The Master Electrician - Summer 2016

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INSIDE Are sparkies Australia’s best blokes?

Aussie cricket legend John Buchanan talks about leaving a legacy Where to find the perfect summer camping getaway

SUMMER 16/17

themaster

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table of contents Average Net Distribution 31 901 CAB Audited as of March 2015

all about ME

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meet a master electrician

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impressive project

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WELCOME TO THE SUMMER EDITION OF THE MASTER ELECTRICIAN

ME Mentoring: How to get the most out of it 15 industry chatter

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women in contracting

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Australia’s summer camping hot spots

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why sparkies may be Australia’s best blokes 24 the buzz

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how to keep your business safe from cyber threats

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gadget guide

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the interview: John Buchanan

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your top three tech questions

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new unfair contract laws

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Three tips to help you find more customers in your local area

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workplace relations tips for employers

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the last word

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LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

GENERAL ENQUIRIES Master Electricians Australia PO Box 2438, Fortitude Valley Queensland 4006 PHONE 1300 889 198 FAX 1800 622 914 EMAIL magazine@masterelectricians.com.au WEB www.masterelectricians.com.au

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EDITORIAL CONTACTS & CONTRIBUTORS EDITOR Malcolm Richards ASSOCIATE EDITOR Elise Hodge ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Master Electricians PHONE 1300 889 198 EMAIL magazine@masterelectricians.com.au DESIGN AND PRINT POMO 1300 762 865

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2016 was unusual to say the least – the hottest Christmas gift (hoverboards) started catching fire, and poor apprenticeship rates hit the headlines, as did exploding Samsung Note 7s.

A tragic number of electrocutions – particularly in Victoria – has only reinforced our views on mandatory safety switches.

The launch of giant statefunded competitor Energy Queensland has served up bad news for Sunshine State contractors, but the year has rounded out on a high note with the reintroduction of the ABCC. So this edition of The Master Electrician is jam packed with tips and tricks to help you make your business boom in 2017.

On page 24, we chat with ‘Australia’s best bloke’ about his shoot to fame on Hamish and Andy.

30 Follow us @MasterElectrics on Twitter Become a Fan on Facebook www.facebook.com/ masterelectricians

www.masterelectricians.com.au or call 1300 889 198 The Master Electrician is printed on environmentally responsible paper sourced from FSC® certified forestry plantations. The paper is made with Elemental Chlorine Free pulps (ECF).

DISCLAIMER: The statements and opinions expressed in this publication are offered solely in pursuance of the objects of the Electrical Contractors Association and Master Electricians Australia to provide an informative service to contractors in the electrical industry on legal, commercial and other issues and problems related to the industry. The Electrical Contractors Association and Master Electricians Australia are not aware that any person intends to act or rely upon such statements and opinions contained in this publication or the manner in which it might be possible to do so. The Electrical Contractors Association and Master Electricians Australia issues no invitation to any member or other persons to act or rely upon such statements or opinions or any of them and it accepts no responsibility for any of them.

It intends by this provision to exclude, to the extent permitted by law, all liability for any such statements and opinions. The Master Electrician Magazine can be viewed online at www.masterelectricians.com.au

In The Interview, we hit up Australian cricket coach legend John Buchanan up for his best business, career and sporting tips (page 32).

And on page 20, we chat to one of the founding members of Women in Contracting, Janelle Miller, about her pivotal involvement in making the electrical industry a place where women can thrive!

Enjoy

The Master Electrician

Summer 2016/17

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all about ME

AS/NZS 3000 Around the middle of 2017, the new edition of the AS/NZS 3000 wiring rulebook will be released. It is vitally important that all electrical contractors are fully aware of any changes to wiring rules, not only for your own safety, but also to ensure that you are fulfilling your legislative requirements.

Legislation in each state and territory requires electrical work to be completed safely and in accordance with relevant standards, which includes AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules.

We can also confirm that all ME members will receive a free copy

As you will recall, in 2016 MEA held a number of AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules events across Australia where we presented major changes to the Draft Standard.

standards, are now included in ME membership – that’s a saving

Upon the release of the new AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules, in order to ensure that all MEA members are up to speed on the new legislation, MEA will be conducting workshops around the country. www.masterelectricians.com.au

of the new AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules when they are published.

The current edition, plus 13 additional electrical industry related of more than $2,000.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the MEA Technical Team on 1300 889 198 or email technical@masterelectricians.com.au

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CONGRATULATING MILESTONE MEMBERS Master Electricians Australia would like to thank a number of members for their loyalty to the association and commitment to the industry.

Congratulations to this quarter’s 25-year members:

Congratulations to this quarter’s 15-year members:

• John Scates Electrical Contractor Pty Ltd

• Energy Right Pty Ltd

• Fitz Electrix Pty Ltd

• Hitech Electrical Automation Pty Ltd

• John Dawson Electrical

• Barnes Electrical Service

• Maranoa Electrical Service

• Clear Mountain Data and Electrical Services

• Keith Atkinson Electrical

• F & G Avolio Pty Ltd

• Allround Electrical Services

• K & L Electrics Pty Ltd

• Beeson’s Electrical and Refrigeration Pty Ltd

• Hemmett Electrical

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all about ME

Richard Flanagan presents Richard Bonato (left) with a certificate of induction into the MEA Alumni.

www.masterelectricians.com.au

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Tony Divertie, Frank Gelding, Tom Birt and Tony Rogl.

Frank Gelding speaking on the history of Townsville.

Dave Ryan and Richard Bonato.

(L to R) Dave Ryan, Rom Birt, Richard Flanagan, Denis Lambrose, Richard Bonato and Steve Hogan.

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Townsville Branch Coordinator Steve Alexion with Fil and Sylvia Parisi.

Matt Richardson, MEA CEO Malcolm Richards and Sarah Loveday.

Denis Lambrose and Queensland State Manager Gary Veenstra.

Blair Brown and Lauchy James from ME Training.

Steve and Greta Hogan and Denis Lambrose

www.masterelectricians.com.au

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The CNW team at the Townsville Golf Day.

Thanks Linda for organising a great golf day event!

The sun’s shining – not a bad day on the green!

GOT A SNAP TO SHARE? Send ‘em through to: magazine@masterelectricians.com.au Edward Arendt from Clipsal Schneider with the team from Haymans.

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meet a master electrician

Name: Ben Baslec Company: Baslec State: Tasmania Status: ME member for 6 months

Hobart-based Baslec is very much a family affair, founded by Ben and his wife, Anna, who work closely together to keep the electrical contracting business moving forward.

Elise Hodge chats with the proud owner of Baslec, Ben, about his business aspirations and family life.

Tell me about life growing up. Did you always want to go into the electrical field?

I grew up in Launceston, where I was very lucky to have a group of friends that used to play outside. We spent most summer nights knocking around the local park and going home when the street lights came on. I was involved in the scouting movement and did heaps of bushwalking, camping and sailing. I think this gave me a solid appreciation of getting out and about and doing stuff outdoors.

I first sat my exams, applied for and received an electrical contractors’ license in the early 1990s, but didn’t put it in to practice. Instead opted for employment as a maintenance electrician at the Sheraton Hobart Hotel. In hindsight, this was an excellent decision. I learned quite a lot in the following 10 years or so working in business and development roles within the electrical industry. I re-applied again in the early 2000s and began our business journey shortly thereafter.

I was not very good at understanding how formal education correlated with real life. This resulted in fairly ordinary school results. So, at the end of year 10, I decided to tackle a pre-vocational course in electrical mechanics with TasTAFE. This resulted in me gaining an apprenticeship with a marine and industrial based contractor in Launceston.

Tell me about your current business structure.

My wife Anna and I started Baslec as a partnership. This was (at the time) a great structure to use for our business. While we were relatively small (in turnover and margin terms), it enabled us to share the profits and minimise our tax liabilities. For the last eight years or so, we changed to

So, I never really made a conscious decision to be an electrician, but rather evolved into the field. Far out – what a complex, everchanging, evolving industry we have. I think the journey has been very fulfilling.

What year did you become an electrical contractor, and what was the progression to getting there? www.masterelectricians.com.au

“I never really made a conscious decision to be an electrician, but rather evolved into the field… the journey has been very fulfilling.”

a family trust/company structure. Once again, as our business grew, our structure needed to change.

