Independent Retailer magazine - December 2018

ISSUE 8 | DECEMBER 2018

YOUR INDUSTRY NEWS PROVIDED BY MGA INDEPENDENT RETAILERS

MGA BOARD MEMBERS MEET IN CANBERRA ADVOCATING FOR OUR MEMBERS National Support Office

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1800 888 479

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www.mga.asn.au

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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.

MGA 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 Rod Allen (President): Victoria Debbie Smith (Vice President): Queensland Graeme Gough: New South Wales Michael Daly: Victoria Gino Divitini: Western Australia Grant Hinchcliffe: Tasmania Carmel Goldsmith: New South Wales Chris dos Santos: South Australia Lincoln Wymer: Victoria

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

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

EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION

E: courtenay.hirst@mga.asn.au

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

CONTENTS 5 CEO welcome

INDUSTRY NEWS 7 Make supermarket giant ‘compete fairly’ – Kaufland 7 ACCC Small Business and Franchise Consultative Committee 9 Energy... the dirty word!

10 MGA board meets in Canberra 13 MGA board dinner Canberra: Workplace relations discussions 15 MGA meets NSW Deputy Premier and Treasurer 15 Christmas trading hours extended in SA and WA 16 Queensland Industry Business Roundtable – future workforce skills 16 MGA meets Judy O’Connell Victorian Small Business Commissioner 17 COSBOA AGM and council meeting 17 QLD looking to energise family enterprises and private businesses 18 Uphill both ways – think about it 18 MGA applauds Employment Minister’s intervention in casual leave case 19 Least cost routing – save on merchant fees 20 MGA board meeting held in Canberra 21 MGA TMA 2nd Annual Industry Lunch

LEGAL AND HR 23 24 25 25

Workplace stress – a growing problem Retail leases Staff Christmas celebrations – avoiding problems!

Can you force an employee to attend a medical examination?

LIQUOR NEWS 27 Queensland Containers for Change recycles 5 million in first week 29 It’s time to renew your Victorian liquor licence for 2019 31 Independents and innovation drives Edgemill 32 DrinkWise schoolies activities 33 Summer is calling for sunsets and spritz 33 New Liquor, Gaming & Racing NSW website coming soon 35 Plastic Pollution Reference Group 35 A trophy win for a legacy wine

TRAINING 37 Health and safety in the workplace 37 UK teen dies, prompting warning for Australians

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CEO REPORT

CEO WELCOME Welcome to MGA’s last edition of the Independent Retailer magazine for the 2018 calendar year. Members are no doubt working hard, to prepare for the final run of trading before the Christmas and New Year festive season. This is “prime time” for retailers to put their merchandising and display skills to work – exciting, tantalising and stimulating customers to purchase all sorts of food and beverage products, to enhance the coming together of family and friends at this very social time of the year. This is the time of the year where members have the opportunity to significantly increase sales and margins with non-traditional grocery items and make the most of this once in a year event to capitalise upon their customers discretionary spending.

Many consumers have had a challenging year of meeting rising electricity, fuel and household expenses. They are generally just trying to make ends meet.

The challenge for our members is to make their store feel welcoming, fresh and exciting by capturing the spirit of the festive season. Build an immediate relationship with your customers by dressing up your store, product displays and staff with Christmas decorations and create an ambience of celebration and fun.

Members from every state have reported that the cost of doing business and competitive market challenges continue to increase at an unprecedented rate whilst margins are shrinking. This past year, rising costs such as electricity, wage rates and regulatory compliance (Country of Origin Labelling, tobacco, Container Deposit Legislation, plastic bag bans) have put enormous pressure on our members and families to run their businesses viably. This situation is starting

to translate into a significant drop in employment hours and job losses across the board, particularly employees (casuals) at the entry level. Electricity prices continue to be problematic. Increased penalty rates and overtime rates for casuals will cause members to revise their rosters and reduce hours. Increasing petrol prices (.45 cents per litre) has reduced consumers’, particularly families, spending power by approximately $40 per week having a dramatic effect on sales and finance costs.

Governments when formulating policy, need to remember that if family enterprises are not viable and cannot make a profit then there are no taxes able to be paid and no people employed.

Despite this being the case, our members continue to do their best to innovate and invest back into their businesses to satisfy their existing customers and attract new customers.

On 16 and 17 October this year, MGA’s Board embarked upon its annual visit to Parliament House Canberra to engage with Ministers, Shadow Ministers, Senators, Members of Parliament and regulators. The message to our Members of Parliament was very clear – the day in the life of an independent supermarket, liquor store and hardware store operator is becoming more and more challenging.

The cost to do business is increasing, new regulations are being introduced and the integrity of current regulations such as planning laws are being comprised by state governments pandering to big business. MGA members want certainty to go about their daily business, they want the confidence and the ability to invest in their businesses; to innovate and to compete in a market dominated by big

businesses with very deep pockets.

This message was successfully delivered.

See the fully story on pages 10 and 11.

On behalf of MGA’s Board of Directors and staff I wish our members and industry stakeholders the very best of festive trading periods leading up to Christmas and beyond.

We thank our members for their continuous support of MGA, MGA Liquor and MGA TMA. We have had one of our busiest years ever dealing with members employment workplace issues and addressing state and federal matters on behalf of members.

Until next time – good selling.

Jos de Bruin CEO MGA Independent Retailers

www.mga.asn.au

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7

INDUSTRY NEWS VICTORIA

NATIONAL

ACCC Small Business and Franchise Consultative Committee

MGA President and Mt Martha SUPA IGA owner, Rod Allen. Source: Mornington News

Make supermarket giant ‘compete fairly’ – Kaufland The Victorian State Government is handing the German supermarket chain Kaufland (world’s 4th largest retailer) an “unfair advantage over local shops by going around local government planning processes”, a rival operator has claimed.

Co-owner of Mt Martha SUPA IGA for 30 years, Rod Allen – who is president of MGA Independent Retailers – said the retail giant had “completely bypassed six local councils and communities and had taken its proposal to re-zone land direct to the state government by lobbying Planning Minister Richard Wynne”.

Mr. Allen said the proposed Mornington store would “have a big impact on shops from Mt Eliza all the way down the Mornington Peninsula”.

Last month, Mr. Wynne told Mornington Peninsula Shire he would appoint a committee to “provide advice and recommendations” on Kaufland’s plans to open six supermarkets around Melbourne.

The mayor Cr Bryan Payne said the advisory panel was “another example of Mr. Wynne impinging on the responsibility of local government”.

Mr. Allen said Kaufland was “using the minister to re-zone land so mega stores can be dropped onto local communities with all profits to be taken offshore and not spent in the local community”.

“Any initial increases in employment will be more than offset when local shops are forced to shed labour as their businesses suffer,” he said.

Kaufland is looking to open mega stores on sites up to 20,000 square metres at Mornington, Dandenong, Epping, Oakleigh South, Coolaroo and Chirnside Park.

If given the go ahead, the stores will sell “everything from car tyres to cheese slices”, from in-house bakeries, delis, butchers, cafes, conventional grocery and Kmart-style department store sections, Mr. Allen said.

“They can be likened to shopping centres in their own right, in scale and product range, with proposed floor spaces of 6000-12,000 square metres which is four times larger than Coles or Woolworths and 10 times larger than Aldi, plus 400 car parking spaces,” he said. “We call on Premier Daniel Andrews to save Victorian small businesses”.

