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April 2025 - CEO's Message


24th April 2025

Simon Tengende

 

April has seen some serious momentum here at AWCI and it’s exciting to see the pace continue to ramp up, with many beginning to enjoy and like what we are trying to achieve. Whether it’s through our SACs, growing membership, or more conversations with government—we’re gaining traction. And that’s because you, our members, are helping carry the message.

Mission 1000: Let’s Get There TogetherIntroducing the QLD SAC 2025

We’ve set a national target of 1,000 members by the end of 2026. That’s 20 months to reach our goal—and the good news is, we’re already on our way.

A great example of this momentum is the launch of the Queensland State Advisory Committee, now led by:

  • Kim Allen – CRA Construction (Chair)
  • Adam Wareing – Imperial Corp (Deputy Chair)
  • Brice Gifkins – BMG Building (Deputy Chair)
 

I am a member of AWCi AustraliaWe’re also seeing more plasterers get involved in every state. Their voices are adding real depth to our advocacy—and helping us collect the evidence we need to push for change.

To help grow awareness, we’ve launched a Friday Member Campaign. Each Friday, we’re asking members to post our social tile:

"I am a member of AWCI Australia. I am contributing to a brighter future for our trade. So should you. Become a member today."

It’s already getting noticed. Keep it going—download the tile and post it every Friday.

 

Download the tile

How You Can Keep the Momentum Going

Here’s what you can do right now to support the movement:

  • Like, share and comment on our posts—your network matters.
  • Shoot a short video sharing why you’re a member—just like Anthony Axon did.
  • Tell your mates—every new conversation helps.
  • Come to local events—connect and bring others along.

Stay updated—log into the member portal and use the resources 

Licensing Reform: The Road Ahead

As we head into a federal election period, we’ve formally put Occupational Licensing on the agenda.

Even in licensed states like QLD, our members are telling us: things aren’t working as they should. That’s why our 5-Pillar Licensing Framework matters:

  1. Clear Legislative Framework
  2. Industry Standards & Quality Assurance
  3. Tailored Education & Training
  4. Robust Compliance & Enforcement
  5. Proactive Industry Engagement

If we find the gaps—we’ll recommend the fixes. CPD. Better oversight. Independent inspections. Whatever it takes to make licensing work better for our trade 

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Staying Connected

Here’s how we’re keeping members in the loop:

  • Socials: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, WeChat
  • Fortnightly Newsletters
  • CEO Monthly Messages
  • On the Surface Magazine (Print & Digital)
  • Direct Member Updates
SU2503-Autumn_Email-Banner

Trade Guidelines Are Coming

We’re getting ready to launch the AWCI Trade Guidelines in both print and online via our Technical Knowledge Base (TKB).

And look out for Tech Talks—these informal sessions are a great chance to talk trade, troubleshoot, and hear what’s next from AWCI.

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Thanks for your continued support. The more voices we bring in, the stronger our case becomes. Let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep building.

Simon Tengende
Chief Executive Officer
AWCI Australia

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