As we all grow older in business terms, our systems and requirements become more complex. We needed to make allowance for not only business sales, turnover and margin growth, we also needed to make allowance for wealth growth. Meaning we have realised that we need to be setting ourselves up for the future by being selffunded in our retirement years. We have a fourth year apprentice in Jacob Barr. Jacob is a dab hand on the tools and will continue to evolve into a fantastic tradesman. We are looking forward to supporting Jacob moving forward next year. We are really pleased he has decided to stay on board with us.

Your business is centred around providing power-saving solutions.

What sparked your interest in this area?

How cool is it that we can help our clients save on-going costs associated with energy consumption by using the knowledge, tools and products available to us? We found the ever-increasing costs of energy in Tasmania (due mainly to lack of competition in retail energy providers) was beginning to hurt our clients in the hip pocket.

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It’s amazing that with power-saving products and behavioural change on the part of our clients, they can manage their energy costs and gain back some control over their quarterly power bills. Unlike some parts of Australia, Tasmania is tied strongly to the electricity supply. We rely heavily on grid power for lighting, general power and heating (both space and hot water) our homes.

You work alongside your wife. How do you separate business from family life? Do you have any tips for other contractors?

Like many small and micro business owners across Australia, we work incredibly long hours. It just comes with the territory. Anna (my hero) works tirelessly looking after the books, BAS, tax, finance and general office administration. I look after sales, product development, job scheduling, customer liaison, stock ordering, design and installation. It’s a great team effort. Our home office (around the corner but still in talking distance of our lounge room) enables us to be around the family in the evening and still get some work done. It’s not ideal, but enables us to kill two birds with one stone.

Anna and I regularly try to schedule down time with our children (Morgan 19 and Roy 14), sneaking out for a meal or taking the dog for a walk on the beach. Sometimes you just must switch off for a while.

Tell me about your family. Have you got any tips for the rest of us who are trying to find that perfect work-life balance?

Anna and I have two amazing, supportive and understanding children. Our daughter Morgan and son Roy have both been with us through the whole journey of business ownership. The highs and lows are never hidden, as our robust and frank discussions often take place across the dinner table. The interesting thing that I have seen with our arrangement is that our work ethic has rubbed off on our children and in recent times, we have seen Morgan work and juggle three jobs to save enough money to travel throughout South East Asia for three months. We are very proud of that effort.

“One thing that we try and do as far as balance goes, is get a break away on a regular basis. We work hard for and love our ‘mini breaks’, as we call them.”

One thing that we try and do as far as balance goes, is get a break away on a regular basis. We work hard for and love our ‘mini breaks’, as we call them. We try and stack a Friday off, with a Monday off and sneak away for a four-day trip somewhere once or twice a year. This usually happens around Easter and October. One either side of our hibernation season breaks the year up for us.

What’s the future for Baslec Electrical?

Wow, what an open-ended opportunity we have moving forward.

We have seen growth in commercial Solar PV sales and increasing demand for our electrical contracting services. At this stage, we are taking a good hard look at our most profitable areas and constructing a plan moving forward. Planning has and always will play a big part in our overall direction. It’s a big world out there with lots of opportunities, many of them outside our own backyard.

We are now secure enough and confident enough to take some managed risks moving forward for what we believe will be a strong growth phase in our business.

What are your favourite summer holiday spots? Are you heading anywhere this summer?

Summer is a very important season for most Tasmanians. The winters are so oppressive and restrictive – we tend to cut loose in summer. I have a soft spot for the upper east coast of Tasmania.

Places like Coles Bay, Bicheno and The Bay of Fires offer great weekend escapes to do a bit of camping. Access is so easy for us.

Most places in Tassie can be accessed in a few short hours. We are blessed with heart-stopping scenery and quite often secluded beaches with crystal clear water. Our summers need to be made spectacular to balance our cold winters.

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feature impressive project

“Her pitiless blue sky, When sick at heart, around us, We see the cattle die – But then the grey clouds gather, And we can bless again The drumming of an army, The steady, soaking rain” Dorothea McKeller, first published in London’s The Spectator in 1908

Helping Aussie farmers with new solutions to age-old problems Dorothea McKeller’s My Country rings as true of our vast and unforgiving continent today, as it did when the homesick 19-year-old from Gunnedah, living in the United Kingdom, penned the first draft more than 100 years ago.

Fast forward to the 21st Century, and the population of the ‘sunburnt country’ has grown to more than 23 million people, with a globallyrecognised agricultural industry that exports around two thirds of its total production, earning Australia more than $60 billion each year. www.masterelectricians.com.au

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“BEING able to adapt and find better ways of dealing with our

climate of droughts and floods is critical,” says Michael Betts of Betts Electrical, a 13-year-old firm at the forefront of technology for the agricultural industry.

“One of the major costs in agriculture is irrigation, which is critical in areas where rainfall in variable, but we see the growing demand and consumption as an opportunity rather than a challenge, to increase reliability, and find more efficient ways to reduce costs,” Michael says.

Large-scale agricultural irrigation began in Australia in the late 1880s and now covers as much as 2.5 million hectares across the country – around 65 per cent of Australia’s total water usage now goes to agriculture, making reliable and affordable supply and delivery a critical component of regional economies all over Australia.

“Water is naturally a heavy resource that’s not easily moved, and it needs to be pumped over distance, and often up hill, to keep crops fertile and productive, which uses a huge amount of electricity.”

“But newer technologies, like Variable Speed Drives (VSD) for example, can vastly improve energy efficiency by controlling electric motors – a pump running at half the speed consuming only one-eighth of the energy of one running at full speed. That’s a huge decrease in basic running costs, as well as carbon dioxide emissions,” he says.

The VSD controls the frequency and voltage supplied to the motor – this slows the speed of the motor, which in turn, slows the speed of the pump. The effect on the flow rate is linear, with respect to the speed of the motor.

“So a 30 per cent decrease in speed results in a 30 per cent decrease in flow, but the effect on the power consumption is nonThe Master Electrician

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linear, so a 30 per cent decrease in speed produces a 60 per cent decrease in power consumption,” he says.

a pivot which naturally irrigates a circular area, creating the circular pattern sometimes spotted from the air.

Betts Electrical services the greater Bundaberg region, which centres on the picturesque Burnett River in Queensland’s subtropical central coast, about four hours’ drive north of Brisbane.

Michael says flow rate, elevation and friction losses are all important factors when it comes to efficiency, and this type of system in particular, needs to maintain constant pressure in the pipes to work properly.

The region’s 6000 square kilometre expanse of offshore, coastal, riverine, city, rural and protected environments is ‘gate-to-plate’ heartland, with abundant fruit and vegetable crops. The landscape is famous for its giant and lusciously tropical sugarcane grass that towers to as high as four metres tall when ready for harvest, with bamboo-like stalks that when snapped, ooze a delectably pure and sweet juice that’s all-too-perfect on a hot summer’s afternoon.

But sugarcane crops are especially water-intensive, and need an abundant flow between September and April, when irrigation can run for up to 20 hours per day.

“One of the main questions I hear from farmers is how to reduce the pumping costs of irrigation,” Michael says.

It was this search for an alternative that led John and Deb Russo to the Betts team. The Russo’s third-generation family property, spanning more than 200 hectares at Childers, had been using a 22kW, 415V pump to transport water from a dam and along a 400m underground pipe and to a centre pivot – an irrigation technology that relies heavily on the pumping, weather, data and control systems it’s connected to.

Michael incorporated both VSD and Solar PV, leading to a substantial decrease in energy usage, and an increase in irrigation capacity, which can run 24/7 when needed.

“A VSD will optimise the efficiency of the pumping system, and adding a solar array to the VSD will optimise the energy required to power the VSD,” he says.

A centre pivot system is a form of overhead sprinklers made up of several segments of pipe, joined together and supported by trusses, which are mounted on wheeled towers with sprinklers positioned along the entire length. The equipment rotates around www.masterelectricians.com.au

“A pressure transmitter was connected to a programmable logic controller (PLC), which performed proportional-integral derivative (PID) control to maintain a pressure set point. The PLC varied the speed reference to the VSD, as well as starting and stopping it,” Michael says.

