MPA Autumn Mag 2026

Plumbing SA AUTUMN 2026

Working at Heights Change

New Penalties for Builders & Tradies

Housing Supply Cannot Override Compliance

www.mpasa.com.au

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INSIDE THIS EDITION...

FOREWORDS CEO Editorial

6

MEMBERSHIP Member Benefits

4

Our Industry Partners

25

Become a Host Employer

27

SA & NT Industry Members

30

Editorial

page 6

D’Ettorre Plumbing Member Profile

page 20

Working From Heights

page 13

INDUSTRY Legal - Importance of Contracts

8

Business Contract Pack

9

Scam Awareness

10

CBS - Breaches

12

WHS - Working From Heights

13

Hot Products - Testo

16

OTR

23

EVENTS & SOCIAL Gas...Did You Know?

7

Apprentice Completions

15

Events Calendar

19

Member of the Month - D’Ettorre Plumbing Pty Ltd

20

Apprentice of the Month

22

2026 Member Expo

28 PRESIDENT: Matt Sando DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Mike McEntee INDEPENDENT CHAIR: Daria McLachlan TREASURER: Tim Haslam

COUNCILLORS: Matt Kirkbride, Damien White, David Hurst, Steve Slack

PUBLISHED BY: Master Plumbers Association of South Australia Inc 213 Greenhill Rd Eastwood SA 5063 | PO Box 145 Fullarton SA 5063 Ph: (08) 8172 8800 Email: admin@mpasa.com.au | Website: www.mpasa.com.au PRE PRESS AND PRINTING: Keystone Printing

Ph: (08) 8231 9999 | Email: info@keystoneprinting.com.au

MASTER PLUMBERS SA STAFF Andrew Clarke | Executive Officer m: 0438 282 448

Nikki Spicer Senior Finance Officer

e: andrew.clarke@mpasa.com.au

e: nikki.spicer@mpasa.com.au

Jodie Bischoff

Scott Kuchimunchi | Field officer

People, Careers & Wellness Manager e: jodie.bischoff@mpasa.com.au

m: 0457 218 273

e: scott.kuchimunchi@mpasa.com.au

Ayden Orchard | Field Officer

Brittany O’Neill

m: 0487 407 186

Group Training Organisation Co-ordinator

e: ayden.orchard@mpasa.com.au

e: brittany.oneill@mpasa.com.au

Rachel Clark

Tina Reis | Business & Compliance Officer

Payroll & Administration Officer e: rachel.clark@mpasa.com.au

m: 0472 744 473

e: tina.reis@mpasa.com.au

Opinions expressed in Plumbing SA are not necessarily those of the MPA SA, nor does the MPA SA guarantee the accuracy of the statements made by contributors or advertisers or accept responsibility for statements they may express in this publication, nor does the MPA SA accept liability to advertisers for the publication of advertising which may be held contrary to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. MPA SA reserves the right to refuse, cancel, amend or suspend any advertisement or insert without reason. All advertising pricing is correct at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice. Errors and omissions excepted.

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Member Benefits

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5

CEO C E OEDITORIAL EDITORIAL

By Andrew Clarke Executive Officer

BY ANDREW CLARKE MPA SAOFFICER push for licensed plumbers EXECUTIVE to install all stormwater systems

MPA SA has formally submitted a comprehensive proposal to Consumer and Business Services (CBS) as part of the Building and Construction Industry Review, advocating for a regulatory change that mandates MASTER PLUMBERS SA RAISING STANDARD IN 2026 stormwater installations be carried out- exclusively

by THE licensed plumbers.

2026 will not be a year of passive observation for the plumbing industry in South Australia.

It will be a year of leadership, For decades, this issue has remained unresolved, but we now have a critical opportunity to drive accountability and elevated standards.

Master Plumbers SA is entering the year with a clear mandate: protect the integrity meaningful reform. Consumers building new homes are frequently misled by poor advice, often opting for of the trade, strengthen compliance, and ensure the plumbing profession remains central to South Australia’s workforce unlicensed individuals—such as handymen, irrigation installers or builder’s labourers —to install and housing strategy. stormwater systems in an effort to reduce costs. This practice, based on the misconception that lower prices equate to better value, has led to substandard installations that result in significant structural World Plumbing Day - More Than a Celebration damage, costly repairs, and long-term financial burdens.

On 11 March, we will commence the year with our Member Expo aligned to World The broaderDay, building and construction industry must address these shortcomings.

Poorly executed Plumbing an initiative of the World Plumbing Council.

World Plumbing Day stormwater installations structural failures, escalating maintenance costs, exists for one reason, contribute to remind to governments and communities that plumbing is and preventable fundamental public health, environmental and water security. damage.

I haveto also included in my submission protection damning evidence that proves higher rainfalls in the state leads to higher complaints to SA Water in respect to sewer blockages and drainage issues. It is imperative Safe drinkingchange water, be effective sanitation sustainable waterare management are highest professional that legislative enacted to ensureand stormwater systems installed to the not optional extras in a modern economy.

