Centacare AOD Youth Worker Jon Goodwin is the Australian Services Union (ASU) 2021 Delegate of the Year.

Jon joined the ASU in 2000 and has been a workplace rep for nearly a decade, advocating for his peers at Centacare and AnglicareSA during this time.

“I know we have a lot of really good workplace reps out in the field,  providing support to workers and being their voice to raise concerns both individually and collectively, so I do feel privileged to be presented with this award,’’ he said.

Jon received the accolade at the ASU Annual Members Conference, held recently at the Adelaide Zoo.

The ASU represents the industrial interests of about 135,000 members nationally in a variety of industries and occupations.

Workplace representatives form a vital link between members, their union and the union’s staff. In addition to providing information and support, they advocate for wages, conditions and safety.

“Everyone has the right to feel safe, supported and valued in the work they do,’’ said Jon, noting the collective work of members in bringing about positive outcomes.

“Certainly, advocating for workers’ rights with having them upheld, along with bringing about some changes in workplace practices, would be some of my greatest achievements to date.’’

Jon said his drive to succeed came from a determination “to ensure that community services are able to retain and attract the best possible staff to deliver meaningful support services to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities’’.

ASU spokesperson Paul Grillo commended Jon’s dedicated years of service.

“We consistently hear back from members about Jon’s warmth and empathy, combined with his strong and deep-seated sense of justice and a passion for collective outcomes,’’ he said.

“We’re very grateful for Jon’s contribution to both workplaces and this award is very much well deserved!’’