1950s
Television is launched in Australia and construction begins on the Sydney Opera House
1950
Simons Boilers joins MTEA. From humble beginnings producing small steam boilers and irons for the garment industry, the company has grown to become a leading supplier of steam boilers, hot water heaters, steam humidifiers, air compressors and garment pressing machinery throughout Australia.
Years as a Member
1956
In its Boilermakers decision, the High Court of Australia decides that courts exercising judicial powers cannot also exercise arbitration powers. It also decides that industrial tribunals cannot exercise judicial powers such as imposing penalties for breaches of awards. MTEA runs the case on behalf of a member company seeking penalties against a union after it had been subjected to industrial action in breach of an award. Following the High Court’s decision, the former role of the Commonwealth Court of Conciliation and Arbitration was separated into the Australian Conciliation and Arbitration Commission and the Commonwealth Industrial Court. The Boilermakers decision remains a key authority on the doctrine of the Separation of Powers in Australia.
1958
Future CEO Bert Evans joins MTEA as an Industrial Officer. His job also involves signing up new members.
1958
MTEA moves out of rented premises in Sydney to its own newly erected building on the corner of Walker and Mount streets, North Sydney. The building is officially opened by Prime Minister Robert Menzies.
