We’re United For NSW

Our candidates are workplace delegates, union activists, and everyday members who share one thing in common: a commitment to building a stronger union for you.

Sydney South East

These are the delegates, members and activists who are standing up for UWU members across Sydney South East. They come from your workplaces and your industries. They know the challenges you face because they face them too.

They're ready to fight for a union that wins for you, picks up the phone when you need help, and puts more money in your pocket.

Meet Your Team

Endorse Our Candidates

Jo Schofield

UWU National President | Sydney South East

I grew up in Green Valley, Western Sydney, where strong community values of fairness and solidarity shaped my life. Leaving school at 16, I have done loads of different jobs in offices, kitchens and clubs. Starting off as a Union delegate, like my mother and my aunt, I was driven by a passion for workers' rights, which led me to TAFE and onto University to finish a degree in Industrial Relations. I found my community when I got a job at the Misso's (now UWU) and I have had the great privilege to work alongside members from many industries and all walks of life. As a sole parent I took time out of the union movement when my girls were young, working part time, having to keep a constant eye on the bills and the mortgage from week to week. I understand the pressures that families, and especially women, face in juggling work and family and making ends meet.
I have organised, fought and campaigned with members to win better pay, respect and recognition of the essential work that UWU members do every day. I am proud of the many gains that UWU members have fought for and won.
The best way to build worker power and keep our union strong is to back the United For You team who are committed to delivering for you. There is so much more to do to build real worker power to lift all our members up and to keep our union strong and financially sustainable. United For You will deliver a union focused on you.

Paul Khoudair

Storeperson | Sydney South East

I work at Officeworks North Rocks and have been a UWU member and Delegate for 22 years. I have always been a people person who loves to chat and form great bonds with others. I first joined the union to be part of a group that actually had strength and power. The collective voice for the people is what really drove me. My experience is if you're not part of the union, then good luck because bosses will always walk all over you. Outside work, I am a diehard South Sydney Rabbitohs supporter since the 1969 Balmain vs Souths game.
I want our union to actually be United and deliver for all members. A moment that holds a special place in my heart was our first time going out on strike. It showed how powerful we really were. This election has so much potential to make meaningful change for all members. I want a stronger union that brings members to the forefront, not one run on division.
It means exactly what the name says. This ticket believes in having a union that is run for its members and advocates for them across all industries. It believes in the union's ability to change lives and will work every day to make sure that happens.

Mel Gatfield

UWU NSW State Secretary & Director Food & Beverage | Sydney South East

I have spent over three decades advocating for working people, driving change, and delivering real wins for workers across Australia. I started organising in 1990 as an Administration Officer at the Finance Sector Union and worked my way up through organiser and leadership roles.
During my time at UWU since 2006, I have advocated and campaigned for educators, home care workers, manufacturing workers, cleaners, casino and hotel workers.
In June 2025, our union won a historic victory when the NSW Government announced that school cleaners in the Hunter and Central Coast would be offered permanent public sector jobs for the first time in 30 years. We now are making sure the rest of the state get secure jobs too. This was years of relentless campaigning by our members, and showed the power of our mighty union when we use all of the tools available to us - like the winning of portability of LSL scheme for cleaners over 10 years ago.
We have made these real changes in members lives by having a clear focussed voice for the members in NSW. I ask for your support.

Sharon Eurlings

UWU Organiser, Logistic | Sydney South East

I've been a proud UWU member for 31 years and currently work as a Logistics Organiser with the union itself. Over the years I've served as a workplace delegate, EDI Officer, and Honorary Vice President of United Voice NSW. I first joined the union to improve my working conditions and know my rights at work. Growing up with Filipino heritage, I was taught that the first thing you do when starting a job is join your union. Being a member means having the opportunity to improve my working conditions, to be treated with dignity and respect by my employer, and to be recognised for my hard work. Outside of work, I'm a single mother of two and have been part of the labour movement for over 30 years. I've contributed to commission inquiries that made a real difference in the lives of everyday workers, including the banning of smoking in NSW and the productivity commission that increased maternity and paternity leave. One thing I want members to know about me is this: I will not back down and I will fight for what is right.
Early in my career at the casino, our permanent shifts were under threat during enterprise agreement bargaining. I collected $50 from each member and we tried to hire a corporate lawyer, but that fell through. So I marched into the union office alongside my shift mates to demand our issue be heard. That moment taught me something important: paying union fees is not enough. Unless you tell the union what issues matter to you, they won't be able to fix it. We managed to secure our shifts for another 30 years, and they're still going. That experience is why I'm standing for election as a convention delegate. I feel passionate about the direction our union is heading and I want to be part of the positive change, where members are valued and leaders are accountable with integrity. Most of all, I want to represent the minorities, women of colour and communities, who haven't yet realised the power of their voice. I want to ensure members are genuinely consulted without hidden political agendas, and that national campaigns lift everyone up equally, not one state over another. I'm supporting United For You because I truly believe this is the team that has members' best interests at heart. No hidden agendas, no fear of being held accountable. Transparency and integrity in every decision made.

