Independent Retailer Magazine I December 2019

Issue

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DECEMBER 2019

Revolution in Shopping hits Keysborough

YOUR INDUSTRY NEWS PROVIDED BY MGA INDEPENDENT RETAILERS

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OUR MISSION The mission of MGA Independent Retailers is to deliver the best possible industry specific business support services to independent grocery, liquor, hardware and associate store members.

Contents 5

CEO welcome

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MGA Industry Breakfast

Explosion of fresh food - Revolution in shopping hits 8

M GA NATIONAL SUPPORT OFFICE Suite 5, 1 Milton Parade, Malvern, Victoria, 3144 P: 03 9824 4111 • F: 03 9824 4022 admin@mga.asn.au • www.mga.asn.au Freecall: 1800 888 479

RETAILER DIRECTORS Debbie Smith (President): Queensland Grant Hinchcliffe (Vice President): Tasmania Graeme Gough: New South Wales Michael Daly: Victoria Ross Anile: Western Australia Carmel Goldsmith: New South Wales Chris dos Santos: South Australia Lincoln Wymer: Victoria Jeff Harper: Victoria

MGA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Jos de Bruin 03 9824 4111 E: jos.debruin@mga.asn.au

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIP & MEDIA SALES Mark Paladino 0417 264 331 E: mark.paladino@mga.asn.au

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Cindi Damian E: cindi@mga.asn.au

FOLLOW US ONLINE www.facebook.com/ MGAIndependentRetailers www.linkedin.com/company/ mga-independent-retailers www.twitter.com/ MasterGrocers

Keysborough 10 Enjoying the Staff Christmas Celebrations 11 Managers aren’t covered by the Award 13 2020 Annual Wage Review Update 14 Foodworks Expo a huge success 16 Wage theft or genuine error 18 Employing backpackers from overseas 19 Queensland Government introduces a Christmas Eve Public Holiday from 6.00 pm 20 Single Touch Payroll System 23 WA Christmas Trading Hours 23 Members meet Ministers 24 Marketing 101 26 The Great Grape Escape 27 South Australian Packaged Liquor Licensing becomes a reality 27 IGA Creswick meets Louise Staley 28 Goldilocks and the 3 Bears 29 Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia (COSBOA) 29 MGA WA Director Ross Anile meets with Leader of the WA Opposition Hon Liza Harvey MLA. 31 IGA Hawthorn diverts tonnes of rubbish from landfill 32 Merry Christmas and be food safe 36 MGA TMA Timber Industry Luncheon 39 Global trade is the norm for this Aussie nut farmer 40 Edgemill Group continues to go from strength to strength in China 41 ABS September Figures Shows Retail Consumer Spending Slowed 41 NSW Packaged Liquor Licence Compliance Check- List 42 New changes restrict liquor barns to address community concerns 42 Michael Clarke to retire from TWE 43 No more paper. We’re moving to digital 43 Are you prepared for SCHOOLIES!

MGA Corporate Partners DIAMOND

CEO REPORT

CEO Welcome In our very last “Festive Season” edition of the Independent Retailer magazine for calendar year 2019, on behalf of MGA’s Board of Directors, MGA’s National Liquor Committee, MGA TMA’s Management Committee and staff, I wish to acknowledge the very many communities and families around Australia who have been affected so deeply by severe drought and catastrophic fire conditions. Record high temperatures and dry conditions around australia have exacerbated the drought and fueled unprecedented disastrous fire conditions never seen before.

PLATINUM

These conditions, particularly in the regional areas, have impacted the land, rendering farmers helpless as they see their crops and livestock disappear in front of their eyes. Towns are devastated as money dries up further increasing the risk of town people losing their jobs.

GOLD

SILVER

MGA members are often the hubs of the communities they trade-in and offer their communities far more than just groceries and household needs. Our members support their community organisations in a myriad of ways, and they need to be congratulated for that.

been analysed, a university Economics Professor will write an economic report interpreting the facts and evidence and the impacts a further wage increase in 2020 will have on the viability of members businesses and their ability to employ or retain staff.

MGA congratulates the Federal and State Governments, local councils and all the community organisations for assisting our fellow Australians who are in great need for unconditional social and economic support during these tough times!

The Annual wage Review is to be lodged with the FWC in March 2020. We thank all members who gave up their time to fill this vital survey out and will keep members informed of our progress.

The festive season is rapidly approaching. Members around Australia will have ordered their Christmas stocks some time ago and have received delivery of them in preparation for the strong weeks of trading ahead. MGA wishes all members are robust and strong trading period following what has been a very flat year of trading.

BRONZE

MGA’s Industrial Relations Project was launched in midOctober. It required all MGA members to fill out a specific survey that was linked to their stores. The questions within the survey were very specific, requiring answers that will enable MGA to develop a strong and compelling Annual Wage Review for the Fair Work Commission (FWC). The first phase of this project finished on the 19th of November. The surveys returned were confidential and are being analysed

by MGA’s research partner, Factuality. Once the data has

ASSOCIATE

WAREHOUSE AND BRAND PARTNERS tasmanian independent retailers

On behalf of MGA’s Board of Directors, MGA’s National Liquor Committee, MGA TMA’s Management Committee and staff, I would like to extend our very best wishes to all members for the festive season. I sincerely hope that you will find time to take time out, relax with family and enjoy the holiday season.

Until next edition – Best Wishes!

Jos de Bruin CEO MGA Independent Retailers

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MGA Industry Business Breakfast and AGM Rod Allen with the MGA Board in Western Australia in 2018.

“Innovation and Technology” driving the future of independent retailers On Wednesday 20th November the MGA Industry Business breakfast and AGM was held at Leonda receptions in Hawthorn.

MGA’s Members, Corporate Partners & Industry stakeholders gathered over breakfast to catch up with fellow retailers and listen to 3 Keynote speakers address – “Innovation and Technology” driving the future of independent retailers

The 2019 Member’s AGM was held with a strong quorum that re-elected current Board members – Debbie Smith, Jeff Harper & Ross Anile for a further term.

Immediately following the Member’s AGM, The Business breakfast was attended by special guests Barbara Cullen – Executive Director of Small Business – Victoria, Judy O’Connell – Victorian Small Business Commissioner.

Along with Key Industry stakeholders - Jeremy Goodale – General Manager ALM Vic/Tas, John Morris – General Manager Metcash Vic, Fred Harrison – CEO Ritchies, Mal Cameron – Ritchies, Kym Coventry – Chief Operating Officer – Foodworks, Brad Slater – Head of Technology – Foodworks,

Steve Baranowski General Manager of Friendly Grocer, Terry Stehbens – Chair of Friendly Grocer, fellow Friendly Grocer board members travelling to Melbourne to join us. Also represented was MGA President and Board of Directors, Michael Reddrop MD Reddrop Group & MGA National Liquor Committee.

• Jos de Bruin – CEO of MGA provided

an update on the 2018-2019 Financial Year and major projects undertaken

by MGA, including the National IR Reform Wage Review survey. Jos also presented insights from the Trade mission to Israel that MGA attended and was sponsored by MGA’s Corporate Partner – NAB.

• Simon Corah from Growth Mantra

talked about, innovation, global presence and speed of change.

‘Experience Trumps Everything’ with our digital connection growing and the ease of online shopping now more commonplace, becoming an everyday transaction. An insight into what is happening now with automation, robotics, increasing privacy concerns and cybersecurity and what the future look likes in this space.

Kym Coventry, Brad Slater Foodworks; Mal Cameron Ritchies; & Wayne Sargeant Philip Morris

Tony Bongiovanni,Kyle Petrie and Paul Rathbone

Lincoln Wymer and Jared Bridgart Reddrop Group.

• Max Haas CEO of Aussie NRG, spoke

about ‘Waste to Energy’, ways to effectively manage current waste – Organic, Plastic & Cardboard. In most cases, Retailers are charged for removal, adding tens of thousandsof dollars to the cost of doing business annually. Trials are underway within some Victorian sites; Grocery & Timber and early results have indicated that reductions of 50% are achievable almost immediately.

This does require employee support through workflow process changes.

MGA will continue to keep members informed as we understand how this can save members this additional cost each year. Additionally, reductions in CO2/Greenhouse Gas, Fuel required for waste transport and Methane Gas, help the environment.

Jac Simic and Maz Rizk Friendly Grocer

David Hounsome Edgemill and Paul Everard PFD

• Brien McDonald – Senior Economist

from NAB, detailed the economic outlook for retail and in layman’s terms, some compelling insights into the economic performance and health of the Australian economy.

MGA’s valued Corporate Partners who joined the

Simon Corah from Growth Mantra presenting

Andrew Spark Gembrook IGA, Murray Gniel Metcash and John Gay Stone Group

Annual Industry Business Breakfast including;

mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

Directors Jeff Harper, Carmel Goldsmith and Ross Anile

George Kovits MGA, Paul Crutchfield Ritchiesand Nick Cook Foodworks

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Michael Lorenz said: “Never before in Melbourne have customers been able to sit down and enjoy craft beer on tap, barista-made coffee and fresh pizza cooked in the pizza oven instore, all while doing their weekly shop!

