Message from the CEO - August 2025

 As we move through August, it’s been another month of momentum for AWCI Australia. Our membership continues to grow, with new apprentices, contractors, and resellers joining across all states. 

In particular, we’ve seen increased engagement from NSW contractors, reflecting the appeal of a strong national body that supports professional development, advocacy, and industry recognition. This is also being reflected by the excitement as we build towards the AWCI Awards in Melbourne on the 16^th October – register your attendance, book your flights and accommodation and let’s celebrate the projects showcasing the craftsmanship of our industry. 

We also welcomed new sponsors for our Awards categories—a first for the association. I would like to personally thank Siniat, Rondo, CSR, Pro Plaster, BNE Plaster Co, and Vitale’s & Son for stepping forward. These partnerships strengthen our programs and help celebrate excellence across the industry. Sponsorship opportunities remain open, and I encourage interested companies to explore these via our website.

In a significant development, Siniat is now the naming rights sponsor of the AWCI & Siniat Apprentice Challenge for 2025/26 - Thank you and Welcome Siniat. Keep an eye out for the Challenge in your state and support participants wherever possible.

This month I have also been actively engaging with members and contractors via social media. While in-person meetings are invaluable, digital channels are proving a powerful way to connect, showcase the great work happening across the industry, and celebrate our members’ achievements. I encourage you to continue sharing your projects and successes online. I also note the State Advisory Committee’s continuing to be active and set the agenda in the states, nominate to be an observer so you can be at the forefront of what’s happening in our industry.

We continue building resources to help members understand what the association does, the programs we run, and how it all works. This clarity is critical in keeping everyone aligned and engaged, particularly as we make serious progress on occupational licensing in all states—a game-changer for professional standards and industry recognition. Visit our website on a regular basis to be across the new additions weekly.

Finally, I encourage members to bring colleagues and apprentices on board, participate in programs, and stay engaged with AWCI Australia initiatives. Together, we are shaping the future of the wall and ceiling industry, driving excellence, and creating meaningful pathways for the next generation of professionals.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment, support, and contribution to our industry. Let’s keep building momentum and leading the way.

Simon Tengende
CEO, AWCI Australia

Register for the AWCI Awards return on 16 October at Park Hyatt Melbourne, where we’ll celebrate the best in wall and ceiling excellence across Australia!

Don’t miss your chance to showcase your standout project in the AWCI Awards —entries close 31 August!

✨ You’ve got to be in it to win it! Nominate Your Project TODAY!

Still time to nominate your apprentices for the AWCI & Siniat Apprentice Challenge!

WA - Friday August 29th 2025, South Metro TAFE WA, Rockingham

QLD - Friday September 12th 2025, NICS, Salisbury

VIC - Friday September 5th 2025, Wall & Ceiling Institute, Springvale

SA - Wednesday September 17th 2025, TAFE SA, Tonsley

TAS - Monday August 25th 2025, TAS TAFE, Hobart

What's On

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SA Golf Day

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Few tickets left - Register today!

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