MGA is a member of the ACCC Small Business and Franchise Consultative Committee, which met on 26 October, 2018. This committee is a national committee comprising of several ACCC specialists, regulators such as Small Business Commissioners, the ATO, FWC, ASIC and industry association CEO’s and executives.

Recently appointed Deputy ACCC Chairman, Mick Keogh, led the meeting which included a summary of activities from ACCC Chairman, Rod Sims. Also included was an ACCC report from ACCC Director, David Salisbury, along with an update into the Inquiry into the Franchising Code of Conduct by ACCC Director, Kristie Piniuta, a summary in regard to changes needed to business-tobusiness unfair contract terms law from Parnos Munyard and an update from the Office of the Franchising Mediation Adviser (OFMA).

ACCC Small Business and Franchise Consultative Committee

ACCC Small Business Director David Salisbury, ACCC Deputy Chairman Mick Keogh and ACCC Director Kristie Piniuta

www.mga.asn.au

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INDUSTRY NEWS

9

NATIONAL

Energy... the dirty word!

How to start a conversation 101?

Start talking about energy!

Yes, that word that everyone talks about with their eyes rolling. Yet energy is one of the major forces that makes this world move forward and makes all our lives a bit more convenient.

be asked is what can be done about it?

We know there is a problem, and there are various strategies at government level that could be adopted to help reduce the cost of electricity/gas. But there are also strategies at the ground level with the end user.

But why has the word ‘energy’ become such a dirty word, like it’s a necessary evil? Energy in its purest form is a force that powers equipment, devices and connects the world. How it is generated is a subject for a different conversation, but the cost of generating it and getting it to the end users over the last few years have propelled energy into the spotlight.

You can start by looking at what you are currently paying for your electricity i.e. what you are being charged for peak, off peak, metering charges, network demand charges, the charge list goes on and on. Understanding what you are being charged is the first step to a possible solution. Like any problem a diagnosis must first be done to properly understand the nature of the problem. Such as asking “why is my bill so high?!”

Everyone is talking about energy from businesses to homes. Even our politicians, but that might have something to do with it being an election year, so take it with a pinch of salt. Energy is in the media, on the news, on the internet, it’s everywhere. Why all the fuss? Easy, energy is now so expensive, in some cases it is now the second highest cost to a business.

Unfortunately, as the cost burden rises it is jeopardising the ability of some businesses to keep staff on, let alone hiring anyone new.

So why has the cost of energy gone up so much? Depends on who you ask, and the answer may vary. Some of the likely causes are: • Increases in demand from larger population • Closure and planned closure of coal power plants • International commitments with CO reduction • Weather conditions • Evolution of people’s lifestyle – got to love all those modern devices!

The most important thing that needs to

Once you understand what and where you are being charged, the solution to remedy these issues becomes clearer.

So, we know there are ways to reduce the cost of your bills by analysing each line on your bill, but that’s only half the picture. Think of the electricity world as two sides of a coin. To truly look at a longterm electricity cost reduction, one must look at the total cost of the kWh and equally important the consumption of kWh or both sides of the coin.

that use less electricity and achieve the same result or helps make a site use less electricity from the GRID. Solar PV, thermo and power factor correctors to name a few. Energy efficiency can also mean work processes and behaviours as well.

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Reducing the cost of the kWh or otherwise known as bill optimisation, is more service orientated and requires reviewing and engaging several retailers to get the best pricing on the market as well as understanding the energy market.

Whereas, the reduction of the kWh consumption is called energy efficiency.

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10

INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL

MGA board meets in Canberra On Tuesday 16 October 2018, MGA’s Board of Directors met with several federal politicians from various parties in a House of Representatives Committee Meeting Room, in Parliament House Canberra, to discuss a range of matters and issues effecting members businesses.

The purpose of the meetings was to assist Members of Parliament (MPs) in developing meaningful and positive policy positions. Small business is held in the highest regard by most Members of Parliament but as we all know, it’s not about the “talk”, it’s all about the “walk” that counts. To say small business is the back bone of the economy, employing more than 6 million Australians, is an empty statement if our law makers are not prepared to consult genuinely and engage meaningfully, in good faith before introducing onerous and costly laws and regulations.

A recent example of “do gooder” legislation is the introduction of Country of Origin Labelling (CoOL). We say “do gooder” not because CoOL is a bad idea but because the people introducing these new laws have no idea regarding the cost

burden, or red tape consequences, that this initiative has caused the independent supermarket sector. The introduction of CoOL on 1 July 2018 cost our sector, family enterprises and private businesses, several hundreds of thousands of dollars to comply with.

Store owners were forced to upgrade and renew electronic scales, labels and ticketing systems at a huge cost!

Whilst Ministers, Shadow Ministers, Senators and Members of Parliament are extremely busy when “Canberra is sitting”, they welcomed the opportunity to meet and engage with MGA’s Board of Directors; who themselves are business people, operating in all states in Australia, employing many local people from within their communities.

Many matters were discussed including, employment and workplace relations matters. Australia has the most complex and inflexible award system in the World!

There is no incentive to employ staff.

The cost of doing business is escalating!

Wages have risen significantly in the past 18 months, e.g. 2017: +3.3% and 2018: +3.4% = +6.7%. Casual staff penalty rates

have increased by 25% on Saturdays and late nights, adding an additional wage cost to our members’ of $85m for Saturdays alone.

Casual employee conversion to permanent, after 12 months, will further reduce workforce flexibility and the Fair Work Commission’s decision to reduce Sunday penalty rates to 150% must be preserved. Also discussed were suggestions to assist with workforce flexibility by addressing the unfair dismissal threshold by increasing the limit from 15 to 60 employees. Additionally, getting rid of the “Better Off Overall Test” (BOOT) and bringing back the “No Disadvantage Test” to allow for enterprise agreements. Also to provide industry organisations such as MGA, federal government funding assistance, to develop industrial relations education i.e. education programs for members and to develop an audit support service.

Other matters discussed include; the high cost of electricity which is debilitating and severely effecting the viability of members businesses; bring forward company tax cuts to 25% for businesses

MGA Board with Small Business Minister Michaelia Cash (middle)

MGA Board members: Chris dos Santos, Carmel Goldsmith, Graeme Gough, Grant Hinchcliffe, Debbie Smith, Jos de Bruin and Lincoln Wymer

December 2018 – Edition 8

MGA Board members with Greens Senator Nick McKim

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INDUSTRY NEWS

with a turnover of $50m or less and lifting the company tax cut threshold from $50m turnover to $500m turnover; along with the lack of industry training support. In fact, at a federal level, it is nonexistent with no incentives available.

This situation will have a detrimental effect and put at risk our members ability to succession plan.

MGA’s Board also raised state based unfair business practices which have the potential to severely effect our sector’s ability to compete on a level playing field with the two giants.

Victoria – Kaufland: The world’s 4th largest retailer is currently by-passing Victorian councils and communities by going straight to the Victorian Government to rezone industrial land.

With a view to locate 6 mega 7,000 square metre retail boxes around

Melbourne, by requesting the Victorian State Government use its “call in” powers. This is simply wrong and unfair.

Queensland – Packaged Liquor: Coles and Woolworths can sell packaged liquor – the independent sector cannot!

