Toolbox 01-07-2025

1. Meeting Format and Future Changes

Matt noted this may be one of the last Toolbox Meetings in its current form.

A new Representative Council is being proposed:

• Monthly meetings (possibly evenings)
  
  

• Includes staff from all parts of the company
  
  

• Focus on collaborative discussion of policies, training, operations, and social events
  
  

• Ideas include keeping a quarterly open forum for broader input
  
  

• Meetings would be paid and potentially recorded or broadcast for transparency
  
  

2. EBA & Management Intentions

Lucy questioned whether management is genuinely listening to staff during EBA discussions.

Concerns raised about superannuation contributions and perceived lack of collaboration.

Matt clarified:

• The 15% super request was not rejected as being against staff interest, but due to financial limits
  
  

• All forms of wage increases are seen as valuable to workers
  
  

• Emphasis on creating a meaningful representative body that can influence decisions
  
  

3. Representative Structure Ideas

Graeme suggested a structure similar to HSR workgroups, with reps covering approx. 20 staff each.

Paul stressed the importance of including new staff, as their perspectives are essential.

4. Office Staff and AI Bookings

Lucy asked if AI systems would replace office roles.

Matt responded:

• AI is part of a future system to streamline booking
  
  

• Office roles will shift toward reviewing and improving bookings, not being eliminated
  
  

• If booking volume grows, more staff may be required, not fewer
  
  

5. FileMaker & IT System Update

Developer Thomas has resigned.

Recruitment is underway for a new permanent developer.

Implementation of the new database is close but paused pending the new hire’s onboarding.

6. Union & EBA Negotiation Summary

Paul encouraged everyone to join the TWU.

Active claims include:

• Base rate increase
  
  

• Increase to tenure allowance
  
  

• Superannuation increase to 15%
  
  

• Hiring an HR manager
  
  

• Development of a surveillance policy
  
  

• Stronger consultation obligations
  
  Union work has resulted in above-award wages and a stronger safety framework.
  
  QR code for TWU signup is posted near the truck bays.
  
  Next union meeting: Wednesday 4:00pm at the depot. All welcome.
  
  

7. Improving Communication

Stu raised concerns about misinformation and confusion about negotiations.

Paul recommended using the WhatsApp group for updates and summaries.

Two WhatsApp groups exist:

• General EBA updates
  
  

• Full negotiating group (including management)
  
  

8. OHS & Safety Committee Updates

Thom provided an update on ongoing safety initiatives:

• Reviewing high-risk activities like handling fridges, pot plants, and heavy furniture
  
  

• Potential changes to training and safety planning
  
  

• Yellow tape added to truck steps to reduce fall risk
  
  

• Hi-vis vests now hung on hooks to encourage use, especially during darker hours