We hope you had a restful end to 2024. As we wrap up the first month of 2025, we want to share the findings from our recent Member Survey and extend our thanks to everyone who participated.
The feedback we received was mostly positive, varied and constructive, highlighting several key areas for us to workshop and improve, including:
Enhanced Member Communication
There were strong calls for better communication through increased site visits, regular emails, and the development of a mobile app to keep members informed about union activities and industry updates.
Youth and Apprentice Engagement
Members emphasised the need for better education and outreach to apprentices and younger workers about the benefits of union membership and their workplace rights.
EBA Negotiation Transparency
Many of you want clearer updates and more involvement in the Enterprise Bargaining Agreement process, with more frequency of information about progress and outcomes.
Political Involvement
Feedback on our political stance varied, with some members preferring a neutral focus solely on industrial matters. However, unions must engage politically since policies directly impact wages and conditions. With state and federal elections approaching, these outcomes will shape workplace policies for years. While we stay engaged, our commitment remains to advocate for members regardless of which party is in power—blue, red, green, or pink.
More merchandise!
There’s a strong desire for more ETU-branded merchandise, both for visibility and member pride. To that end, we’ll be expanding our range of ETU-branded merchandise, including shirts, hats, and other items. However, this will take some months due to the quantum’s we are looking at ordering as well as the shipping process.
ETU visibility and Organiser training:
Members highlighted the need for more organiser presence on worksites and better public representation of ETU campaigns and successes, including media training for organisers.
Alignment with other ETU branches
There’s interest in greater collaboration between branches to unify policies and maximise benefits for members.
Simplifying Onboarding Procedures
Many of you raised concerns about the time and effort involved in induction processes, especially for short-term roles. Advocacy for streamlined processes and fair compensation for this time is a priority.
We’re already looking at how to address these issues in the coming months. You’ll hear more from us soon about specific initiatives and actions we’re taking based on your feedback.
MEMBER SURVEY WINNERS!!
We would also like to congratulate the members who won the ETU Prize Packs for their participation in the Member Survey (3 winners per survey)!
Winners have been notified and their member packs will be presented by their Organiser or posted directly to them. Again, thanks for your participation. We appreciate your support and patience as we integrate your feedback into our planning for 2025.
In Unity,
Adam Woodage
ETU WA Secretary