1920s
Construction begins on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and QANTAS is founded
1920s
Led by MTEA and its President, John Heine, the award conditions and job classifications in the metal industry undergo significant reform to bring them in line with emerging manufacturing practices of mechanisation, electrification and the move from artisan-based to assembly line production. The new conditions and classifications are included in the Metal Trades Award 1930 after two years of hearings.
1921
Mondelēz joins the association. It grows into an international powerhouse and becomes one of the largest food manufacturers in Australia, with a portfolio of iconic brands including Cadbury, The Natural Confectionery Co., Pascall, Philadelphia and OREO.
Years as a Member
1922
ITEA changes its name to the Metal Trades Employers' Association (MTEA). Membership is welcomed from all organisations that employ workers from the metal trades, excluding those involved in general metal industry manufacturing. Potential members have to be nominated by two financial members of the organisation and then approved by the organisation’s council. Organisations join MTEA primarily for the economic advantages of collective over individual representation. While industrial issues pervade much of the association’s time, the organisation is active in technical education and the Standards Association and maintains an interest in issues of labour supply.