“We are so happy to be opening the new store, and there really is something here for everyone,” said Michael. “Our mission is to deliver the best shopping experience with great service, the best fresh food, the largest range and competitive pricing.

We are excited to become part of this great community and can’t wait to meet the locals, so come down and say hi!”

“Our in-store range is filled with old favourites, new products, IGA branded lock down lines, gourmet foods and exclusive lines not seen elsewhere.

We’re extremely proud to be using Victorian producers and suppliers in store and to be able to pay tribute to the market garden history of the Keysborough area.”

MICHAEL’S FRESH FOOD MARKET KEYSBOROUGH IS LOCATED AT HOME CO RETAIL CENTRE, CORNER OF SPRINGVALE ROAD AND CHELTENHAM ROAD KEYSBOROUGH

donated over $1.5 million to over 60 community groups including schools, hospitals, sporting and service clubs.

Explosion of Fresh Foods!

Michael’s Fresh Food Market to revolutionalise the shopping experience in KEYSBOROUGH Keysborough locals were wowed when Michael Lorenz opened the doors of Michael’s Fresh Food Market Keysborough on Wednesday 4th December.

The first of its kind in Melbourne, the new 3,200sqm store will offer a state-ofthe-art shopping experience including a sushi bar, florist, bulk spices, nuts and confectionary, delicatessen, fromagerie, fresh food hall with a butcher, baker and fishmonger serving fresh local cuts and produce and a fully licensed café serving light meals, A traditional Butcher shop. Customers can chat to expert Butchers over the counter and order specifically what they want.

• Conventional meat self-service area for the ‘time-poor shopper’.

• An ‘Ageing Room’ hanging the top end beef range, salt walls and all!

• Aged meats are ready for sale where the team will pack the product sold from the aged room itself.

• Fromagerie Station with a cheese

specialist who will cut and pack an assortment of cheese for customers.

• A Mega Bulk Food area that will have bulk spices,legumes, confectionary, and nuts.

• A Florist with ready to buy bouquets or custom ordered arrangements.

• Delighting shoppers ‘In the Fresh Food

Hall’ is a commercial kitchen (with a fully qualified Chef) inclusive of a pizza oven and flat bread maker. Customers can order and takeaway or sit down in the fully licensed café serving light meals, Melbourne style coffee and craft beer on tap, in-between shopping.

• The Grocery Department will have an extensive competitively priced offering of 1,000’s of products not carried by competitors.

• A wide Specialty range

of Gluten-Free, Vegan products and Certified Organic range of fresh produce for customers to choose from.

• The Dairy case and Frozen Food section will have a vast range of products all running in state-of-the-

Brad Rowswell Member for Sandringham, Michael & Rosie Lorenz mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

art carbon footprint friendly display stands.

• Along with offering a Home Delivery

service, an On-Line shopping service will be available.

Michael Lorenz has operated awardwinning supermarkets in the South Gippsland area for over 20 years, providing fresh food, low prices and an ongoing commitment to his store’s local communities. To date, his stores have

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Enjoying the Staff Christmas Celebrations A reminder for 2019 Each year we remind members about you and your staff enjoying your Christmas celebrations.

After Christmas, we always hear of misbehaviour happening at Christmas celebrations, which should be happy and enjoyable occasions. Although most partygoers are able to enjoy themselves and celebrate the end of the year, unfortunately, there are some incidents of misbehaviour. Even when there are functions that are “off site” the employer remains responsible for the well-being and safety of their employees during these celebrations.

It is essential to make sure that employees abide by appropriate standards of behaviour and safety in order to avoid any employer liability in case things go wrong.

Here are some tips to assist employers in managing the Christmas celebrations:

• Tell your employees, in writing, that you want everyone

to have a good time and that you expect them to behave responsibly. Warn employees that they should exercise caution regarding the consumption of alcohol. Consider making cab vouchers available for staff to get home from the party or call for volunteer drivers amongst staff who don’t drink alcohol.

• Do not allow anyone from your Company to serve alcohol to

staff, and advise bartenders not to serve anyone who appears intoxicated.

Sexual harassment is one of the most common problems that arise out of the staff Christmas party. If an incident of sexual harassment occurs whether at the worksite or off site if it is work-related, then the employer can be held responsible. Make sure that a copy of the company policy on sexual harassment is well-known to all employees.

• Make sure there are plenty of soft drinks available and make

Overindulgence in alcohol is generally the cause of Christmas workplace problems. Sometimes disagreements occur due to excessive drinking, and they have been known to end up in physical fights.

• If there are juniors present, make sure they have their

sure that food is served.

• Do not make the function compulsory, and don’t insist that

staff have an alcoholic drink as part of their “networking obligations”. This could be seen as part of the job requirements, and the employer may be liable if there is any accident on the way home. parents’ permission to be there and ensure that they do not consume alcohol.

It is best to send out a written advice to your staff encouraging everyone to have a good time but to take all precautions to make sure there are no unfortunate incidents.

“Managers aren’t covered by the Award” – the Common Misconception in the Retail Industry.

The recent publicity about the underpayment of salaried managers, in a major retail store, costing $300 million, could easily occur in any business where “salaried staff” are paid as “award free employees”.

There are numerous benefits of salary arrangements including assisting payroll’s predictability by having a fixed amount paid every cycle, budgeting and financial management, avoiding having to calculate complex pay rates in accordance with the General Retail Industry Award 2010 (GRA) or Enterprise Bargaining Agreement for each pay period..

contract period. That means annual salary figures should not be left to the business to merely choose and hope that it sounds appropriate.

Although advantageous in many respects, pitfalls can also arise, which include wage claims that can date back to six years.

• ordinary hours; • after hours (after 6pm); • overtime; • weekends; • public holidays; • any applicable allowances; • leave loading; • superannuation; and • any additional payment over the GRA to ensure that the annual salary remains consistent, or to cover additional hours worked beyond the agreement.

For example, managers are covered by the GRA (and possibly Enterprise Bargaining Agreements). Under the GRA, managers may be classified within levels 4 to 8, based on their duties and responsibilities.

Essentially, an annual salary figure must include all entitlements and payments that an employee will be receiving during a year. It must ensure that the employee is not receiving less, or the employee would then be underpaid for the duration of the

mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

AN EXAMPLE, ANNUAL SALARY UNDER THE GRA MUST INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING PER WEEK, WHERE APPLICABLE:

Annual salaries/management conditions should first be discussed with the employee(s) in question before they are formally drawn up.

Please contact MGA for a copy of an annual salary/management contract.

We can assist by advising you about the appropriate classification and applicable rate of pay for your employee. MGA can also help you to review any current annual salary arrangements in place that relate to other retail employees.

After every financial year, the annual salary figure must be cross-referenced with the GRA or Enterprise Bargaining Agreement and National Employment Standards, to ensure that the remuneration and entitlements are at the same or higher level than the applicable instrument.

For further advice tailored to your needs, please do not hesitate to contact

MGA’s Legal and Industrial Resources team on

1800 888 479 (option 1)

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NATIONAL

2020 Annual Wage Review Survey Recap

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mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

IR Reform Wage Review Survey MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD AND COUNTED

Over the past three years, wage increases awarded by the Fair Work Commission (FWC) Wages Panel were 3% or more each year, which had a real and debilitating cost impact on independent retailers around Australia, with a combined wage cost increase of $450 million. These increases are unwarranted, particularly at a time of little to no sales growth, increasing competition, rising costs and shrinking margins.

In May 2019, the FWC Wages Panel stated that “there was no compelling evidence to suggest an increase of 3% would create any employer hardship or have a negative impact on employment or health of businesses”. MGA questions the validity of the recent decisions by the FWC. If the wage increases continue on the same trajectory, MGA members will struggle to maintain their businesses. Based on the current annual wages, the retail sector is a $5.6 billion industry. In the coming year, if another 3.5% increase is awarded, then an approximate rise of $196,368,421 is anticipated.

Following the wage decision in 2019, MGA embarked upon a vital industry project to assist its members in keeping any further significant wage increases to a minimum. Through a National Committee, consisting of MGA and a number of independent retailers, a decision was made to collaborate with a third-party industry research partner, Factuality, to establish a series of comprehensive questions in an online survey format for its members. In October 2019, the survey was circulated by email with a specific link, asking members to provide facts, evidence and data around the impacts of increased wage costs on their businesses.

MGA received a strong engagement from its members, whereby 316 surveys were successfully completed. MGA sincerely appreciates those members that have taken the time and effort to submit their surveys. Each survey received will add credibility to dispel the myths that independent retailers can “continue affording these increases” and that there is “no wages growth”.

The findings will now be analysed by Factuality and reported back to MGA for discussion. Such findings will be relayed to Dr Phil Lewis, who is an Economics Professor and Director of the Centre for Labour Market Research from the University of Canberra. Dr Lewis will compose a report, which will be vital to help MGA form a collective industry view and deliver a compelling case to the FWC Wages Panel, alongside its comprehensive submission in March 2020.

During the next few months, MGA will continue to provide regular updates to members keeping them informed of MGA’s progress with the project.

Wage increases must be kept to a minimum in 2020 in order for independent retailers to survive.

