Master Plumber Magazine - May/June 2019

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 9

A Day in the Life of a Master Plumber with Dunne Rite Plumbing in Far North Queensland

IN THIS EDITION

Prepare for EOFY

Changes to Occupational Licensing

Single Touch Payroll

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CONTENTS

May/June 2019 14 Business

Busting the Single Touch Payroll Myths Late Client Payments Set to Wreak Insolvency Havoc for SMBs in 2019

17 World Plumbing Day

Celebrating World Plumbing Day 2019 The 2019 Plumbing Ambassadors Announced

8 6 Executive

18 Occupational Licence Changes

17

20 Women’s Plumbing Alliance Meet Natalie Christian, 2019 Plumbing Ambassador

22 A Day in the Life of a Master Plumber 26 Calendar of Events and Training

7 Industry News

Special Joint Taskforce to Hunt Dodgy Builders

29 Workplace Relations

S/NZS3500:2018 Series Changes A Implemented on 1 May

5 Common Recruitment Mistakes Made

by Small Businesses

HR Webinars for Businesses

Salary vs Wages

8 Technical

30 Legal

Minimum Financial Requirements (MFR) Fully Introduced

Recover Unpaid Debts before End of Financial Year

QBCC Takes Aim at Accountants Keeping Struggling Builders Afloat

32 Product News

11 Technical

New Brands, New Products The Changing Face of Everhard

Technical Team Update ABCB Investigates Lead in Drinking Water

12 End of Financial Year

Subscribe Want to receive your own copy of the Master Plumber publication?

Email events@mpaq.com.au with your name and postal address to receive future issues of the Master Plumber magazine.

EJ Takes Positive Steps in Manhole Safety

14

Kennards Hire to Use Space to Track Equipment

PUBLISHED BY Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland: 243 Bradman Street, Acacia Ridge Q 4110 P: 07 3273 0800 F: 07 3273 0873 E: info@mpaq.com.au W: www.mpaq.com.au THE TEAM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Penny Cornah P: 07 3273 0800 E: penny.cornah@mpaq.com.au EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Lisa Ross P: 07 3273 0800 E: lisa.ross@mpaq.com.au DESIGN PrintPublish P: 1300 98 94 91 E: info@printpublish.com.au PRINT Printcraft P: 07 3291 2444 E: marketing@printcraft.com.au

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019

Editor’s Note LISA ROSS – Editor Welcome to the May/June edition of the Master Plumber Magazine It’s coming up to the end of the financial year where businesses are flat out and it’s chaos for a while. Aside from some tips on what you should be doing at this time of year (see pages 12 – 13), this edition covers some important information on the New Minimum Financial Requirements that were fully introduced on 2 April 2019 and the steps the Queensland Building and Construction Commission are undertaking to help eradicate dodgy builders and their accountants (see page 8).

I’m very excited to also share our first Day in the Life of a Master Plumber story in this edition, where one of my team members, Lupe, had the chance to spend a day with Mark Dunne from Far North Queensland. Lupe gained some great insight into how hard Mark works and what details go into running a plumbing business. Mark’s story of being a fourth-generation plumber and the passion he has for the industry is so refreshing, and it confirms to the MPAQ staff that the work MPAQ does in maintaining the

professionalism of the industry and supporting our members is of the utmost importance. I hope Mark keeps this edition of the Master Plumber as a keep sake and passes on his knowledge and passion to his children in the future. You can read about his story on pages 22 – 24.

Congratulations to our members reaching membership milestones recently and welcome to our new members in this edition. I’m looking forward to seeing you out and about throughout the year.

Lisa

36 Travel

Australia’s Travelling Tradies

37 Milestone Members

22 36

33 Member News Plumbing with Pop

Neal Smith Retired after 55 Years with Hohl Plumbing

34 Social

33

38 New Members 39 Supporters

MPAQ COUNCIL PRESIDENT Kent Vickers P: 0418 883 999 E: kvickers@qigs.com.au

TRUSTEES Bill Watson P: 07 3273 2333 E: bill@connectorsgroup.com.au Bob Kimlin P: 07 4772 6308 / 0419 744 383 E: bobk@live.com.au

VICE PRESIDENTS Don Nunn P: 0418 717 470 E: dgnunn1950@gmail.com Patrick Robertson P: 07 3276 8833 E: info@rpgs.com.au

LIFE MEMBERS G Cottee, F Huysing, B McGrath OAM, MJ Moor, T Morris, J Porter, NF Sharman, BD Wallace, WB Watson, R Kimlin

PAST PRESIDENT Kelvin Slade P: 0417 787 284 E: sales@sladebrosplumbing.com.au TREASURER John Salmon P: 07 3862 2777 E: john@salmonplumbing.com.au COUNCILLORS Dennis Yarrow P: 07 3277 5742 E: admin@yarrowplumbing.com.au Michael Ryan P: 3630 4744 E: mryan@beavisbartels.com.au Rob Brouwers P: 0411 413 400 E: rob@backflow.net.au Sam Hannant P: 0405 647 046 E: sam@yesfire.com.au Harle Gall P: 0437 768 409 E: h.gall@laserplumbing.com.au Ben Crew P: 0400 364 665 E: ben@bcprojectindustries.com

MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEMBERS A Chapman, B McGrath OAM, T Morris, D Powell, B Wallace, R Weaver, M Wilshere DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the MPAQ, nor does the MPAQ guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers or accepts responsibility for statements they may express in this publication. The MPAQ does not accept liability to advertisers, which may be held contrary to the Trade Practices Act 1974. The MPAQ reserves the right to refuse, cancel, amend or suspend any advertisements or inserts without reason.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

5

EXECUTIVE

PERSPECTIVE 2019 – 2020 Federal Budget Announcement The Morrison government delivered its election pitch to small business in the form of the 2019-20 federal budget on Tuesday 2 April, quantifying a raft of previously announced policies and committing $525 billion to an overhaul of vocational training. In his first budget since becoming Treasurer in August last year, Josh Frydenberg opened his budget speech by stating that “for the first time in 12 years, our nation is again paying its own way”.

The forecast surplus for next financial year is $7.1 billion, with modest surpluses forecast over each of the next four years, which Mr Frydenberg said Penny Cornah, Executive Director would enable the government to invest in jobs, small businesses and tax cuts. Of course, with the election in May, this year’s budget measures are dependent on the coalition government being reelected. Here is a breakdown of the key funding allocations and changes announced in the budget that relate to small and medium businesses.

Instant Asset Write-off Originally expanded as a temporary measure for purchases under $20,000 in value, and increased to $25,000 by the government earlier this year, Mr Frydenberg said that the measure would be further extended and expanded. The new threshold will be $30,000 and businesses will be able to use the upfront deduction on all asset purchases up to this value.

Additionally, eligibility would be expanded to businesses with an annual turnover of up to $50 million (currently $10 million), meaning some 220,000 more businesses — largely medium businesses — would be able to receive upfront deductions on asset purchases rather than depreciating them over multiple years.

Apprentices and Training Incentive payments for businesses looking to employ apprentices would double to $8,000 per placement under a $525 million government proposal to overhaul Australia’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) system.

The so-called Delivering Skills for Today and Tomorrow program has proposed $347.9 million in funding over the next five years for boosting apprenticeship investments in areas of identified skills shortage.

Apprentices — in areas including carpentry and plumbing, according to the Treasurer – will receive $2,000 incentive payments from taxpayers under the scheme.

Business and Employment Funding Beyond the asset write-off, other grants and incentives for business and employment — both financial and non-monetary — include: • $1.4 million over four years to cover the Fair Work Commission’s Workplace Advice Service clinics, which were expanded from 1 January this year to provide small businesses and sole traders with free legal advice on employment law. $400,000 in annual funding will continue after the four-year term.

• Reducing the number of BAS GST questions to streamline GST reporting for small businesses.

Shake-up of Regulator Powers and Responsibilities Following concerns last year about the ATO’s process of handling disputes with SMEs and the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) announcing an investigation into historic tax disputes involving these businesses, the government unveiled measures in the budget to overhaul this process.

A dedicated Small Business Taxation Division will be established within the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, which would also give businesses dedicated case managers, fast-tracked decisions and a lower application fee.

Beyond the ATO, the budget also set aside $9.2 million over four years to target the issue of sham contracting.

We will keep members up to date as more information comes to hand.

For further information please don’t hesitate to contact me on 07 3273 0800 or via email at penny.cornah@mpaq.com.au.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Industry Consistency is the Way Forward!

For some time now there has been a raging debate about whether the construction industry, particularly the plumbing trade, should engage in a platform of mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

There has been a limited amount of interest from industry Kent Vickers, President as some believe it will be an onerous task for the trade to implement. There is a misconception around the concept of CPD that the only way to achieve compliance is to gain a new qualification each year and add it to your licence. This is certainly not the case at all. The concept of CPD is to ensure that all our industry professionals step up to the mark and stay current with the changing technology, laws and material available to our trade. It may include additional endorsements on your licence but that is not the main agenda and purpose for CPD. We often hear that plumbers protect the health of the nation and that we are more important than doctors at keeping the population healthy. Protecting the water supply and keeping it clean saves more lives each year than all the operations performed by doctors annually. It is, therefore, reasonable that we engage in a Continued Professional Development program to ensure that the plumbing fraternity in Australia are constantly up to date with the changes in our industry.

Master Plumbers Australia (the plumbing associations that gather as a collective) believe that CPD plays a vital role in strengthening the trade and as a consequence, Tasmania and New Zealand both have a mandatory scheme in place. Other states, such as Victoria and Western Australia, are preparing a voluntary CPD trial to be launched shortly. The board of MPAQ will be watching closely and measuring the success of the other states. We will continue to lobby the industry leaders and voice our opinion on the benefits to our trade.

The time has come to lift the image of plumbing and gas fitting to a new level and put an end to the public persona that all plumbers do is clear blocked toilets.

