Victorian Branch Update: Winter 2024

Union seeks justice after tragic death

The AWU demands justice following the death of Kurt Hourigan, a 37-year-old miner, in Ballarat on March 13th. Hourigan and his colleague, Connor Smith, who was critically injured and is now in a long recovery process, were pinned beneath fallen rocks while working 500 meters underground using the unsafe ‘air legging’ technique.

AWU Victorian Secretary Ronnie Hayden insists WorkSafe enforce Victoria’s new industrial manslaughter laws. “This is the 12th workplace death this year. If a worker dies due to an employer’s decision, jail time must follow,” said Hayden, criticising the lack of custodial sentences, despite 169 workplace deaths since the laws were introduced.

The AWU Victorian Branch has been at the forefront, pushing for the strict enforcement of these laws to hold negligent employers accountable and ensure justice for workers and their families. We continue to advocate for stricter enforcement to prevent further tragedies. This incident strengthens our resolve to ensure no more lives are lost due to preventable workplace accidents.

^{Speaking to media the day after the tragedy}

Building Gender Equality in Manufacturing and Energy

The AWU Victorian Branch has been awarded $191,400 to lead the “Job Ready and Ready for Advancement” project, aiming to transform workplace dynamics in the manufacturing and energy sectors by promoting gender equality and inclusivity.Key objectives of the project include:

Support for Women in Trade-Based Roles and Career Changes: Providing targeted support, training, and resources to empower women, facilitating their entry and advancement in trade-based roles traditionally dominated by men. This includes a custom-built certified course to prepare women for jobs in manufacturing.

Gender Equality Training: Developing comprehensive training modules for employers in the manufacturing and energy sectors to promote gender equality practices in the workplace.

Culture Change Initiatives: Piloting innovative culture change initiatives within partner workplaces to foster inclusive and supportive environments for all employees.

This funding highlights a commitment to breaking down barriers and creating pathways for women to thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries.

By fostering a culture of equality and empowerment, the AWU aims to drive meaningful change and set new standards for workplace diversity and inclusion.

As AWU Victorian Branch Secretary Ronnie Hayden says, “If we are to secure a future made in Australia, it must include well-paying jobs for women in the manufacturing industry.”

^{Ronnie with Victorian minister for employment, Natalie Hutchins, Caitlin, and organiser Catherine}