On the day MGA’s Board met with a number of politicians including; Minister for Small Business, Senator Michaelia Cash, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Hon Kelly O’Dwyer, Assistant Shadow Minister for Small Business Hon Julie Owens, Assistant Shadow Minister for Workplace Relations Hon Lisa Chesters, Greens Senator and Small Business/Competition champion Nick McKim, Nationals Senator John “Wacka” Williams, Labor MP Hon Milton Dick and One Nation Leader Senator Pauline Hanson along with One Nation Candidate Steve Dickson.

MGA Board members with Julie Owens MP (middle-front)

MGA Board with One Nation Leader Pauline Hanson (middle)

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www.mga.asn.au

12

INDUSTRY NEWS

Aussie and Proud?

So are we.

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.

December 2018 – Edition 8

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INDUSTRY NEWS NATIONAL

MGA board dinner Canberra: Workplace relations discussions MGA’s Board invited Shadow Minister for Small Business, Julie Owens MP and Assistant Shadow Minister for Workplace Relations, Lisa Chesters MP, to MGA’s dinner at the National Press Club in Canberra on 16 October. The Board used the

Peter Strong, Graeme Gough, Grant Hinchcliffe, Julie Owens MP, Manual Xyrokis, Carmel Goldsmith, Lincoln Wymer, Debbie Smith, Lisa Chesters MP and Chris dos Santos

occasion to discuss opportunities for new workplace relations policies to be considered by the Labor Party which would allow the independent supermarket sector more flexibility to employ and engage people in the workplace. COSBOA CEO Peter Strong was also a guest of MGA’s Board.

Currently MGA members are cutting staff hours and not employing new staff. Members have raised grave concerns regarding the high cost of labour and the inflexibility of the current award which impedes their ability to employ more people and give staff more hours during times of high demand.

Both Julie Owens and Lisa Chesters were very receptive and very keen to discuss practical solutions to achieve the goal of allowing our members, more opportunities to recruit staff and give current staff more hours of work.

MGA’s Board will continue discussions with more information during 2019.

www.mga.asn.au

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INDUSTRY NEWS NEW SOUTH WALES

MGA meets NSW Deputy Premier and Treasurer On 8 November, MGA together with other industry association executives, met with NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro and Treasurer Dominic Perrottet at Parliament House, Sydney. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss and critique several current government initiatives, as well as, from the Ministers’ point of view seek out what the government can do better. There is of course, a NSW State Government election looming in March 2019.

This was an opportunity for MGA to put forward the views and concerns of MGA’s NSW members. Topics discussed included: the extensive commitment to infrastructure planning, the drought affected areas, telecommunications and payroll tax impeding employment. We also covered extensively, the disastrous

Container Deposit Scheme introduced on 1 December 2017. This policy was implemented with no consultation and a complete disregard for the consequences of this expensive and poorly thought out program on MGA members businesses, particularly near the Victorian and Queensland borders.

MGA also highlighted the opportunity to bring “integrity” back into the NSW planning regime, adhering to planning schemes and stop pandering to big business and big developers who want to build “out of centre” developments that impact heavily on local shops.

MGA thanked Deputy Premier Barilaro and Treasurer Perrottet for the opportunity to engage and share the views of MGA’s members.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro, Jos de Bruin and Treasurer Dominic Perrottet

SOUTH AUSTRALIA AND WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Christmas trading hours extended in SA and WA Current South Australian trading hours laws that allow only some smaller stores and shops in the Adelaide CBD to trade on public holidays have been defiantly overturned by the State Government to allow for Boxing Day trade. The amendment grants a special exemption to suburban shops and CBD stores to provide longer trading hours after Christmas.

According to the South Australian Treasurer, Mr. Rob Lucas there were many larger retailers who have been seeking to trade immediately after Christmas for years and consumers have also been crying out for extended shopping opportunities post-Christmas. That might suit some people, but is it really good for business? It may be for some but it is certainly not for all.

Giant retailers, like Coles and Woolworths and large shopping centres, are obviously keen to trade additional hours but that doesn’t necessarily suit the needs of small businesses that rely on being able to open according to the current laws. Many small businesses will just not bother to open on Boxing day because it will be futile. So once again the interests of small family run businesses have been pushed to one side in the

interests of what is perceived, and promoted, as being “best for everyone”.

The same story applies in Western Australia where the Government there has chosen to extend trading hours over the Christmas / New Year period. The extended trading hours in the West are even more extensive than in South Australia.

Shoppers will be able to shop longer in Perth from December 17 right up to Christmas Eve. More specifically they will have an extra four hours each Sunday and this will continue through to Sunday, December 30. On weekends, Boxing day and New Year’s Day. the shops will be able to open from 8am until 6pm.

All over the country small businesses will continue the struggle for survival at this time of the year. Unfortunately, Governments make decisions that make the fight for survival tougher than it need be. It has been proven many times that extending trading hours does not create more jobs, it doesn’t mean there is extra money spent, it’s just where it’s spent.

However, it does mean that some big stores will make big profits and there will definitely be some stores that will suffer adverse consequences.

www.mga.asn.au

16

INDUSTRY NEWS

QUEENSLAND

Queensland Industry Business Roundtable – future workforce skills On 14 November there was a Queensland Industry Business Roundtable Forum, held at 1 William Street, Brisbane and hosted by the Deputy Director General for Small Business Queensland, Helen Sharpley. The purpose of this roundtable was to explore the issues, challenges and opportunities for managing access to high quality, in demand workforce skills for Queensland small businesses.

This discussion was attended by various Queensland training and education specialists including, the Office of Small Business, TAFE QLD and Jobs QLD, together with small business industry association executives including MGA.

Several serious matters were raised about current employment and apprenticeship shortages and the future training and workforce skill needs to suit the very fast changing digital economy.

Discussions included understanding why employers are reluctant to train their staff (could be time, money?) and what would motivate employees to be upskilled and trained in the workplace. MGA raised the concern that “succession planning” in small businesses is vital for the future operation and growth of a business and without training support from the government, succession planning would remain a challenge. Other skills discussed included; financial literacy,

Helen Sharpley, Deputy Director General for Small Business Queensland human resources management, and agile leadership. This will be an ongoing small business roundtable resulting in positive action points.

VICTORIA

MGA meets Judy O’Connell Victorian Small Business Commissioner MGA recently met with the Victorian Small Business Commissioner, Judy O’Connell, at a small café in Malvern, Victoria, to discuss some of the challenges facing MGA members (supermarkets, liquor stores and timber and hardware stores) as well as potential business growth opportunities.

Some of the topics covered were: The mental health of business owners, leasing issues, access to finance, the calling in by the Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne of the six sites in the Kaufland matter, payroll tax, compliance obligations and other red tape and cost burden issues. Local café owners Deborah and Allessio are also gripped by the plethora of compliance obligations not to mention the high costs of doing business.

We thank Commissioner O’Connell for her very valuable time enabling us to put forward the view of MGA’s members. MGA is very fortunate to have a strong working relationship with all Small Business Commissioners in each of the states.

Local cafe owners Deborah and Allessio with Judy O’Connell and Jos de Bruin

December 2018 – Edition 8

Small Business Commissioners in other states include; • Maree Adshead – QLD • David Eaton – WA (Small Business Champion) • John Chapman – SA • Robyn Hobbs – NSW

INDUSTRY NEWS

17

NATIONAL

COSBOA AGM and council meeting The Council of Small Business Organisations Australia met in Canberra on 23 October for its AGM and council meeting.