Maria-Sonia Daza

Casino | Sydney South East

I've been a UWU member for 30 years and I work in gaming at the Star Casino in Sydney. I first joined the union to ensure safety at work and for job security. Being a union member means solidarity and the ability to get things done together. Over 30 years I've seen a lot of changes and been part of lots of fights and wins. Outside of work, I'm a family person. I have one son who recently turned 20. I love going to the gym and I have a real interest in painting. One thing I want members to know about me is that I am always honest, reliable, and I care about others.
One of the moments I'm most proud of is when our union EBA delivered better conditions and a good pay rise for casino workers. That's what happens when we stick together. I'm standing for election as a convention delegate because after 30 years of membership I want to continue being a voice for NSW casino members and contribute even more in the future. I want all workers to get a fair and equitable EBA and I want everyone to be treated with more respect. I'm supporting United For You because I believe in a union built on solidarity, where members' voices are heard and their fights are backed.

Milena Petrovic

Cleaner | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member for 26 years and work as a school cleaner. To be a union member means I got security. If anything happens at work and you don't know what to do, you got someone to call and ask for advice. We got lots of issues, and when we asked the company, they said they'll find out, they'll work out, but they never got an answer back. The only people we can rely on is the union. Union is us, together strong. My interest is my family and my friends. I've got kids and four grandkids. I like to clean my house, cook dinner and spend time with friends. Walking to the beach, swimming. Enjoying my life.
They've been helping us a lot through my 26 years working here. They've done a lot of things with us which we can't do by ourselves. People don't speak English, they don't understand what the company is doing. The union helps us with lots of issues. We wanted portable long service leave, amazing. We wanted our RDO to be paid as normal. Now we're running a big campaign thanks to them to get jobs back to the government. We won, thanks to them, because they're leading us. They give us all the instructions, all the ways we can do it.

Rodney Shirey

Casino Worker | Sydney South East

I serve as a workplace delegate. For me, it's always been important to look after each other collectively as workers, especially when you're up against a big profit-making corporation. I don't just think about my own needs but also those of other workers. A big part of my role as delegate is representing members in disciplinary meetings, making sure they have a voice in all meetings, big and small. Away from work, I love going on a cruise holiday with my partner when I can and spending precious time with my little grandchild in the outdoors.
Standing as a candidate in this election is important to me because I have a voice in the union and at work, and I want to build on the connections I've made and the trust fellow workers have in me as a delegate. I've seen firsthand how much it matters to have someone in your corner, particularly in recent months when union organisers haven't been as visible on the ground. I'm supporting United For You because I believe members deserve a union that shows up for them and backs their delegates to do the work.

Jacqui Fernance

Food Manufacturing | Sydney South East

I’m a committed UWU member at Goodman Fielder and have proudly served as a delegate for the past four years. I've always been union. Working side by side every day with our members gives me a clear understanding of what truly matters to our membership.

I’ve taken part in on-site EBA negotiations and have seen firsthand how important it is to stand united—because when we back each other, we’re able to secure meaningful improvements that benefit everyone. In our last negotiations we had some great wins, losing zero conditions, and we will continue to build on these.

Having a strong union behind us means we’re not on our own—we’ve got the support, representation, and tools to stand up for what’s right and push for better conditions. That’s where real change starts.
I’m running with the United for You campaign because I believe in being open, fair, and focused on members. I’ll work to ensure every voice is heard, every worker is backed, and that we continue to achieve strong outcomes together.