“John and Deb were really open to reducing their electricity costs and carbon footprint by running the pump from solar as far as possible, and just using the mains supply at night, or when there wasn’t enough solar power during the day, so that’s also led to a marked decrease in carbon emissions.”

John and Deb couldn’t be happier with the result from Betts Electrical.

“They’ve done a stellar job with the installation and we’d highly recommend them to anyone heading down the path of renewable energy,” John says.

With more than 100 years’ experience, Australia’s cane growers are viewed as some of the most progressive in the world, and are constantly looking at the latest technology to improve farming practices, help reduce soil erosion and protect waterways and the Great Barrier Reef.

There is such a demand for Australian production that more than 80 per cent of the nation’s production is exported overseas as raw sugar, where it’s processed further.

“When you switch to solar photovoltaic systems, and incorporate new technologies like sensor networks, smart metering and automation, which decreases the electricity load, there are big gains to be made not just to the bottom line, but the environment, and the industry’s long-term sustainability,” Michael says.

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ME Mentoring – How to get the most out of it Master Electricians Australia is committed to providing apprentices with as much support as possible in order to maximise the number of young people commencing and completing an electrical apprenticeship.

As mentioned in our Spring Edition, MEA has teamed up with Add Staff to devise a program to assist apprentices throughout their journey.

Apprentices are encouraged to embrace the opportunities provided by the program, which includes the ability to connect with other apprentices across the industry.

Add Staff Recruitment’s Melissa Stanford says that third party involvement can help reduce cancellation rates.

“To gain the most benefit from their experienced mentor, apprentices are encouraged to engage with their dedicated apprentice mentor, attending mentoring meetings with a positive attitude, being open and committed to their success in the industry,” Melissa says.

“Engaging in a third party to support employers and their apprentices through the apprenticeship process has proven to be quite successful in reducing cancellation rates,” Melissa says.

“Face-to-face mentoring meetings ensure both parties are meeting regularly to discuss individual apprentice progression and performance, also opening a platform for discussions around any issues and the opportunity to implement strategies for improvement where necessary.”

“We are also encouraging apprentices to engage with their peers across the industry, and providing a platform for apprentices to support one another.”

An electrical apprenticeship can be quite challenging, not only with on-the-job learning but also the theory covered in offthe-job training.

“Traditionally, second year is when we have seen a peak in electrical apprentice cancellations, due to the challenging mathematical content of the off-thejob training.”

“Our goal is to facilitate building an open relationship, and providing a platform for communication between employers and their apprentice.”

Although the program is only in its formative stages, it aims to have a minimum completion rate of 80 per cent.

The existing ME mentors have worked extensively with hundreds of apprentices and their knowledge and expertise will prove invaluable to apprentices who participate in the program.

For more information about ME Mentoring, visit masterelectricians.com.au The Master Electrician

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industry chatter Welcome to Industry Chatter where we ask three members from across the country about everything from their business beginnings to their favourite gadgets and top business tips.

AARON JENKINS

DANNY O’NEIL

PETER BRUMBY

OWNER OF INNOVATIVE CABLING

OWNER OF O’NEIL ELECTRICAL

OWNER OF INDUSTRIAL FIRE & ELECTRICAL

ADELAIDE, SA With more than 10 years of experience behind him in domestic, industrial and commercial electrical work, Aaron has experienced it all. Having started Innovative Cabling to gain flexibility and adapt to a changing work environment, Aaron has enjoyed being able to focus in and provide services that align with his strengths.

MELBOURNE, VIC Danny got his start in the industry as a 27-year-old matureage apprentice, having barely touched a tool before then! The Melbourne-based sparkie was keen to stand on his own feet from the get go – and is currently powering on in his first year of business.

LET’S GET INTO IT www.masterelectricians.com.au

LAUNCESTON, TAS Peter is a man you can trust, having been a part of the industry for the last 47 years, and an electrical contractor for 27. The Tasmanianbased contractor attributes a lot of his business success to being adaptable and covering all aspects of the electrical industry.

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“... Currently there seems to be more electricians than jobs in SA, which causes people to go in so cheap they have to do work that’s dangerous or work in an unsafe manner just to make a profit.”

Aaron Jenkins

First thing’s first. What motto do you do business by?

Aaron: Do it right the first time!

Danny: Your attitude determines your altitude!

Peter: Maintaining honesty and integrity in all business dealings.

What’s the most rewarding part of running your business?

Aaron: Being able to dictate your own direction in the industry. That and when a client or builder goes out of their way to say thank you for great service or workmanship, that always helps!

Danny: Definitely having ownership of your future in the industry.

Peter: I get satisfaction from employing good people and from seeing kids start apprenticeships and mature and grow into good electricians, and also having the ability to go in the direction I want. It is excellent to see customers from over 20 years still coming back, knowing that they

will get the same service and attention they did when we started. It constantly amazes me the percentage of work we get from repeat or referred customers and we all know that these are the best customers.

How do you find that magic worklife balance?

Aaron: Haven’t found it yet! Having good people you can trust and delegate to definitely helps though.

Danny: Haven’t found it yet! As I’m still in my first year of business, I seem to spend

every waking moment ensuring that I succeed at it. Once the first 12 months tick over, I’d like to think that I can start working towards the ideal balance!

Peter: That is the hardest part of running a business, and now as the business has grown it is perhaps easier to slip away for holidays, etc, but it has probably taken 20 years to get to this position.

What’s the most important issue facing the electrical industry at the moment?

Aaron: I’d say it’s a mixture of supply and demand and safety, although the two are not entirely isolated. Currently there seems to be more electricians than jobs in SA, which causes people to go in so cheap they have to do work that’s dangerous or work in an unsafe manner just to make a profit. We’ve followed and repaired some horror stories lately!

“Safe systems of work appear to be somewhat almost non-existent, particularly in many smaller companies, giving them a price advantage (until something goes wrong…). ” Peter Brumby

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Danny: Think it always has to be safety.

Seems like a month can’t go past without hearing about some tragic incident on site.

Peter: There are many in Tasmania – safety is a priority. Safe systems of work appear to be somewhat almost non-existent, particularly in many smaller companies, giving them a price advantage (until something goes wrong…). The cost of training employees to keep up with technology changes, how to stop the regulator giving license after license to companies and individuals that continuously undercut prices then go broke just to be allowed to start up again, and the wholesalers who open up accounts for them time and time again as well.

“‘I may be an idiot but remember the biggest idiot can teach you something,’ which is correct – he taught me not to touch live wires.”

Peter Brumby

www.masterelectricians.com.au

“Nothing wrong with getting a second or third opinion ...”

Danny O’Neil

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned during your time as an electrical contractor?

Aaron: That you need to be a good electrician first, a businessman second and what you want to do usually comes quite a few items down the list after that!

Danny: To be careful who you listen to!

Not everyone who offers advice is giving you the right advice! Nothing wrong with getting a second or third opinion, whether it’s about rules and regulations, project management or even everyday life advice.

Peter: I called an electrician an idiot after he got a small electric shock when I was a first year apprentice and his comment was “I may be an idiot but remember the biggest idiot can teach you something,” which is correct – he taught me not to touch live wires. As far as contracting goes, there are many lessons: try and not overreact to situations; remember you cannot win on every job; make certain you have good people around you and a workforce you can trust; business is not easy – what you get out of it tends to be reflected by what you put in.

How will you be preparing your business for 2017?

Aaron: At the end of each year we try to recap what areas of our business were the strongest and try to find ways to develop them further in the coming year, that’s worked for us so far so we may as well keep doing that!

Danny: I’m hoping that 2017 is a time for expansion. Whether to hire an apprentice, an A-grade or assemble a team of subbies.

All have their pros and cons, so I need to determine what will be the best fit for my business.

Peter: For 2017, we have the largest forward work orders that I have ever seen so it all looks good. We have employed extra electricians and apprentices recently and it looks like we are going to need more. This is very satisfying, given in some sectors of the industry in Tasmania, tradesmen are still being put off and businesses closing.

