Thursday, 16 November 2023

Frank Argondizzo

Lily D’AMBROSIO (Mill Park – Minister for Climate Action, Minister for Energy and Resources, Minister for the State Electricity Commission) (09:45): I rise today to speak about the late Frank Argondizzo, a fighter in the union and labour movements. Frank was born on 7 July 1948 in Mongrassano, Cosenza, Italy. In his early life he was dedicated to working hard to become a qualified mechanic. He was often referred to as Big Frank to be distinguished from his younger brother Little Frank. At the age of 19 Frank migrated to Australia on his own and lived with his uncle Roger and aunty Richetta. A year later his mother and father, younger brother Francesco and younger sister Lidia joined him in Australia. Frank’s industrious nature saw him immediately start work in a mechanical workshop in Coburg, until 1970, when he decided to take a job on the assembly line at Ford Motor Company in Broadmeadows. This was the place where Frank really made his mark and excelled at helping others in the workforce. He fought relentlessly for better conditions and pay for the workforce at Ford. As a leader in the vehicle builders union, he was heavily involved in the 1973 and later as shop steward in the 1981 Ford Broadmeadows strikes. These strikes were crucial to winning substantial pay increases and forced management to treat Ford workers, predominantly migrant workers, with basic respect. Frank was not just a staunch unionist and supporter of those in need but an excellent cook as well, being well known for his excellent pastas and pizzas. To his family, his loved ones and his friends I offer my deepest condolences. Vale, Frank Argondizzo.