Pinky Thanareoungsakulthai

UWU Airport Organiser | Sydney South East

I first joined the union when I was an international student. I wanted to know more about my rights and I was confident I could have someone back me up if I had any questions. Being a union member means having a community of workers working together to improve their conditions and rights at work, and knowing they'll back you up. I've seen firsthand what we can achieve when we stand together. I'm now proud to work as a UWU organiser, helping members fight for better pay and conditions every day.
One moment that showed me the real power of the union was negotiating the EBA in the casino, where we achieved some great improvements and a pay rise by fighting together. That experience proved what's possible when members are united. I'm standing for election as a convention delegate because it's important that we stand up for what we think is right. I believe United For You is transparent and honest and will take our union forward with integrity, with members involved in the decisions. I want UWU to focus on members and make sure they are well represented, so we can win better pay, improve our conditions further, and keep winning for members.

Belinda Aniello

Educator, ECEC | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member since 2009 and work as a Nominated Supervisor at Shepherd Early Learning Centre-St. Nicholas. I joined the union because I believe educators deserve a strong voice and fair representation. Being part of the union allows me to advocate not only for myself but also for my colleagues and the children and families we support every day. Our work is important and through the union we can stand together to promote better working conditions, professional respect and quality outcomes in early childhood education. Being part of Big Steps means a lot because it gives me the opportunity to stand alongside other educators who are passionate about making a positive difference in our profession. In my free time I really value slowing down and spending quality time with my family and friends. On the weekends I enjoy doing Reformer Pilates. I also love visiting my local café for a coffee and catching up with friends, exploring and trying new food places together.
One moment that really stands out to me is seeing how union members came together through the Big Steps campaign to push for professional recognition and fairer pay for early childhood educators. It has been a real movement that gave strength and voice to our profession. The campaign brought educators together nationally to demand that our work be valued with pay that reflects the skill, responsibility and dedication we bring every day. It wasn't just talk but the members took action, rallied and built awareness about how low wages and poor conditions were hurting both educators and the quality of early learning. That collective action helped build momentum toward real change in wages, conditions and respect for our work. I am standing because I want to represent the voices, values and concerns of our members and ensure they are heard in important decisions that shape our organisation's future. I genuinely care about representing members and making sure their voices are heard. I am approachable, open to listening and committed to doing my best to advocate for what matters most.
I am supporting United For You because I believe in the values and approach it represents. The team is focused on listening to members, working collaboratively, and advocating for outcomes that genuinely support the people we represent. I feel aligned with the commitment to transparency, strong communication, and putting members at the heart of everything.

Raj Karki

Security Guard | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member for 13 years and work as a Security Officer with Securitas, where I serve as a Delegate. I joined the union to fight wage theft in the cleaning industry. Being a union member means power, collectivism and unity. It means supporting each other for job security, which I can count on for me and for my family.
Fighting and protecting weekend penalty rates and achieving a win through UWU's member led political campaign showed me the power of what we can do together. I am standing to become a voice for our union members and contribute in a better way in the decision making process.
United For You puts members at the centre and fights for the job security and fair conditions that workers like me depend on.

Ala Mayorchik

Home Care Worker | Sydney South East

I have worked as a Homecare Worker at Australian Unity for the last 10 years, and I have been a union member since I got involved in the campaign around the Work Value Case. I joined after speaking to a delegate in my branch, who helped me understand how important the union is for keeping our jobs secure and making our voices heard. I was born in Belarus, and I speak 4 languages. In my work I care for vulnerable people and help advocate for their needs.
When things started to get more complicated at work, the union helps hold the line so we can prioritise care over profits. I have called the union office many times, and each time I have had my issues resolved. This is particularly important in my industry and branch, because we work by ourselves so often. Even now my branch doesn't even have an office, so I haven't seen any of my colleagues in 6 months. It can be hard to speak out in a meeting, but with the support and strength of our union we have achieved some fantastic wins. When I got more active in the union, my roster and work improved, but I'm not here to protect myself. I'm here to change my whole industry for the better.
I support United For You because I want to make sure that industries like homecare have a strong union which is ready to win permanently. In aged care, the system is changing around us whether we like it or not, and through our union, our voice is heard.

Sharon Ustijanovski

Process and Manufacturing Worker | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member for 7 years and work as a Process and Manufacturing Worker at Tooheys Brewery in Lidcombe, where I serve as a Delegate. I joined the union because union can make things better for workers and it strengthened our numbers on site. Being a union member means knowing my rights, having my stand on workers issues and helping each other.
In our last EA we got better pay and conditions, and union representation on industrial issues made a real difference for my workmates. I believe our union should be run by someone who is in NSW for the workers who live and work in NSW.
United For You delivers real results for workers like better pay and conditions, and keeps our union strong and member-led.