If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact one of our specialist team: Marie Brown | MGA National Legal Counsel David Mostokly | MGA Legal and HR Services Lawyer Jos de Bruin | CEO | MGA Independent Retailers (03) 9824 4111 (option 1)

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TASMANIA

FoodWorks Conference and Expo a huge success The AUR Foodworks National Conference was held in Hobart Tasmania between the 21st and 24th of October 2019. It was a huge success with over 300 retailers and their families and staff in attendance along with more than 250 of their suppliers and industry friends.

The nature of the Conference and Expo was relaxed and businesslike with plenty of opportunities to network, learn of new ideas and explore the possibilities of innovation for their businesses.

Beginning with a welcome dinner at the iconic and famous Mona Gallery, the Conference consisted of a variety of informative presentations from AUR FoodWorks management as well as from guest speakers.

Speakers including; super motivator Chris Header – ‘never has there been a better time in the world to face issues..’, and Mark McCrindle, a social researcher and demographer specializing in determining social and economic trends.

Rick Wight, AUR FoodWorks CEO set the scene from his opening address at the Conference by stating that the purpose of the Conference and Expo was for all retailers to get together to network and share ideas. To avail themselves to the professional development opportunities available during the Conference and to visit the Expo and to “do a deal” with eager supplier partners.

All retailers, families and staff were very keen and certainly did interact and get involved.

MGA also made a brief presentation articulating the need for members to contact MGA for all members employment law an Industrial Relations advice and information.

MGA also announced the launch of the biggest Industrial Relations and research and survey project in its history. MGA strongly encouraged all retailers to fill in the survey to assist MGA to gather facts, evidence and data toward developing a compelling Annual Wage Review submission for the FWC.

Koxka Refridgeration Stand

provided ample display space and room for networking and for retailers to attend a variety of professional development sessions.

The Gala Store Excellence Awards, held in the Wrest Point Tasman Ballroom was attended by over 600 retailers, their families and staff and suppliers. A glittering evening of many department and individual recognition awards culminating in the Foodworks store of the year being announced.

Leigh and Jenni Randall

Hamish Gadsby and Joseph Eid

The final evening of the Conference was a “Party” Night – held at the Willie Smith Apple Shed, which was a terrific venue in providing a very relaxing and entertaining evening with friends.

The management and staff of AUR FoodWorks are to be congratulated for organizing a robust, informative and engaging 2019 National Conference and Expo in Hobart Tasmania!

The Expo with over 150 supplier exhibitors was located at Princes Wharf near Constitution Dock. It is a very impressive location that

Michael Potenza from Brown Family Wines Brett Greenough, Joseph Cannatelli and Geoff Davis JC’s Quality Foods

mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

Jodie Bertrand: Apollo Bay Foodworks and the team from NAB

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Wage theft or genuine error which is it?

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The “parochial views of many Australians” may be a stumbling block in the Kaufland battle plan to succeed in the local grocery sector.

One of the greatest responsibilities of any employer is to pay wages correctly, and on time. Employees work at their jobs for many reasons including job satisfaction, personal and family needs, companionship, brain stimulation and last, but not least, for remuneration. Whatever the reason might the adage of, “a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work” should apply to all workplaces. Every employee has the right to expect the employer to pay the correct wages for their services according to their contract or to the award, if one applies to their employment.

All too often we hear of employees not being paid the correct wage rate or not being paid overtime or penalties and the employer, when, or if, caught faces a massive wage claim. Failure to pay correct wages happens all too often, particularly with vulnerable workers who hopefully are eventually paid all their lost entitlements when the underpayment is revealed.

Then there are situations where an employer inadvertently pays the wrong wage rate to an employee by not adding on the correct penalty rate. This can mount up to a sizeable sum if it happens over months or years. The question often arises whether the actions of the employer were really intended to deprive the employee of their rights or is it a genuine mistake or is it just sheer carelessness? Other more serious queries then develop such as, if proven, should the failure to pay correctly be a civil offence or is it a crime?

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There have been several alarming examples in recent years of situations where employees have been exploited in their workplaces. These cases have revealed non- payment of large sums of money, in some cases totalling millions of dollars which have often been repaid with employers admitting their wrongdoing.

Invariably they have claimed that their actions were unintentional. The publicity around these cases has finally caught the attention of the Federal Parliament. The Attorney General is seriously considering criminalising what has been determined as “wage theft’ by some Australian employers. Wage theft may be described as the deliberate denial of an employee’s legal right to the correct monetary entitlement for services rendered to an employer.

However, there must be room for error when calculating wages. For an underpayment of wages to be categorised as a criminal offence and become subject to a lengthy prison term, there would have to be rigorous scrutiny of the payroll system. An investigation would have to show proof of a deliberate act by the employer to deny an employee their entitlements. n Our award system is not simple, award clauses that carry additional payments have become complex, and mistakes can easily and unintentionally be made.

An employer with a sterling record of employing staff correctly could be forgiven for making an error, in contrast to one who repeatedly breaches the correct payment process.

A ripple of concern had recently flowed through the retail industry when it was revealed that Woolworths had made a massive error in its wages calculations for some staff, causing other retailers to consider were they themselves ‘squeaky clean’? This is a justifiable reaction that makes an entire industry think about this very serious issue. There is no doubt that errors such as these can be rectified, although it could be a very expensive exercise. However, prompt reaction is generally an indicator of any lack of intent to deprive an employee of their entitlements and the fact that many other retailers have rushed to check their payroll records reflects their concerns and their wish to be compliant. Although it is unlikely that there have been numerous errors in many payroll systems there is no harm in checking- just to be sure!

For further advice tailored to your needs, please do not hesitate to contact:

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1800 888 479 (option 1)

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QUEENSLAND

Employing backpackers from overseas There is a common misconception that foreign workers are a source of inexpensive labour; however Australia’s employment laws apply to foreign workers and backpackers just as they do to Australian citizens or residents.

If a backpacker holds the correct visa with appropriate conditions, then they have the right to work while they are in Australia. However, as an employer, it is prudent to ensure that a potential backpacker employee does, in fact, have the right to work in Australia. You need to know how long that right will last. This means evidence of the appropriate visa and a tax file number.

TYPES OF VISAS There are two types of visas that are most common among backpackers.

The first is the 462 - Work and Holiday visa and the second is the 417 - Working Holiday visa. Both visas are for persons aged between 18 and thirty. Both the 462 and 417 are temporary visas for young people who want to holiday and work in Australia for up to a year. However, the 417 visa can be renewed for a further year, subject to conditions being met.

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VISA CONDITIONS Both the 462 and 417 visas allow backpackers to stay in Australia for up to 12 months. A backpacker may work in Australia, generally, for up to six months with each employer, study for up to four months then leave and re-enter Australia.

This may happen any number of times while the visa is valid. However, the 462 visa additionally allows for backpackers to apply for a second and third visa provided certain conditions are met.

ENTITLEMENTS Overseas backpackers working legally are entitled to wages and benefits as though they were Australian citizens. These benefits include the employer paying in accordance with the relevant Modern Award and paying superannuation into a complying fund if the backpacker earns more than $450 per month. The employer is required to withhold tax according to the Australian Taxation Office’s schedules, provide the benefits of the National Employment Standards and afford protection under workplace health and safety laws.

PENALTIES FOR ALLOWING A PERSON TO WORK ILLEGALLY There are significant penalties for allowing a person to work illegally, which involve both monetary fines and/ or imprisonment. People found to be working in breach of their visa conditions may have their visa cancelled and will be deported.

As an employer, you must take care to ensure backpacker employees have a legal right work in Australia and that you are abiding by employment laws and regulations. The best practice to adopt is to assume that overseas backpackers have the same rights as residents or citizens. It is good practice to document all decisions you make concerning your business.

For further information contact MGA’s Industrial & Legal Team on 03 9824 4111 (Line 1)

Queensland Government introduces a Christmas Eve Public Holiday from 6.00 pm Earlier this year the Queensland Government proposed to introduce a Public Holiday on Christmas Eve effective from 6.00 pm. This initiative was clearly viewed by MGA and its members as “anti-business”, adding approximately $900,000 in wages costs just to stay open till 9.00 pm.

MGA has engaged with the Minister for Industrial Relations Hon Grace Grace and voiced our grave concerns on behalf of members. This proposal will either cause MGA members to close their businesses early or significantly cut back staff hours resulting in further driving underemployment

in Queensland. MGA also lodged a detailed submission comprising strong and legitimate reasons why this proposal should not go ahead.

Below is a sincere and heartfelt letter from an MGA member sent to Minister Grace Grace articulating the impact this proposal will have on his business, his family and employment in his store. It is a compelling plea to the Minister not to introduce this archaic union driven anti-business initiative.

MGA will keep members informed as news arises regarding this proposal.