The 2017 Trans-Tasman Master Electricians Conference MASTERELECTRICIANS.COM.AU/CONFERENCE

Join Master Electricians Australia and Master Electricians New Zealand for the biggest electrical industry conference in the southern hemisphere

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Women in Contracting Janelle Miller has been lifting the profile of women in the electrical industry for more than three decades. The business manager of A & J Electrical (and Air Conditioning) is also a founding member of MEA’s Women in Contracting initiative, after first becoming involved with MEA almost 25 years ago.

Janelle shares insight into her challenges, and lessons learned, as a female leader in a male-dominated field. www.masterelectricians.com.au

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Janelle Miller speaking at a recent Women in Contracting event in Brisbane.

You’ve had a long-time involvement with the Women in Contracting initiative, when did it all begin?

I believe that Women in Contracting (the initiative) is a vital part of the electrical industry and has been a passion of mine for a number of years. I became involved with Master Electricians Australia in 1993 when I was asked to step in as the Secretary for the Brisbane Branch for 12 months. However, I continued in this role for a number of years. In 2011, I was asked to become the chairperson for the Brisbane branch, a position I hold to this day.

What’s the main challenge you have faced over the years?

In the early years there wasn’t much recognition for the wives and partners, who have been a part of these businesses for a number of years. We were the ones answering the telephone, writing the cheques ‘in the old days’, invoicing, and the ones always chasing overdue invoices, which is never a nice task.

Sadly, even to this day there are still some sectors of our industry that aren’t accepting of women achieving and excelling in this industry. But all I can say to them is, “We WILL be a part of this industry!”

What made you persevere to get where you are today?

My love of the industry - it is so vast and different in all sectors.

There is something new to learn and challenges to face every day, however the feeling of being able to step back and say “Yay! I achieved that,” overrules everything you go through to get there.

On the other hand, though, our business has adapted the mindset that if something hasn’t worked out the way we’d hoped, we ask ourselves, “What can we do next time to achieve a better result?”, which has always given me hope for the future.

Where does your passion for creating opportunities for women in this industry originate?

I think it all started when I was being pushed out of the industry.

Although a lot of businesses are family oriented, there was a lot of misconception around how much the wives or partners could be involved.

however, it was only addressed to my husband. I found it extremely rude, because I was always in contact with these particular wholesalers and they were fully aware of how involved I was, yet they failed to invite me along.

I’ll have you know that I went along anyway! And I received a call a few days later thanking me for attending, which also ended with them commenting that it had been much more pleasant with me being there. It was then I realised that we really do belong there too.

Alongside this, my Mother’s encouragement has always been something that has motivated me. She has a saying, “There’s nothing you can’t give a go,” and that has always stuck with me.

Times have been tough and at the time you think it’s too hard or even impossible, but I have learnt there is always a way, and if you don’t try, you’ll never know.

What do you value most about Women in Contracting?

I thoroughly enjoy the community it has created, and the opportunity to share and discuss issues being faced within our business and the industry. It makes me so proud when I see women applying for apprenticeships, obtaining them, qualifying and heading out to operate their own businesses.

Without the efforts and contributions of my fellow members, the initiative wouldn’t be where it is today and I can proudly say that Women in Contracting will now, always be a part of the industry.

Janelle’s top tips for women who want to get ahead in the industry 1. Don’t let anyone (particularly a male) tell you you can’t – use it as motivation to show them you can!

I mentioned earlier that we are the ones who are part of these businesses from the get go, and I believe I have a right to be involved just has much as my husband does.

2. If there is an aspect of the industry you have a particular interest in or want to get involved in, don’t wait for permission – just go for it!

Trade shows and Christmas parties were not always ‘female friendly’, which reminds me of one Christmas in particular.

A number of years ago, we received a Christmas party invitation,

3. A determined woman can achieve anything.

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feature travel

Australia’s summer camping hot spots Thinking of a getaway but short on time or ideas? We’ve heard that our tradies don’t mind a spot of camping! That’s why we’ve asked some of our members to share their favourite camping spots around Australia. Turns out you don’t have to go far to get away for a few days.

Manbulloo Homestead Caravan Park, Katherine, NT There are a number of wonders that the Northern Territory has to offer, one of those in particular is the Manbulloo Homestead.

Located on the banks of the Katherine River, 12 kilometres from Katherine, it is known as a unique hideaway rural retreat. The site offers cabins, motel rooms, powered and unpowered caravan and tent sites for short and long-stay visitors.

While you’re there, enjoy bird watching and bush walking along the tranquil Katherine River or try your hand at fishing and catch some fresh water prawns.

Katherine River, Northern Territory.

For more information on camping in the Northern Territory visit www.northernterritory.com

Almerta Station, Flinders Ranges, SA Surround yourself in the rugged beauty of the Almerta Station on your next camping trip to the Flinders Ranges. Situated three and a half hours north of Adelaide on the Boolcunda Creek, enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Flinders Ranges and relax in silence far away from city life.

Accomodation is on offer in the newly built Shearers Quarters or on six campgrounds situated on different parts of the property.

Almerta is said to be aboriginal for ‘pretty place to be or running water’. Discover more by trekking through the Green Gum Creeks, up to the Stony Bluff or along the Natural Spring, which retains its water all year round.

For more information on camping in South Australia, visit www.southaustralia.com Flinders Ranges, South Australia.

www.masterelectricians.com.au

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Elanda Point Adventure Park, Boreen Point, QLD Set on the white sandy edge of Lake Cootharaba, Elanda Point will meet all of your adventuring needs with canoe, kayak, motor boat, sailboat and hiking equipment for hire, as well as guided group safaris and instructional group eco-adventures throughout the Cooloola region.

Located 90 minutes from Brisbane, Elanda Point has cabins and an unpowered camping site, with communal bathroom facilities located around the campsite. They also put a movie on each night at 7pm for the littlies to enjoy – make sure you bring your own snacks and chairs!

To make sure you get the most out of your stay at Elanda Point, check out the ‘Nine Adventures of Elanda’ guide. The list includes hiking to Mill Point and Fig Tree Point and hiring a boat or canoe to heads out through the Noosa Everglades to Harry’s Hut.

Boreen Point, Queensland

For more information on camping in Queensland, visit www.queensland.com

Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, Yallingup, WA The rugged coastline of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park offers excellent fishing, bird watching, world class surf breaks and stunning bush walks. Situated three hours south of Perth, the rugged limestone sea cliffs and windswept granite headlands dominating the coastline provides a very special experience.

The Yallingup region is home to a number of caves you can explore, as well as four wheel driving tracks, rock climbing and snorkelling spots throughout the park. Aside from that head down to the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, to see where the Indian Ocean meets the Southern Ocean.

There are a number of sites within the park where you can pitch your tent or park your caravan. All sites have bathroom and barbecue facilities but it’s recommended you check before you arrive, any other facilities you may need.

For more information on camping in Western Australia, visit www.westernaustralia.com

Yallingup, Western Australia.

Suffolk Beachfront Holiday Park, Byron Bay, NSW Are you looking for a fun Byron Bay holiday without the hustle and bustle? Well the Suffolk Beachfront Holiday Park might just be for you! The holiday park has a number of powered and unpowered sites, as well as cabins and safari style tents available.

Set on the beach front of Broken Head – one of Australia’s most reliable beach breaks, and favourite year-round fishing spots – you’ll still be close to all the action with the centre of Byron Bay just a 10-minute drive down the road, but still far enough away to relax.

Suffolk Park and Broken Head Beach are known as the ‘hidden gems’ of the NSW North Coast, with some of the most secluded and stunning beaches in Byron Bay. You can also explore the winding walking trails that lead up and over the headland which is surrounded by national park. Also be sure to check out the Cape Byron Bay Lighthouse, which is home to the most eastern point of Australia. If you’re looking to retreat and get in touch with nature, then it’s hard to imagine a better place than Broken Head.

For more information on camping in NSW, visit www.visitnsw.com Byron Bay, New South Wales.

The Master Electrician

Summer 2016/17

24

feature

Why sparkies may be Australia’s best blokes Melbourne sparkie James Lord became an internet sensation after being featured in Hamish and Andy’s notorious prank segment, with Hamish ringing the 23 year old, pretending to be Tim Barnard – a total stranger who needed a last minute reference to nab a job at an accounting firm. www.masterelectricians.com.au

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The team at Current Connections are all involved in sport, which helps to fosters a strong team environment when they’re on the job.