Our trade deserves to be recognised for the important services it provides to the whole nation and the vital work we do to protect the health and safety of our drinking water.

Life’s good!

INDUSTRY NEWS

SPECIAL JOINT TASKFORCE TO HUNT DODGY BUILDERS The Palaszczuk Government announced in February a Special Joint Taskforce to dig deeper into allegations of white-collar crime in the Queensland building industry.

MPAQ President, Kent Vickers attended the announcement of the Taskforce in March.

Pictured from left to right: Justice John Byrne leading the Taskforce, Minister for Housing and Public Works, Mick de Brenni MP and Kent Vickers

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk told Parliament the special taskforce would conduct a forensic examination of the circumstances surrounding the collapse of a number of major Queensland construction companies and re-test historical claims of fraud.

“The subbies who have been left out of pocket are mums and dads and small business people left to the whims and mercies of bigger operators who too often leave their subbies in the lurch,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

The special taskforce will be headed by retired Supreme Court Judge Justice John Byrne who was a judge for 28 years and Judge Administrator of the Supreme Court with particular expertise in both commercial and criminal law.

“Justice Byrne will be joined by Queensland Police Service detectives plus investigators from the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) and prosecutors from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions,” the Premier said.

“I urge anyone who has a complaint about dodgy payments to come forward now and have their grievances heard.

“The non-payment of subbies is not something that stops at the Queensland border, so I have also written to the Prime Minister to have this issue added to the national agenda.”

Police Minister Mark Ryan said the taskforce would also consider if there are sufficient and appropriate investigative and supervisory powers to deal with the conduct disclosed in the matters reviewed.

“We want to ensure the powers at the disposal of the police and the QBCC are as strong and effective as they can be,” he said.

For more information about the Special Task Force, visit www.qld.gov.au.

Article source: http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement

AS/NZS3500:2018 SERIES CHANGES IMPLEMENTED ON 1 MAY The National Construction Code (NCC) 2019 was released on 1 May, and the new Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) referenced the AS/NZS3500:2018 series, effectively making these documents live and able to be used.

There have been some significant changes to the series from the 2015 versions. Some of the changes include reviews to the fire services backflow protection requirements, amendments to plastic pipes in direct sunlight, a revision to circulatory heated water, the inclusion of innovative drainage systems, and more.

A detailed response to the changes was outlined in the March/April 2019 edition of the Master Plumber magazine. MPAQ members with any questions can call the MPAQ Technical team on 07 3273 0800.

FOR BUSINESSES Throughout 2019, the MPAQ Workplace Relations team are running a number of different HR webinars for plumbing and gas businesses throughout Queensland.

Free for MPAQ members, these webinars offer the opportunity for anyone across Queensland to view presentations and learn from industry experts about important information every business with employees should be aware of.

The topics covered include: • Basic award overview • Allowances, call outs, meal breaks, on call rosters, etc.

• Hourly rates and individual flexibility agreements • Basic workplace health and safety • Annual wage increase • Performance management and termination • Employing an apprentice or employee • The importance of employment contracts • Policies and procedures • Introducing performance reviews Following these events, all webinars are available for viewing on the MPAQ website for members.

For further information or to register to view these webinars, visit www.mpaq.com.au/events/webinars or contact the MPAQ office on 07 3273 0800.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

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TECHNICAL

MINIMUM FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS (MFR) FULLY INTRODUCED The partially introduced Minimum Financial Requirements (MFR) Regulation, which commenced on 1 January 2019, has now been fully introduced as of 2 April 2019.

These laws support the security of payment initiatives within the building and construction industry.

Under the new MFR Regulation, Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) licensees who hold a contractor grade licence will be required to meet annual financial reporting obligations. If you hold a Nominee Supervisor or Site Supervisor licence only, these MFR laws do not apply to you.

What Does This Mean?

• The previous MFR Policy has now been fully repealed and replaced with the MFR Regulation.

• Licensees may be required to provide additional information to substantiate deeds and related party loans.

• Introduction of stronger penalties and enforcement action for licensees that do not comply with the new requirements.

• Licensees will be required to provide annual financial information. Visit the QBCC annual reporting page at www.qbcc.qld.gov.au for more information.

Changes to Self-Certification Category 2 (SC2)

• The SC2 licensee revenue limit has now increased to $800,000.

• If you have a turnover of between $600,000 and $800,000 and are relying on a deed of covenant and assurance to meet your net tangible assets (NTA) you can continue to rely on your deed until 31 December 2019.

• The minimum NTA required for the SC2 category has increased from $36,000 to $46,000 and you have until 31 December 2019 to ensure you meet this requirement.

If Your Turnover Exceeds $30 Million

• There are now higher reporting standards for companies with a turnover in excess of $30 million.

• You are required to notify the QBCC if your NTA decreases by more than 20 per cent by way of an MFR Report.

To make it easier to submit information, you can upload your reports though the online portal myQBCC. For further information on MFR, visit the QBCC’s financial reporting for licensees page at www.qbcc.qld.gov.au or the Department of Housing and Public Works website at www.hpw.qld.gov.au and search for Minimum Financial Requirements.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019

QBCC TAKES AIM AT ACCOUNTANTS KEEPING STRUGGLING BUILDERS AFLOAT Accountants who provide inaccurate information to the regulator to help keep struggling builders afloat are in the sights of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).

QBCC Commissioner, Brett Bassett has put accountants on notice as the commission enforces new Minimum Financial Requirement laws brought in by the Queensland Government in January.

“Accountants need to be aware that if their client enters financial difficulty, we will also be looking closely at their own activities,” Mr Bassett said.

“If accountants are knowingly or unknowingly providing incorrect information, we have forensic accountants and experienced investigators who will uncover any attempt to do so, and the QBCC will be taking action.”

Two accountants are currently listed as not acceptable to provide financial reports to the QBCC. Mr Bassett said the QBCC had taken formal action against an accountant for “supplying misleading financial reports” for an Ipswich construction company just days before it went into liquidation.

“On 15 January 2019, the QBCC received a report signed off by the accountant,” he said.

“Our officers reviewed this report and deemed certain information was either incorrect or inappropriate for our reporting purposes. We suspected the company did not meet our required standards of financial health. On 17 January the QBCC formally suspended the licence of TP Enterprises Aotearoa Pty Ltd (trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Ipswich) and only six days later, the company went into liquidation.”

Mr Bassett said QBCC subsequently undertook a forensic investigation and ruled the accountant involved was “no longer an acceptable independent accountant”.

“He can no longer provide financial information to the regulator in relation to any licensed builder in Queensland indefinitely,” he said.

“In this case, we are also considering our options for further action under section 53B of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act.” MPAQ members with any concerns can call the MPAQ Workplace Relations team on 07 3273 0800.

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TECHNICAL

TECHNICAL TEAM UPDATE Recent Query:

When constructing a new house or performing a renovation of an existing one, are floor wastes required?

Ernie Kretschmer, Technical Services Manager, MPAQ

As amazing as it sounds, the quick answer is “No”.

Stories abound of the requirement to install a floor waste if the room below is habitable, of a certain size or height, or is a laundry or bathroom but, rightly or wrongly, this simply is not the case.

While I personally believe it to be not only best practice but an incredibly important safety and damage mitigation feature to any dwelling, here in Queensland there is no requirement to install a floor waste, in fact the only state in Australia that does require floor waste installation is South Australia.

Additionally, if a floor waste is installed (by choice) there is no requirement to grade/fall the floor towards it; thankfully, this is currently under review by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB).

If you have any questions please contact the MPAQ Technical Services team on 07 3273 0800.

The new Queensland Plumbing and Wastewater Code (QPWC) has recently been released and will come into effect on 1 July 2019.

The Code has been designed to provide performance solutions to meet the statutory requirements of the Plumbing and Drainage Act. This will maintain the standards set by the QPWC while allowing for innovation in materials and methods.

The Code allows for changes to be made easier than Act or Regulation amendments in order to keep up with industry changes.

As an example, AS/NZS3500.4:2015 required solar collectors to be installed at angles not exceeding 45 degrees from true north, making some installations impossible without taking into account that here in Queensland we still have adequate solar gain out to 90 degrees.

Via the QPWC, Queensland was able to vary from the requirements of the standard with the following acceptable solution: For applying AS/NZS 3500.4:2015, the reference in clause 6.5.1.2 of the standard to ‘45°’ is taken to be a reference to ‘90°’.

To access the QPWC visit www.hpw.qld.gov.au.

ABCB INVESTIGATES LEAD IN DRINKING WATER The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) has conducted work over the past 12 months to examine the possible contribution of lead in plumbing products to reports of lead levels higher than those prescribed in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

What Causes Lead in Drinking Water?

In a number of instances the cause has been traced to the use of non-conforming plumbing product’s low water usage, where water is stagnant in the pipes for extended periods of time, or a combination of factors. To investigate the issue further, the ABCB commissioned Professor Mark Taylor of Macquarie University to conduct a literature review to determine to what extent plumbing products and materials contribute to lead levels in drinking water.

The Lead in Plumbing Products and Materials Report confirmed that brass components containing lead that are used in water supply and plumbing systems can leach lead into drinking water. Multiple factors influence the release of lead from these components, including variations in: • pH; • chemical composition of the drinking water; • galvanic reactions; • temperature; • disinfection treatments; • flow rates; and • the elapsed time between use of pipes and fixtures.

The report recommended that in order to limit the release of lead in drinking water, consideration should be given to low or lead-free plumbing products being used in drinking water systems.

Is Our Water Safe?

On 25 November 2018, Australia’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Brendan Murphy, stated that our drinking water is safe and there is no evidence of adverse effects on human health from the consumption of lead in drinking water in Australia. However, as lead is not considered beneficial or necessary for human health, public health experts recommend Australians take every opportunity to limit potential exposure from all sources.

The Environmental Health Standing Committee (enHealth) in consultation with the ABCB, released a Guidance Statement on lead in drinking water from some plumbing products in July 2018. The statement recommended that every effort should be made to reduce exposure to lead in the environment, including lead that may be leaching into drinking water from some plumbing products.