MGA is represented on both the COSBOA Board and Council.

COSBOA CEO Peter Strong is based in Canberra and as such, has easy access to all Ministers, Shadow Ministers and Members of Parliament.

COSBOA’s goals are to promote and support the development of small businesses in Australia; advocate to advance the interests of small business in Australia, including through policy change and regulatory reform; foster an increased awareness and understanding of the role of small business in Australia amongst public servants and elected government officials, larger businesses, the media and the general community.

Key policy areas being worked on at present include; increasing the threshold for the instant asset write off, payroll tax lifting to $2M threshold (streamlining thresholds and making these more consistent), support for VET, energy rebates for small business, regional support for drought-affected businesses, not just farmers, the definition of small business and e-invoicing.

Elizabth Skirving, Mark McKenzie, Small Business Ombudsman Kate Carnell, Minister Michaelia Cash, David Gandolfo, Peter Strong, Ben Kearney, Dominic Schipano, Lyn Goodear and Jos de Bruin

Minister (in Cabinet) for Small Business, Senator Michaelia Cash, joined COSBOA’s Board and Council Members for a dinner at which she emphasised the current Government’s focus on instilling business confidence and certainty; building on good policies that will help to grow the existing small business sector and encouraging Australians to start up their own businesses. The Government is working on several initiatives including easier access to finance. Kate Carnell, the Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, also attended and as always showed terrific support for the family enterprise and private business sector.

QUEENSLAND

QLD looking to energise family enterprises and private businesses On 14 November, MGA met with the Queensland Minister for Innovation, Kate Jones, to discuss several opportunities to help grow Queenslands independently owned supermarkets. One initiative is the “Go Local” program which encourages local businesses to support other local businesses and local consumers to support their local community businesses.

Minister Jones is very keen for MGA members around Queensland to source their fresh produce, cheeses, honey,

meats and groceries from local growers and producers. Thereby driving local economic growth, increasing employment and strengthening local communities economically and socially.

Kate Jones and Jos de Bruin Discussion also covered the possibilities of independent supermarkets, often the hubs of their communities, supporting local Queensland independent brewers, cider makers and wine makers, together with local foods such as cheesemakers providing local consumers and tourists

with a “local, whole of meal” solution.

The Minister was quite keen to pursue further discussions as she foresees this as a terrific initiative to help grow small businesses all around Queensland.

www.mga.asn.au

18

INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL

MGA applauds Employment Minister’s Uphill both ways intervention in casual leave case – think about it of this decision there will be store In late October Employment Minister, A naive dream is that it’s possible to go on a long bike ride – and enjoy the journey going downhill in each direction.

Newton had it right… you’re going to need to go uphill in order to go downhill.

Too often, though, we set up our projects and our freelance life in a way that makes it always an uphill slog. If you don’t build an asset and don’t invest in your reputation, all you’ve got left is grunt work.

The hard work is digging in deeper than usual on the up hills – that’s the best chance you have to earn a downhill later.

Source – Seth's Blog

Kelly O’Dwyer, intervened in a Federal Court case to prevent a casual employee from obtaining payment for leave entitlements. Earlier this year, a casual employee won a Federal Court application which gave him an entitlement to annual leave despite his casual status.

Jos de Bruin, from MGA Independent Retailers said, “this decision sent a tsunami of fear through the retail industry as the thought of being bombarded with claims for backpay for annual leave would spell devastation for thousands of small businesses. The employee who was declared to be a casual had a continuous and regular pattern of work and was granted annual leave payments despite having already received his additional 25% loading. Surely an employee cannot be allowed to “double-dip,” you should not be able to claim an entitlement to both payment of annual leave and take the 25% loading as well. The Government is right in saying that there should not be any entitlement to “double-dip” and the industry needs clarity for the future.”

Mr. de Bruin continued, “The Federal Government intervention in this matter reinforces the danger to our economy of this decision. Small businesses employ thousands of casuals and have relied on them for years to provide flexibility in the retail industry. If employers are hit by the potentially adverse ramification

Hon Kelly O’Dwyer, Employment Minister

December 2018 – Edition 8

closures, loss of jobs in their thousands and many businesses will go broke.

Small and medium businesses, and even big businesses could not withstand the cost that would be imposed on them.

Employees must be prevented from “double-dipping” so let’s hope at least the Government intervention in this matter will have a significant effect on halting the serious fall out of the decision to safeguard the livelihood of thousands of Australians.

Employment Minister O’Dwyer said, • “The Government has decided to intervene to make the Commonwealth a party in a test case before the Federal Court of Australia, which considers whether an employer can be required to pay twice for the same workplace entitlement.

• “It is important for me to intervene in this case given the considerable concern across Australia’s 3 million small businesses and given the impact it could have on job creation and existing jobs.

• “Small businesses must be able to operate with clarity and certainty of the law, which will ensure not only their success, but the success of Australians employed in small businesses across Australia. Clarity and certainty strengthens compliance, which I am sure both employers and employees would welcome.

• “The Government is very concerned that the legal right to offset an obligation against payments already made for the same entitlements was not dealt with in Skene v WorkPac. We want to make sure the same thing does not happen again.

• “It must be made clear that the fundamental common law right to offset is available to small business employers if it faces claims to pay for the same entitlement twice.”

INDUSTRY NEWS

19

NATIONAL

Least cost routing – save on merchant fees Merchant fees have become an increasingly burdensome cost to do business for MGA members. Over the last 4 years members have been reporting there has been a 400% increase in merchant (retailer) transaction fees. As consumers embrace the “tap and go” phenomenon which has been largely promoted by Mastercard and VISA (and the banks), the opportunity for consumers to choose their routing to a debit rather than credit facility is limited and, in many cases, not available.

In discussions earlier in the year with the Reserve Bank of Australia, MGA has been advised to encourage members to contact their banks and request a “least cost routing” (LCR) facility. In other words, a facility that incorporates eftpos and allows consumers (and retailers) the choice of both credit and debit card transactions. eftpos have significantly invested in their “tap and go” or contactless eftpos technology, now making it easier for consumers and allowing merchants to offer consumers a choice. This will also significantly reduce the cost of merchant fees. In fact, eftpos transaction fees are 40% of the cost of a credit transaction.

According to the Reserve Bank of Australia in their Payment Systems Board Annual Report, regarding small to medium enterprises LCR: • “The four major banks had made commitments to the Reserve Bank to complete the necessary technical work to make LCR available within the next year, with two of them expecting to roll out the functionality on their terminals within six months. Other banks and acquirers indicated that they would also be making LCR available within six months.

• Terminal providers were making good progress in developing the necessary functionality, and some large and medium-sized merchants with their own terminals would likely be able to implement LCR independently of their acquirers’ schedules.

In addition to the provision of LCR functionality, the Board also considered several other issues relevant to the effective implementation of LCR. These included the potential strategic responses of the debit card schemes and the awareness of LCR among merchants, especially small and mediumsized merchants. The issue of strategic

Jos de Bruin, Mark Rayner eftpos Chief Commercial Officer and Warwick Ponder eftpos Executive Manager Corporate Affairs

Mark Rayner eftpos Chief Commercial Officer responses relates to concerns of some merchants that the international card schemes, might respond to a merchant’s decision to implement LCR for debit card transactions, by increasing the interchange fees that apply to that merchant’s credit card transactions.

