenal achievement and we wish Lyn and her family all the best in retirement! HELEN LOWRY, WOOLWORTHS JESMOND Helen from Woolworths Jesmond is a staunch unionist through and through and a living legend! She has been a continuous union member for 55 years with the SDA and the FCU. Helen will be missed by her colleagues and customers for her great service over the years. On behalf of the SDA, we wish you a prosperous and enjoyable retirement. NIKKI VANDERPAL, WOOLWORTHS SALAMANDER BAY On behalf of the Union, our condolences go to family and friends of Nikki, a proud union member of 17 years and passionate Delegate for the past 5 years. Nikki’s strong spirit, belief in union values and impactful contributions to her workplace will always be remembered. Her caring nature made her an outstanding Delegate. She was always ready to support others and actively took part in union gatherings that served to benefit our members. Nikki will be dearly missed by all.

Honorary Members

Maureen Andrews, Coles Kincumber Sharyn Iffland, Myer Charlestown Cathy Reilly, David Jones Kotara Pamela Smithers, Coles Newcastle West Deidre Single, Kmart Maitland Lynne Wysocki, Coles Toukley Sharon Parkinson, David Jones Kotara Cheryl Netluch, Coles Thornton Catherine Marks, Myer Erina Samara Paschke, Myer Charlestown Helen Lowrey, Woolworths Jesmond

In Memoriam

Kim Ahner, Big W Muswellbrook Beth Rudd, Honorary Member Andrew Davies, Woolworths Charlestown Tracy Hickey, Woolworths Woy Woy Margery Treloar, Honorary Member Marlene Standring, Honorary Member Eric Joyce, Honorary Member Nicole Vanderpal, Woolworths Salamander Bay

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024 33

SUPERANNUATION

SUPER CAN BE That’s why in addition to the Adult Age = Adult Wage campaign to abolish junior rates for those 18 and over, we are also campaigning for super to be paid to under 18s.

BY GERARD DWYER, NATIONAL SECRETARY Super doesn’t have to be complicated – super is a savings account that helps Australians save for their retirement. Your employer is required to make contributions to your superannuation account on top of your pay. It’s designed to earn interest by investing. Super also helps pay for insurance and advice to keep you on track for a decent retirement. The SDA has been campaigning for superannuation since the 1980s and we will keep doing so until it’s the best system it can be. SUPER CAN BE SIMPLE BUT IF YOU’RE UNDER 18 – IT ISN’T YET. If you’re under 18, you don’t get super if you’re working less than 30 hours a week. That means there might be the odd week in the year you get it but in most weeks you don’t. The SDA believes super should be paid on every dollar a person earns regardless of your age. In the 1990s when super was first introduced, the administration of cheques was costly, and the focus of economists was on existing full-timers. The system hasn’t modernised to reflect that workers aren’t paid in cheques anymore (these had additional processing costs) and that work today is different – many people work casually or part-time, especially young people.

34 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

When wages for workers rise so too does their super, and that makes a material difference in their retirement. REST INDUSTRY SUPER UPDATE Rest Industry Super – the super fund for retail and fast food workers – believes in super for under 18s too. Here’s what research conducted for Rest by CRNRSTONE found: l

82% of Australians think the law should be changed so that young Australian workers under the age of 18 earn superannuation regardless of how many hours they work. 66% of Australians were not aware of this rule, and 77% said that the rule was unfair.

They are also focused on making super simple for all members. Since 30 September, Rest has had nine investment options rather than 15. This is to make the selection process simpler for you and the descriptions of the objectives have been made clearer too. Members can remain in the default investment option, which is now known as “Growth” rather than “Core Strategy”. The change in name is to better reflect what Rest is investing in for the majority of members. Members can still choose the sustainable growth option if they’re interested in enhanced environmental, social and governance investment.

SIMPLE 1 July 2023 – 30 June 2024 Financial Year Snapshot: Rest insurance claims Insurance can give you peace of mind and protection if something unexpected happens. Rest also provides affordable, flexible and accessible insurance cover. Rest offers default insurance that includes death and total and permanent disability cover and is one of the few super funds to also

SDA PEOPLE

INJURED AT WORK? WORKERS HEALTH CENTRE CAN HELP

offer default income protection. In the last financial year: l

Rest paid $497 million in benefits from 12,975 insurance

understand that recovering from

claims – about $1.36 million in

injury is a stressful time and we are

claims’ benefits paid per day

here to help.