Low levels of lead are permitted in brass plumbing products to make the brass malleable for the manufacture of the products. The lead levels allowed within new plumbing products under the National Construction Code (NCC) are within the World Health Organisation and Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

Consultation As part of the assessment of a change to the requirements of the NCC and the relevant product standards, the ABCB will undertake regulatory impact analysis and engage closely with enHealth, Standards Australia and the industry.

Particular engagements will be made with manufacturers and distributors of plumbing products about impacts to stocked plumbing products, international supply chains and availability of technology. This will inform feasible options to reduce the amount of lead from new plumbing products in drinking water systems and the achievable timeframes.

A Regulatory Impact Statement will be developed by the ABCB and include a period of public consultation in late 2019, which will be available on the ABCB website: www.abcb.gov.au.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

11

EOFY

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO? End of the financial year is an important time for small businesses, completing bookkeeping, tax returns and planning for the new financial year. Putting the hard work in each end of financial year can help you get your business organised and work smarter in the year ahead. Here are some essential tasks for your end of financial year (EOFY) to-do list.

Record Keeping and Compliance The Essential First Step.

Take the guesswork out of locating underground and above ground assets.

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Some of your yearly tasks as a small business owner may include: • A summary of income and expenses in a profit and loss statement; • Conducting a stocktake; • Summaries of your record of debtors and creditors; • Collating records of asset purchases or expenditure on improvements to calculate depreciation expense claims and for capital gains tax purposes; • Completing and lodging your income tax returns; • Lodging yearly reports or returns for PAYG withholding, fringe benefits tax (FBT), Goods and Services Tax (GST), and the taxable payments reporting system; and/or • Meeting superannuation requirements.

If you are unsure about your obligations, visit the Australian Tax Office, call the ATO on 13 28 66, or talk to your tax professional.

Find Out What Tax Deductions You Can Claim Be sure to do your homework and know exactly what tax deductions you can claim. You may be able to claim deductions if your business: • Has set up a website • Has motor vehicle expenses • Uses diesel fuel • Operates at home • Has travel expenses • Uses machinery, tools or computers If you are a sole trader, look at using the mydeductions tool on the ATO’s app to record your business income and expenses during the year.

Use a Registered Tax Agent Check your tax agent is registered with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB).

You are taking a big risk by using an unregistered tax or Business Activity Statement (BAS) agent.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019

ARE YOUR END OF YEAR FINANCES IN ORDER? If you run your own business there are a number of things to consider towards the end of the financial year with your superannuation.

Here are some tips and strategies to keep on hand for tax time.

Deposit up to $25,000 as a deductible super contribution. This can help reduce taxable income and potentially reduce tax paid, as deductible contributions are subject to a flat 15% tax rate.

Owen Hume, Senior Bring forward deductible expenses. It may be Financial Planner, worthwhile paying for upcoming expenses in the current Skylight Financial financial year if you can claim a deduction on them – Solutions especially if you have a higher taxable income and want to offset some of the expenses.

Pay your staff their super on time. If you don’t meet your obligations it can get costly, and you can lose the right to claim a deduction on what you have to contribute.

Take action well before 30 June! Leaving things to the last minute, or not bothering at all, can be costly. Talk to your accountant in May (or earlier) to see if they suggest any steps to take before end of financial year.

BUSSQ has built Skylight Financial Solutions to work with you to provide affordable solutions or offer you a second opinion to make the most of your end of year finances. Visit skylight.com.au or call 1800 Skylight (1800 759 544).

The information supplied in this article is general advice only and does not take into account or consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information you should consider the appropriateness of the information to your individual needs or seek advice. Prepared by Skylight Financial Solutions Pty Ltd (ABN 46 076 835 848, AFSL 450139) owned by BUSS (Queensland) Pty Ltd (ABN 15 065 081 281).

Keep up to Date with Tax Changes Starting Next Financial Year

Review and Update Your Business and Marketing Plans

There may be tax changes each year that you need to be aware of. These might include changes in tax law and deductions for small business.

Your tax professional can help you understand any changes.

You can also keep up to date by subscribing to the ATO’s small business newsroom.

Take time to set yourself up for the year ahead. Regularly reviewing and updating your plans will help you to: • Remind yourself of your goals and priorities; • Assess whether your strategies are working; • Adapt to any new changes in your environment; • Make the most of new opportunities as they come your way; • Prioritise and maximise your effort (work smarter, not harder!).

Be Wary of Tax Refund Scams

Review Your Business Structure

There are a number of scams that target small business around tax time. Common tax time scams include: • Tax refund scams where the scammer will claim you have overpaid your taxes and are eligible for a refund. However, in order for you to receive this refund, they will claim that you need to pay a fee for administration or transfer costs.

• Tax owed scams where the scammer will claim that you’ve underpaid your tax and will need to repay the amount you owe immediately. In order to make this payment, they request your credit or debit card details, or ask you to send money through a money transfer.

Review Your Finances Sit down with your accountant or bookkeeper and review your finances.

Look at whether you met your targets and what you can do differently next financial year. Create a cash flow forecast to manage any potential shortfalls and ensure you can still pay your staff and suppliers.

As your business grows and expands, you may decide to change your business structure, or to restructure your business. There are different compliance and taxation regulations depending on your business structure.

Review Your Insurances Check that your business has the right insurances in place. If your circumstances change, you may need to update your level of cover.

Read the product disclosure statements (PDS) for your insurance policies carefully – don’t assume you’re covered. Look up certain terms, such as floods, as the definition may vary among insurers.

Consider getting an insurance broker. A broker will work with your business to ensure it gets the best deal from an insurance company.

Backup and Secure your Files Backup and store your registration, financial and customer data, and other important business documents in a secure off-site location. This can help ensure your business can stay up and running during events such as natural disasters.

Consider the cloud computing software service on the ATO website.

For more information about essential EOFY tasks visit www.business.gov.au, and go to www.ato.gov.au to learn more about your tax requirements.

Article source: https://www.business.gov.au/finance/accounting MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

13

BUSINESS

BUSTING THE SINGLE TOUCH PAYROLL MYTHS

It is estimated that the expansion of the rollout of the Single Touch Payroll (STP) reporting system from 1 July 2019 will include more than 700,000 employers who will enter STP as a result. This will affect small businesses who employ fewer than 20 employees.

Do you know what Single Touch Payroll means for your business? Here are the answers to questions you may have.

What is STP? It is a new reporting system introduced by the government to streamline how employers report tax and superannuation information to the Australian Tax Office (ATO). It is called ‘real time reporting’ and happens each time employers pay their employees using their payroll system via online data transfer to the ATO on these transactions.

STP will also allow employees to access reporting data via a myGov account to see what their employer has been paying on their behalf.

Do You Need to Have a Payroll System to Participate in STP? In short, the answer is YES. However, given that not all small businesses use a payroll system, the situation is still fluid. The ATO has indicated that they are not looking to force smaller businesses who are currently NOT using a payroll system to take up a product to do STP.

Who Can Report Through STP? Generally a payroll service that includes processing payroll on behalf of an employer or performing any payroll related functions that involve interpreting legislation and assisting employers to calculate their pay as you go (PAYG) withholding and super guarantee liability.

Your Payroll agent must be registered with the Tax Practitioners Board.

Their account with the ATO must also be linked to the client account in the ATO system to lodge an STP report on the client’s behalf.

What Happens if Your Payroll Service Provider is Not Ready for STP? There are some payroll service providers who have asked the ATO for more time to get ready. If a deferral has been granted by the ATO to your payroll service provider, as an employer you are automatically covered by this deferral.

What Happens if an Employer is Not Ready for STP? If an employer won’t be ready but their software is, they can apply to the ATO for a deferral. The ATO understands that there may be other reasons employers may be unable to adopt STP, such as being located in areas without a reliable internet connection.

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Can You Apply for an Exemption?

An exemption may be granted to employers with a seasonal workforce and who only have 20 or more employees for part of the year. This exemption will only apply until smaller employers are required to begin reporting through STP.

Are There Penalties if you Don’t Adopt STP? The first year of STP reporting will be a transition year and the ATO will be working with employers to make this as smooth as possible. In general, penalties will not apply during the first year of reporting through STP. Contact Sandra Price on 07 3147 8322 for a FREE Payroll Review to find out if you are ready for the Single Touch Payroll.

Meet Sharlene.

She’s a good person to know for insurance.

Insurance: Business | Trades | Contract Works Farm | Strata | Home WFI is a proud alliance partner of MPAQ. Insure with WFI and you’ll deal directly with a local area manager who will take the time to understand you and your insurance needs.

So, for personal service that comes to you, contact your local WFI Area Manager, Sharlene Smith.

Sharlene Smith | WFI Area Manager 0427 194 033 | sharlene.smith@wfi.com.au | wfi.com.au

To see if our products are right for you, always read the PDS from the product insurer, Insurance Australia Limited ABN 11000016722 AFSL 227681 trading as WFI (WFI).

LATE CLIENT PAYMENTS SET TO WREAK INSOLVENCY HAVOC FOR SMBS IN 2019 The national epidemic of delayed invoice payments is set to create a huge surge in small business insolvencies over the course of this year.

Jirsch Sutherland Partner, Trent Devine, believes the perfect storm of a sluggish economy, often unscrupulous operators and depressed home values, is set to wreak havoc on small business owners.

“Companies that are delaying payments probably have cash flow issues themselves and are then passing those issues on to other people. The question is: where are small business people going to get the money to fund the gaps? With falling house values, they can’t rely on home liquidity to borrow. That’s why we think it’s coming into a bit of a hot storm this year.

We are going to see higher than normal levels of small business failures,” says Devine.

Delayed payment (or even non-payment) is already a significant issue in Australia. A 2017 Ombudsman’s inquiry identified that Australia’s payment times are the worst in the world, with invoices paid, on average, 26.4 days late and that almost one in two businesses have more than $20,000 owing to them due to late payments.