The Reserve Bank has raised these concerns with schemes and the three schemes have provided the Bank with assurances that they will not respond to LCR in ways that would limit competitive pressure in the debit card market. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is also aware of these concerns. The Board asked the staff to closely monitor pricing developments in the payment card market and whether smaller merchants are being provided with reasonable access to LCR by the major banks.

Members are encouraged to discuss least cost routing with their banks as soon as possible. The increasing cost of merchant fees must be contained, so speak to your relationship manager and if that person knows nothing about LCR then escalate your query and insist on when this facility can be made available to your business.

www.mga.asn.au

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INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL

MGA board meeting held in Canberra On 17 October 2018, MGA held its board meeting in the board room at the office of the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman in Canberra. MGA has a very close working relationship with Ombudsman, Kate Carnell and her hard-working team being a member of four key working groups including, workplace relations, human capital, energy pricing, and unfair contract terms.

Kate presented and discussed the Ombudsman’s quarterly report with the MGA Board, as well as addressing matters such as the difficulty small businesses have in accessing finance, the market dominance of the two major supermarket and liquor chains, unfair contract terms and small businesses being paid on time.

We thank Kate for the use of her board room.

COSBOA CEO, Peter Strong, also addressed the Board and gave an update on all the initiatives he and the COSBOA Board are working on for small business operators. This included

paid parental leave obligations and how small businesses can become better at managing all aspects of doing business such as hiring and firing, finance, logistics etc. Peter also mentioned the destructive and public union ideology to “bash employers” driven by ACTU Chief, Sally McManus, which is damaging any chance of working together toward productive and meaningful workplace solutions. In view of all the compassionate leave currently available for employees, COSBOA (and MGA) have spoken out against yet another form of leave – 10 days domestic violence leave, stating that it could be at risk of being rorted.

Special guests who attended the meeting included three senior ACCC executives.

Chairman – Rod Sims, Deputy Chair – Mick Keogh and Deputy General Manager for Enforcement – Nicholas Heys. Rod gave the board an ACCC activities update and mentioned that the ACCC resources are very limited to conduct the myriad of investigations asked of the ACCC. There are 65 competition investigators and 65 consumer investigators around the country which is a constant management challenge.

Topics also included: • Packaged liquor in QLD: We discussed the serious issue of independents not being able to sell liquor and being disadvantaged. It’s a State issue. Rod indicated that the ACCC would consider lending a hand to communicate our concerns to the QLD Government.

• Section 46; Misuse of Market Power – “Effects Test”: The next steps are to take on test cases to create case law.

• Energy: The ACCC has made many recommendations in its Electricity Pricing Report released earlier this year, that will save our members a lot of money.

Many of the recommendations will be adopted giving MGA members a huge benefit once implemented. It would help greatly if some states and the Commonwealth would write down the value of assets such as poles and wires. There are many changes imminent in the generation of electricity to help improve competition in the sector.

Together with Messrs Sims, Keogh and Heys, discussion ensued concerning what the ACCC could do further in our industry sector from an enforcement perspective, particularly unfair competition matters.

The ACCC is the regulator for Country of Origin Labelling (CoOL) and wished to understand better, how MGA members have adapted.

Lincoln Wymer, Carmel Goldsmith, ACCC Deputy Chairman Mick Keogh, Chris dos Santos, Grant Hinchcliffe, ACCC Chairman Rod Sims, Debbie Smith, Graeme Gough and ACCC Deputy General Manager Nicholas Heys

December 2018 – Edition 8

The Board also raised a competition issue on behalf of MGA TMA members. The independent timber and hardware sector is concerned about Bunnings approaching suppliers to give them their national brands exclusively (Makita power tools and Stanley tools).

The ACCC acknowledged that they are looking into this matter, as well as timber supply issues.

21

INDUSTRY NEWS VICTORIA

Ann Sanfey with Dr Craig Latham

Ben Shaw, Paige Hastings and Elliot Blackmore

Richard Hill with Joshua and Tim Wallace

Boris Iskra, Rhonda Casey and Thinh Dao X

Maurice and David Efron

MGA TMA 2nd Annual Industry Lunch The 2nd Annual MGA TMA Industry Lunch was held at the Kooyong Tennis Centre on Wednesday 24 October 2018.

The purpose of the event was to bring members and stakeholders together to network, share views and discuss industry issues whilst giving the opportunity to listen to relevant speakers on topics that affect the day to day running of an independent small business.

Speakers and topics included: Dr Craig Latham: Deputy Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Dr Latham outlined the role of ASBFEO as the independent advocate for small business owners, with legislative powers needed to effectively influence the nation’s lawmakers, ensuring legislation and regulations are put in place to help small businesses grow.

Shane Garret: Chief Economist – Master Builders Australia Shane provided a concise overview of the residential building outlook for Australia, highlighting the rebound of private investment, the annual economic growth rate as well the importance and relevance of job creation.

Jim Houghton: Forest & Wood Products Australia Jim focused on current wood supply issues, sawn timber market, apparent consumption vs production and imports as well as the recent announcement “Billion Trees” project by the government, creating more trees in the ground and developing plantation “hubs”.

A subject very close to the hearts of all the audience and one which continues to bring both concern and confidence.

All presenters were well informed and kept the audience engaged… more question time would not have gone amiss!

Launch of the MGA TMA Safety Management System The lunch also provided the opportunity to officially launch the latest MGA TMA support service – MGA TMA’s Safety Management System. A series of workplace, health and safety modules for use in improving and controlling the management of safety. These modules are designed to allow members to tackle specific areas based on the risk priorities within their business.

Online modules, a program guide and templates will provide support with various aspects of safety management specifically designed in line with the timber and hardware workplace.

www.mga.asn.au

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INDUSTRY NEWS

December 2018 – Edition 8

23

LEGAL AND HR NATIONAL

LEGAL AND HR Workplace stress – a growing problem According to statistics and research conducted by WorkSafe Australia, 60% of mental disorder claims have been awarded to workers aged 40 and over, $543 million is paid in workers’ compensation for work-related mental health conditions and 20 times more sick days per month are taken by workers with severe depression. These statistics demonstrate the need for employers to place high importance on monitoring the well-being of their staff. There is an enormous mental and physical cost to the individual who falls victim to stress in the workplace, as well as the financial cost to an employer if workplace stress leads to a worker’s compensation claim. There is an increasing need for an employer to exercise greater vigilance to protect employees and the business from the consequences of workplace stress.

According to the World Health Organisation a healthy job is one where, “the pressures on employees are appropriate in relation to their abilities and resources, to the amount of control they have over their work and to the support they receive from the people who matter to them”. To avoid stress the employee must have the ability or talent to perform the tasks required by the role. If the employee can’t do the job then that person should be helped and only after that should other measures be considered. The employee will often need the support of a supervisor or colleague to give advice or assistance. If no help is provided because the workplace is badly managed then individuals may feel abandoned and stress will just worsen, because the employee may not know what to do or know where to get help. It is sound workplace practice to ensure that employees have clear directions on their duties, that hours of work are monitored and that supervisory techniques are considerate and supportive.

If an employee is having trouble performing the tasks associated with the position then it is wise not to ignore the problem and allow it to drift on. Performance management is an important step in helping the employee to deal with difficulties that he or she might be experiencing. Always approach an employee’s work difficulties with an offer of assistance and any criticism should be positive. Establish the problem, work on a solution, give guidance and time frames in which to improve, allow a period for improvement and give feedback.

ignored, being ridiculed or being bullied, there could be serious emotional consequences for the individual and for the business.