10,671 income protection claims – $231 million in benefits

At Workers health Centre, we

YOU HAVE A LEGAL RIGHT TO: l

Choose your own rehab provider

claims – $156 million in benefits

Choose your own doctor

1,579 total and permanent

Be actively involved in your

725 death and terminal illness

disability claims – $110 million in benefits

return to work.

AVERAGE CLAIM DECISION TIMES – FY24 Type

Rest (days)

Industry (days)

Death and Terminal Illness

Total and Permanent Disability

110

128

Income Protection

9749 7666

workershealth.com.au

Reference: Industry averages are for the period 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024, and taken from Life insurance claims and disputes data June 2024, Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), 29 October 2024. This

SIRA Accredited

APRA data expresses industry averages in months, which have been converted to calendar days based on a month equalling 30.5 days on average.

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024 35

TEXTBOOK SCHOLARSHIPS

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS.

Member Name Recipient Name Tayla Pollock

Self

Tiarnah Shultz

Self

Frances Serone

Regan Smith

Alex Dugan

Self

Angelica Sams-Munro

Self

EACH OF YOU WON $100 TOWARDS YOUR EDUCATIONAL SUPPLIES

Amy Johnson

Self

Mark Crowfoot

Adam Crowfoot

Each year, your Union provides scholarships

Kristy Collins

Ashleigh Cooper

Levi Cooper

Mary-Ann Bradford

Tani Bradford

Paula Jones Danielle Syratt Christine Leedham

Paige Newburn DJ Stevens Jessica Leedham Ayla Garnam

to help members pay for their own and their

Mia Cook

children’s education.

Renae Richardson

$30,000 SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Kira Mcintyre

Self

Daisy Knight

Self

This year, we once again gave away textbook scholarships to help members who are studying with their education costs.

Jacob Nebauer

Self

Sarah Winmill

Self

Grace Connell

Christine Connell

The winners were determined by a ballot of applications received by the Union office.

Shaun Carson

Self

Jodie Hudson

Noah Hudson

Robert Curran

Self

TERMS OF THE SCHOLARSHIP Scholarships are applicable to secondary and tertiary students only. Parents/guardians who are members with children studying in these years were able to apply. Only one scholarship application per student was accepted. Scholarships are usable for the purchase of textbooks as prescribed on school booklists.

Alison Budworth

Self Amelia Richardson

Imogen Budworth

Ella Burke

Self

Paige Jobling

Self

Sienna Lee

Self

Vanessa Line

Nate Williams

Holly Day

Isabella Day

Samuel Riddle

Self

Lucy De Winter

Self

Nukutawhiri Kukutai

Self

Kylie Lockhart

Jackie Lockhart

Samantha Kedwell

Ashlyn Kedwell

Please note, you must use the whole $100 voucher when purchasing items. No change or credit will be given for the unused portion of a voucher.

Jennifer Walsh

Shai Manser

Angela Stewart

Emily Stewart

Robyn Mcguire

Jaedyn Mcguire

WE’RE HELPING YOU BUY THE BOOKS!

Amanda Bambans

Harlee Bambans

Hayley Crockett

The winners of this year’s scholarships are published here. Congratulations to all of you, and good luck with your studies. For more information, please contact the SDA on 1300 SDA HELP (1300 732 4357).