Construction Industry Lays Solid Foundations for Insolvency When it comes to the issue of actual non-payment, construction is an industry in which large-scale problems are disturbingly prevalent. A 2015 Senate inquiry into insolvency found that the industry is burdened every year by an estimated $3 billion in unpaid debts.

In 2018 alone there were 1,642 construction businesses that became insolvent.

“Often subcontractors have nowhere to go. They’re out of options. If they’re relying on that one big project in order to remain viable, not getting paid puts massive stresses on their business,” Devine adds.

The Australian Government has recently announced that it is creating a new payments reporting scheme to encourage fairer and faster payment times for SMBs. The government will consult both small and large businesses on the design and implementation.

“While the new scheme is extremely welcome, it still doesn’t address the issue of struggling, cash-strapped businesses to pay other businesses money that they can’t afford. Cashflow management is key to running a successful business, as it is critical that you take control of your finances and be on top of outstanding invoices and late payers,” Devine adds.

Tips to Take Charge of Cash Flow 1. Put a solid cash flow strategy in place. Since cashflow is the lifeblood of any business, implementing a solid billing and strict debt collecting system will inject much needed circulation of funds.

2. SMBs often wait until it’s too late. Many small business operators don’t raise their hand until it’s too late. If you only seek help once cracks begin to appear, then you limit the options available to make effective adjustments to preserve the business.

3. Continually review your trading relationships. Consider offering discounts for prompt/early payment.

4. Consider debt insurance or debtor finance. But note that these products come with additional cost, so ensure that any pricing includes this in your margin.

If you have any issues with getting paid, MPAQ members can call the MPAQ Workplace Relations team for assistance on 07 3273 0800.

Article written by Jirsch Sutherland

Corporate Profile Sup po M r tin Me PAQ g mb ers

Fyreguard is a service driven company and derives its great strength by providing solutions to all manner of Passive Fire problems covering all industry sectors including commercial, industrial, civil, healthcare and special purpose buildings.

The Building Code of Australia (BCA) requires that only tested and approved Passive Fire Protection systems be installed, and Fyreguard has an enviable array of approvals for all products and Fire Resistance Levels (FRL). The Fyreguard Quality Assurance (QA) program ensures only the highest quality products are available to the industry with training programs to ensure correct product selection, application and installation. Find out more about passive fire protection.

With office and warehouse facilities in both Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Fyreguard is well positioned to provide prompt professional service.

Visit www.fyreguard.com to learn more.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

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WORLD PLUMBING DAY

THE 2019 PLUMBING AMBASSADORS ANNOUNCED The World Plumbing Day Breakfast also celebrated the unveiling of the 2019 Queensland Plumbing Ambassadors, which comprises of one licensed plumber and two plumbing apprentices.

CELEBRATING WORLD PLUMBING DAY 2019 11 March, Every Year, Everywhere This year MPAQ once again celebrated World Plumbing Day by hosting the industry’s biggest breakfast on Friday 15 March at Sofitel, Brisbane. A trade expo was also combined with this year’s event, which gave the 300+ attendees the opportunity to network with industry suppliers and manufacturers from the plumbing and gas industry.

Guest Speaker – Eric Bailey

The event’s guest speaker was Eric Bailey, renowned presenter, educator, author, coach and activist. Abandoned as a child and raised by foster parents on the tough streets of South Central Los Angeles, he was told by the medical world that he would never have a sporting career, due to damage in his joints. Against all odds, Eric went onto play professional basketball for 14 years. His story of perseverance and living up to one’s full potential, was engaging and thought provoking for all in attendance.

Daniel McClinton, owner of PI Hydraulics Pty Ltd, was one of the announced Plumbing Ambassadors. Having been involved in the plumbing and gas industry over the past 15 years, Daniel proved a worthy candidate for the role. Daniel said that he applied for this position to give back to the industry and teach the younger generation the ins and outs of being a plumber.

Due to the outstanding amount of applicants MPAQ received, we decided to appoint two apprentices to be Ambassadors as well: Natalie Christian from JRW Gas and Plumbing and Patrick Wright from Christopher Contracting Plumbing and Drainage Pty Ltd (CC P & D).

Natalie will commence the second year of her apprenticeship in May; however, she has been working in the plumbing and gas industry on and off for approximately 21 years and currently owns the business with her husband, Jamie. Over the years, she has gained valuable experience in the day-to-day running of a business, such as dealing with customers and employees, as well as the environment that comes with being on the tools.

Having started as a trade assistant, Patrick Wright is an apprentice plumber who has worked for approximately seven years in the plumbing and gas industry. He has worked on a number of major jobs so far, including the Gold Coast Private Hospital and the Commonwealth Games Athletes Accommodation. Patrick is excited to be one of the Apprentice Ambassadors as it will give him the opportunity to educate others about an apprenticeship in the plumbing and gas industry and the limitless learning and career options it offers.

The Plumbing Ambassadors will be attending schools and career expos throughout the year, promoting the plumbing and gas trade to young people, school leavers, and career-seekers. If you would like more information about our ambassadors, please call the MPAQ office on 07 3273 0800.

Money Raised for Drought Angels and Kerry Wylde

The MPAQ team sold raffle tickets throughout the breakfast for the 2019 MPAQ Events Charity Partner, Drought Angels. Donations were also collected for Kerry Wylde, a CC P & D employee in his time of need. Thank you to everyone who donated. Over $5,000 was raised from your contributions! A special thank you to Tash Johnston and Jenny Gailey, Drought Angels Directors, who attended and spoke about the devastating effects of the current drought on Australian farmers and rural communities.

Visit the Events Page at www.mpaq.com.au for more information about Drought Angels or how to donate.

Hon. Mick de Brenni MP with new ambassadors, Natalie Christian, Patrick Wright and Daniel McClinton

Thank you to our generous partners EVENT PARTNER Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union Qld

GUEST SPEAKER PARTNER InSinkErator

SUPPORTING PARTNERS

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

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FEATURE: OCCUPATIONAL LICENCE CHANGES

Occupational Licence Changes From 1 March 2019, plumbers and drainers that hold an occupational and contractor licence are no longer required to pay two licence fees.

Prior to the last election MPAQ received an election commitment from the Hon Mick de Brenni MP, Minister for Housing and Public Works to fix the occupational and contractor licensing debacle for plumbing and drainage in Queensland.

MPAQ understand that in 2014, the decision was made by the former Minister for Housing and Public Works, that when plumbing and drainage occupational licensing was moved to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), these licensees would only need to hold and pay for one licence, instead of holding both occupational and contractor licenses.

While this red tape reduction policy was widely communicated to the industry, both by the former Minister, the Department of Housing and Public Works (HPW) and the QBCC, it appears that these amendments were not appropriately translated into legislation. This created the situation where licensees may not have held the licenses they needed to be able to perform their work. After identifying this issue, licensees were being told that they must once again hold and pay for both an occupational licence and a contractors’ licence.

MPAQ has been working very closely with the Minister and the Department, and we are proud to announce that we have had a win for the industry.

As of 1 March 2019, individuals (not companies) who hold a QBCC plumbing or drainage related contractor’s, nominee supervisor’s or site supervisor’s licence are not required to pay a fee if they apply for, restore or renew a range of corresponding occupational licences, including a plumbers or drainers licence, under the Plumbing and Drainage Act.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019

OCCUPATIONAL LICENCE CHANGES If you are applying for a plumbers, drainers or restricted occupational licence and an associated QBCC licence, you only need to pay the application fees for the associated QBCC licence (unless your application for the associated QBCC licence is refused).

If you hold a plumbers, drainers or restricted occupational licence ONLY, you are not impacted by these changes and must pay the prescribed fee.

Refunds The QBCC has advised that if you hold an associated QBCC licence and you received a renewal notice for your relevant occupational licence, with the renewal date on or after 1 March 2019, you are no longer required to pay and QBCC will be contacting you. If you paid to renew your occupational licence in these circumstances, you are entitled to a refund.

The law does not allow the QBCC to refund licensees who have had their occupational licence issued, restored or renewed before 1 March 2019. If you are entitled to a refund, please call 139 333.

For further information, please contact the Queensland Building and Construction Commission on 139 333 or visit www.qbcc.qld.gov.au.

Minister for Housing and Public Works, Mick de Brenni MP, MPAQ President, Kent Vickers and Executive Director, Penny Cornah have worked closely with the Minister and the Department to see this win for our industry

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Choose BUSSQ to help you and your family get your super sorted.

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The information supplied in this advertisement is general advice only and does not take into account or consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, you should review the relevant Product Disclosure Statement to ensure you have all the information about the relevant BUSSQ product and how it works and consider the appropriateness of the information to your needs or seek independent advice from a properly qualified professional. Prepared by BUSS(Queensland) Pty Ltd (ABN 15 065 081 281, AFSL 237860) as Trustee for BUSSQ (BUSSQ Fund, ABN 85 571 332 201).

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

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WOMEN’S PLUMBING ALLIANCE

WPA MEMBER, NATALIE CHRISTIAN ANNOUNCED

9 1 0 2 G N I B PLUM R O D A S S A AMB About to start the second year of her apprenticeship, Natalie believes it’s never too late to start your trade.

On 15 March 2019, Natalie Christian was one of three ambassadors announced at the World Plumbing Day Breakfast celebrations. Utilising her experience as a plumbing apprentice, Natalie will use her ambassador role to promote the plumbing and gas trade to young people, school leavers, and career-seekers across Queensland.

Originally a hairdresser by trade, Natalie owned her own mobile hairdressing business, while supporting her husband, Jamie’s, plumbing career, which included a six month stint of driving him from job to job. During this six months, Natalie gained some hands on experience and approached Jamie’s employer for an apprenticeship. After the employer rejected the idea based on restrictions he felt with a female physically unable to do what was required of the job, Natalie returned to her hairdressing business.