IN the prank, the Current Connections employee is heard telling Hamish, “Yeah sweet, I’ll just tell them that you’re a ripper bloke.”

“We never drink till after the show, but we were like ‘we’ve got to have a beer, we’ve got to have a beer with James,’” Hamish says as Andy lifts an esky onto the radio desk.

Andy then rings back, acting as Graham Burn of Kells & Co. accounting firm, to check out ‘Tim’s’ reference.

When they open the esky, there are only two beers inside – one short for the three of them to enjoy a cold drink together.

James bluffs his way through the grilling, even saying the fictitious Mr Barnard could be trusted with handling $1 million.

“That’s alright,” James says.

“I was at work when I got the first phone call, and I honestly didn’t think twice about it. I didn’t think I’d get a call back so was more than happy to help out this so called ‘Tim Barnard’,” James says.

“Yeah, you can have them,” James says.

“When the second call happened about 10 minutes later, after acknowledging I knew ‘Tim’ – I just had to run with it after committing,” he says.

Catching up with James in the studio to discuss his sudden fame, selflessly backing up a stranger, Hamish and Andy put him through one last test.

Andy holds the two beers. “You want us to have them?”

“He did it again!” Hamish exclaims, celebrating James’ generosity – a man who would give up a beer so his friends could have one.

Reflecting on the stunt and his quick shoot to fame – fueled by thousands of instant shares on social media – James says it was all a bit of a blur.

“It started off as just a phone call and how quickly it blew up on social media was unbelievable,” James says.

The Master Electrician

Summer 2016/17

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Current Connections Directors Steve Buhagiar and Matty Brown.

“Having the chance to meet Hamish and Andy was awesome, and they are exactly how they seem. Just really good down to earth blokes who enjoy a laugh!”

Since being featured on the show, James has been dubbed ‘Australia’s best bloke’, and it’s a title he’s quite proud of.

“Being crowned Australia’s best bloke is definitely one of the better ways to be known. I guess I just got lucky, right place, right time!”

James says.

“James is certainly a great bloke and in saying that I reckon you could have called any one of the guys at Current and they would have given you the same response James did ...”

James’ employer, Current Connections Director Matty Brown, says there’s no doubt sparkies are the best blokes out there.

When it comes to building a great team culture in the workplace, Matty says they try to find the best blokes they can in the first instance.

“James is certainly a great bloke and in saying that I reckon you could have called any one of the guys at Current and they would have given you the same response James did,” Matty says.

“By the time we get these guys they are 18,19 or even in their 20s so they are already well established young men so we try and find the best blokes we can find,” Matty says.

“There is no doubt that sparkies are the best blokes however tradies tend to be a lot more down to earth and approachable than other occupations.”

“All of our staff are involved in sport and we believe that helps our staff to work in a team environment where they need to rely on each other and help each other.”

www.masterelectricians.com.au

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Current Connections Director Matty Brown with James Lord.

James, himself, came upon his apprenticeship through his connection with Directors Matty and Steve at the local Bundoora Football Club.

It’s no small feat ushering young men into the electrical industry when they are just starting out their electrical apprenticeships.

“It can be quite daunting starting out an electrical apprenticeship, as it is very dangerous, and experienced staff tend to want to do things themselves so that they know it will be done properly and it will be done safely,” Matty says.

“The apprentices need to understand this, however they also need to understand they are not useless.

“We teach the guys to start thinking ahead, thinking what they can do to help the A grade.

“If they know what comes next then they understand the process of the task they are competing and they can do this without being in any danger to themselves or the A grade.”

Electrical Contractors ...A unique connection Focused, intelligent, straight-talking legal solutions...

Advice on Contracts Contractual & Payment Disputes Debt Collection Services Employment Law Business Structures

“Making sure everyone goes home safely is our main priority at Current Connections.”

Work Health & Safety Buying & Selling Businesses Asset Protection Wills & Estates Tax & Super

...Need legal assistance?

And James has one piece of advice for those coming up through the trade as apprentices.

Call Ian Heathwood, Michael Cope or Crystal Ray on 07 3223 5900

“… Stick at it (the apprenticeship), take in as much information as you can during your apprenticeship. No question is stupid question,” James says.

“Being a sparkie is awesome, there is always something new to learn. There will always be work for electricians, which is a vital key.

If you get to work with the right blokes, you actually wake up not dreading going to work – which is always a bonus!”

P 07 3223 5900 E tradie@mckays.com.au W www.mckays.com.au BrisLaw Pty Ltd ABN 18 604 548 601

Master Electricians Ad March 2016 FINAL.indd 1

Brisbane | Mackay | Gold Coast | Surat Basin

The Master Electrician

Summer 2016/17

23/03/2016 12:04:16 PM

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the buzz

Halogen downlight research confirms replacement cuts costs, increases sustainability Inefficient appliances and lighting are contributing to low household energy efficiency, however new research from Sustainability Victoria is showing a way forward with a big role for industry.

Sustainability Victoria‘s Halogen downlight retrofit trial found the average energy efficiency of homes built before 2005 had the equivalent of a 1.8 Star House Energy Rating, with those homes tending to have less efficient lighting and appliances.

The halogen downlight retrofit trial was among a series looking at a wide range of energy efficiency upgrades that can be applied to Victorian houses.

Upgrading appliances to more energy efficient models, particularly when they reach the end of their working life can also deliver significant savings.

Sustainability Victoria Chief Executive Stan Krpan says the efficiency of the houses could be increased, and energy bills reduced, just by replacing energy-hungry halogen downlights, especially where they were used as the main form of lighting.

“Replacing halogen downlights with low energy LED or CFL lamps can reduce

www.masterelectricians.com.au

lighting costs by up to 80 per cent,” Mr Krpan says.

Sustainability Victoria replaced 12 volt halogen downlight lamps in the main living areas of 16 houses with low energy lamps.

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) were used in four homes and three different makes of LEDs were used in the remainder.

“The annual cost of running the downlights was reduced by an average of 71 per cent across the study houses, representing an annual saving of $142 and a payback period of 3.4 years with CFLs and 6.7 years for LEDs. “Our research shows that there is a significant opportunity for electricians and retailers to help households reduce carbon emissions,” Mr Krpan says.

Replacing halogen downlights with LEDs has been a major activity in the Victorian Energy Efficiency Target (VEET) scheme (also known as the Energy Saver Incentive)

since 2014, and many households can now undertake upgrades at little or no cost.

The study found that care was needed when replacing 12 volt halogen downlight lamps with 12 volt low energy lamps, as there were a number of compatibility issues.

Electrical compatibility with the existing transformer (or convertor) and any dimming circuit present also needed to be taken into account, and may have to be upgraded.

More information can be found at sustainability.vic.gov.au Note: Costs and benefits are based on the commercial cost of undertaking the halogen downlight retrofits at the time of the study, and do not include subsidies available through the Victorian Energy Saver Incentive2. Energy savings and payback periods are based on current energy tariffs.

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PW15

IP65 weather proof lighting sensor for the great outdoors.

Durable enough to withstand Australia’s harsh conditions, the PW15 boasts an IP65 rating, making it ideal for outdoor entertaining, carparks & carport areas, and just about any other outdoor application. Order now from all leading electrical wholesalers.

PH 1800 225 063

www.bigideascompany.com.au The Master Electrician

Summer 2016/17

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How to keep your business safe from cyber threats Cyber security is a hot topic among small businesses, with the recent Las Vegas hack-athon putting a media spotlight back on security. With so many developments in digital technology, how can you keep your business safe? MEA’s Marketing Projects Advisor Rachelle Forbes outlines MEA’s top tips to help any small business in this space.

Use supported software and keep it up-to-date It’s important to make sure that you’re only using verified software. Although it can be tempting to download a free version of a business software, particularly when some have a high cost, there’s dangers in doing this. One of the main problems is that these illegal downloads will rarely be supported for security fixes, making them cyber threats waiting to happen. Using unsupported software can leave you open to vulnerabilities, so as soon as a patch is available, update your software accordingly.

your files, the virus literally takes control of your device and holds your files at ransom, often until you pay a fee to the hacker for its safe return.

