Historical information

The Union commenced as the Australian Tramway Employees Association in 1910. Changed its name in 1934 to the "Aust Tramway & Motor Omnibus Employees Association" so as to incorporate bus drivers of motor omnibuses. Union members were issued with badges to indicate their membership. They were permitted to be worn on their uniforms.
See item 5943 for another example. Wearing of Union badges in Brisbane Tramways was a major source of industrial action in 2012 - see "One American too many" by David Burke, published 2012 by the Queensland Museum.

Significance

Demonstrates a badge issued to members of the ATEA

Physical description

Badge - Australian Tramway Employees Association (Tramways Union) badge. Badge made on a brass backing with words "Australian Tramway Employees Association" on outer edge of badge with a royal blue enamel background. In centre of badge has the Australian coat of arms with a railway type spoke wheel above the logo and underneath the coat of arms the words "Federated Australia" in a banner.