Safety is at the heart of everything we do at BY Group, and Michael "Mick" Allison plays a key role in making that happen. As our Safety and Compliance Manager, Michael brings experience from the Australian Army and construction safety, along with a passion for mentoring junior Indigenous staff.
In this edition of BY Our People, we sat down with Michael to learn more about his background, what drew him to BY Group and how his love for rugby league continues to shape his leadership approach.
Mick, you have come into the construction industry with a unique breadth of experience. Can you outline your professional background and how that has helped you in the construction industry?
I spent 15 years in the Australian Regular Army where I was employed in a range of roles from training to operation management. After leaving the Army, I transitioned into a safety consultancy role, where I gained experience in construction, subcontractor management and WHS legislation. I then became a WHS Auditor, refining my expertise in workplace safety and compliance by auditing builders across Australia.
What specifically attracted you to join BY Group?
I think initially, it was the warm culture and welcoming staff that drew me in. Over time, as I grew into my role, I came to see BY Group as more than just a workplace - and like an extension of family. What I enjoy most now is watching our junior staff grow into skilled professionals.
Could you tell us about your Indigenous background and connections?
My Indigenous background is through connections from my father. I’m a proud Wangkumara and Kamilaroi man. My family are Morris and Knights from Bourke, NSW.
What has been your biggest highlight working for BY Group over the past few years, and what are you hoping to achieve in the future with By Group?
I think a highlight for me personally was the opportunity to provide training to our Solomon Islands partner, Hatanga. I delivered a General Construction Induction course to over 100 local Honiara Staff. Looking ahead, I want to continue driving our Reconciliation Action Plan and mentoring junior Indigenous staff as they progress in their construction careers.
What advice would you give someone currently working in another industry looking to move into the world of construction management?
I would say that there’s nothing quite like seeing a project go from concept to completion. Being part of that process is incredibly rewarding, and I’d encourage anyone considering the transition to go for it.
And finally, we hear you're the Head Coach of the Army Thunder rugby league team, can you give us an insight into your rugby career and what the sport means to you? 🏉
Rugby League has been a big part of my life since I was 6 years old, and playing the sport didn’t stop when I joined the Army at 17. Over the years, I was fortunate enough to play for various teams and clubs across different locations, thanks to the travel opportunities the Army provided. In 2018, I decided to transition into coaching when a position became available, and I have loved every moment since.
I have also been a part of the Australian Defence Force Rugby League as a coach and trainer internationally. In my current Army reservist role, I get to travel throughout the Pacific, delivering sports trainer courses in partnership with the NRL and other sporting codes.
Mick Allison bottom right!
We also have a great sporting culture amongst the staff at BY Group, which makes it even more enjoyable to be part of the team.
Connect with Mick on LinkedIn!
If you’d like to learn more about BY Group and our construction experience, capability and approach, please get in touch to discuss your next project and how we can help.