Some individuals are more resilient and are unphased by such treatment but there are some who become deeply offended and serious mental damage can result. It is good practice to train your managers in people skills so that they understand that employees will react negatively to a raised voice or any demeaning action. No matter how serious a mistake might be it does not permit anyone to maltreat an employee.

A strong, supportive workplace culture will go a long way to maintaining a productive and safe workplace which will in turn contribute to business prosperity and a stress-free work environment.

T H E B E S T O F TA S M A N I A I S C R E AT E D B E T W E E N D E V I L ’ S C O R N E R & THE DEEP BLUE SEA

Everyone is entitled to be respected at work. If a person is the victim of some act of disrespect at work such as being

www.mga.asn.au

24

LEGAL AND HR

NATIONAL

Retail leases Last edition we discussed some common areas to watch out for when navigating retail leases in Australia. This edition, we will discuss in more detail, disputes regarding retail leases.

The first point of call whenever a dispute arises between a tenant and a landlord is the lease itself, as well as the landlord’s disclosure statement. These set out the rights and responsibilities of each party. If you do not have a copy of these in your possession, ensure that you request them from either the landlord or the managing agent for the premises.

Most leases will include a dispute resolution clause which sets out how a landlord and tenant must deal with any disagreements relating to the lease, such as rent reviews or costs of repairs. In many instances, these will include obligations on both parties to first consult with each other

December 2018 – Edition 8

to reach a resolution and then engage an independent mediator to attempt to resolve the dispute. These avenues provide a low-cost and faster alternative to dispute resolution as compared with going through the court system. If the dispute remains unresolved after going through these steps, you should contact the relevant state authority that deals with leasing disputes. These are: • VIC: Victorian Small Business Commissioner • NSW: NSW Fair Trading • QLD: Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) • NT: NT Consumer Affairs • ACT: NSW Fair Trading • SA: SA Small Business Commissioner • WA: WA Small Business Development Corporation • TAS: Tasmanian Government Consumer, Building and Occupational Services

In most instances, before a party to a lease can proceed to court, they must show evidence that all the prior dispute resolution steps have been attempted unsuccessfully. In some circumstances they may require a certificate from the relevant dispute resolution body which confirms the same.

It is important that members familiarise themselves with the steps for dispute resolution prior to engaging in lengthy and costly court processes to resolve their dispute. The vast majority of retail leasing disputes are resolved out of court, which saves time and money for all parties involved.

Members are encouraged to contact MGA’s legal and HR team on 1800 888 479 (option 1) if they have any queries or concerns regarding their retail leases.

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LEGAL AND HR NATIONAL

Staff Christmas celebrations – avoiding problems!

Sexual harassment is one of the most common problems that arises out of the staff Christmas party. If an incident of sexual harassment occurs whether at the worksite or off-site, if it is regarded as ‘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.

Here are some tips to assist employers to manage 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.

• Make sure there are plenty of soft drinks available, and make 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 part of the job requirements and the employer may be liable if there is any accident on the way home.

• If there are juniors present make sure they have their parents’ permission to be there and ensure that they do not consume alcohol.

Over indulgence 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.

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.

At Christmas each year we send out our reminder about celebrating the festive season. We take the opportunity to remind members about you and your staff enjoying your Christmas celebrations.

After Christmas every year we hear of misbehaviour happening at Christmas celebrations which should be happy and enjoyable occasions. Although most party goers enjoy themselves and celebrate the end of the year, unfortunately there inevitably are 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.

Can you force an employee to attend a medical examination?

It can be very frustrating for an employer when an employee is on personal leave and the employee does not indicate when he or she expects to return to work. However, in most circumstances an employer can direct an employee whilst on personal leave to attend an independent medical assessment to facilitate the employee’s return to work. This is usually the case when an employee initially provides no reason for their personal leave other than a medical certificate that states that the employee is ‘unfit for work’.

The reason why an employer can lawfully direct an employee to attend a medical examination is because when an employee takes paid personal leave, the employment relationship and the contract of employment continues. Recent case law has verified that when an employer directs an employee to attend a medical examination, it will be lawful and reasonable direction depending on the circumstances.

Therefore, if an employee takes personal leave because of an unexplained medical absence, an employee is required to follow a direction of their employer and if necessary. attend an independent medical examination.

Employees have a right to take personal leave under the Fair Work Act, however an employer in response is entitled to facilitate an employee’s return to work and can direct an employee to attend an independent medical examination.

www.mga.asn.au

IRON JACK 4.2% LAGER NOW AVAILABLE

27

LIQUOR NEWS QUEENSLAND

LIQUOR NEWS Queensland Containers for Change recycles 5 million in first week More than five million containers have been returned and recycled in the first week of Queensland’s Containers for Change container deposit scheme.

“We also now have 27,000 people signed up with a scheme ID, allowing them to be paid their refund straight into their bank account.

Queensland Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch said that more than half a million dollars have gone back towards Queenslanders or charities and community groups because of the scheme.

“We’d love to see communities get behind Containers for Change to raise funds for schools, sporting clubs and other notfor-profits,” he said.

N

“We’ve also seen some great recycling happening in regional areas. More than 780,000 containers have been returned in Wide Bay, and more than 770,000 in Townsville,” Ms Enoch said.

O W A VA IL A BL E

“Queenslanders use nearly three billion containers a year, and sadly they are the most commonly littered item in the environment.

“This scheme has created about 500 new jobs, with people starting work at container refund points across the state,” she said.

As part of the scheme, Queenslanders get 10 cents back for returning bottles and cans across one of the schemes 230 sites.

The scheme uses a mixture of over the counter depots, reverse vending machines, mobile and pop up refund points and drop off points.

Container Exchange (CoEx) is the company responsible for implementing and managing the scheme.

CoEx CEO Ken Noye said it was great to see more than five million containers recycled in a week.

Limited release | Elegant bottle | Exquisite giftbox | Individual serial numbers

To commemorate the 90 year celebration of De Bortoli Wines, founded in 1928, this limited edition Black Noble is crafted from parcels of wine with an average blended age of 20 years in barrels.

Contact your De Bortoli Representative for more details

“People are able to support local community groups by donating their containers and we encourage social purpose organisations to sign up for the scheme,” Mr Noye said.

www.mga.asn.au

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LIQUOR NEWS

December 2018 – Edition 8

29

LIQUOR NEWS VICTORIA

It’s time to renew your Victorian liquor licence for 2019 Licensees can expect to receive their liquor licence renewal notice in the mail soon. Those not wanting to wait, can download their 2019 renewal notice now by registering an account in the VCGLR liquor portal.

Once you have created a liquor portal account, you can link your liquor licence/permit using your licence number and individual four-digit PIN. You can find your PIN number on your last renewal notice or email contact@vcglr.vic.gov.au.

The liquor portal also allows you to: • Update a liquor licence/permit postal address.

• Edit Nominees associated with a licence/permit.

• Edit Directors associated with a licence/permit.

• Apply to transfer a liquor licence/permit.

• Download a copy of your active liquor licence/permit and red line plan at any time.

Liquor licence renewal fees are due for payment in full to the State Revenue Office by 31 December 2018 regardless of when your liquor licence or permit was issued.

