Four members of the USU New Gen committee explain why they joined the Youth Committee and why USU membership is so important.
Joel Pringle
Introduction Hi my name is Joel Pringle
Why join the Youth Committee? The Youth Committee was an accessible way of coming to understand the Union and what they do?
When did you join? Today
Where are you from? I grew up in Berowra, Northern Sydney. I lived in the area until the last few years.
When did you join the USU? I joined the Union on my first day of fulltime employment in early 2006.
Why join the Union? I vote and will use my vote to oppose WorkChoices and show support for rights of families and workers.
What do you think of the Industrial Relations System? WorkChoices repeals the gains made by Australian workers over the history of the nation's development. It attacks the young, families and those without the confidence and support to stand against a confronting boss. This has motivated me to join the USU Youth Committee.
Heath Alchin
Introduction Hi my name is Heath Alchin and I work for Temora Shire Council. I am also the Union Delegate Representative.
Why did you join the Union and how long have you been a member? I joined the Union not long after employment with Temora Shire Council. I have been a member for approximately seven (7) years. I joined the Union for my own sense of security at work, and later on realised that all the conditions we have at work were fought and won by the USU.
Why did you join the Youth Committee? To understand the challenges that a lot of young people have at work and get them more involved within the Union.
When did you join the Youth Committee? I have been a member of the Committee for three (3) years.
Do you vote? Yes vote "Labour" and get "Little Johnny" Out.
What are your thoughts on WorkChoices and IR Laws? WorkChoices and IR Laws are ruining Australian working conditions. The proof is evident. This election don't forget, lets get rid of these laws and conditions vote "Labor". Lets keep the conditions that our Union has negotiated and won.
Belinda Crawley
Introduction My name is Belinda Crawley and I work as a Contract Officer at Integral Energy. I am also a Local Workplace Delegate. I have been at Integral for approximately three (3) years. Prior to that I was in the legal industry for almost ten (10) years.
Why did you join the Union and how long have you been a member? I joined as I strongly believe in Unions and Collective Bargaining. I have been a USU member for approximately three (3) years.
Why did you join the Youth Committee? To highlight issues currently facing youth in the workplace. The youth need to know about their rights and the impacts of WorkChoices.
When did you join the Youth Committee? Approximately one year ago.
Do you vote? Yes! Every vote counts to get John Howard out.
What are your thoughts on WorkChoices and IR Laws? WorkChoices means no choices for employees. The majority of our entitlements have been removed and it removes our rights to bargain collectively.
Shane Clapham
Introduction Hi my name is Shane Clapham and I work for Blacktown City Council. I am also the Union Delegate, Sydney Branch member and a member of the USU New Generation Youth Committee.
Why did you join the Union and how long have you been a member? I joined the Union not long after employment with Temora Shire Council. I have been a member for approximately seven (7) years. I joined the Union for my own sense of security at work, and later on realised that all the conditions we have at work were fought and won by the USU.
Why did you join the Youth Committee? To understand the challenges that a lot of young people have at work and get them more involved within the Union.
When did you join the Youth Committee? I have been a member of the Committee for three (3) years?
Do you vote? Yes vote Labor and get "Little Johnny" Out.
What are your thoughts on WorkChoices and IR Laws? WorkChoices and IR Laws are ruining Australian working conditions. The proof is evident. This election don't forget, lets get rid of these laws and conditions vote Labor. Lets keep the conditions that our Union has negotiated and won.
Contact: Rebecca Zinghini
USU Organiser
(02) 9265 8211
