As we look at the rest of the year ahead, I’d like to briefly reflect on how much the union achieved last year in Workplace Health and Safety. In a year where the TWU fought to hold giants to account, we also grew the WHS department, expanded our training offering, and welcomed hundreds of members through our doors to undergo training as Delegates and Health & Safety Representatives (HSRs).
We also expanded our training beyond Minchinbury, to undertake training on-site at our sub-branches, ensuring members across New South Wales have access to the training the rest of the movement is envious of.
SAFEWORK HSR CONFERENCE
Near the end of 2025, the TWU dominated the SafeWork NSW HSR Conference, bringing what was by far the largest contingent of Health & Safety Representatives to a conference where the TWU lead the conversation and hosted panels on tangible, real-world safety applications. Myself and TWU WHS & Education Official Emily Armstrong were struck by how many delegates from unions across NSW and the State Government wanted to learn from the TWU as best practice.
This is a position every TWU member should be proud of, and is the result of this union ensuring training at the forefront of our work with members.
This year, we’ve already welcomed many members through our doors as the 2026 training calendar is well and truly underway. The enthusiasm of members taking part in HSR training has been great to see, and we’ve already seen members go back to their workplaces armed with the information that keeps themselves and their workmates safer.
As we all know, transport has the unfortunate distinction of being Australia’s deadliest industry, but we also know that workplaces with HSRs are tangibly safer for workers. Our members have built up a reliable reputation on safety such that, were a Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) to be issued, SafeWork knows to take it seriously.
As we get further into the 2026 campaign, Emily and myself are looking forward to standing with you as we collectively fight for a fairer, safer industry.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY MARCH
Lastly, I’d also like to acknowledge the hundreds of members who showed their support for women of the TWU earlier this month in the leadup to International Women’s Day, on March 8.
The Transport Workers’ Union is proud to stand behind the incredible women who keep Australia moving every day. 2026’s International Women’s Day theme was “Balance the Scales”. This is exactly what TWU Women fight to do every day, advocating for the rights and dignity of women in what is a traditionally male dominated industry.
We all come from women, and TWU women make continuous, important contributions to our industry and our union. It was truly wonderful to see the outpouring of member support in fighting for dignity, safety and respect at work this year.
I look forward to seeing more of you this year as we fight for Our Roads, Our Skies, Our Future. I wish you all a safe and happy Easter break.
Marija Marsic • Assistant State Secretary