They are essential infrastructure.

South standards, safeguarding consumers and the integrity of our built environment.

Australia must continue to recognise plumbing as a frontline public health profession, not simply a construction trade.

The question of ‘’What would be the costs and benefits for consumers, plumbers and other tradespeople the construction industry if the current exemption for stormwater piping work was MandatoryinStandards Demand Mandatory Engagement removed?

2026 will see the largest regional and metropolitan Roadshow program ever undertaken by Master Plumbers SA.

This is not simply an events calendar. It is a deliberate strategy to lift industry capability.

Currently, work on stormwater drainage pipes not exceeding 90mm in diameter is exempt the Act aS Regulatory evolving 2010. compliance wateronefficiency and emerging technologies are reshaping outlined in thechange, PGE Regulation There requirements, are no restrictions who canreforms install, maintain or repair the operating environment for contractors.

Licence holders have a professional and legal responsibility to remain current. stormwater pipes less than 90mm in diameter.

Continuous professional development is not a burden, it is the foundation of consumer protection.

Snippets of the response in the submission read: Industry participants who fail to engage with up skilling opportunities risk falling behind both technically and commercially.

The removal of the exemption under the South Australian PGE Act, which currently allows anyone to install Master Plumbers SA will continue advocating for stronger compliance frameworks and consistent enforcement to protect stormwater pipes below 90mm, could have both costs and benefits for consumers. those who invest in doing the right thing.

Below is a number of the potential impacts with this removal of the exemption:

Benefits of Removing the Exemption

Technical Colleges - A Pipeline That Must Deliver Quality

The State Government’s $208 million investment in five new Improved Quality of Installations: technical colleges represents shift toward trade-focused By requiring qualified professionals to install all stormwater pipes, the overall quality aofsignificant workmanship secondary education.

These institutions must now deliver on their would likely improve. Poorly installed stormwater systems can lead to significant issues, such as promise. blockages, poor drainage, water pooling, and even property damage, as well as the impact on the SA Water infrastructure particularly during heavy rainfall. Addressing these issues upfront could save Exposure to building and construction pathways is a positive consumers from costly repairs in the future. development. However, volume must never come at the expense of Increased Compliance with Standards: quality. The plumbing industry requires work-ready graduates who Qualified professionals are more likely to follow industryunderstand standards safety, and regulations, ensuring that compliance, and professional responsibility. stormwater systems function efficiently. This would improve public safety, prevent environmental degradation (e.g., erosion or flooding), and enhance the lifespan of the system. in the TAFE SA campus in Mount Gambier The parallel investment strengthens regional training capacity and demonstrates what Reduced Long-Term Costs: modern, would industry-aligned should look like.

While the upfront cost may increase, better-quality installations reduce thefacilities likelihood of future repairs, maintenance, or complete system replacements. This would represent a long-term saving for Master Plumbers SA will closely monitor training standards across all consumers. delivery models. The integrity of our apprenticeship and licensing framework cannot be diluted.

6

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

Housing Supply Cannot Override Compliance

South Australia remains under pressure to increase housing supply. While accelerated delivery is a political and economic priority, compliance cannot be compromised.

Every new home must meet contemporary building & plumbing standards. Inspection regimes must be strengthened, not relaxed during periods of high construction activity.

The long-term cost of poor workmanship far outweighs the short-term gain of rushed delivery.

We will advocate strongly for: • Increased inspection activity • Stronger enforcement mechanisms • Consistency in training quality • Clear accountability across the building chain Consumers deserve confidence that essential services within their homes are safe, compliant and built to last.

Election 2026: Working With Government - Holding the Line on Standards

As South Australia approaches the 2026 State Election, Master Plumbers SA remains non-partisan. We will work constructively with whichever government is elected. However, collaboration does not mean silence.

We will be launching a series of targeted campaigns throughout 2026 focused on: • Protecting licensing integrity • Elevating continuous professional development • Addressing skills shortages through structured pathways • Ensuring plumbing is embedded in the State’s long-term workforce planning Plumbing must be recognised as critical infrastructure, not an afterthought within broader construction policy.

A Stronger, More Vocal Industry Body

In 2026, Master Plumbers SA will be more visible, more direct and more engaged in public policy discussions.

Our members invest in training, compliance, safety and innovation. They deserve a regulatory environment that supports professionalism and penalises substandard practice.

The plumbing industry has built its reputation on protecting public health and delivering essential services. That reputation will only remain strong if standards are defended without compromise.

We call on all members and industry stakeholders to unite behind a simple principle: Quality, compliance and professionalism must remain non-negotiable.

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• Natural gas remained localized until the invention of leak proof pipeline coupling in 1890, long distance gas transmission increased after 1920 due to advances in pipeline technology.

