NSW celebrates big wins in 2025!

As 2025 draws to a close, I want to thank every AWU member for your strength, unity, and determination throughout the year. Across every industry in NSW, AWU members have stood firm and delivered real wins in workplaces. This year, our officials and industrial officers have been hard at work fighting for members. We recovered more than $1.4 million for members, filed at least 75 F18s, 40 Unfair Dismissal applications, and 9 Protected Action Ballot Orders.

In December, the AWU welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to intervene to help secure the future of Tomago Aluminium, including action to stabilise electricity supply and prevent the smelter from ceasing operations. This intervention recognised Tomago as a nationally significant asset and protected more than 1,200 direct jobs and thousands more across the Hunter supply chain. The AWU has been clear that affordable, reliable energy is essential to keeping Australian manufacturing alive, and this decision was a critical step toward providing certainty for Tomago workers and their families.

NPWS and TfNSW members achieved significant outcomes in 2025. NPWS members’ level progression will no longer be capped, with the classification hard barrier being removed from their award this year. For decades, field officers were not being paid for work performed above their level, despite having the necessary experience and skills. Across the sector, there is improved recognition and protections for first responders on the frontline. Thank you to every member, delegate, and HSR who helped deliver these wins for NPWS and TfNSW workers.

This year also saw extraordinary advocacy from our delegates and HSRs. In 2025, 289 delegates and 131 HSRs completed training through the branch’s program, strengthening safety standards and representation across worksites in NSW. Their leadership has delivered stronger member outcomes, supported major disputes, and driven successful negotiations in workplaces right across the state.

At our 2025 NSW branch conference, we celebrated the outstanding leadership of members across the state. Congratulations to all award recipients, including the inaugural Mick O’Shea Award winners, recognising exceptional commitment and service from regional trade unionists. These achievements represent just a fraction of the power AWU members build every day. Thank you for your solidarity throughout 2025. Together, we will continue delivering real results for working people in 2026 and beyond.