To: M ini ster Grac Indu e Gra stria ce Hello l Rel ation Mini s ster, I’m writ i n g to Suns you hine as a Coas Alre sma t to v ady ll bu o s i taff ce m will sines have y con be fo s ow a cern r n op ced t ner proh and tion of a o wo ibiti s tron t r sma o ve an k my w g rej o rk or self a The d un ectio ll superm impa nece n n o addi n of t ssar ct of 60 tiona t, and a he pr arket on y. + yea on my st s l opo a the 3 t or 4 a rs re per n hour otal casu sed chan lies o ff will al ight s g s a n e as th o l wo depe to pa rksit . e ad ndin her week be great y her ditio e, I as m g on ly pa an a argu n her e y sen al co y how ddit men xac ior n st is ev iona t for ight l $30 t hours, b er she w qual The s u p o addi ut no ity o ervis uld n per h f life tio or a w sh r for get a for s e wil ormally wom t noth nal cost h i t s g l a en e g s ff f t h e e o r t $80 i i r is an ft. So s los $ 10 tim m 0 y a or $9 t as t sma othe s I ca , in e es th 0 l r cos h l n s e store at a n s y los t we Fina e mo ence, you ot afford wou can n mount t lly w l n d r pro ey. o cov be ap eo ot aff rate pose er th prox ord. s of p pen on X d e m $ c a o 4 y a st of 00 a few s day with wag $ out q 5 to se hour 0 0 an es, so rve o uest s PH d dIw as a ur co ion, ays i to help o on’t s a m m n all b n m u d the t and unre whic u n u i t s s alist y i h t ness , and ea aff a we in ic for re we p cur t rn some I am sma ay fu extra supporti hese ll bu l alrea l pub ve an high mon sines lic work dy w er co d ha s. orkin at 3a sts, b ey, so we ppy t holiday g 15 m on work o u a t work l read to ad to 17 Xma unti y ha for d an hour l 10p s v d e othe ay, s s per sever I wo m an r o uld l 1 a s d d / houl 2 da ay o be ba ove t y is j l d yo ver t time ck 5 o dis ur p ust his t to do h o c r u u i o ss th me, rs la so. and

ter. M posal ge is in Sinc I’ll b t up, pers erry erely on w e ba I wil Xma

ck a , ith y l s Sma e i t t t o o h m u e ll Bu r clo shou e and

sines s l e or d Suns m y y o s f u O amil hine have y!

Coas wner the d t esire and

20

LEGAL AND HR

LEGAL AND HR

21

NATIONAL

Single Touch Payroll Do you know what it is?

Single Touch Payroll (STP) - is a new way of reporting tax and superannuation information to the Australian Tax Office (ATO).

Members should already know that with STP you report employees’ payroll information – such as salaries and wages, pay as you go (PAYG) withholding and superannuation – to the ATO each time you pay them through STP enabled software.

When and how you report depends on what type of employer you are:

• Small employers with 19 or less

employees – STP reporting started from 1 July 2019.

• Large employers with 20 or more

employees – you should already be reporting through STP.

It’s not too late to get started. There are three pathways to start STP reporting.

Depending on your circumstances, you either need to.

WHAT IS STP? STP works by sending tax and super information from your STP-enabled payroll or accounting software to the ATO as you run your payroll.

You will:

• run your payroll • pay your employees as normal • give them a payslip.

The employer reporting guidelines contains a full list of payments that must be reported through STP.

• Option one: Report through existing

ATO systems will match the STP information to our employer and employee records.

• Option four: Ask a third party to report

If your employees have a myGov account linked to ATO online services, they will be able to see their year-to-date tax and super information in their Income statement. Their data is updated every time you report. For most employers, this will be each payday.

At the end of the financial year, you’ll need to finalise your STP data. This means you are making a declaration that you have completed your reporting for the financial year.

Your pay cycle does not need to change.

You can continue to pay your employees weekly, fortnightly or monthly.

Your STP-enabled payroll software will send the ATO a report which includes the information they need from you, such as:

You won’t need to provide the ATO with a payment summary annual report for the payments you report through STP.

• pay as you go (PAYG) withholding • super liability information.

You can send STP data to the ATO in one of the following ways:

Super funds will also be reporting to the ATO. They’ll let the ATO know when you make the super payment to your employees’ chosen or default fund. This is an important step toward making sure employees are paid their correct entitlements.

Once you finalise your data, your employees’ Income statement in ATO online services will be marked as ‘Tax ready’. They, or their registered agent, will use the Income statement to lodge their tax return.

• salaries and wages

HOW TO REPORT

If you currently lodge an activity statement, you will continue to do so.

payroll or accounting solution

• Option two: Choose STP-enabled payroll software

• Option three: Choose a no-cost or lowcost solution (for employers with 1–4 employees) for you.

How you send STP information to the ATO depends on the software you use.

There are three types of solutions. After you run your payroll you can either send the STP information:

OPTION ONE: REPORT THROUGH EXISTING PAYROLL OR ACCOUNTING SOLUTION You can report from your existing payroll or accounting software if it is STPenabled.

Next steps:

OPTION FOUR: ASK A THIRD PARTY TO REPORT FOR YOU

Next steps:

• Talk to your registered tax or BAS

agent to find out which payroll software product would best suit your business needs

• Look at the STP product register on the ATO website to find STP softwareExternal Link.

• Talk to your software provider to find

OPTION THREE: CHOOSE A NOCOST OR LOW-COST SOLUTION

• • Read the ATO’s Get Ready and Start

Employers with 1–4 employees are eligible to use the no-cost or low-cost solutions the ATO has asked software developers to build. These solutions should cost $10 per month or less.

out what they offer and what you need to do reporting checklists

OPTION TWO: CHOOSE STPENABLED PAYROLL SOFTWARE If you don’t currently use payroll software, or your current payroll software hasn’t been STP-enabled, you should look for a suitable product.

You can ask a third party to report for you, for example, a:

• registered tax or BAS agent • payroll service provider.

It is your obligation to make sure the third party will be reporting for you through STPenabled software.

If you use a registered tax or BAS agent, talk to them about your options. They may be able to report through STP for you or work with you to outsource your payroll to a payroll service provider.

Payroll service providers who are providing an STP reporting service must be registered as a tax or BAS agent. You can check their registration details on the ATO website by searching the Tax Practitioners BoardExternal Link.

• directly to the ATO from your payroll software

• through a third party sending service

provider (SSP) which is integrated into your software

• through a third party sending service provider (SSP) service which is outside your software.

To find out what type of solution is suitable, you can:

• talk to your existing software provider • look at the STP product register to find STP softwareExternal Link.

CRAFTED FOR THOSE WITH G RE AT TAS TE Jacob Schweppe created the world’s first sparkling beverage brand in 1783. Inspired by his passion for craft, quality and the finest ingredients sourced from around the globe, we’ve taken our favourite soft drinks and re-imagined them for the modern palate.

mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

Schweppes & devices are trade marks used under licence in Australia by Asahi Beverages.

22

INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL

INDUSTRY NEWS

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA Christmas Trading Hours Earlier this year, MGA was asked to lodge a submission to the WA Government (Attorney General Hon John Quigley MLA) indicating its position on behalf of its WA members regarding trading hours changes, if any, during the 2019 Christmas and the 2020 New Year periods. MGA’s submission was emphatic and stated there should be no further extension of trading hours and that trading hours remain the same as previous years.

The Attorney General, Hon John Quigley MLA, has come back to MGA to state that there would be no further extension to the 2019/2020 festive season trading hours.

VICTORIA

Members meet with Ministers MGA Members met briefly with Federal Ministers, Mathias Cormann Finance Minister and Alan Tudge Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure at the IGA sponsored Gala Event held in late October.

L-R: Jos de Bruin CEO MGA, Tony Ingpen Super IGA Mt Eveleyn, Mathias Cormann MP, Alan Tudge MP, Joseph Melham IGA Mt Waverley and Joseph Chen IGA Chelsea Heights.

mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

The Honorable Minister for Finance, Mathias Cormann speaks with Joseph Melham IGA

23

24

TRAINING

TRAINING

NATIONAL

Marketing 101 A few tips to consider to help grow your business in 2020

Members will know that just expecting your business to grow organically, and waiting for your customers to tell you what they want will not work in today’s highly competitive marketplace. We have put together some essential marketing tips for our members because we want to see you not just survive, but actually, thrive.

Here are 6 simple steps members may wish to think about.

1. Make a marketing plan Your marketing strategy isn’t going to happen if you don’t start with a plan. You’ll need to:

• Identify your target market (e.g. local, community, internet, specific demographics)

• Work out some goals (e.g. build brand awareness with a point of difference, increase foot traffic and/or website traffic by a specified percentage, create and grow email contact list)

• Set a budget (if you can’t afford to commit $$$ you still can invest time)

• •Allocate responsibilities if you have employees willing to be involved (or set aside time if it’s just you)

2. Be extremely visible online Make it easy for your customers to find you, and discover what you stock and what you are famous for. We’re well into the 21st century when every business needs an online presence – the more extensive, the better. But you don’t need to be a digital genius.

WEBSITE If you don’t already have a website, you need to make creating one your priority. It’s now become the front door of your store. It doesn’t need to be too fancy, but it should be professional-looking. You can try doing it yourself using tools like Weebly or Shopify or engage the services of a website designer for around $3,000 for a simple small business website.

SOCIAL MEDIA You’ll also need to engage with your customers on social media. Pages for your business include Facebook and LinkedIn, as well as an Instagram account. If you feel confident about making short video clips of your fresh foods or instore departments and staff, you can also create a YouTube channel. Visually-focused social media has risen to the top of the pile in the last few years.