Karen Burke

Production Operator | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member for over 11 years and work as a Production Operator at Kellogg's Botany Plant, where I serve as a Delegate and JCC member. I joined the union at my site for the protection of my rights, with the help of the delegate at the time. To me, being a union member means helping others, representing others and being more powerful together. We have very few non-members on site, across 4 rosters. Outside my worklife, I grew up a surf club boat racer around Stanwell Park and these days I'm a second Dan black belt in Tae Kwon Do. I'm a proud Wiradjuri woman.
Each negotiation the union makes a difference. Last year we lodged a Protected Action Ballot and won a resolution to our claims on the company pretty quickly as a result. I want to make sure people are aware this election that our union is out there, doing the right thing and making a difference. What we need these next few years is good communication and support for members. I'm approachable, open to questions and I'm transparent. I'll give you a straight answer!
I'm supporting United For You because we need strong, effective women leaders like Jo Schofield and Mel Gatfield in the Executive.

Pamela Paiti

Inbound Logistics Team Leader | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member for 10 years and work as a Team Leader (Inbound) at Bunzl Pemulwuy, where I serve as a Delegate. I joined the union to fight for my own rights and other workers' rights. Being a union member means standing up for workers, understanding what workers can get from the company, understanding company policies, industrial relations laws and rules, and educating other union members.
The union helped me to have my voice heard much stronger. I am standing to fight more for workers who are in NSW and support NSW leadership, making sure we are not dictated by Victorian leadership.
United For You fights for workers' rights and ensures members in NSW have strong local leadership and a real voice in our union.

David Ghanem

Process and Manufacturing Worker | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member for 7 years and work as a Process and Manufacturing Worker at Lactalis in Lidcombe, where I serve as a Delegate and HSR. I joined the union to make unity amongst all workers and fight against unfair systems at work. For me, union means I am not alone and our members are there to back me up.
United For You brings workers together and delivers the unity we need to keep winning for members. Achieving a great outcome on our EBA negotiations and improving conditions for sick leave showed me what we can do when we stand together. I am standing to support all members in a better way and continue our unity for big wins.

Tony Chao

Storeperson | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member for 26 years and work as a Storeperson at Officeworks North Rocks, where I serve as a Delegate. I am someone who since arriving to this country has always wanted to be a voice for the people. Without a strong voice people will not be looked after. I am someone who is always wanting to make sure that all voices are heard, even the quietest ones. I spend most of my days at work standing up to the bosses and making sure my members are represented. I have been a member of a union since the 80s and became a member of this union in 2000. I first joined because I believe in what the union can do for everyone. Without unions the bosses would do whatever they want without any accountability. Being a member means being a part of something that helps people, and seeing our collective power help people brings me joy. I am a family oriented man with my one son and an elderly mother who I look after and care deeply for.
Our last EBA at my site was fantastic. We have been building our power over the last 4 years and have built strong with a lot of union members and strong delegates. With this power we were able to negotiate and fight for the highest wage increases I had seen in my 26 years of working at my site. It was amazing, we won significantly and that brought joy to me seeing all of my members happy. I believe that our union needs to be a united union. It needs to be one where delegates can have confidence that our union leadership has our members' best interests at heart. I want our union to be responsible with members' money, to make sure that money is not spent wastefully but rather in a way that is in the best interests of members. I want our fellow members to see a union that grows and builds its power across all of the industries. I am always ready to have a member's back and fight with the bosses.
I want our union to be better and stronger. I want our union to be financially in a good position. I don't want wasteful spending. I want a union that is run for the members. I want a union that will stand up to the bosses and support its members. That is why I am supporting United For You.

Rohitesh Narayan

Storeperson | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member for 16 years and work as a Storeperson at Ingram Micro Eastern Creek, where I serve as a Delegate. I am the son of an immigrant who worked as a mechanic when he came to this country. My parents always instilled in me the necessity to support everyone's working rights. They also ingrained in me that without people fighting for rights for immigration we wouldn't be here, and there are always people who want to fight against that and we need to fight back. I have always since starting my working life been a member of my union because I know that without unions there is no rights. Everything we take for granted was fought for and won by the unions. Being a union member means standing up for each other's rights, it means helping each other fight for what we deserve. I am very active politically and I am always looking to push politicians and political parties for change. I am a father of two boys. I am from an immigrant family who is proud to be in this country and representing people in it.
I want to stand up for all members of this great union like I do for my members at my site. I want to be involved in making real change in the union to make sure our members keep on winning. I want to make sure our union is always fighting with a plan to win to help our members earn more money at their workplaces. If I achieve that, I will know I have done my job. I will always fight as hard as I can for members.
I have trust in everyone on this ticket. To see such experienced delegates, members and officials who all want to fight for our members and win big for our members, it is inspiring. United For You is the way that I can see my union become as strong as I know it can be.