Natalie and Jamie have been self-employed as business owners of JRW Gas and Plumbing for nine years, and Natalie has been managing all the day-to-day office work.

“We love the flexibility of being able to take time off for holidays and weekends away with the kids,” Natalie said.

“However, owning your own business can be challenging when having to get payments from customers, which can be a little stressful when budgeting for a family of five.”

Being a part of the Women’s Plumbing Alliance has helped Natalie in this respect, as she said it’s great being able to meet other women in the industry that face similar issues in their business and comforting to know you’re not the only one.

When they hired an apprentice four years ago and found out about the benefits of having an apprentice and government incentives, Natalie decided to see if it would be possible to be a business owner and undergo her apprenticeship at the same time.

As it turns out, Natalie could do both, but she also found out that there would be some things she wasn’t entitled to.

“We learned that the government incentives don’t all apply when you’re the partner of the business, which we do not understand or think is a fair rule, as we still face the same types of expenses,” Natalie said.

When asked if she faced any challenges as a female apprentice in the industry, Natalie said that her gender hasn’t been a problem.

“It takes a little bit for the boys at college to warm up to me, but I think this is more because of my age and not because I’m female.”

And Natalie’s final word of advice to any other women looking to start a trade? “It’s never too late to start your trade. Being behind the scenes of the business does give you a great insight and knowledge for being out on the tools.”

Do you have a story (of yourself or someone else) you would like to share? We’d love to hear it! Send us an email at events@mpaq.com.au or call the MPAQ office on 07 3273 0800.

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Natalie with her plaque at the World Plumbing Day Breakfast in March

Corporate Profile W Par PA tne r Xact Accounting is proud to be a partner of the Women’s Plumbing Alliance.

Let’s be honest life’s too short to spend more time doing your books than doing what you love, be it servicing and growing your business or having more quality family time.

As proud sponsors of the Women’s Plumbing Alliance, Xact Accounting understands that plumbers are generally as specialised at keeping their books as we are at plumbing!

We are passionate about working with the members of WPA in 2019 by providing up to date, industry-specific education, and any changes that can have the most significant impact on your business. At Xact we offer all WPA members fixed-price bookkeeping, accounting, tax compliance and financial reporting services.

We proudly proclaim we are one of the fastest growing, multi-award winning bookkeeping and accounting services in Queensland, specialising in the plumbing industry, and pride ourselves on offering our services at realistic fixed prices for growing plumbing businesses.

Our team really depreciate (sorry Tax joke, we just could not pass up the opportunity to slip that in) this opportunity to get to meet you all this year at the next Women’s Plumbing Alliance event.

Contact Xact Accounting on 1300 233 723 or visit www.xactaccounting.com.au for further information.

Give your workmate the weekend off Thanks to Toyota Fleet and All-New RAV4

After much anticipation, All-New RAV4 has arrived. It’s available in 2WD, petrol and electric AWD; and is our first ever Hybrid SUV in Australia. The advanced electric AWD delivers low fuel consumption of just 4.8L/100km (combined)1. And our classleading Toyota Safety Sense comes as standard across the range. You’ll also enjoy plenty of room for your next adventure, thanks to its versatile boot.

To find out more, visit your Fleet Specialist Dealer or call 1800 444 847.

toyota.com.au/fleet

Master Plumbers Association of QLD membership details required to redeem Gold Fleet Discounts.

1 Fuel consumption is based on Toyota GX Hybrid AWD model. Achieved in test conditions. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle condition and option/accessories fitted.

TFM2117 – MPA-QLD 04/19

FEATURE: DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MASTER PLUMBER

e f i L e h t n i y r A Da e b m u l P r e t s a M a of o h w r e b m plu e h t , e n n u t! e rk D l i a o t M e t n e o e d e M k c o l b n u er v e y l n o s ha

THIS YEAR, MPAQ STAFF ARE SPENDING SOME TIME WITH OUR MEMBERS DOING WHAT THEY DO AND SEEING WHAT THEY SEE. THE EXPERIENCES RECORDED IN OUR ‘DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MASTER PLUMBER’ PROJECT WILL BE SHARED WITH POTENTIAL FUTURE APPRENTICES AT CAREER EXPOS ATTENDED

BY MPAQ’S AMBASSADORS TO GET AN UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT LIFE AS A PLUMBER COULD MEAN FOR THEM. 22

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For our first Day in the Life of a Master Plumber experience, Lupe Paea, one of MPAQ’s Event Coordinators spent the day in Cairns with Mark from Dunne Rite Plumbing.

Mark is a fourth generation plumber, with his father, grandfather and great-grandfather all having worked, or are still working in the plumbing industry. Born in Dublin, Ireland as one of five boys, he immigrated to Australia in 1988 and grew up in Lakes Entrance, Victoria before moving to Cairns in 2007.

Mark initially did not want to become a plumber, even though the trade ran through his family line. He instead enrolled in university and completed a Bachelor Degree in Commerce. He later did some work experience with his father on the tools and found that he was actually a natural at plumbing and thoroughly enjoyed the work. This then prompted him to undertake his plumbing apprenticeship just off the coast of Cairns at Fitzroy Island.

Mark now operates his own business, Dunne Rite Plumbing in Cairns with help from his brother Paul on the tools. They mainly do full installations in new houses and solar hot water. Mark’s dad has also developed his own brand of solar hot water units called CMD (named after their late brother Carl) which he is proud to install and promote.

When first starting his business in 2013, he chose the name of the business based on Dunne Rite Roofing which was owned by his brother who was also a plumber. In his brother’s memory, Mark has his name inscribed on the toolbox of the animated picture on the side of his work car.

without realising where it came from. At one stage I was taking notes on my laptop with the makeshift office Mark made me (from empty toilet bowl boxes), half sitting in the dirt. I can’t imagine trying to run a business with all the admin involved while on site like this or working on the road and only accessing information through your phone, it was quite a challenge!

Throughout the day I learnt that plumbers are usually the first onsite to new building developments. Mark also gave me a lesson in waste systems and taught me the difference between commercial plumbers and maintenance plumbers.

Outside of work, Mark is an avid sky-diver. He’s completed over 309 skydives in the last three years. He also has a partner, Laura, who is really lovely and grew up in the same town Mark was born in, Dublin, Ireland (but they met in Cairns – small world!).

He is really passionate about the industry and would like to be able to teach apprentices and pass on his knowledge, as he finds this rewarding.

He spoke about his aspirations to grow his business and do more of what his dad did, applying plumbing skills and knowledge in third world countries for people who need it. His dad completed a water project in a village called Korando in Kenya where they installed five kilometres of piping to get water into the village, instead of children having to walk up the mountain carrying buckets on their heads.

Walking in Mark’s Shoes – As told by Lupe Paea, MPAQ Events Coordinator In April I had the opportunity to spend a day with Mark and Paul in Cairns, going out on site to some new residential homes. I’ve only worked with Master Plumbers since December 2018 and have never had any prior experience with the industry, so this opportunity really helped me see things differently!

The morning I was due to meet up with Mark, the day’s plans changed very early and I received a text message from Mark at 6.30am explaining we would be doing a different job that day due to the rain (and boy did it rain).

So instead I headed to Mark’s newly built home in Mount Peter for a quick coffee and chat. Side note, before 7am is a little early for my liking!

After a quick coffee and breakfast, Mark showed me his home office and what’s involved most mornings with ordering supplies for the day.

Mark completes all his own office work and paperwork for the business from home.

We arrived onsite at a new estate in Kewarra Beach and were met

by Mark’s brother Paul who was already working on the kitchen and bathroom installs of the new houses.

Watching Mark and Paul doing fit outs on new houses was a great opportunity for me to come in to a blank canvas and see it all come together from the very beginning. I didn’t realise that plumbers used so many tools. Honestly, I (like many others) thought a plunger was on top of the tool list, but obviously not, as Mark told me he has only ever unblocked one toilet in his whole career, and it was on a construction site.

Working on site definitely had some challenges for me. First of all (being Cairns), it was very humid and my long sleeve, high vis shirt and long pants were hot enough, let alone my steel Paul, Lupe and Mark cap boots. Within an hour, it looked like I had taken a shower (not in a good way). I also randomly got dirt everywhere

Lupe with her makeshift office on site

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

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FEATURE DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MASTER PLUMBER FEATURE:

Mark was doing a bathroom install on a new house

Since working for MPAQ I have wanted to learn more about the industry and after spending time with the guys from Dunne Rite, my perception of plumbers has definitely changed. I used to think plumbers predominantly only dealt with toilets, and I expected them to just “get in and get the job done”; however, they’re so much more than that. There are so many different specialties in plumbing, gas, hot water and even roofing, just to name a few. Plumbers play such a vital role in our health system and listening to Mark speak so passionately about wanting to make a difference and share his knowledge about the industry left me feeling inspired.

“Mark is really passionate about the industry and would like to be able to teach apprentices and pass on his knowledge, as he finds this rewarding”.

Lupe in her high vis and steel cap boots on site

Being able to have this experience, spending a day in the life of a Master Plumber has made me appreciate plumbers and just how important they are in our day to day life. I have a greater understanding of our members and have more passion for the industry, and if the opportunity ever presented itself, I would definitely consider a career in plumbing.

If you would be interested in hosting some MPAQ staff members for the day and taking part in our A Day in the Life of a Master Plumber project, let us know! Call the MPAQ office on 07 3273 0800 or send us an email at events@mpaq.com.au.

Mark with his excavator

Mark with his partner, Laura

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EVENTS AND TRAINING CALENDAR

JUNE 30End of

1

Financial Year

2

3

4

5

Brisbane TMV Course

9

10 17

7

8

Brisbane CWBR Course

11

12

18

13

14

15

Townsville Townsville Trade Forum Golf Day

Brisbane Backflow Course

16

6

19

20

21

22

Gold Coast Gold Coast Trade Forum Golf Day

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

Cairns TMV Course

Cairns Backflow Course

JULY 1 2019-20 2

3

4

5

6

8

10

11

12

13

18

19

20

Financial Year

7

9

Brisbane Service Type A Gas Course

14

15

16

17

Plumbing & Gas Awards

21 28

22

23

24

Townsville TMV Course

Townsville Backflow Course

29

30

31

Rockhampton Backflow Course 26

| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019

25

26

27

Tickets are still available for the 2019 Plumbing and Gas Industry Awards at www.plumbingandgasawards.com!