Don’t overlook your local community Facebook pages. Join the groups, make relevant posts about your business and involvement in the community and importantly respond to any comments.

GOOGLE MY BUSINESS Your Google business profile is a free resource you also need to claim if you haven’t already done so. Type your business name into the Google search field, and your business profile should appear in the right-hand sidebar. Claim the business profile as yours via Google My Business if you haven’t done that yet. Update it with links to your website and Facebook page, your phone number, opening hours, and a few attractive photos of your store, your offer and friendly staff.

3. Respond to customers

4. Differentiate your store

Customers are the reason your business exists, so nurture them. When people engage with your business on social media, respond quickly, courteously, helpfully, individually – no autoresponses. It takes time, but it will pay dividends. Express gratitude for positive feedback, and find ways to turn around negative comments – don’t just ignore them, ask what you can do to improve their shopping experience in your store.

Above all, you need to set yourself apart from your competitors, and there are plenty of them. Find products and or services that are necessary but different.

Customers need a reason to choose your store rather than move on to the next option.

Competitions, subscription newsletters and blogs are a great way to garner email contact details for future activities and promotions. But don’t overdo the love.

An avalanche of emails will see your customers hitting the ‘Unsubscribe’ button and possibly taking their custom elsewhere.

You aim to build up a strong pool of engaged, loyal customers who will tell a story of satisfaction to other people.

Word of mouth is still the most potent form of advertising your business.

5. Network Even though we’re in the digital age, networking your store doesn’t have to be just about social media. Nothing beats the face-to-face personal touch.

Networking for businesses is about building trusted relationships – the sales will follow later.

Harness the power of your family, friends, staff and existing customers to spread the word-of-mouth about your business.

Join and actively participate in your local Chamber of Commerce. Sign up with local clubs and community organisations.

Members may want to give away caps, pens and t-shirts emblazoned with your store name and logo.

29-31 Sommerville Circuit, Emu Plains NSW 2750 Australia

In the end, it’s all about your stores, local brand awareness, and you may find it necessary to use paid advertising to establish your brand. You will need to experiment to find out what works in your locality for your business, and which method reaches the customer demographic you are focusing on. It could be the local newspaper, a business directory, bus-stop digital signage, an oldfashioned billboard or Google Adwords.

Try different avenues one at a time, and when you do meet a new customer, ask them how they heard about you.

When you know you have a great store, but customers are not coming through your door, it’s proberly because you need to pay more attention to marketing.

Market it properly, and they will come.

Source - quantum

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At Koxka we are committed to provide energy efficiency in our products with a focus on environmentally friendly refrigerants & energy efficient products.

salesaus@koxka.com

2020 sees an exciting era for Koxka

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globally as the much-anticipated new generation plug-in range will be available.

www.koxka.com mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

6. Advertise

Koxka is a European refrigeration show case manufacturer specialising in food preservation.

FRESH THINKING

25

Give us a call today to discuss your refrigeration display case needs.

26

INDUSTRY NEWS

INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL

SOUTH NATIONAL AUSTRALIA

South Australian Packaged Liquor Licensing becomes a reality

The Great Grape Escape

It was more than 8 years ago, in the Romeos Supermarkets North Adelaide Boardroom, that MGA’s Board, together with a number key SA Independent Retailers, first seeded the idea with the then Deputy Premier of SA, John Rau, that South Australian Independent Supermarkets must be able to compete with the 2 large chains by being able to sell packaged liquor if they are to survive into the future.

Type “Supermarket Injury” into Google and watch the horde of law firm websites appear on your screen.

These firms have pages and pages of content designed to encourage customers to act against supermarket owners.

The websites will respond to many questions, such as:

»» What are my rights against the supermarket? »» Can I sue the supermarket? »» How do I sue the supermarket? »» How much can I sue the supermarket for? »» What evidence do I need to sue the supermarket?

Law firms are no longer chasing the ambulance, leaving the store. They are now chasing the grape as it falls. Across the country, the “great grape escape” has resulted in many claims, with millions of dollars spent in legal fees and even more in compensation payouts. The evolution of the no win – no fee strategy by law firms is designed to encourage customers to sue your store.

A grape on the floor doesn’t automatically deem the supermarket responsible for the customer’s injury, and we have seen liability decision made for and against the supermarket.

Each case will have its own specific circumstances which the courts will assess. There have also been grape injury claims where a court’s decision has been overturned on appeal; highlights the complexity of the issue and the importance of risk management.

To have any chance of success, the solicitor must establish the supermarket breached its duty of care to its customer who suffered the injury – also known as negligence. The supermarket needs to be vigilant with its slip and fall

procedures. This procedure can’t sit on a desk collecting dust.

It needs to be a living document which all staff understand and consistently follow in their role.

Having the procedures is only one piece of the puzzle as the courts will look for evidence from both parties. Documenting the time, date, staff member and location of the slip audit process is critical. As technology continues to advance, the quality of CCTV footage has improved dramatically and become significantly more cost-effective. It is very difficult for customers to dispute video evidence and the footage removes the “he said - she said” uncertainty or fraudulent claims. AVIVA Insurance company reported a 20% increase in fraudulent slip and fall claims in the last 12 months.

Public liability insurance is a supermarket’s final line of defence and allows the owners to sleep easy at night. If a letter of demand is ever received for an injury, the insurance will cover the legal costs and damages awarded by the courts.

After many years of workshops, independent reviews and comparisons made with other states liquor licensing laws, the SA Government has finally reformed the SA Liquor Licensing Act to enable packaged liquor to be sold in independent supermarkets as from the 18th November 2019.

It has been a long time since the Hon Tim Andersons review in 2016 and much has developed in that time.

The SA Government worked and consulted with an enormous cross-section of the community from licensees and industry bodies, state and local government, training and education providers and interested stakeholders. The SA Liquor Act has been modernized to help future proof SA Liquor Licensing.

Changes to the Act have facilitated a reduction in red tape faced by venues, producers and the public alike and support a growing South Australian market place with a system that meets the needs of licensed businesses now and into the future.

Members, please contact MGA should SA members require assistance with Responsible Service of Alcohol Training.

VICTORIA

IGA Creswick meets Louise Staley MP Shortly after Steve Sellars opened his new state of the art supermarket in Creswick regional Victoria, news quickly got around as to how wonderful this new shopping hub was.

The major contribution it was going to make to the local community in the form of employment, community support and shopping convenience, saving residents valuable time in no longer having to travel to Ballarat for their main shop.

Steve’s store is a full-line, enviro-friendly (trolleys made from recycled plastic milk containers), an energy-efficient supermarket which the whole town feels proud of.

Please contact

Adroit Insurance & Risk on 1300 6923 7648

to discuss your insurance needs with one of our specialist supermarket risk advisors.

Early in October Victorian Shadow Treasurer, Shadow Minister for Economic Development, and local Member of Parliament for Ripon. Louise Staley MP met with Steve in his store to discuss a myriad of business issues, matter and opportunities associated with the development of the supermarket and the economic opportunities that would “spin-off” from Steve’s supermarket being in Creswick. Local producers of fresh produce, wines and other gourmet foods all have an avenue of distribution for their products – something they didn’t have before.

Louise Staley was most impressed and congratulated Steve and his partner Jacquie for making the huge investment to build a supermarket in the Creswick.

mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

27

Steve Sellars IGA Creswick with Louise Staley MP

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INDUSTRY NEWS

INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL

ECONOMIC AND MARKET UPDATE

Goldilocks and the 3 Bears November Economic Update Economists and investors foresee a bear market, and Australia has its very own potentially scary version of the Three Bears: the world economic outlook, weak Australian household income growth and slowing job vacancies. It’s no fairy tale Daddy Bear: The world economic outlook Daddy Bear knows that, in order to protect his brood, he needs to keep an eye on what is happening outside his own backyard. The RBA has become increasingly worried about the global economy over the past year, due to a...

Economists and investors foresee a bear market, and Australia has its very own potentially scary version of the Three Bears: the world economic outlook, weak Australian household income growth and slowing job vacancies.

• The potential for a US recession • A reduction in interest rates It’s essential to grasp that right now we’re talking about risks only, not the inevitable reality of another global economic meltdown. But the charts indicate that we may not be looking at ‘happily ever after’.

MUMMY BEAR: HOUSEHOLD INCOME Mummy Bear’s interests are closer to home. She’s worried that there might not be enough money coming into the house to pay for the porridge and replace Baby Bear’s broken chair.

In the same vein, the RBA’s second big concern is the weakness of Australian household income growth. Wages growth has been modest across most industries.

It’s no fairy tale.

DADDY BEAR: THE WORLD ECONOMIC OUTLOOK Daddy Bear knows that, in order to protect his brood, he needs to keep an eye on what is happening outside his own backyard.

The RBA has become increasingly worried about the global economy over the past year, due to a number of factors:

• The trade war between the US and China

• A struggling manufacturing sector • Concern about the debt problem in China

mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

Overall, households have faced an ‘income recession’ over recent years, reflecting the modest growth of income in the wider economy. And the economy has not been strong enough for long enough to afford big pay rises.