Back up everything, regularly!

Some hackers are big fans of viruses known as ransomware. Designer to encrypt

Create smart passwords Use a password creator such as this one to create unique passwords, and

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To avoid falling into this pitfall, there are simple things you can do, like making sure you only download files from a trusted source. In the event that a ransomware file does end up on one of your devices, you should put in place a system that backsup your files automatically every day, and set in place procedures to run additional backups on a regular basis, like once a week or once a month.

be sure to create a new password for each login. Using the same login across multiple systems or devices means that if someone manages to guess or hack one of your accounts, they can access all of your accounts.

Having trouble keeping all of those passwords in line? Systems such as LastPass and 1Password can help. These systems remember the passwords for all of your accounts; when you’re logged into them, they retrieve the password for you.

Need more help with cyber security?

We’ve developed more tips for the electrical industry in The Electrician’s Digital Business Kit. Find it online at digital.masterelectricians.com.au

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gadget guide

ENERGY HARVESTING BATTERY FREE WIRELESS SWITCH EON ANZ presents the Energy Harvesting Battery Free Wireless Switch and Receiver. The receiver uses the power of motion to generate energy for wireless signals, and can be used to switch lights, appliances, pumps and much more on or off. Suitable for domestic, commercial and industrial applications.

The switch has a range of 30 meters indoors and up to 90 meters outdoors.

Each receiver can be paired with up to 10 switches, and each switch can be paired to an unlimited number of receivers, making multiway switching quick and simple. No switch wiring or batteries required.

NON-CONTACT HIGH VOLTAGE DETECTOR

FLUKE TIX580 INFRARED CAMERA

The HP300 is a IP66 water-proof designed tester for checking the presence of AC high and low voltages.

The TiX580 is a superbly engineered 640 x 480 thermal imaging camera. Users can now perform thermal imaging inspections with more confidence and faster results than ever before.

The HP300 has nine voltage detection settings from 240Vac to 275kVac. It provides a non-contact detection of AC voltages with an internal pickup sensor plate.

The 240-degree rotating screen makes it easy to capture images when equipment is in awkward or hard-to-reach areas.

The ergonomic design and neck strap make long inspection days a lot easier.

Outside, the rotating screen lets you make adjustments to minimize glare, and the large Fluke 5.7” LCD touchscreen delivers a premium in-field viewing experience.

For more information, visit www.electricalfactory.com.au

For more information, visit www.fluke.com.au

For more information, visit www.eonanz.com

ProTag PrimeTest Elite Australia’s Most Advanced Test & Tag System

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Tel 03 9889 0427

email testinst@emona.com.au

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Tel 07 3275 2183

Adelaide

Tel 08 8363 5733

Perth

Tel 08 9361 4200

web www.protag.com.au

EMONA

The Master Electrician

Summer 2016/17

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the interview

John Buchanan Whether it be as head of one of the world’s best sporting teams or the owner of your own small business, the ability to manage and lead a team is paramount to success.

John Buchanan led the Australia cricket team during one of its most successful eras, from 1999 until 2007. Under his watch, the team won two world cups, broke the record for the most number of consecutive Test Match wins, and were routinely ranked as the number one Test playing nation in the world.

Prior to his stint as head of the Australian team, Buchanan guided the Queensland Bulls to their first ever Sheffield Shield win (after a 69 year wait) as well as winning numerous other trophies at the domestic level.

Post-cricket, Buchanan is now teaching people in the business world how to apply the same skills and techniques that made him one of Australia’s most successful sporting coaches ever.

Given we are smack bang in the middle of another cricket season, we thought it worthwhile to chat to John Buchanan on what made him such a successful coach and how he is now teaching business owners how to apply those same techniques.

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On setting goals and having a vision When Buchanan went for the job interview for the Queensland Bulls in 1994, unlike the other contenders he had a limited playing history. All they wanted to know was how Buchanan would end Queensland’s 69-year drought of having never won the Sheffield Shield.

“My response was that was not the job I was doing. My picture for Queensland was to dominate domestic cricket for the next decade and then somewhere during that period we would win the Shield,” John says.

This was Buchanan’s overarching vision of where he wanted to take the Queensland team.

According to Buchanan, the starting point for anyone wishing to achieve success – whether they be an individual, a leader or a team – should be to have a vision. The vision just doesn’t relate to one or two goals but also setting benchmarks, processes and strategies that help obtain success.

Once he began as Queensland coach, Buchanan put in place a process he believed would help fulfil his vision.

In doing so, he abandoned conventional methods that had previously been in place. For instance, he incorporated a more interactive system that used cutting-edge computer technology to catalogue every moment of a cricket match.

“One of the most important questions or statements a coach or a business leader can make is ‘where do I want to take this team?’ or put another way ‘we want to dominate our market place!’” John says.

“The coach or business leader who approaches their role in this way will automatically challenge convention – convention of the market place, as well as convention and status quo that exists within the team or organisation.”

By challenging conventional methods and embracing new technologies, he believes Queensland had a competitive edge over its rivals.

“Here was the vision at work. Queensland were changing the landscape of cricket. We were the pacesetters, requiring others to chase,” John says.

And chase they did – in his five years at the helm of Queensland, Buchanan guided the team to four major domestic trophies. When he left to take the role of Australian coach in 1999, he had set them up as the dominant force in Australian domestic cricket. He had achieved his vision for the team.

He went on to apply the same methods on becoming Australian coach.

“As head coach of the Australian cricket team, I saw a critical function of my role was to question current practice and seek improved ways of doing what was being done,” John says.

“Linked to this approach is a mantra of ‘why play the same game as everyone else!’. In other words, within the boundaries of the rules and regulations of the market place, business or sport, why do the same as your competitors? Look for ways to be different; to set the agenda, to set new benchmarks.

“Consequently, the Australian team always sought to change the game, or at the very worst be ahead of the game so that we could walk onto the field with our opposition looking at us, believing that we were already in front of them.”

Managing Staff One of the biggest challenges you may confront running your own electrical business is managing the staff below you and getting the best out of them.

“Managing people is the central role of leadership and coaching. The role requires the coach or the leader to exert influence or control through various techniques such as inspiring through words or deeds, directing through control mechanisms, counselling, parenting, and so on,” John says.

Again, Buchanan points to the need to have a solid process in place in order to get the maximum output from your staff.

“As a business leader, I am in competition every day, and need the business to deliver the best service each day. Consequently, I rely very heavily on my staff to be part of the process. Each individual is required to make good decisions on behalf of the business to get the results we all seek,” John says.

“I want my staff to understand how they have a ‘PB day’ – a personal best. Knowing their performance skills, actions and behaviours when having achieved their ‘PB’, there is every likelihood they can replicate it day after day.

“The more the individual can do this, the less I am needed as the team leader in their daily work life. I can be redundant to their needs and be more strategic in my business.”

In addition, Buchanan advises that employers should make the effort to get to know their employees as much as possible.

“I was always interested in the person first, the athlete second.

As much as the cricketer wanted to let me into their personal world, I was interested to know about family, life aspirations, interests, life after cricket, and so on,” John says.

“The more I knew about the person, the more I believed I could help that person off-field so that their on-field world could be less distracted.”

Leaving a legacy Whether it’s stepping down as the Australian cricket coach or handing over the electrical business to the next generation, you want to do so leaving a strong legacy which can continue to achieve success.

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“I want my staff to understand how they have a ‘PB day’ – a personal best. Knowing their performance skills, actions and behaviours when having achieved their ‘PB’, there is every likelihood they can replicate it day after day.

Buchanan outlines four linking factors which he believes a leader can bestow to an organization to help it maintain success.

1. Establish a strong leadership culture which provides enduring behaviours with a group that is constantly changing.

2. Have each person and the team as a whole measure and be accountable for their contribution to team culture 3. Take the time to develop the right people to lead into the future 4. Leave a legacy of setting new standards and new benchmarks In closing, Buchanan readily admits to making a number of mistakes as a coach, however, he is quite clear on the one mistake he did not make.

“The biggest mistake I did not make as a coach was that I did not ever compromise my philosophy, values or principles.”