Shahidul Islam

Processing Operator | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member since 2019 and work as a System Leader (Processing Operator) at Kellanova Botany Plant, where I serve as a Delegate. I joined the union to have a voice not only for myself, but for the people around me. I believe every worker deserves fairness, respect, and a safe workplace. Being part of the union allows us to stand together to secure better conditions for all Australians. To me, union membership means being part of a united voice. It means solidarity, strength, and collective action. When we stand together, we are stronger and more effective in protecting our rights and improving our workplaces. Outside of work, I enjoy travelling and learning about different communities and cultures. I am also involved in committee work within the community, contributing in meaningful ways to support and uplift others.
During our EBA negotiations, the union played a critical role in ensuring members' rights and claims were properly represented. The union supported and guided delegates to maintain strong pressure on management. Because of that collective effort, members' concerns were taken seriously, and we were able to secure important outcomes. It showed me firsthand how powerful we can be when we are organised and united. I am standing for election to ensure the union works for all members across all backgrounds. As someone from a multicultural background, I understand the importance of representation and inclusion. I want to make sure every member feels heard and valued, regardless of where they come from. This term, I want to focus on protecting and strengthening members' entitlements, including pushing for continued increases in superannuation contributions and improving overall working conditions. I am a fighter for members' rights. I am dedicated, committed, and prepared to stand firm to ensure fairness and justice for our members.
I am supporting United For You because I believe they have the knowledge, experience, and commitment to strengthen members' rights. I strongly believe they have both the capability and the genuine desire to deliver real outcomes for working people.

Anne-Marie Costello‍

Cleaner | Sydney South East

I work as a cleaner. I have always been in a union. Unions have been a part of my family history for generations. Being a union member means participating in an organisation to support cleaners on the ground to have a voice to improve wages and conditions. I grew up in Balmain and work in inner west Sydney. I come from a long time union family.
I have worked with the MRT and Organiser to reclaim money for unpaid allowances as well as recouping payment for an NDIS member who was bullied into doing extra hours and not being paid. I am standing to be a part of something that can deliver for members and to represent members to get involved and have a say. I want to achieve insourcing for the rest of school cleaners and build better comradery, connection and networking for cleaners to win on their issues.
United For You delivers for members and gives cleaners like me a real voice in our union.

Waritha ‘Ning’ Sothanaphaisan ‍

Cleaner | Sydney South East

I have been a UWU member for 8 years and work as a Cleaner at Ezko, where I serve as a Union Delegate. I first heard about the union through a family member who was part of the union. Once I started working, I noticed there were several issues in my workplace. Becoming a member of the union helped me find my voice and gave me the support I needed to speak up. To me, being a union member means there are people who stand by me and have my back. It's a good feeling knowing that if I ever have any issues or concerns at work, I have support. I love reading novels. My go-to is usually crime, but sometimes I enjoy a good romance too! I also enjoy watching anime and good movies, and I love going to concerts whenever I can. Outside of that, I spend time with family and friends and try to get involved in my community when possible.
I'm standing for election because I want to bring more power to our communities and be a voice for those who don't feel like they have one. I believe every worker deserves to be treated fairly, and I want to make sure our voices are heard and respected. I want to make sure every member feels heard, supported, and treated fairly at work. I want them to get fair pay and feel safe going to work. I always take the time to listen to members and hear their stories, and I do my best to understand their concerns and help find a way to support them.
I am supporting United For You because we share the same goal: we stand up for workers, make sure every member is heard, and want the best for everyone.

Stand with us. Endorse United For You in NSW.

Our candidates are ready to work for you. Now we need you standing with us.

By endorsing United For You, you're showing your support for a union that delivers real results. Higher wages. Better conditions. Support when you need it. No fee increases.

This is your union. Back the team that's backing you.

Add your name to endorse United For You in NSW.