BABY BEAR: JOB MARKET Baby Bear can see that there’s plenty of work for his parents right now, but he’s a bit worried about the prospect of finding employment himself when the time comes.

He’s not the only one. The RBA, too, is aware of the risk that jobs growth will slow. The unemployment rate and the

numbers of people in employment have both improved in recent times despite weaker economic growth. But forward indicators suggest that this may not continue:

• Australia’s labour force participation

rate – the number of people actually in employment – has risen to a record high. Meaning wage growth is likely to remain subdued as long as the supply of workers continues to meet the demand.

• Manufacturing jobs have declined sharply in recent years

• Overall, the growth of job vacancies is

down. There has also been a decline in hiring intentions by businesses.

Not a fairytale ending. But maybe just a turn in the road.

In its October statement, the RBA noted that economic growth was weaker than they expected over the year to June 2019.

They believe that the economy might be approaching a ‘gentle’ turning point, with positives ahead.

These include lower interest rates, tax cuts, high infrastructure spending, stabilisation of housing markets and a decent resources sector outlook.

Goldilocks couldn’t face the results of her adventure and ran away. The RBA (and hopefully the Federal Government) seem to have taken the measure of the Three Bears, and appear to be in control of the story so far.

Source - quantum

29

Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia (COSBOA) NATIONAL On the 15th and 16th of October, MGA - MGATMA, a member of the COSBOA Board and Council of Associations, met in Canberra for the COSBOA Council Meeting, AGM, Industry Dinner and the Board Meeting. Many matters of concern relating to the wellbeing of small businesses was discussed. Issues including; cybersecurity, unfair contract terms, the difficulty to access finance, big business and the government paying on time, Industrial Relations reform and the 2 very important Government projects COSBOA is overseeing.

Patrick to discuss the many barriers and hurdles confronting small businesses around Australia and sought their assistance to address some of these issues.

The first project is named the Innovation Games. It is an amazing program that brings small business owners together with university students, industry experts and advisers into the one room to assist these small business owners realise an opportunity and to build strategies around achieving these new found goals as a team.

The second project focuses on assisting young women in understanding the opportunities to start up their businesses or to further themselves within current small business organisations through education and mentoring programs.

The COSBOA Board met with Federal Small Business Minister, Senator Michaelia Cash, as well as, Centre Alliance Senator, Rex

Senator Michaelia Cash and Senator Rex Patrick

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

MGA WA Director Ross Anile meets with Leader of the WA Opposition Hon Liza Harvey MLA. On the 29th October, Ross Anile, IGA Fresh Roleystone store owner and MGA Director, together with Peter Peck Executive Director LSA WA met with the Leader of the WA Opposition, Liza Harvey, at the Royal Perth Yacht Club.

This was a unique opportunity, organised by Chair of the National Independent Retailers Association, Bob Stanton and CEO of the Tasmanian Small Business Council, Robert Mallett. Both are also strong likeminded Small Business organisations, to discuss many matters of importance concerning the well being of the small business sector, as well as, the barriers to investment preventing them from growing their businesses.

This meeting was also a forum to discuss and consider the formation of a Western Australian Small Business Council.

Peter Peck, WA Opposition Hon Liza Harvey MLA & Ross Anile

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INDUSTRY NEWS

INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL

31

VICTORIA

Waste Management Solution Trials Organic Waste To Grey Water & Fertiliser IKEA Richmond and David Jones (Bourke St) decided to investigate effective waste management by trialing an organic waste solution to reduce the quantity of organic waste sent to landfill.

IGA Hawthorn diverts tonnes of rubbish from landfill IGA Hawthorn store owner, George Altman has taken a positive step to reduce waste in his two stores. With the increasing focus on sustainability and the environment, reducing waste in all areas of his businesses is a priority.

In a one month period, IKEA Richmond successfully diverted more than 6.66 tonnes of food waste from landfill, created approx 666kg of nutrient rich fertiliser and reducing CO2/Greenhouse Gas generation, fuel required for waste transport and offsetting methane gas generation by approx 1.865tn.

IGA Hawthorn successfully diverted more than 1.3 tonnes of food waste from landfill, reducing methane gas generation by approx 1kg. CO2/ Greenhouse Gas generation by approx 1.15 tonnes. Fuel required for waste transport by approx 387.5 Litres.

Become a pioneer for Sustainable Business Practices.

Contact the team: 1300 849 948 E: energy@mga.asn.au

George said, “Reducing waste saves the planet and saves our businesses a lot of money. Supermarkets generate enormous quantities of organic, plastic and cardboard waste which has become very costly to have collected each week.”

Eden Altman, George’s son, and operator of the two familyowned Renaissance IGA supermarkets, both located in Hawthorn, said he’d recently installed an Orca rubbish digester into the back of house operations at both of his stores.

The machines break down organic material using water, air and microbiology to create an environmentally friendly liquid that is poured down the drain.

He said it worked in a similar way to how the human stomach digests food and it had massively reduced the amount of trash his businesses sent to landfill.

mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

It also reduced the smell wafting from his commercial bins, something shoppers and passers-by would appreciate as the weather heated up for summer, he said.

“I am passionate about finding a better solution to waste management. Although a small business, Renaissance was generating waste in a costly and carbon heavy manner,” Eden Altman said.

“Waste is a major issue for society and even the smallest effort can help, for example rinsing recyclable packaging before putting it in the recycle bin,” he said.

Eden Altman estimated that since August his store had diverted about 10 tonnes of rubbish from landfill and reduced methane gas emissions by 5.8 tonnes.

Greenhouse gas emissions had also dropped by about 7.9 tonnes, he said.

Source - Rebecca DiNuzzo, Progress Leader

32

TRAINING

TRAINING

NATIONAL EMPLOYEE HYGIENE

Merry Christmas and be Food Safe

When handling food and stock – ensure employees are in the habit of washing hands between tasks. Make it easy for them to their wash hands.

Ensure employees follow the organisation’s policy on uniforms and personal hygiene, including grooming and Personal Protection Equipment PPE. Have plenty of disposable gloves, hair nets, aprons etc. accessible so employees can change them often.

RECEIVING The retail food industry is heading into one the busiest seasons of the year- Christmas. And with every increased degree of summer temperature, the rate of food poisoning increases.

What causes food poisoning?

Bacteria, viruses and parasites, all-cause food poisoning or long-term illnesses. Major carriers of any of these are;

• People

How much food poisoning occurs in Australia each year?

• Food poisoning results, on average, in 5.4 million cases

a year (including 120 deaths), 1.2 million visits to doctors, 300,000 prescriptions for antibiotics, and 2.1 million days of cost work each year.

• The estimated annual cost of food poisoning in Australia is

$1.25 billion. A large majority of these cases of foodborne illness are single, sporadic infections.

• Norovirus, E. coli, Campylobacter and Salmonella, are

the most common pathogens that cause foodborne illness in Australia.

• 1 in 5 Australians don’t always wash their hands after going

to the toilet (Food Safety Council, Accord Cleaning & Hygiene Conference, Sydney 2019)

• Different types of Food items • Pets & Pests • Dust & Air • Food Waste Knowing that all these sources carry some sort of bacteria, virus or parasite impacts on retailers on how to handle, store and sell their food products. This is to ensure the food is not only sold at its optimum but to protect the wider community.

‘Christmassy’ Hazardous Foods These are the foods that are high in protein, moisture and are at the right pH level for bacteria to grow. These foods include;

• Eggs- egg nog, tiramisu, chocolate mousse- anything made with raw egg or partially cooked egg

• Seafood (all types including shellfish) • Chicken/Meats • Turkey • Deli meats such as hams and other processed meats • Processed foods such as pre-prepared salads and other food items that contain the above

The main culprit to food poisoning is the different types of Pathogenic Bacteria. Bacteria particularly loves summer months –it loves the warm temperature, the food it has on offer –all the right conditions for it to grow and thrive.

To ensure businesses and employees do not give bacteria ‘resort lifestyle living’- its best to follow these basic rules;

mga.asn.au | December 2019 | Edition 8

Ensure suppliers food transport is HACCP compliant.

Document the arrival of food items by recording temperature, how the stock arrives (damaged packaging, dates are correct) and return any items that do not meet the organisations quality food standards.

Train employees in how to receive stock, what to look for, and how to document in the right forms.

Do not allow suppliers to leave food at the premises if employees are not there to receive the load. In summer, it does not take long for food to start to spoil or for bacteria to grow. If suppliers are delivering outside store operation hours – arrange an alternative of either times or access be delivered and stored correctly.

Be update to date with Product recalls and follow processes in place regarding these

TEMPERATURE Bacteria grow within a certain range of temperature. Hazardous foods and low-risk foods should be kept out of the DANGER ZONE as much as possible.

Danger Zone – Temperature range where food poisoning bacteria grow and multiply is between 5oC -60oC

TIME Food can be safely held between 5°C and 60°C provided it is less than four hours.

This is because it takes more than four hours for food-poisoning bacteria to grow to dangerous levels.

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TRAINING

The 2 hours/4-hour guide also applies to NATIONAL ready-to-eat potentially hazardous food.

It provides guidance on how long this type of food can be held safely at temperatures between 5°C and 60°C and what should happen to it after certain times.

