As many of you have likely heard by now, the introduction of Enterprise Agreements splintered the bargaining power of unions. As the many TWU EA’s were scattered across the country, both logistically and by way of their expiry dates, it was for a time virtually impossible to bargain simultaneously.
To rectify this wrong, TWU Members and Delegates have worked exceptionally hard over the last decade or so, to co-ordinate a situation where for the first time, we’ll be looking at over 200 EAs expiring at the same time next year.
As a result of our hard work, the campaign for 2026 is our opportunity to maximise our collective bargaining power more than ever before, in both road and aviation for the first time. We’ve invited all industry players to the table, to lift industry standards for the benefit of everyone. If they don’t want to engage in good-faith, then they’ll have to be ready for action. And it’s all thanks to your hard work. The fight for 2026 begins now.
Congratulations to Doug Fox for being awarded Life membership. (see above) Doug had been nominated for membership after 20 years of relentless representation of TWU members, at all levels.
Doug, a former delegate at TNT & FedEx, along with Steve Pettiford, formerly of Chubb & Prosegur, had also received an award of recognition. Both of these Transport Warriors were recognised with awards for their yearslong commitments as Delegates, Executive chair & Minutes taker, as well as recognising them for their NSW BCOM member responsibilities, and relentless dedication to rallies & protests that better the lives of all TWU members. Congratulations to both Doug and Steve. Well done, well deserved. As Newcastle & Northern Sub-branch Secretary, it is an honour to congratulate you both on behalf of your TWU family.
Doug Fox said, “No Matter what position you hold in the TWU, it is important to build our knowledge, trust and respect for those that we all share the industrial relations arena with. The IRs is an inclusive society that enables us to put aside our differences, and to share concerns, knowledge and remedies.
It’s YOU who makes our union great
As we close the door on 2025 and head towards ’26, we can be proud not only of what your Union has achieved, but the great footing we’ve been put on for our fights next year. The “Our Roads, Our Skies, Our Future” campaign that we’re launching now will be second-to-none, because of you.
As a union we have created an opportunity to stop the “race to the bottom,” and are creating a level playing field that sets minimum enforceable standards for safety and conditions, throughout the entire industry.
None of this is achievable without you. This will be a member-led campaign.
So please, if you are not a delegate, please consider becoming one. If you have a delegate, let them know that you are willing to support them in any capacity.
A huge shout out to Newcastle Executives, and to our officials, Daryll Elliott, Bec Hopkins, and member support Officer, Todd Marselos for your relentless dedication to delegates and members throughout the year. Your hard work is greatly appreciated by all.
I wish you and your families a safe and Merry Christmas, and I’ll see you all next year.
When we fight, we win!
Mick Forbes • Sub-branch Secretary