AWU Victorian Branch Secretary

Ronnie Hayden was appointed as the Branch Secretary of the Australian Workers’ Union Victorian Branch in July 2023. He is also a member of the AWU National Executive. His extensive career within the AWU includes roles as a team leader for the Victorian Branch’s construction and country teams, and as an organiser in Portland, rural Victoria.

Ronnie’s diverse experience spans multiple industries, providing him with valuable knowledge and insight, particularly relevant to Prime Super members. His background in the hospitality and building industries, as well as his significant contributions to civil construction, reflect his adaptability and leadership.

Ronnie’s career began in the hospitality sector before transitioning to the building industry, where he worked on Melbourne’s high-rise buildings performing ‘twin rope access’. In 2004, he joined the civil construction sector as a tunneller. His leadership skills quickly emerged, and he was elected as an AWU Health and Safety Representative on the EastLink project, later serving as the AWU delegate and HSR on the Northern Sewerage Project tunnel.

In 2009, Ronnie relocated to Portland to take on the role of regional organiser with the AWU. His dedication and effectiveness led to his promotion as the lead regional organiser in 2012. By 2016, Ronnie had moved back closer to Melbourne and assumed the position of lead construction organiser within the AWU.

Throughout his time in the construction industry, Ronnie worked tirelessly to create unity and secure strong Enterprise Agreements. His efforts resulted in AWU members becoming the highest paid civil construction workers in Australia. He also played a vital role in guiding construction members through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Leadership and Contributions

Ronnie holds a Diploma in Leadership and serves in several key roles:

Senior Vice President of the Victorian Trades Council
Director of Chifley Services
Member of the WorkSafe Victoria Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Committee
Member of the WorkSafe Victoria WorkCover Advisory Committee
Board Member of the Victorian Workers Health and Wellbeing Foundation

Originally from Ireland, Ronnie arrived in Australia in 1994 at the age of twenty. His remarkable career trajectory, from humble beginnings to influential roles within the AWU, showcases his commitment, strategic vision, and dedication to improving the lives of workers in the construction industry.

On July 1, 2023, Ronnie assumed the role of Secretary within the AWU, continuing his leadership journey. He looks forward to leading the AWU in Victoria, focusing on enhancing the well-being and conditions of workers across various industries.

Ronnie’s dedication and leadership continue to inspire and drive positive change within the AWU and the broader community.