Don’t miss out on our special 20th year celebrations.

Key TMV - CPCPWT4023A - Commission and Maintain Hot and Heated Water Temperature Control Devices Backflow - CPCPWT4022A - Commission and Maintain Backflow Prevention Devices CWBR - CPCPCM4011A - Carry Out Work Based Risk Control Processes Service Type A Gas - CPCPGS4022A - Service Type A Gas Appliances RTO Code: 30473

Visit MPAQ.com.Au for Events & Training information

AUGUST 1

2

3

Rockhampton Rockhampton Backflow Course TMV Course

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

16

17

Bundaberg Backflow Course

Bundaberg TMV Course

11

12

13

Women’s Networking Function

Sunshine Coast STC Info Forum

14

15

Rockhampton Rockhampton Trade Forum Golf Day

18 25

19 26

20

Sunshine Coast TMV Course

27

21

22

23

Fraser Island 4WD Trip

Sunshine Coast Backflow Course

28

29

24

30

31

Fraser Island 4WD Trip MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

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WORKPLACE RELATIONS

5 COMMON RECRUITMENT MISTAKES MADE BY SMALL BUSINESSES Recruiting can be a time-consuming task and small business owners tend to hire only when they already desperately need someone to complete the work.

Here are some of the common issues: Where’s the Position Description?

1

Ideally, each new job ad should be written, based on a documented position description that covers all the relevant details and expectations of a role, which makes the job ad more accurate.

2

Ad-hoc Interviews

Each interview should be conducted in the same way with, generally, the same questions. You may need to alter questions slightly to reflect the current employment status (for example, asking about why they left their previous role, as opposed to why they are considering leaving their current role).

3

Not Completing a Reference Check

You may think that applicants will only add referees to their resume who will speak glowing praise of them; however, this is not always the case. A reference check will help you to understand better how an applicant performed in their previous roles and how they related to others.

4

Failing to Consider Internal Candidates

For smaller businesses, this may not be an option, but for medium to larger sized businesses, recruiting from within the organisation may be a real option. Recruiting internally can save time and resources, plus it can be a great part of a business succession plan.

5

Rushing the Hiring Process

Although there is often a sense of urgency when it comes to hiring a new employee, it can lead to hiring the ‘wrong’ person, simply because they are available.

Recruiting, training and managing a new employee is an expensive investment, so rushing this process is generally not a great use of resources.

MPAQ members who would like advice and guidance about the recruitment process can talk to our Workplace Relations team on 07 3273 0800.

Article Source: https://www.workplacecentral.com.au

SALARY VS WAGES There seems to be a lot of misconception around the payment of salaries and/or wages at the moment.

I have answered a number of queries from members where they were told that if they called a position a salaried position then the Award no longer applies for that position.

Unfortunately, under the Plumbing and Fire Sprinklers Award there are no exemptions; therefore, all employees employed in a position Kym Campbell, Senior covered by the Award must abide by the Award Human Resources conditions and entitlements. The minimum Advisor, MPAQ Award conditions are: • Maximum of 38 ordinary • 10 days personal/carers’ leave hours per week • Two days compassionate leave • Spread of ordinary hours per occasion are Monday to Friday from 7 • 9.5% Superannuation am to 6 pm • Long Service Leave accrual or • Four weeks annual leave plus membership of QLeave (portable 17.5% annual leave loading long service leave) I have recently completed several reconciliations for back payment of wages for members who have inadvertently paid incorrect rates of pay to employees. To ensure you are paying the correct entitlements please contact the Workplace Relations team prior to employing a new employee.

It is important to note that the Fair Work Commission hand down an annual wage increase usually around late June, which is implemented on the first full pay period on or after 1 July each year. MPAQ has up to date wage sheets and information sheets available through the MPAQ website to ensure members are kept up to date.

If you have any questions about this information, or would like some more specific advice, please contact the MPAQ Workplace Relations team on 07 3273 0800.

Renew your MPAQ Membership and you could win a

$5,000 holiday!

thanks to Reliance Worldwide Corporation Pay your 2019 Contracting Membership Renewal prior to the due date and you could go into the draw to win a travel voucher worth $5,000.

This competition is available for contracting members renewing their membership with the Association between 1 January 2019 and 31 December 2019. Receipt or confirmation of payment for renewal must be received by the renewal date in order for member to gain an entry in the 2019 Membership Renewal Draw. This competition is only applicable to contracting members. Renewing members must elect to enter the draw via a link provided in membership confirmation emails. All entries must be received by 11.59pm AEST on 31 December 2019. The competition is open to MPAQ contracting members who are Australian residents aged 18 years and over. Only one entry per comapny is permitted. The winner will be drawn at random on 10 January 2020 at noon AEST at 11/243 Bradman Street, Acacia Ridge, Brisbane, QLD 4110. The winner must accept the prize within 10 business days of this date. Full Competition Terms and Conditions Apply - visit www.mpaq.com.au/renew for more details.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

29

LEGAL

RECOVER UNPAID DEBTS BEFORE END OF FINANCIAL YEAR Ian Heathwood, Principal, Cornwalls

As specialists in Building and Construction Law, every week we hear from clients who are suffering the flow on effects of not being paid.

Recently, for example, two clients’ companies went into liquidation.

Non-payment is an endemic problem in the whole industry, something that MPAQ is working at Government level to try to overcome and that my law firm, Cornwalls (formerly McKays Brisbane), is also heavily involved in.

There is much that you can do yourself and with the approach of the end of financial year, now is the time to focus on getting outstanding invoices paid. You should be reassessing all your outstanding debts, writing off unrecoverable debts and taking active steps to recover payments. If you don’t and you are taxed on an accruals basis, you will be paying tax on these debts even if they are not paid.

A starting point that contractors often leave too late is to send debtors a solicitors’ letter of demand. Contractors who have not used the free solicitors’ letter of demand service provided by Cornwalls (formerly McKays Brisbane) to MPAQ members, are often surprised at how effective it can be.

A letter from a lawyer demanding payment can be a powerful persuader for a debtor to shift the outstanding invoice from the pile of “bills we will pay when we have to” to the “we had better pay now” pile.

All you have to do to use the free solicitors’ letter of demand service is sign in to the MPAQ website www.mpaq.com.au, and visit the Debt Recovery Assistance page.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019

For larger debts or more complex matters such as unpaid payment claims, it is usually best to call Cornwalls Brisbane first, for a free consultation.

If you need legal advice contact myself or one of the building and construction team on 07 3223 5900 or email us at constructionlaw@cornwallsqld.com.au or visit www.cornwalls.com.au.

MCKAYS BRISBANE IS NOW CORNWALLS McKays Brisbane recently combined with two other very well-respected corporate law firms to form Cornwalls, a new national law practice with offices in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. This enables us to broaden the service we provide Master Plumbers members, as well as better service members’ needs in relation to work outside of Queensland.

Cornwalls Brisbane will continue to offer MPAQ members the free solicitors’ letter of demand service and our free legal advice service for MPAQ members.

MPAQ members can call Cornwalls Brisbane and receive, free of charge, plain English legal advice for up to 20 minutes including: • A preliminary overview of your legal rights and obligations; • Your options and the pros and cons of each; • An explanation of the steps involved; • How long the process can take; • An estimate of the costs, if it is necessary to take further action; • What action you can take yourself; and • How to avoid similar problems in the future.

Who said plumbing isn’t a rewarding career?

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INSTALL A AUSTRALIA’S NO. 1

PRODUCT NEWS

NEW BRANDS, NEW PRODUCTS THE CHANGING FACE OF EVERHARD Everhard is one of the largest manufacturers in Queensland with Australia-wide distribution, and the company is committed to the continued development of innovative, quality products.

The new age in laundry

With homeowners building larger homes and having more need for storage, greater importance is being placed on having a multi-functional laundry space. Simon Higgins, CEO at Everhard Industries, has seen these consumer needs and wants a shift to meet these new demands.

New Designs and Brands

Everhard’s new soft close drawer systems with finger-pull functionality provide elegance, form and function, giving homeowners much needed storage and ease of access. The new reversible soft close door systems provide a sleek and modern twist on the traditional laundry unit, with full overlay design and internal floor. With the introduction of these new

EJ TAKES POSITIVE STEPS

IN MANHOLE SAFETY When submerging into the dimly lit void of a pit or manhole, being sure-footed is everything, which is why specifiers seeking quality, long lasting solutions turn to EJ.

A smart range of step irons are available from EJ as used in a variety of applications ranging from sewer and stormwater manholes to pits and water tanks. They’re made from a high strength steel bar, fully coated in a tough, brightly coloured, UV stabilised polypropylene co-polymer that has no sharp corners, Non-slip, plastic covered and that features a 25mm stainless steel high vertical foot stop to prevent work-boot slippage.

Others on offer come with a tail length of 150mms in extra-durable stainless steel, which are perfect for either new or retro-fit applications.

Once again, they are coated in brightly coloured polypropylene for easy identification in the dark and a more sustainable life.

The polypropylene used in the manufacture of these step irons is of a premium grade, resistant to attack by chemicals that often occur in sewer and stormwater systems. They can be set into pre-cast structures during the concrete pour, caulked into a drilling hole with epoxy resins or quick setting cement, or can be fitted into tailored inserts that require no epoxy.

EJ has stock in three step widths: 375mm, 225mm and 175mm.

A Stainless Steel step iron is also available at 350mm wide and they maintain a stock of insert ferrules. A simple, economical solution is a galvanized iron step that has been carefully made with rounded corners and a thick steel rod that will easily manage any solidly built worker.