36 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

Self

Nara Fairhall

Kaylen Welsh

Louise Pearce

Keelan Allen

Belinda Fetelika Jett Lee

Jahmane Fetelika Self

TEXTBOOK SCHOLARSHIPS

Imogen Blackadder Shanell Tant Darcey Robson

Self

Laura Mason

Self

Logan Tant

Donna West

Andrea Ting

Self

Sally Schuemaker

Kate Shuemaker

Kathleen O’Brien

Self

Melissa Jeffs

Nicholas Jeffs

Allison Malone

Isabella Malone

Adele Higgins

Ewan Higgins-Black

Adrian Heunis

Self

Jennifer Brooks

Kye Brooks

Amelia Hines

Self

Emma Byrn

Joshua Byrn

Tara Fricker

Makayla Miller

Thomas Druitt

Self

Deanna-Kate Gully Riley

Jack Edwards

Alicia Goldfinch

Taylah Stone

Glenn McWilliams

Emilee McWilliams

Acacia Fellows

Self

Amanda Harvey

Eve Harvey

Taj Horadam

Self

Warren Whitehead

Tanya Macbean

David Macbean

Leanne Aitken

Zoe Gunthie

Fiona Pickard

Imogen Pickard-Ling

Michelle Darcy

Robert Blanch

Jessica Norgard

Self

Fiona Barlow

Flynn Barlow

Emma Steel

Self

Mikayla O’Farrell

Maison Whitehead

Kat Gardner

Self

Kabita Dutta

Rishav Rahman

Maddison Collins

Self

Lee Mills

Brodie Mills

Jack Keith

Self

Jeffrey Knight

Kyle Knight

Self

Elise Mcgraw

Self

Sharon Horne

Kristina Horne

Eden Cassar

Self

Ralph Nicolas

Self

Maria Bartholomew

Joe Bartholomew

Annalisse Mcfarlane

Self

Michelle Weir Lars Hulin Belinda Gilbert

Sophie Weir Self Tuscany Gilbert

Louisa Frail

Steven Frail

Daniel Frail

Damien Frail

Jonathan Maddalena

Amelia Gauta

Natasha Every-Burns Olivia Every-Burns Jasmine Vickers

Addyson Parry-Tuli

Charlotte Elford

Self

Rosemary Small

Danielle Atherton

Charlea Turner

Self

Aleisha Stapleton

Self

Andrea Pinchen

Self

Angus Mccoll

Self

Ryan Mott

Self

Melanie Sills

Self

Noelani Boughton

Self

Biraj Rana

Self

Daniel Vincent

Self

Lisa Killalea

Charlotte Killalea

Hugh Janssen

Self

Aileen Coulter

Tahnee Coulter

Hannah Ford

Self

Vanessa Barnard

Sharla Barnard

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024 37

SDA MEMBER BENEFITS

SDA MEMBERS GET 15% OFF AT

TFE HOTELS

TFE Hotels, headquartered in Australia, currently comprises 70 hotels in Australia and New Zealand under seven brands.

And now, SDA members can receive special prices when booking at TFE Hotels in Australia or New Zealand, including A by Adina, Adina Hotels, Vibe Hotels, Quincy, Travelodge Hotels, Rendezvous, and Collection by TFE Hotels (The Calile, The Savoy, and Hotel Kurrajong). To receive your 15% discount on the best available room rates, simply key SDAMEMBER into the promo code field on the TFE Hotels website – just click here, scan the QR code below or go to tfehotels.com/en.

Just add promo code SDAMEMBER here, and begin your search

Offer applies until 31 December 2025.

ai173102254911_SDA Magazine Inclusion.pdf 1 2024-11-08 10:35:49

YOUR ROAD TRIP AWAITS UP TO

10%

* OFF

CMY

Europcar is pleased to offer SDA members up to 10% off the base rate.* To enjoy this special member rate, simply enter code 47684300 in the “Have a negotiated rate” ﬁeld when booking online, or call 1300 13 13 90 and quote 47684300.

*Terms and conditions apply 38 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA MEMBER BENEFITS

How to get 5% off Knose Pet Insurance per year* 1. Visit www.knose.com.au 2. Include the promo code below when you take out Knose Pet Insurance 3. Continue to hold cover and continue to receive 5% off every year

Promo code: SDA

*This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. To qualify, you must use the promotion code SDA. If you take out multiple policies the offer is available for each policy taken out. This is a promotion by Knose Financial Services Pty Ltd (ABN 38 620 795 735). Engaging Members ABN 86758398756 may receive a referral fee for each person who takes up the offer of discounted pet insurance from Knose. For more details see the Knose Pet Insurance Financial Services Guide.

DON’T LEAVE YOUR ENTITLEMENTS TO CHANCE

As an employee, your work-related legal entitlements are set out in various Awards, Agreements and Acts of Parliament. These entitlements may include sick leave, penalty rates, wages, rosters, overtime, allowances, health and safety standards and annual leave. The SDA’s experts can advise you of your entitlements and, if necessary, obtain them from your employer. Disputes with your employer need not cost you your job. If you have been unfairly treated, make sure you call the SDA to find out what your options are. As a member of the SDA, it will cost you nothing.