It is an offence under the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 for licensees to not pay their renewal fees in full by 31 Dec 2018.

From 1 January 2019, VCGLR inspectors will be visiting licensed premises who have not made payment.

If you no longer require your liquor licence/permit, you need to inform the VCGLR by completing the surrender a liquor licence or permit application form.

For more information on liquor licence renewals, contact the MGA National Support Office on 1800 888 479 or email admin@mga.asn.au.

www.mga.asn.au

31

LIQUOR NEWS NATIONAL

Independents and innovation drives Edgemill The Edgemill Group is a family run business, with roots that have been growing for nearly 50 years, since a humble milk bar opened in the Victorian suburb of Tottenham. With family and independence at the core of what Edgemill is all about, that business grew from a milk bar into a mini-mart, newsagency, post office and the drive in bottleshop known as Tottenham Cellars.

As Tottenham Cellars grew, the family’s knowledge of the liquor industry also grew, with a fundamental belief in the power of the independent retailer at its core. That saw the creation of a wholesale wine and spirits business, Alexander’s Wine and Spirits which has grown and developed into the business that is now known as the Edgemill Group.

It is that long family history and understanding of the independent retail sector, that National Sales and Marketing Manager, David Hounsome says is crucial to how the business operates and plans today. “Our DNA is independence and it is our strong partnerships with groups like IBA, Liquor Stax and many others, that has enabled us to develop NPD that is unique and exclusive to our independent partners. Their continued support fuels our search for innovation on their behalf offering a point of difference in the Australian liquor market.”

Edgemill prides itself on bringing innovation exclusively to the independent trade first, this has been recently seen with the introduction of Old Number Fifteen Bacon Bourbon Whiskey. This is a new expression from the Old Number

Fifteen distillery in Kentucky, which has been infused with smokey bacon for a smokey, salty and yet sweet flavour.

Hounsome added: “Edgemill is totally committed to the independent sector and to helping it through bringing innovative new products, that will help consumers come back for more.”

For more information, please contact Edgemill Group on 03 9982 8700 or visit www.edgemill.com.

Independent Solutions provides POS software (Profit Track™) to Independent Retailers to make everyday tasks easy. We have recently added new technologies to include:

Cashless Self-Checkout

CashGuard Payment

Internet Shopping

Café Bump Bar Style System

Want to know more?

Call your local Account Manager on

1800 020 946

www.mga.asn.au

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LIQUOR NEWS

NATIONAL

DrinkWise schoolies activities Every year, DrinkWise partners with industry and other stakeholders to promote their “How to Drink Properly” moderation messaging at schoolies celebrations across the country.

The campaign aims to make ‘drinking to get drunk’ less socially acceptable among young adult drinkers and to encourage those already drinking in safe and moderate ways to continue to do so. “How to Drink Properly” has had a positive impact on the behaviour of the target audience, with 40% reporting drinking less on a night out as a result of seeing the campaign.

This year, the “How to Drink Properly” schoolies material was displayed in retail outlets, licensed venues and hotels in and around schoolie hotspots, encouraging school leavers to ‘stay classy’ and providing tips and advice highlighting

December 2018 – Edition 8

the difference between poor drinking practices and drinking properly.

The “Choose Wisely, Drink Wisely” message will be promoted in over 300 liquor stores at popular schoolies destinations throughout Australia, including within Endeavour Drinks Group (BWS, Dan Murphy’s), Master Grocers of Australia (IGA) aligned outlets and Coles (First Choice Liquor). DrinkWise also partnered with the Schoolies Week Interagency Steering Committee, the Department of Health and Human Services Victoria, Victoria Police, licensed venues and local councils across Victoria.

These partnerships enabled DrinkWise to incorporate the “Choose Wisely, Drink Wisely” messaging into more than 20 licensed venues across the Bass Coast, Surf Coast and Mornington Peninsula.

Working with the Mantra in Lorne, DrinkWise provided schoolies guests

with free water upon arrival, as well as displaying moderation messaging throughout the hotel.

The schoolies activations will be supported by geotargeted Spotify advertising and social media in schoolies hotspots and localised venues. On the Gold Coast, DrinkWise have partnered with SeaFM to hand out schoolies survival packs (including water, eye masks and phone pouches) and to provide schoolies with tips for moderating and staying safe during their stay, via on-air messaging and social media.

DrinkWise’s presence at schoolies would not be possible without their industry partners, who provide them with generous opportunities to promote our message. If you would like to get involved with promoting this message to schoolies next year, please contact info@drinkwise.org.au.

LIQUOR NEWS

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NATIONAL

Summer is calling for sunsets and spritz Introducing Yellowglen’s brand new sparkling fruit infusions for summer.

Yellowglen, Australia’s most popular sparkling is proud to debut the Sunset Spritz range – Australia’s refreshing new take on a bubbly favourite.

The perfect summer beverage to enjoy with friends, Yellowglen Sunset Spritz includes two fresh offerings, both

featuring delicate fruit infusions with a gentle spritz, adding that extra sparkle to any occasion.

The Sunset Spritz Spritzed Rosé infused with wild berries, is a refreshing choice, combining the soft flavours of raspberry, cherry and strawberry, with hints of spice to ensure a crisp finish.

The Sunset Spritz Chardonnay Pinot Noir and Prosecco infused with elderflower and lime, is the perfect harmony of exotic, floral characteristics reminiscent of jasmine to ensure a bright, zesty finish to your summer sip.

“Yellowglen’s Sunset Spritz range is an exciting new offering in the Australian market,” says Clive Coleman, Yellowglen’s Regional Director. “Lighter in alcohol, this refreshing sparkling does not compromise on taste. Sophisticated, stylish and approachable, both infusions capture the essence of summer and celebration.”

Yellowglen Sunset Spritz’s official release was celebrated recently at Melbourne’s iconic West Beach Bathers Pavilion.

Guests included Yellowglen’s Lifestyle Director Emma Hawkins, Rozalia Russian, Brooke Meredith, Charlotte Ennels and Brooke McAuley.

“We’re thrilled to be launching Yellowglen’s brand new Sunset Spritz ahead of summer, where consumers can enjoy a refreshing glass and a good time amongst friends,” concluded Coleman.

To speak to your local TWE representative about these wines call 134 893.

NEW SOUTH WALES

New Liquor, Gaming & Racing NSW website coming soon Liquor, Gaming & Racing NSW have been working on a new Liquor & Gaming NSW website that will be launched in late 2018.

The new features include: • All new design, built to work on all devices • Intuitive navigation and powerful new search function • Simple pathways to find what you need in just a few clicks.

The website address liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au will stay the same, however it is recommended that you update your bookmarks when the site is launched.

www.mga.asn.au

Blackwood Park Riesling MITCHELTON’S MOST AWARD WINNING WINE

2017 Vintage - Citrus blossom and lime zest aromas fill the glass. The palate is fine and soft with delicate citrus and tropical fruit nuances.

To order your award winning wine, please contact your Mitchelton Sales Representative or call 03 5736 2222 or email sales@mitchelton.com.au

470 MITCHELLSTOWN ROAD, NAGAMBIE VIC

|

(03) 5736 2222

|

MITCHELTON.COM.AU

35

LIQUOR NEWS VICTORIA

Plastic Pollution Reference Group As part of the Victorian Government’s commitment to reducing the impact of plastic pollution on the environment, the Minister for Energy Environment and Climate Change the Hon Lily D’Ambrosio recently announced that the Victorian ban on single use lightweight plastic shopping bags will come into effect by the end of 2019. Many of our member banner group stores have already taken the voluntary step to ban the use of lightweight single use bags.