COURSES ON OFFER BASIC FOOD HANDLING The times refer to the life of the food, including preparation and cooling, not just to display times.

Total time limit between 5°C & 60°C:

What you should do:

Less than 2 hours

Refrigerate or use immediately

Between 2 hours and 4 hours

Use immediately

More than 4 hours

Throw out

STORAGE Ensure that all the food is correctly stored, and there is no damage to the food item or its packaging.

Follow the FIFO rules (first in first out) Remove and waste any food items that are out of date.

Other critical areas employees need to be aware of when storing food items is;

• loading the fridges/stores area, do not overload • not covering any intake vents • stock off the floor

Best practice is to have a process in place for stocking Have training in place to ensure the process is followed and maintained Ensure facilities and equipment is at the correct holding temperatures and maintained

HANDLING & CROSSCONTAMINATION Ensure there is enough utensils for raw and cooked items (colour coded) and disposable gloves/ bags for handling food items.

Ensure raw and cooked items are stored separately, dated and wrapped (airtight).

Cool rooms are stocked to ensure nocross contaminaton from other foods.

REMOVAL OF WASTE Having over full waste bins in and outside the premises brings pests of manylegged varieties. Pests carry viruses and disease and not a good look for the business.

Be regular with clearing bins and wastage stock Have regular pickups with bins/ dumpsters Regular cleaning and maintenance on the premises, ranging from every few hours (sweeping), daily, weekly etc

THE SOLUTION A combination of hazardous foods, new staff, overstocking fridges/freezers, the pressure of meeting customers’ expectations and keeping up speed – could result in noncompliance of the business with the food safety plan.

This could lead to penalties, customer dissatisfaction and loss of business By offering formalised training through online modules and combining it with hands-on training will assist not only the new staff but reaffirm requirements from the regular team. The end result will mean mitigating any risks with food handling Have plenty of signage around regarding Food Safety and Hygiene – these are visual cues and reminders.

MGA Industry Training offers different levels of food handling training to assist employers/employees by giving further skills and knowledge when handling food Be Christmas Food Safe this season coming!

Unaccredited- great introduction for all staff to understand the importance and how to handle food. This course meets the minimum requirements for food handling staff under Australian Standard 3.2.2, the requirement for staff to have the necessary knowledge and skills for safe storage, processing, display, packaging, transportation, disposal and recall of food

BASIC FOOD HANDLING SITXFSA001 USE HYGIENIC PRACTICES FOR FOOD SAFETY This course is accredited and is the first unit in the hospitality units to be completed as the Food Safety Supervisor (hospitality). It covers the skills and knowledge required to use personal hygiene practices to prevent contamination of food that might cause foodborne illnesses.

FOOD SAFETY SUPERVISOR SIRRFSA001 HANDLE FOOD SAFELY IN THE RETAIL ENVIRONMENT This course is accredited and covers all states but NSW. This course offers the skills and knowledge required to handle food safely in the retail environment.

NSW FOOD SAFETY SUPERVISOR SIRRFSA001 HANDLE FOOD SAFELY IN THE RETAIL ENVIRONMENT Same course as above but covers the NSW Food Authority requirements as well. At the end of this course, you receive both NSW Food Safety Supervisor certificate and the Statement of Attainment for this unit. Please remember that this course must be refreshed every 5 years.

MGA INDUSTRY TRAINING ARE HERE FOR YOU! Call our specialist team 1800 888 479 (option 2)

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TIMBER NEWS

TIMBER NEWS

NATIONAL

MGA TMA Timber Industry Luncheon The annual MGA TMA Timber Industry luncheon was held at the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club Melbourne on October 24.

Members, industry stakeholders, timber industry suppliers and parliamentary guests came together to not only learn of the comprehensive services we offer but also understand the value of membership and importance the association holds for the timber and hardware industry.

Over the next 12 months, MGA TMA is looking to continually strive to provide members with what they need to successfully run and grow their businesses, while we continue to cultivate its message, regarding its back of house services, throughout the industry.

MGA TMA Management Committee, President, Peter Alexander initially took to the stage to introduce the guests of honour, including Shadow Assistant Minister for Forestry, Gary Blackwood. Jos de Bruin and COSBOA Chief Executive Officer, Peter Strong, were also acknowledged during the opening address, while MGA Trade Marketing and Business Development Manager, Mark Paladino was MC for the annual luncheon.

GLOBAL OVERVIEW AUSTRALIA AND NAB DATA

MGA TMA National Membership Manager, Ann Sanfey kicked off proceedings by delivering industry insights and also a run down into the development of the many MGA TMA programs over the last 12 months.

NAB Senior Analyst and Chief Economist, Brien McDonald, also spoke extensively on forecasts for the Australian economy during the lunch, while also delivering insight into where the hardware, residential and construction industries may be headed in the near future.

For more information on the NAB’s most recent overview, both globally and nationally, visit: https:// business.nab.com.au/tag/economiccommentary/

FIRE RETARDANT TIMBER PRODUCTS Boris Iskra of Wood Products Victoria also delivered a presentation to guests on ‘Fire and the external use of timber products – Where to from here?’ Currently providing technical advisory service support to MGA TMA members in relation to technical timber questions, Mr Iskra addressed the current state of building regulations regarding the use of timber products, from external cladding on apartment buildings through to their use in bushfireprone areas.

This topic was particularly relevant considering the devastating façade fires at the Lacrosse building Melbourne and Grenfell in London, with a substantial public outcry, regarding the use of combustible cladding products on high-rise buildings, since the events occurred.

However, this issue is now affecting external timber cladding, according to Mr Iskra.

“There were also many enquiries asking for firm evidence on the dangers involved when timber cladding is installed on three-story apartment buildings. We are working very hard to try and minimise the change to the code, but it has just not been accepted at this point,” Mr Iskra said.

The codes are far more lenient for housing, with no fire requirements for external walls, unless the wall is within 900 millimetres of a boundary fence. This is when the wall itself needs to be a fire-rated wall system, according to Mr Iskra.

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Mr Iskra also covered the use of timber in bushfire areas. He detailed the many different fire rating levels, from Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) 12.5, which is an ember attack to the Flame Zone rating, where a building has direct exposure to flames from the fire front.

The new communication plan has been implemented to change negative perceptions and re-frame general perception of forestry, she said.

Ultimate Renewable’ is not to keep for ourselves, Ms Newbury said, but to spread throughout the entire industry and supply chain. “We want everyone to use this,” she said.

With a goal to positively change the perception of forestry, the words ‘The

NEW FOREST INDUSTRY BRAND Eileen Newbury - Forest and Wood Products Australia, also took lunch guests through its recently launched brand called ‘The Ultimate Renewable’, which is designed specifically to be used by all companies throughout the timber industry to convey a positive message to consumers.

The brand launch was born after the forest industry had to constantly defend chronic, pervasive messages of de-forestation, which were not entirely accurate, according to Ms Newbury.

LONG-STANDING MEMBERS RETIRE At the conclusion of the lunch, acknowledgement of two long-standing TMA members were given to Miriam Webster and Ron Caddy. Both shared their experiences of not only participating in committee for over 20 years but their experiences as timber merchants, running their own businesses throughout many years.

Fury Grows Over Native Logging Ban Last week’s announcement that native timber logging in Victoria will be phased out by 2030 has left the industry in shock.

While this decision has a grave impact for people in regional areas such as Gippsland, the ‘flow-on’ effects alone, for the likes of the people selling truck fuel; the businesses doing mechanical repairs on equipment and even local takeaway outlets is enormous!!

The fact is that many of the thousands of Victorians employed directly and indirectly by the hardwood timber industry across the state will be out of a job within 10 years.

Industry bodies have all condemned the move. MGA TMA along with other associations will be supporting a

call on the Victorian Government to reverse this decision and consult with industry in good faith to ensure a better outcome for the workers, the environment and the communities that depend on our renewable forest industries.

The facts are simple :

VICTORIA’S SUSTAINABLE NATIVE FOREST INDUSTRY

‘The Facts’

 4 trees in 10,000 harvested  Every tree replaced through regeneration and regrowing  Major regional employer  Carbon positive  Globally Certified  Workers who battle bushfires

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Aussie and Proud?

So are we.

INDUSTRY NEWS

39

NATIONAL

Global trade is the norm for this Aussie nut farmer

For the last 30 years eftpos has been providing competitive and convenient payment solutions to all Australians.

Today, we have become the first payment service to adopt the Australian Made logo.

Tomorrow, is a new day: we are updating our infrastructure and seeking to adopt the most innovative product technology. This is our commitment to Australian consumers, merchants and the local industry.

Learn more about how eftpos is helping merchants at eftposaustralia.com.au/merchants

There are two things to know about macadamia trees: 1. they require patience – it takes years before they begin production; 2. their produce makes up less than one percent of the global nut market.

Which is why, when it comes to his ambition to grow the Australian market, Queensland grower Peter Costi talks in decades.

Peter explains his relationship with NAB Agribusiness has been instrumental in the growth of Costi Farms. “Without them, we wouldn’t have been able to secure properties or seize opportunities quickly.” Costi’s banker, David Paton, NAB senior agribusiness manager, believes Peter’s vision for the industry has been crucial to his success. “He understands he needs a robust industry … to create a sustainable enterprise for the next generation.”