It comes with a galvanized iron backing plate.

For detailed specifications, check with your nearest EJ branch or call 07 3216 5000.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019

products, Everhard have rebranded the complete laundry range with three fresh brands.

The New Complete Compact Drainage System

EasyDRAINTM, a well-reputed brand both in Australia and overseas, is a fully integrated surface water drainage system that simply clicks together using interlocking technology.

Everhard have now launched two new products to their EasyDRAINT M COMPACT range, the Tee Piece and Slim Pit. The new Tee piece provides greater ease and flexibility in directional changes of the channel and grate, while the new Slim Pit allows seamless connection to stormwater pipes.

The introduction of these two new products now completes EasyDRAINTM COMPACT range, making it the only complete compact drainage range in the market today.

To find out more about these new products or to find a stockist, visit www.everhard.com.au.

KENNARDS HIRE TO USE SPACE TO TRACK EQUIPMENT One of Fleet’s Proxima nanosatellites

One of Australia’s largest equipment hire companies has partnered with Internet of Things (IoT) space startup Fleet Space Technologies to track the location and performance of its gear anywhere at any time.

The partnership will allow Kennards Hire to instantaneously track its equipment through Fleet’s fully integrated IoT gateway, The Portal. Kennards Hire will be one of the first customers connected to Fleet’s constellation of Centauri nanosatellites.

Kennards Hire plans to deploy Fleet’s innovative IoT solutions to its equipment range across specialist branches and customer sites in Australia and New Zealand.

Telemetry data from rental equipment that is connected to Fleet’s satelliteenabled LoRaWAN network will be transmitted into space and back, allowing movements to be tracked anywhere at any time.

Kennards Hire General Manager of Strategic Projects, Craig Kesby said the partnership would allow the company to provide new services for customers such as real-time reporting of safety and environmental metrics. Kesby said the location and operational data collected by Fleet would enable Kennards Hire to undertake preventive equipment maintenance, reducing the impact of down time on customer sites across its network, which includes the construction, oil and gas, and mining industries.

CEO and co-founder of Fleet Space Technologies, Flavia Tata Nardini said Kennards Hire is in a unique position to pivot their commercial models and offerings to make life easier for their customers.

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

Article Source: http://theleadsouthaustralia.com.au/industries/space-industry/kennardshire-to-use-space-to-track-equipment/

MEMBER NEWS

PLUMBING WITH MY POP As part of our World Plumbing Day celebrations, MPAQ ran a social media take over. We were glad to have WJS Plumbing Services share their story.

“My name is Wil. I am 23, and I run a plumbing business in North Brisbane. I have been in business for two years; however, I have been plumbing close to a decade. My fiancé and I run our small plumbing business in Caboolture Jamie-Lee and Wil from WJS Plumbing where we service all of North Brisbane as a reliable, professional and trusted emergency plumber.

My introduction to plumbing started from when I was just a little boy. My pop ran a very successful plumbing business in Ayr, North QLD. From the moment that I could walk I would always be out in the shed helping, or more so annoying him, while he got ready for his next job. As I grew, I would be more and more involved with helping my pop. School holidays consisted of me working and earning some pocket money that I blew at the local tackle shop.

As soon as I hit grade 10 I knew that school wasn’t for me. My pop took me on full time and put me through my apprenticeship. Not only did those next few years teach me how to plumb, but working alongside the best plumber that I knew, taught me how to be a great tradesman with morals, standards and professionalism. These are all values that I now implement in my business and workers today.

Sadly, my pop passed away two years ago when he was electrocuted on site while cutting through an old galvanised pipe. In his honour I started my business to continue his legacy and keep everything that he taught me alive. Every day I think of him, and I know that each job that I attend to, he is watching and guiding me.

Because of him, I love my job, I love my business, and I love to plumb. He is the reason I am where I am today. My drive and passion to plumb stems from him. I am a proud plumber and on World Plumbing Day I not only give recognition to all the plumbers still here, but to all the great plumbers that are no longer with us.”

Do you have a story (of yourself or someone else) you would like to share? We’d love to hear it! Send us an email at events@mpaq.com.au or call the MPAQ office on 07 3273 0800.

NEAL SMITH RETIRES AFTER 55 YEARS WITH HOHL PLUMBING When Neal Smith took up a plumbing apprenticeship with Hohl Plumbing at age 15, he never imagined it would be a lifetime job.

Mr. Smith, 71, retired on 21 December 2018 after 55 years of service to the family owned company, and his work was celebrated with a dinner at the Beaudesert RSL on 7 February.

“I had no idea it would be my job for life. I just turned up for work every day and the years went by. I’m not someone who thinks the grass is greener next door, so I just stayed,” Mr. Smith said.

Debbie Love, an office administrator for Hohl Plumbing said, “He’s a hard worker and will put in the hours to get something done. He’d do anything for anyone. You don’t find people like him anymore. We really enjoy his company. He will be missed.”

During his training Mr. Smith was twice awarded apprentice of the year; he topped the plumber’s supervisor’s course and was selected to work at the Australian base in Antarctica, which he declined for family reasons.

Mr. Smith said his retirement plans were still uncertain but included time with his four children, 12 grandchildren and two great grandchildren, travel and reading.

Everyone at MPAQ would like to congratulate Neal and wish him a happy retirement!

Article Source: https://www.beaudeserttimes.com.au/

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR MPAQ MEMBERS Membership of the Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) gives you immediate access to a vast array of products and services to meet your plumbing, business and lifestyle needs.

Bookkeeping and business support services.

Complete business and system improvement.

Website development and digital support.

$250 credit voucher, plus one hour free phone support each month.

Rebate towards MPAQ membership and discounted workshops.

FREE one page website and discounted additional services.

Job management app.

Discounted fuel at over 93% of service stations.

Bookkeeping and Tax Accounting.

Get your first three months free.

Get 2c per litre off at participating stores, including Puma, Mobil, Shell, 7-Eleven, and more.

Exclusive member only pricing bundles and bonus legal structure report.

For more information about these benefits or to access the full list of MPAQ member benefits, visit www.mpaq.com.au.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

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SOCIAL

Q A P #M

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019

Want to featur e M PAQ Social on the page hashtag on Ins ? Use our tagram so we c see what you’r e an up to!

#WORLDPLUMBINGDAY

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

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TRAVEL

AUSTRALIA’S TRAVELLING TRADIES Adam Valastro is a plumber by trade and worked in the construction industry for nearly a decade. Like many Tradies he was earning good money but was partying a lot and always searching for something more. As a result, he suffered severe depression, and after two fellow tradies on job sites he was working on took their own lives in the space of a week, it was the straw that broke the camel’s back for him. He spontaneously booked a one-way ticket to South America where he disappeared for nearly three years.

To ensure he didn’t have to return home sooner than he wanted, Adam would approach hotels and hostels and offer his skills to fix and build anything and everything in exchange for food, accommodation, tours, experiences, drinks, local insight, guidance and local knowledge. In doing this he managed to travel for nearly three years, exploring 11 countries and spending less than $12,000, whilst at the same time having life changing experiences and an epic adventure that altered his mindset and perspective of the world for the better.

On returning home Adam realised other tradies wanted to do the same and that he had a solution to help them experience what he did.

Three amigos painting

Lucas Kent and Adam Valastro

The realisation that this exchange and experience could potentially impact the high statistics of mental health issues in the construction industry, as well as give a little back to the world, was life-changing. That’s how Travelling Tradies was born.

What Does Travelling Tradies Bring to the Table?

For tradies, Travelling Tradies creates long term opportunities for skilled tradies to travel affordably so they can have an epic adventure, improve their health and well-being, and become a global local while helping build sustainable communities across the world.

For hosts, Travelling Tradies provide connections for hostels and hotels to world-class certified Australian Tradies, where they will fly in to become a hosts’ handyman and repair things at an exchange the host can afford usually accommodation, food, epic experiences, discounts, local connection and cultural immersion.

Mental Health for Tradies With Travelling Tradies and the opportunities it provides, Adam wants to challenge the way tradies see themselves, and give them the chance to go through the same life-changing experience he had. It has been estimated that 40% of the 1.5 million tradies in Australia suffer from mental health challenges of varying degrees.

Travelling Tradies is the portal for tradies to gain the knowledge and tools they need to see the world, refresh their bodies and give their mind a break.

Travelling Tradies are conscious and proud of what they do and aim to make an impact to the mental health statistics of our industry.

For more information check out @travellingtradiesofficial on Facebook and Instagram.

Images and information supplied by Travelling Tradies.

Grate standards.

The Australian Building Codes Board have released an update to the WMTS-040:2016 waste pipe connection outlet and gratings.

This Technical Specification enables product certification in accordance with the requirements of the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) and specifies suitable materials for waste pipe connection outlets and gratings. The WMTAC found WMTS-040 had no materials specified, leaving it open to interpretation.

Inclusion of a Materials section avoids confusion which has allowed unsuitable materials including aluminium to be used as waste pipe connection outlets and gratings, either separate or integral.

Aluminium, while generally durable and reliable, is unsuited to specific applications due to corrosion susceptibility in stagnant, oxygen deprived environments. While tolerant to pH values

between 4 and 8.5, Products such as mortar, cement, concrete, tile glue, grout and bricks can generate highly alkaline solutions up to pH 13. When this solution contacts the aluminium, particularly corners or surface scratches, corrosion can occur.

The WMTAC concludes that aluminium use should be restricted under WMTS-040, particularly where exposed to wet environments.

Stortmech welcomes this update to the Watermark specification, and all Stormtech grates and drainage products are 100% compliant with WMTS-040:2018.

call 1300 653 403 | stormtech.com.au

| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 36 WMTS-040:2018 was prepared by industry to supersede Specification WMTS-040:2016.