He argues that this was fundamental to his success, even if it resulted in falling out with administrators and star players such as Shane Warne.

John with his eldest son, Michael Buchanan, who played for the Queensland Bulls.

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your top 3 tech questions

Our hardworking technical team at Master Electricians Australia help our members navigate issues they face in their day-to-day work life.

From interpreting standards, regulations or legislation to advice with technical, safety or compliance matters, our team knows it all! And in the last year, our amazing team have answered more than 4,000 of your calls.

Here are our answers to some of your most frequently asked questions.

Q. I am installing 50mm2 cables to new installation. I am using 50mm2 cables because of voltage drop. Am I required to size the main Earth conductor to the requirement in AS/NZS 3000 Table 5.1?

earth size is adequate to meet fault loop impedance, clause 5.3.3.1.3 can be used to verify compliance.

into the ceiling so that all live parts are above the surface of the ceiling, therefore outside of the zone.

Q. Can a recessed light be installed in the Zone 1 above a bath or shower?

A. No. A smaller cable size is allowable.

AS/NZS 3000 clause 5.3.3.2 exception (b) allows the main earth conductor to be determined in relation to the minimum size cable required to carry the maximum demand of the installation. To ensure the

A. Yes. AS/NZS 3000 clause 6.2.4.4 (b) gives guidance on luminaire requirements.

Clause 6.2.1 scope – note 3 allows the installation of recessed luminaires in these areas. Ceilings limit the extent of the zone and the electrical equipment is recessed

Q. Where do I find the requirements to protect cables inside an accessible ceiling space?

A. The Wiring Rules has specific requirements outlined in clause 3.9.3.3 and other general considerations under clause 3.9.1.

The Master Electrician

Summer 2016/17

36

letter of the law

New unfair contract laws … what they are and how they will affect you New unfair contract laws came into force in November. While they offer opportunities for contractors, they also pose some risks. McKays Solicitors’ Erika Bernhardsson explores.

Contracts affected The new laws apply to certain ‘standard form contracts’ entered into on or after November 12, 2016. The laws also apply to any terms of existing ‘standard form contracts’ which are varied on or after that date.

What is a ‘standard form contract’?

Surprisingly the term is not defined, which makes it more difficult to know whether a particular contract or clause is or is not affected by the new laws. In general terms, any contract that is provided on a www.masterelectricians.com.au

‘take it or leave it’ basis prepared by one party without any input from the other party or no genuine opportunity for negotiation, is likely to be covered provided it satisfies two other essential elements. These are the ‘upfront price payable’ test and that one of the parties has to have been, at the time the contract was formed, a ‘small business’.

Contract formation Many construction contracts are presented to contractors and subcontractors as a ‘done deal’. Equally often, contracts are

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presented and input is sought but when requests for changes are made they are met with a flat refusal.

Under the new unfair contract laws, there is a presumption that a contract is a standard form contract with the result that where it is alleged to be the case, the party that prepared the contract has to prove that it is not.

There is no absolute or clear cut test and the only way to definitively find out is for a court or tribunal make a decision. Any court or tribunal asked to consider the matter can take into account any circumstance but must take into account whether the party to whom the contract was presented: • had almost no bargaining power; • had no real opportunity to argue for a change to the terms; and • was required to either accept or reject the terms as they were presented.

A court or tribunal must also take into account whether: • the party who prepared the contract did so before there were any discussions about the transaction; and • any specific characteristics of the party to whom the contract was presented, were taken into account when the contract was drafted.

‘Upfront price payable’ If the contract formation requirement has been met, the next question is whether the ‘upfront price payable’ requirement is met.

It will be if the contract is for a period of 12 months or less and the ‘upfront price payable’ is no more than $300,000 or, if the contract is for more than 12 months, the ‘upfront price payable’ is no more than $1 million.

So, what is the ‘upfront price payable’? This is a reference to the total of all amounts which are payable under the contract and clearly disclosed or ascertainable before or when the contract is signed. In the construction industry, most times this will mean the price stated in the contract. It would seem that the maximum amount of a provisional sum or PC item is to be included when working out the ‘upfront price payable’.

One party a ‘small business’ In addition to the contract formation requirement and the ‘upfront price payable’ requirements being met, one of the parties to the contract must be a ‘small business’ A ‘small business’ is one that employs fewer than 20 people at the time the contract is entered into. This includes any casual staff employed on a regular or systematic basis. Obviously you will know whether your business has fewer than 20 employees and if so, this element will be satisfied. However, if your business has 20 or more in order to find out whether the unfair contract laws apply, you need to know how many employees the other party to the contract has. Sometimes, for example with a small subcontractor, this will be obvious.

However that is not always going to be the case.

You should therefore incorporate into your contracting procedure, a method for determining how many employees the other party has.

If in doubt, you should assume that the unfair contract laws will apply to a contract with your subcontractor.

What is an ‘unfair term’?

A contract term is unfair if it: • would cause a significant imbalance in the parties’ rights and obligations under the contract; and • is not reasonably necessary to protect the legitimate interests of the party who would be advantaged by the term; and The Master Electrician

Summer 2016/17

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“The construction industry abounds with harsh and arguably unreasonable terms and obligations being ‘pushed down’ to people at the bottom of the construction chain, typically subcontractors.”

• the term or timeframe for the job, that is,12 months or less or not.

• review your standard contracts, such as those you use for your subcontractors checking for potentially unfair terms; • review any standard terms on your website for potentially unfair terms;

• would cause detriment (whether financial or otherwise) to a party if it were to be applied or relied on.

• amend any questionable or potentially unfair terms to ensure that you have certainty; and

The construction industry abounds with harsh and arguably unreasonable terms and obligations being ‘pushed down’ to people at the bottom of the construction chain, typically subcontractors.

• have drafted, ready for use, a standard contract catering for the new rules.

Examples of common unfair contract terms could include: • termination for convenience clauses; • clauses that act as time bars for making certain claims (such as for seeking an extension of time) where the time for providing notice is too short; • clauses that limits one party’s right to sue the other party; and • clauses which require a party to indemnify the other against risks that party has no control over.

What happens if a contract term is ‘unfair’?

If a term is considered to be unfair then it can be declared void and will no longer apply to the contractual relationship. The rest of the contract clauses will remain in force. Problems which are likely to arise include what is to happen where a particular clause has been declared void.

For help amending existing contracts and contracting procedures or drafting new ones, contact McKays. Alternatively, if you would like more information about the new unfair contract laws or any other matter affecting your business, contact McKays.

Brisbane office Ian Heathwood P (07) 3223 5942 E iheathwood@mckays.com.au Michael Cope P (07) 3223 5939 E mcope@mckays.com.au Crystal Ray P (07) 3223 5932 E cray@mckays.com.au

The answer is that if that is not clear from what remains of the contract, then a court or tribunal will imply into the contract such ‘reasonable terms’ as it deems necessary. Most likely courts and tribunals will tend to favour the party who was disadvantaged by the unfair term. This could be significantly beneficial if that is you, but if it is your subcontractor who has successfully argued that a clause you included in your contract is void, it could work against your interests.

Mackayv office Dannielle Sanderson P (07) 4968 5431 E dsanderson@mckayslaw.com

What should you do?

Regardless of whether you are a ‘small business’ or not, you should immediately:

Gold Coast office Sean Diljore P (07) 5553 8403 E sean@mckaysgc.com

• i ntroduce into your contracting procedures for subcontractors and suppliers questions to ascertain: • the number of employees they have; • the ‘upfront price payable’ of each job, that is $300,000 or less or $1million dollars or less; and www.masterelectricians.com.au

Scott McSwan P (07) 4963 0860 E smcswan@mckayslaw.com

Surat Basin office Gilda Clarke P (07) 4668 9800 E gclarke@mckayssb.com.au

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40

feature

Three tips to help you find more customers in your local area

By James Martin, Head of Technology at Oneflare www.masterelectricians.com.au

41

BUILDING up your customer base within your local area makes good business sense. Not only does it reduce your travel costs, but some customers like to know they are being helped by someone with local knowledge.