“I see the next 30 years as continuing to scale up the business and the industry,” Peter says.

As for that next generation, says Peter: “One of the most moving things is having my wife and four kids involved. We’ve got a business they’ll be able to grow.”

Costi Farms is the world’s second-largest macadamia producer, supplying large customers locally and overseas. In achieving this, Peter has survived devastation by flood and cyclone. Managing these risks to guarantee supply for his customers has meant diversifying geographically across Queensland.

“It’s all been about building scale,” Peter says. “The industry turned the corner once it reached mass production stage, in about 2010. We needed larger operations to guarantee supply to big customers like China and the US. And we still need to plant more trees.”

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To find similar stories of progress visit nab.com.au businessprogress

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INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL

Edgemill Group continues to go from strength to strength in China Since 2016, Edgemill Group, through its Kulara Estate Vineyard, has been growing its influence in the Chinese market.

In October 2019, I had the pleasure of signing contracts with yet another Preferred Distributor based in Shenzhen.

This new distributor brings our total distributer network to 4 spread across the Chinese mainland The October visit culminated in our attendance at the Qingdao Wine and Food Expo where we had the honour of presenting and tasting our wines. This gave us a unique opportunity to exhibit the quality and excellence of Australian Wines.

We presented our tribute to the 70th Anniversary of the Chinese Republic. Rare Penny Shiraz 70th Anniversary Edition.

I was invited to be interviewed on CCTV 1, the most-watched TV channel in China about not only our Wines but about our experience since moving into the China market.

INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL

ABS September Figures Shows Retail Consumer Spending Slowed Australian Bureau of Statistics Director of quarterly economy-wide surveys Ben James stated, “There was a mix of results at the industry level this month.”

“Rises were seen in other retailing (0.8 per cent), cafes, restaurants and takeaway services (0.6 per cent), and food retailing (0.1 per cent).

“These rises were slightly offset by a fall in clothing, footwear and personal accessory retailing (-0.5 per cent) and department stores (-0.2 per cent). Household goods were relatively unchanged.”

These category decreases are despite the $22.4 billion in tax refunds passed on to Australians after the coalition government’s tax cuts coupled with the lowest interest rates in Australian history has not achieved the rebound in retail sales economists were expecting.

NSW Packaged Liquor Licence Compliance Check- List

We also presented our Spirits portfolio at the Expo resulting in our beautiful Black Bart Spiced Rum and Old Number 15 Bourbon now on sale in a high-end bar in Beijing with other bars in discussion with us.

The NSW Department of Liquor, Gaming and Racing recently released an updated self- audit compliance checklist reflecting changes in the new Liquor Regulations 2018.

Thank you all for your continued support of Edgemill Group and Kulara Estate.

For more information contact: National Sales & Marketing Manager David Hounsome

With compliance officers increasing their presence in the trade leading into the Christmas and New Year festive period, it is important that all packaged Liquor license holders, ensure that they are compliant.

The Index also shows a 1 per cent drop in fashion for the month while takeaway food grew by 7 per cent and online grocery and liquor grew by approximately 1.7 per cent month on month.

NAB estimates Australians spent $29.53 billion on online retail in the year to September or 9.1 per cent of the total retail spend.

Perfect Gifts FOR CHRISTMAS

MGA encourages all members to visit the site below and complete the questioner to ensure that your store is fully compliant. https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/documents/cl/cl1006packaged-licence-self-audit-checklist.pdf Should you require any assistance or want clarity on any of the questions contact the MGA National Support Centre on Free Call 1800 888 479 or email admin@mga.asn.au

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As reported on the NAB Online Retail Sales Index despite sluggish growth in overall retail sales, online retail sales achieved a 1.8 per cent increase in September and 10.5 per cent increase year on year.

NEW SOUTH WALES

It is fair to say my experience of China is extremely positive with a population eager to learn and become increasingly knowledgeable and all enjoying Australian Wines, particularly our Matildas Ghost and Rare Penny ranges.

Edgemill Group continues to pursue and grow in other markets so that we can stay true to our commitment.

“Independents First” for our Australian retail partners.

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For more information contact your De Bortoli representative or visit debortoli.com.au

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LIQUOR NEWS

LIQUOR NEWS

NATIONAL

NATIONAL

New changes restrict liquor barns to address community concerns MGA welcomes and fully supports the Western Australian Governments changes introduced to the Liquor Control Act 1988 to clamp down on the proliferation of Big Box Liquor Barns.

In announcing the new regulations Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia said, “the changes were the result of ongoing community concerns and extensive industry consultation and will provide certainty to liquor industry investors in Western Australia”.

New regulations took effect from November 2. They will not allow large packaged liquor outlets - of 400 square metres or greater - to be established within five kilometres (metropolitan area), or 12 kilometres (regional areas) of an existing large packaged liquor outlet of 400 square metres or more. The distances are calculated using the shortest route by road.

The changes will still allow for ‘greenfield’ outlets to be established as a ‘first mover’, but no further large packaged liquor outlets will be allowed within the above distances.

The changes are not retrospective, all existing venues will be unaffected. Still, they will not be able to increase the size of their retail sales area to more than 400 square metres if another large packaged liquor outlet is within the prescribed distances.

Other amendments to the Act include allowing the Director of Liquor Licensing to assess whether consumers’ needs are reasonably met by existing packaged liquor outlets when assessing a new application for an outlet in a local area.

These changes are a big win for all existing small family-owned operations and will give them the confidence to reinvest in further developing their businesses. MGA supports a diverse packaged liquor sector and does not oppose appropriately sized new store developments that meet with community expectations.

Michael Clarke to retire from TWE Treasury Wine Estates’ Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Michael Clarke has announced his intention to retire from the role in the first quarter of the 2021 financial year.

“Michael has provided the Board with approximately one year’s notice, which is more than the required six months’ notice.

“Upon his retirement, Michael intends to return to the UK. He added: “I along with the Board, are pleased to announce that Tim Ford, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, will be appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer effective from when Michael retires in the first quarter of fiscal 2021. This reflects the company’s strong succession planning.

“Following an extensive transition period, and upon his retirement, Michael is agreed to act in the capacity of adviser to the company for up to an additional one year period. He will provide TWE with strategic support across key initiatives, which include a potential mergers and acquisition opportunities and therefore, it is important to note that TWE will continue to operate business as usual.

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“There is absolutely no doubt that TWE has undergone an extraordinary transformation and delivered outstanding financial returns under Michael’s leadership over the past five and a half years.

The structural changes and initiatives delivered by Mike and his team have established TWE as a significantly stronger business than when he first joined the company.

No more paper. We’re moving to digital The Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) is making it easier for licensees to renew their liquor licence and save trees along the way.

Each year the VCGLR sends out renewal notices and liquor licences. This year, licensees can receive their 2020 renewal notice and liquor licence via email by registering a Liquor Portal account.

Once registration is complete, licensees can expect to receive their renewal notice via email from late November.

Licensees registered for the Liquor Portal will receive their liquor licence within five working days of payment - ready to print and display at licensed premises. Once registered, critical information and updates will be sent by email.

Registration to the Liquor Portal is as easy as 1, 2, 3 To register an account, you’ll need your liquor licence number and individual PIN. Licensees will soon be receiving a letter with this information included. Otherwise, this can be found on your last renewal notice or by emailing contact@vcglr.vic.gov.au.

Step 1: Create an account, see: VCGLR Liquor Portal.

Step 2: Associate your licence or permit using your licence number and individual four-digit PIN. Step 3: Click eLicence and add the email you want your renewal notice and liquor licence sent to (this can differ from the email address used to create your Liquor Portal account).

Licensees who have already created a Liquor Portal account will need to check they have completed step three to receive their documents via email.

NATIONAL

Are you prepared for SCHOOLIES! Year 12 students across all states will soon finish their exams and are looking forward to enjoying a break over summer.

To help you prepare, please read the below information to help ensure a safe and relaxing time for both you and the school leavers (also known as ‘Schoolies’).

Important information for licensees this School Leavers Intoxication, underage patrons, and secondary supply are some of the increased risks that you may face this School Leavers.

To help lower these risks for you, your staff, and your customers in the lead up to this period of celebration, the MGA recommend that you:

• Prepare your staff by implementing measures to minimise alcohol-related harm with the Licensees Action Plan

• check IDs for anyone that looks under the age of 25

• pay attention when checking IDs this summer don’t forget that Digital licences are a valid form of ID IN NSW

• In some states, there is optional signage to reduce risks of secondary supply check on your states agencies website

• ensure staff are confident at refusing service to intoxicated patrons and know the signs of intoxication

• ensure your staff’s Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA)

certificates are current and they practice the RSA principles

If your liquor licence allows for the delivery of alcohol, then make sure ID is being checked both at the point of sale and before handing over the delivery by staff and any contractors.

Heavy penalties apply for noncompliance of the Responsible Service of Alcohol!

For further information, please contact the MGA national support office on 1800 888 479 or email your queries to admin@mga.asn.au

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LIQUOR NEWS

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