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024 39

SDA MEMBER BENEFITS

$5 off for SDA ! members

Learn to drive with CP Driver Training! We at CPDT believe that obtaining a licence is a privilege not a right. This is why we want to teach skills which will stay with you for life, not just to pass your driving test! 4 Fully licenced 4 Friendly, professional and patient male or female instructors 4 Manual or automatic dual-control vehicles 4 Member of ADTA 4 Locally owned and operated 4 School pick up and drop off available 4 Lessons available 6 days a week (Mon–Sat) from 7am. Night lessons available by request The areas we cover are: Maitland, East Maitland, Cessnock, Branxton, Greta, Lochinvar, Kurri Kurri, Thornton, Beresfield, Ashtonfield, Tenambit, Rutherford, Aberglasslyn, Gillieston Heights, and surrounding areas suburbs (not Newcastle or the Central Coast).

P DR IV ER

T R A I N I N G

Phone: 0408 517 417 Email: cpdt@outlook.com Website: cpdrivertraining.com.au

Save on coverage with an 8% discount^

The best way to learn to drive Learning to drive can be daunting. You have to gain 120 logbook hours, master all the skills and pass the driving test. With Trent Driving School, getting your freedom is easy. Learn with Trent and you will: 4 Pass first go 4 Park like a pro 4 Get bonus logbook hours 4 Learn in the best cars Make sure you book the Safer Drivers Course with Trent Driving School to get your 20 bonus logbook hours. Exclusive offer for SDA members Book with Trent and receive a 10% discount on any full priced lesson.* Just use coupon code SDATrent when booking.

www.ltrent.com.au (02) 8748 4500

*offer only available to students that are new to Trent Driving School. Not valid with any other offer.

Flexible covers to suit your needs

Switching is easy, and you won’t have to re-serve waiting periods for current benefits

www.engagingmembers.com.au

SDA NSW_Mag_Ad_185x85mm_0824_O_Print.indd 1

40 ’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

2/8/2024 11:28 am

SDA MEMBER BENEFITS MRM LAWYERS, PROVIDING PERSONALISED, PROFESSIONAL LAW SERVICES LOCALLY

10% OFF Travel Insurance

PROuDLY ASSIStING SDA MEMBERS AND thEIR FAMILIES FOR OVER 50 YEARS FIRSt CONSuLtAtION FREE AND DISCOuNtED RAtES FOR FINANCIAL MEMBERS

Call our Australian based call centre and provide code SDAMEM10 at time of quote to apply coupon and obtain discount.

INSuRANCE LAW EStAtE PLANNING LItIGAtION FAMILY LAW WORKPLACE ISSuES SuPERANNuAtION EMPLOYMENt LAW WILLS & INhERItANCE DISPutES DISABILItY PROPERtY – BuYING/SELLING l

FOR YOuR LEGAL ISSuES, CALL MRM LAWYERS. tRADItIONAL VALuES PROFESSIONAL APPROACh MODERN DELIVERY

stephen bray paul mantach

wayne dever

peter rogers

1300 409 322

Ph 4967 0888 MRMLAWYERS.COM.Au l

uNIt 5, 2 FROSt DRIVE, MAYFIELD WESt NSW 2304 MAILtLAND NEWCAStLE SINGLEtON l

MANAGERS: KEEP OUT OF MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS! ^ Ends 31/12/25. Offer may be extended. Applies to total undiscounted premium at checkout (Max 1 offer or discount can be used per policy). Underwritten by Certain underwriters at Lloyd’s. Consider PDS & TMD on fastcover.com.au. T&Cs apply.

All SDA members should be aware that managers and insurance companies have no right to attend your medical appointments, even if it is for a work-related injury. This is supported by the Fair Work Ombudsman. Medical appointments are private. Tell any manager or insurance company representative that they are not entitled to attend. Contact the SDA if you need any help.

’CAUSE DECEMBER 2024

SDA Newcastle and Northern sdanewcastle

sda.au/newcastle