When it comes to choosing trades professionals, more and more people are doing their research online. Whether it’s using Google, online marketplaces or customer review sites, there’s an increasing array of opportunities for attracting more clientele from your local area.

Here are a few to consider for your business.

Be listed on Google Places Having a Google Places listing can be a very powerful way of helping customers to find and connect with your business, plus they are free to set up.

Google Places listings come up when you use Google to search for a local business, for example a lighting store. Businesses that have a Google Places profile are highlighted in a map.

Google Places listings show information like address, phone number, opening hours, photos, website and even directions. It is also a place where customers can leave a review of your business.

Set up a profile on a local service marketplace Online local service marketplaces are great tools for helping connect people with local products and services. People list what jobs they need help with and they are matched with quality local service professionals. These marketplaces can be a good source of quality leads and can be very competitively priced.

When building your business profile on a local service marketplace, do your research and consider aspects like: • Will this target people in my geographical area?

• How will I be notified about possible leads, via email, SMS or push notifications?

• What profile information can I share on the site?

• How many visitors does the site get?

• How credible is the site?

• Is the site easy to use and easy for customers to search?

• Does the site rank well for common Google searches specific to your industry?

• Does the site also allow customers to leave reviews?

• If the site has a membership fee, what other benefits does it offer?

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The Master Electrician

Summer 2016/17

42

Consider your website Your website plays a big part of whether people will find you using search engines like Google and also whether they contact you for a quote.

The first step is to make sure your website showcases who you are, what you do and how to get in touch with you clearly and in a compelling manner. There’s lots of competition out there so good presentation and ease of use are paramount.

The second step is to include the names of the nearby suburbs you service on all pages of your website and in the page titles too. You can also consider including localised terms, such as region names.

For example, you could use “best electrician in the Hills district” as a search phrase. www.masterelectricians.com.au

More and more consumers are searching for local tradespeople online and it’s up to you to leverage this activity so you can build a sustainable and lucrative pipeline of jobs for your business. Using digital tactics, like the ones listed above, can help your business to stand out in the local area and get ahead of competitors.

About Oneflare Oneflare is an online marketplace that connects people to more than 90,000 businesses in over 150 categories to quote for jobs needed around the home, from cleaning to pest control, gardening, painting, building, interior design, pet care, beauty services, accounting and everything in between. www.oneflare.com.au

JAY AND KRISTA, Fully Wired Electrical Services

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44

workplace relations

Workplace relations tips for success in 2017 The Master Electricians Australia Workplace Relations Team have prepared answers to your most frequently asked workplace questions to ensure your business succeeds in 2017.

Q1: On what date do apprentices change to their next apprenticeship year?

Apprentice wage progression under the modern award is linked to time only. That is, on the anniversary of their employment www.masterelectricians.com.au

they will move to the next apprentice year.

Progression is not linked to the completion of the relevant training modules or impacted by their failures.

Apprentices will usually receive a wage increase at their anniversary date and at

the increase to the Federal Minimum Wage.

Make sure you have this wage information at hand to ensure that there is no delay, and therefore no back pay of wages, which could impact on your cash flow at critical times.

45

Q2: I’m feeling frustrated, my employees aren’t meeting performance expectations, and there’s role confusion within the organisation. What should I do?

Unclear or even unspecified performance expectations can prove problematic to a business when it is seeking to hold employees accountable. Role confusion can also lead to employees prioritising their duties and time ineffectively.

As an employer, you will waste a lot of time if you are constantly having to set workers’ expectations, goals and duties. Set these expectations and position parameters clearly in a position description. Position descriptions are a tool that can lay the foundation of future performance and disciplinary conversations if standards are not being met.

The MEA Workplace Relations Team has position description example material available for businesses to adjust to reflect their requirements. These are free to members – simply call the WR Team on 1300 889 198.

Q3: I think we might have to downsize our workforce in the coming year, what should we do?

Often business wait until the 11th hour, when their livelihoods are in peril, before they undertake the necessary due diligence required to restructure their businesses.

As a business owner, it’s important that you do your ‘homework’.

This means that you should: • Determine your operational reasons for the change; • Determine what the new structure needs to be (even if this change only results in reducing one position); • Determine the cost of achieving the change – is your business going to incur a liability for severance payments?

• Establish a selection criteria – is it lawful?

• Consult with the workforce about the change, including why the change is necessary, what the business has done to avoid having to reduce the workforce and the timing of any decisions around redundancies; and

Q4: Should I have a contract of employment in place?

It’s almost 2017; you need to put an employment contract in place.

It is incredibly straightforward and MEA’s Workplace Relations Team has templates readily available for members, and can assist you in reviewing draft contracts.

Don’t take the attitude that ‘I pay above award wages and therefore there can be no underpayment claims’, simply because this approach is wrong! Over-award payments must stipulate what aspects of the award you are ‘purchasing’. Further, you may have entered into an arrangement that is legally unenforceable and the protection you thought you’d bought is not available to you.

While there is no legal obligation to have a written employment contract in place for your employees, it is incredibly embarrassing for a business when it has no written confirmation that it has engaged an employee as a casual and they are claiming they believed it was a full-time offer of employment.

We’re here to help you!

Our Workplace Relations Team is offering a range of webinars throughout the coming year that will cover off important employment topics.

These sessions will run for approximately one hour and can be accessed from any internet enabled smartphone, tablet or computer. You can be parked by the side of the road and still attend a business development session!

Sessions will include legal topics like how to approach outstanding debtors and employment topics relating to award compliance, termination processes and dealing with alcohol and drug use in the workplace – to name a few.

You don’t need to become an expert; you just need to be aware of the exposure your business faces and what you can do to protect it.

• Apply due process for those employees selected for redundancy prior to the decision to terminate their employment.

The Master Electrician

Summer 2016/17

46

the last word

Legislation lays the foundation for accountability and growth There’s been a lot of attention in recent months on the Federal Government’s workplace relations reforms, and particularly their efforts to reinstate the Australian Building and Construction Commission. I’ve been on the record plenty of times supporting those reforms, and Master Electricians Australia remains committed to stamping out lawlessness and thuggery on building sites.

I have heard dozens of stories over the years from members who have suffered financial hardship as a result of illegal strikes and standover tactics when they are simply trying to get their work done. It will take many years to fix that culture, but it is important that we continue down the road to more productive and harmonious sites.

Construction employs around 1.1 million Australians (including 165,000 electricians) and plays a critical role in our economy.

Misbehaviour that drives up the costs of building flows through into purchase prices and rents, and eventually into higher prices right across the economy.

While the ABCC legislation captured all the headlines, there was a second piece of legislation – the Registered Organisations Bill – which was just as important for workers and employers in the building sector. This legislation imposes obligations on both workers’ unions and employer groups – including Master Electricians Australia – that will protect the assets and the interests of their members. In short, the officials of employee and employer groups – including me – will be held to the same standards of accountability as directors of companies. And that’s how it should be.

Across Australia, there are 47 unions and 63 employer groups with two million members and assets worth $2.5 billion.

In recent years we’ve seen plenty of

examples of officials making deals to benefit themselves rather than their members. So we welcome the move to increase accountability for unions and employer groups and their officials, even though it places new responsibilities on Master Electricians Australia. We take the view that if everything you do is above board, and you are acting solely in the interests of your members, you have nothing to worry about.

On a more cheery note, this will be the final edition of The Master Electrician for what has been a tumultuous year for the nation and our industry. I hope you are able to take advantage of the regular Christmas/ New Year close down for some rest and recreation. Most of the members I’ve spoken to are very optimistic about 2017, and looking forward to a year when our industry and their businesses can continue to prosper and grow.

Here at The Master Electrician there are also some big changes planned for Australia’s leading electrical industry magazine. The most important of these is that we plan to take much greater advantage of digital media technology to bring you a richer and more interactive publication. You can expect to see a lot more in-depth material on the website – more photos, additional information and even podcasts of the interviews behind the stories in the print magazine. However, you can also be assured that the same very high editorial and advertising standards that have always been in place for The Master Electrician will continue to apply. We know our members are committed to the very highest professional standards, and you are entitled to expect no less from your association.

Wishing you a safe and happy Christmas, and a very successful 2017.

MALCOLM RICHARDS CEO

www.masterelectricians.com.au

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