The Minister acknowledges that the banning of light weight plastic shopping bags will reduce plastic pollution, they are only part of the problem and over the next 12 months will be developing

a plastic pollution plan to prioritise and further develop the most effective action to reduce other types of plastic pollution.

To help inform the plan, a reference group of government, industry, community, environment and other relevant stakeholders has been formed to provide information and expertise to inform on the prioritisation and implementation of actions to reduce plastic pollution in Victoria.

The function of the reference group will be: • Identify current and emerging issues in plastic pollution in Victoria.

• Identify priority actions that are measurable, attainable and

•

relevant, with realistic timeframes to achieve them.

Help identify suitable ways to implement the priority actions.

MGA has been invited by the Minister to participate in the reference group and will represent the views and concerns of members during the review consultation process to ensure that any decisions made do not burden members with more red tape or additional costs to businesses.

Should any member have any concerns or views on what action could be taken please forward them in writing to admin@ mga.asn.au or contact George Kovits on 1800 888 479.

NATIONAL

A trophy win for a legacy wine During the month of October, Mitchelton was the proud host of the 2018 Victorian Wine Show for a consecutive year. This was a great opportunity to showcase their wines and hospitality to a highly respected group of industry professionals and wine lovers.

The prestigious Victorian Wine Show aims to capture the diversity of regional wines across 22 distinct wine growing districts and this year was no exception with an impressive increase in exhibitors.

A panel of expert judges tasted 770 wines from 130 wineries across the state in the impressive Gallery of Aboriginal Art at Mitchelton. This was the ideal place for wine tasting with consistent temperature control, allowing the wines to truly shine during judging.

With 120 guests attending the awards luncheon at Mitchelton’s Muse Restaurant on Thursday 15 November,

it was a celebration of regional food and wine in a beautiful setting.

Mitchelton’s legacy and most awarded wine, Blackwood Park Riesling was once again recognised for being a beautiful wine on the day.

The 2017 vintage wine was awarded the Trophy for Best Riesling in Show and a Top Gold (96 points). This award was well received by the Mitchelton winemaking and viticulture team with quality fruit for this wine sourced from the estate vineyards in Nagambie.

Another Mitchelton show result was a Gold Medal (95 points) for the PREECE Nagambie Chardonnay 2017.

Mitchelton – Proudly family owned and 100% Independent.

470 Mitchellstown Road, Nagambie, Victoria Phone (03) 5736 2222

www.mga.asn.au

36

TRAINING

SU P ER D RY

L AGE R REINVENTED

5.5% ALC/VOL

SU P E R DRY DAR K L AGER

3 x 6 p a ck 3 3 4 ml Bot t l es Contact your Asahi Premium Beverages representative or call our customer service line on 1800 090 378 to stock Asahi Super Dry Black today. asahipremiumbeverages.com December 2018 – Edition 8

Now

available in

6 packs

TRAINING

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NATIONAL

INDUSTRY TRAINING Health and safety in the workplace Workplace injury claims create strain both emotionally and financially to the injured person and business owner. Every year thousands of people are injured in retail outlets. Generally retail stores and supermarkets are well kept, but with the volume of foot traffic of shoppers and consumers, accidents and injuries are bound to happen.

Accidents in a supermarket can happen for many reasons, however, the most common are usually caused by the negligence of management and staff. If procedures aren’t followed, then accidents are more likely to occur.

Examples of supermarket accidents include: • Slipping on wet floors and spillages • Tripping over packaging, cables and other obstacles • Being struck by objects falling from the shelves • Injuries caused by poorly maintained trolleys • Electric shocks from faulty equipment, including refrigerators • Injuries caused by poor car park surfaces

are met in their store by carrying out risk assessments, to determine areas where hazards to employees and customers can be minimised. It is also their responsibility to ensure that all staff are trained on the importance of following procedures, such as providing a clear “wet floor” sign if a spillage has occurred and is yet to be cleaned up. The use of safe work instructions can assist in protecting your business by training staff in the correct procedures when performing their work duties.

Supermarket owners have a duty to ensure that health and safety regulations

For more information, please call MGA Industry Training on 1800 888 479 option 2.

UK teen dies, prompting warning for Australians In London, a business owner and deliveryman have been found guilty of manslaughter after serving food to a teenager who died from the effects of a peanut allergy. 15 year old Ms Lee, suffered irreversible brain damage after the allergy attack and died not long after.

The establishment had no systems or training in place to protect customers with allergies. Ms. Lee knew about her allergy, and her friend had included a warning with the food order, the court was told. Still, an investigation found “widespread presence” of peanut protein

VISIT: www.mgaonline.com.au/food-safety-courses-member/

in the meal demonstrating the business’s complete lack of regard for the safety of their customers.

All businesses who handle food products need to have practices and procedures that effectively work, with trained staff to protect customers with food allergies.

Incorrect labelling, cross contamination of food and lack of knowledge of allergens put customers with allergies at risk along with your business.

The rate of hospital admissions for anaphylaxis attacks has increased significantly over the years. It’s time to tighten up the rules – provide staff with comprehensive training and stop gambling with lives.

For more information, please call MGA Industry Training on 1800 888 479 (option 2) or visit www.mgaonline.com.au/foodsafety-courses-member/

www.mga.asn.au

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TRAINING

NATIONAL ONLINE COURSES MGA delivers training and compliance solutions specific to the needs of independent retailers. We have a range of training and compliance solutions readily available for members. *Log in to our website with your member login to order your courses at these member prices.

Call us on 1800 888 479 if you need your log in details.

Manage Training System (MTS) Manage Training System (MTS) is an easy to use training program – set up training per department, allocate courses to staff, monitor results and have complete training records for all staff. Either use included HR policies or upload your own including staff rosters!

Customer service training Ensure your staff have the skills and knowledge to build relationships with your customers, suppliers, fellow team members and management.

CUSTOMER SERVICE BASIC

CUSTOMER SERVICE ADVANCED

Duration: 20-30 minutes Member price: FREE

Duration: 45 minutes Member price: $20

December 2018 – Edition 8

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39

Online & face to face training MGA Industry Training offers discounted training for all members. Courses are online or can be conducted face to face at your business for 10 or more employees! Responsible Service of Alcohol, Food Safety, Employment Law, Customer Service, plus more!!!

Tobacco training This course covers information on the legal obligations for the sale and service of tobacco, non-tobacco smoking products, smoking accessories, e-cigarettes and e-cigarette accessories in each respective state/ territory. Training ensures your staff comply with Tobacco Retailing Laws – protecting your business.

STATE BASED TRAINING Duration: 30 minutes Member price: FREE

Don’t forget to log in for your member discounts!

Visit www.mga.asn.au to see our range of training courses!

www.mga.asn.au

FOOD SAFETY

TRAINING Prices slashed!

Food Safety Supervisor

Food Safety Supervisor NSW

SIRRFSA001 Handle Food Safely in a Retail Environment.

SIRRFSA001 Handle Food Safely in a Retail Environment (NSW).

Was $115*

Was $115* Now $85*

Now $85*

Log into www.mga.asn.au/member-training to access your member discounts!