Bathrooms

Showers

Pools + Surrounds Thresholds

Doortracks

Special Needs Access

30+ Years

ArchiTecTurAl GRATES + DRAINS

MEMBERS

CONGRATULATIONS TO MPAQ’S MILESTONE MEMBERS NAME

COMPANY

DIVISION

Fred Nitz

25

YEAR

MILESTONE

MILESTONE

Brisbane South

25

Brett Howard

Coastal Wastewater Specialists

Fraser Coast

20

Timothy Bothams

Laser Plumbing Gympie

Sunshine Coast

20

Lachlan Pegler

Queensland Industrial Cladding

Toowoomba

15

Bradley Hawes

BKH Plumbing

Brisbane North

10

Darren Nyberg

Fire Hydrant Testing Australia

Sunshine Coast

10

Graham Shaw

Graham Shaw Plumbing Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

10

Anthony West

Padstar Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

10

Melanie Whitmore

XPort Plumbing Pty Ltd

Central

10

Garry Kelly

Your Local Plumber

Gold Coast

10

Graeme Downs

GD Downs Plumbing Drainage and Gas

Brisbane South

5

Louise Nash

GWC Hydraulics

Brisbane North

5

Nathaniel Druery

Livingstone Shire Council

Central

5

Jay Morrison

Mackay Plumbing Maintenance Pty Ltd

Mackay

5

Matthew Winn

MG Winn Plumbing Drainage & Gas Fitting Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

5

Michael Rae

Michael Rae Plumbing Drainage and Gas

Toowoomba

5

Damien Moore

Moore Plumbing and Fire Protection Pty Ltd

Toowoomba

5

Ryan Heathwood

Ryano's Plumbing and Gas Fitting Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

5

Glen Chatterton

Services Trades Queensland (STQ)

Brisbane South

5

20

Brett Loch with MPAQ Councillor Harle Gall Brett Loch Plumbing Pty Ltd

25

YEAR

MILESTONE

20

YEAR

YEAR

MILESTONE

MILESTONE

Ian Fowler IDF Plumbing

25

Priscilla and Brett Howard Coastal Services Qld Pty Ltd

MILESTONE

Peter Rowan Rowan Plumbing

10

10

YEAR

YEAR

MILESTONE

MILESTONE

Benjamin Jesberg Leakless Plumbing Pty Ltd

YEAR

Greg Rendell Rendell Plumbing & Drainage

Jeff Brayshaw Jeff Brayshaw Plumbing MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

37

MEMBERS

WELCOME TO MPAQ’S NEW MEMBERS NAME

COMPANY

DIVISION

Paul Gray

Central Plumbing Services Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

Daniel Groundwater

Groundwater Plumbing

Brisbane North

Jake Granger

Hammond Contracting Qld Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

Marc Platt

Platt's Plumbing Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

Martin Limbach

Plumbing Avenue Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

Aaron Counsel

Setta Plumbing

Brisbane North

Steve Keighley

Akillies Plumbing

Brisbane South

Daniel Finlay

AVA Plumbing Solutions

Brisbane South

Byron Austin

Grundfos Pumps Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

Harpinder Uppal

SouthEast Plumbing & Gas

Brisbane South

Kyle Kaminski

Quick Clean Plumbing & Gas

Fraser Coast

Timothy Tripp

Goldy Plumbing & Gas

Gold Coast

Peter Hungerford

Energy Solar Solutions

Ipswich

Jake Hilditch

JMH Plumbing & Drainage

North Qld

Nathan Giles

Giles Plumbing & Gas

Toowoomba

Troy Gurski

K & R Plumbing Supplies

Toowoomba

Paul Reedy

Plumbing Plus Queensland

Toowoomba

Timothy Tripp Goldy Plumbing and Gas

Join MPAQ and you could win a

$3,000 holiday! thanks to Austworld Join MPAQ as a Contracting Member between 1 January 2019 and 30 June 2019 to go into the draw to win a travel voucher worth $3,000.

Harpinder Uppal SouthEast Plumbing & Gas

38

| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019

New contracting members must join the association between 1 January 2019 and 30 June 2019. Membership application and payment (first payment for monthly paying members and entire payment for annual paying members) must be made within the 6 month promotion period where applicable. New members must elect to enter the draw via a link provided in membership confirmation emails. All entries must be received by 11.59pm AEST on 30 June 2019. The competition is open to MPAQ contracting members who are Australian residents aged 18 years and over. Only one entry per company is permitted. The winner will be drawn at random on 5 July 2019 at noon AEST at 11/243 Bradman Street, Acacia Ridge, Brisbane, QLD 4110.

The winner must accept the prize within 10 business days of this date. Full Competition Terms and Conditions Apply - visit www.mpaq.com.au/join for more details.

SUPPORTERS

THE SUPPORTERS OF OUR INDUSTRY Trading Contact

Platinum Corporate Supporters Australian Valve Group BUSSQ Building Super Cbus Emerson Valvcheq Backflow Reece Reliance Worldwide Corporation simPRO Software Pty Ltd Toyota Tradelink WFI Insurance

Gold Corporate Supporters Bretts Trade Plumbing Supplies Decina Bathroomware Pty Ltd Dial Before You Dig (Qld) Ltd GWA Group Hilti Australia Iplex Kembla QLeave Rheem Australia Pty Ltd Zip Heaters (Aust) Pty Ltd Zurn Australia

Silver Corporate Supporters Billi Pty Ltd Busy At Work Halgan Pty Ltd Mazda Australia Pty Limited Rinnai Xact Accounting

Corporate Supporters

9th Day Advanced Enviro-Septic Aitchison Reid Building & Construction Lawyers All Trades Queensland Pty Ltd Alpha390 Finance Ancra Australia Pty Ltd Apollo Valves APT Management Services Pty Ltd Aquacure Water Treatment Pty Ltd Aquaknect Aquatech Solar Technologies Pty Ltd Astivita Limited Australian Industry Trade College Gold Coast Australian Laboratory Services Pty Ltd Australian Pump Industries Pty Ltd AustWorld AutoTender Backflow Central & Hydromet Bermad Water Technologies Blucher (Australia) Pty Ltd Brasshards (Holdings) Pty Ltd Brute Beveller Busy At Work Comsure Insurance Brokers Con-Serv Corporation Australia Pty Ltd Construct Law Group Construction Skills Queensland Cornwalls Davey Water Products Pty Ltd Dial Before You Dig (Qld) Ltd Doyles Construction Lawyers EJ Elgas Ltd Enware Australia Pty Ltd Everhard Industries Pty Ltd Finlease Flowpex Piping Systems Fyreguard - Passive Fire Protection Global Roto-Moulding Pty Ltd Grundfos Pumps Pty Ltd

03 9462 2666 07 3369 1111 0447 438 693 07 3260 2555 03 9274 0000 07 3018 3440 1300 139 467 02 9710 3831 1800 758 624 1300 934 934 07 3203 2105 07 3271 1944 07 3360 7950 07 3131 5999 131 292 1300 047 539 07 3868 7888 07 3212 6811 07 3412 9200 02 9796 3100 1300 009 876 07 3267 1384 13 28 79 07 3208 8339 02 9554 1020 07 3137 6600 1300 233 723 1800 985 299 07 5474 4055 07 3128 0120 07 3441 2699 1300 390 390 1800 426 272 0477 223 110 07 3215 6619 07 3277 6696 07 3805 3800 07 5520 6701 07 3726 2000 07 5635 0400 07 3243 7222 02 8865 3500 1300 780 430 1300 882 578 07 5407 0151 03 9464 2374 08 8374 3426 07 3326 5900 07 3326 6200 13 28 79 07 3434 7800 07 3630 5744 07 3139 1874 1800 798 488 07 3223 5900 07 3370 3700 07 3360 7950 1800 888 783 07 3216 5000 07 3396 2769 02 8556 4000 13 19 26 07 3324 2655 02 9986 0605 07 3865 4422 07 4697 7099 07 5540 6700

Handford Virtual Services Hays Recruitment Hydroflow Distributors Insinkerator K & R Plumbing Supplies Kennards Test and Measure Qld Kingspan Water & Energy Pty Limited Lifestyle Tradie Group Pty Ltd Logical Metering Mascot Engineering Group Master Hire Modus Operandi Openpay Pty Ltd Optimum Recoveries Pty Ltd Plastec Australia Pty Ltd Plumbcall Franchise Systems Pty Ltd Plumbing Plus Queensland Plus Passive Fire Porters PROTRADE United Quantum Energy Technologies Pty Ltd Queensland Brassware Association Queensland Gas Association QUT Facilities Management Rain Harvesting Rainware Outdoor Showers Rehau Pty Ltd Ridge Tool (Aust) Pty Ltd Samios Saniflo Select Water Tanks Pty Ltd Shower Sealed Pty Ltd SkillsTech Australia Snap Fire Systems Pty Ltd SolarEast Australasia Pty Ltd Specialised Plumbing Centre Stiebel Eltron (Aust) Pty Ltd Stoddart Stormtech Pty Ltd Stratco (Qld) Pty Ltd Stringline Consulting Pty Ltd Studor Australia Pty Ltd Supakwik Water Heaters Pty Ltd Taylex Industries Pty Ltd The Bidet Shop The Couta Group The Service Trades College Australia The Wondercap Company Pty Ltd Total Eden Totally Workwear TradeTools Tradie Bookkeeping Solutions Tradify Valves R Us Viega Pty Ltd Vinidex Pty Ltd Vivax-Metrotech AUS Zetco Valves Pty Ltd

Associate Councils

Brisbane City Council Bundaberg Regional Council Gympie Regional Council Isaac Regional Council Livingstone Shire Council Logan City Council Mackay Regional Council Mareeba Shire Council Moreton Bay Regional Council Mount Isa City Council Quilpie Shire Council Rockhampton Regional Council Sunshine Coast Regional Council Townsville City Council

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MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 |

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1300 255 252

1300 255 252

Est. 1992

WACOL BRENDALE NAMBOUR TOWNSVILLE CAIRNS WACOL BRENDALE NAMBOUR TOWNSVILLE CAIRNS Est. 1992

E