The Australian Workers' Union is proud to welcome Chris Donovan as our incoming Assistant National Secretary.
Chris joined the AWU in 2017 as an Organiser in the NSW Branch. During this period, Chris played a key role in representing workers in a number of industries, chemical manufacturing, aviation and food processing.
Chris has led significant wins for hundreds of members in the NSW. In 2020, he led the Tassal Campaign, signing up 130 workers to the AWU in the fight to reclaim millions of dollars in stolen wages for migrant workers.
The campaign led to a massive win, with the Federal Court finding that the seafood giant Tassal underpaid workers $1.6 million.
Chris with Tassal workers outside the Lidcombe processing factory
Chris credits the delegates for the significant win. "The considerable work and bravery of the delegates, many of whom were on visas and spoke English as a second language, that joined the union, took the fight to the company and won."
The members and delegates of Tassal were recognised with the AWU Campaign of the Year award.
AWU National Secretary Paul Farrow, NSW Branch Secretary Tony Callinan, Tassal Delegate Elvis, Chris and Assistant NSW Branch Secretary Paul Delaney
In 2021, Chris moved to the National Office as the National Work Health and Safety Director. In this role, Chris spearheaded the Silica Dust Kills Campaign, a multi-year initiative that brought about critical legislative changes to protect workers from multiple industries against exposure to dangerous silica dust.
Thanks to the efforts of the campaign, workers are now better protected under WHS Regulations.
Reflecting on the ongoing campaign, Chris emphasised, "Our members in civil construction, tunnelling, quarrying, mining, and other industries are still being exposed to unacceptable levels of silica dust.
These new laws are the first step in reducing the likelihood of occupational disease, but much more work is still needed."
ACTU Assistant Secretary Liam O'Brien, Victorian OHS Director Percy Pillai, Chris, and silicosis victims Joanna, and Graham meet with Bill Shorten MP.
The Silica Dust Kills Campaign is ongoing and remains a key priority moving forward.
National Secretary Paul Farrow expressed his confidence in the new appointment, saying "Chris' unique combination of experience as a branch and national organiser is paramount to the AWU's strength and resilience in this modern era."
"His leadership in vital campaigns and ability to organise across a broad range of industries and WHS make him an invaluable asset to our union."
Chris with Qenos delegates
"Now, Chris has the opportunity to use his new role as Assistant National Secretary, to continue fighting for members, building on his successful track record of campaigning, organising, and leadership within the union."