• The West-East Gas pipeline in China is the worlds longest exceeding 8,700 kilometres.

• Natural Gas was thought of as a nuisance by-product of oil for many years and often burnt off by flaring. www.mpasa.com.au

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7

LEGAL THE IMPORTANCE OF CONTRACTS It is not uncommon for plumbers to do work without having a clear written contract. This often leads to disputes about payment. Disputes can be costly and they are a distraction from your day to day business.

To avoid disputes about payment, you need a written contract which sets out”

•

your hourly / daily rate or your fixed price to do the job

•

the price you will charge for materials (or you could just include this in your fixed price)

•

the scope of works your price relates to.

• • • •

a verbal contract did exist

•

although the plumber’s records of the work undertaken were not completely accurate, the Court accepted that, apart from a small amount, the work done was reasonable in the circumstances

•

there was no clear agreement between the plumber and the owner about the cost of materials so the owner only had to pay the actual costs incurred by the plumber for materials

•

the plumber had an implied obligation to provide a certificate of compliance and because the plumber did not do that the plumber had to reimburse the owner for the cost of getting another plumber to provide the certificate.

what happens when the scope changes your right to fix defects; and how disputes about the works or payment will be handled.

Whether the plumber was liable to compensate the owner.

The Court decided that:

It should also deal with:

• • •

Whether the owner had suffered loss.

the hourly / daily rate was the rate the plumber proved it had regularly charged previous owners

It took almost three years for the final result to be known.

The plumber will have spent a lot of time in Court (there were two hearings) and although legal costs were not involved because the amount was less than $12,000 and so each party represented themselves, the cost to the plumber’s business is likely to have been significant.

Key takeaways

Get the owner to sign the contract before you do any work and then at least you will know what the expectations and scope of the job are.

•

If you are doing a job on a verbal quote, any dispute about money or scope is likely to cost you.

•

Provide a clear written quote with terms and conditions (see above for what to include) and get the owner to sign it before doing the work.

•

Make sure all changes to the scope are dealt with in writing including what the change is and how much extra you will charge for it.

A costly example of what can happen when there is no written contract can be seen in the 2025 District Court decision in Symes v Wilkinson [2025] SADC 99.

Remember the Building Work Contractors Act 1995 requires that domestic jobs over $12,000 must have a written contract that sets out the full terms.

In this case the Court had to decide whether a verbal contract existed between the owner of a coaster van and a plumber who did plumbing and gas fitting works as part of a conversion of the van into a mobile home.

Call us if you want to talk about contracts. We won’t charge you for the first half hour of our time.

The Court also had to decide what the terms of the agreement were.

In this case, the owner hired another plumber to provide a certificate of compliance for the works.

The key issues were:

Michael Hutton Partner Lynch Meyer Lawyers mhutton@lynchmeyer.com.au D: 8236 7612

•

Whether a verbal contract was formed about price and scope.

• •

The terms of that verbal contract.

Whether the hours recorded and charged on the invoice were excessive.

• •

Lynch Meyer Lawyers

Whether there was an excessive charge for materials.

jhopgood@lynchmeyer.com.au

8

Whether there were defects in the plumber’s work.

Jaed Hopgood Senior Associate

D: 8236 7644 MASTER PLUMBERS SA

PLUMBING BUSINESS

CONTRACT PACK

The tax-deductible Master Plumbers SA Business Contract Pack helps you safeguard your business against risk.

Cost: $200 $1,500 TOTAL VALUE

Update Terms & Conditions

Industry Relevant

Terms & Conditions in digital & hard copy to protect your business, plus a checklist and a quote template.

Carefully designed with a construction lawyer, it aligns with small/medium scale and commercial/residential work

Dispute Resolution

Ongoing Value

Conflicts can happen.

Know where you stand and what your responsibilites are

If legislation is updated, you can request a renewed pack at no further cost for up to 2 years after initial purchase.

Only for MPA SA/NT Members www.mpasa.com.au 9 Contact - Andrew Clarke Ph.0438 282 448 andrew.clarke@mpasa.com.au

SCAM AWARENESS WITH THE ADVANCEMENT OF TECHNOLOGY COMES WITH IT AN INCREASE IN OPPORTUNISTIC SCAMMERS, STRIVING TO EXPLOIT THE VULNERABLE, UNINFORMED, AS WELL AS JUST THE EVERYDAY TECH USER. Scammers ensure they are up to date with all the latest technology to trick users into fraudulent schemes, with an ever-increasing list of scams doing the rounds we have summarised that most common: 1. AI Scams – With the explosion of AI in recent years comes with it, criminals using AI to take advantage. Using AI to impersonate individuals by way of voice recordings, deepfake images and text messages. These are sent through to loved ones using emotional manipulation or employees with urgency to trick them into transferring money.

2. Investment Scams – Heralding the biggest losses to fraud in Australia, criminals use investment scams by creating fake companies, websites and inflated financial data to gain the users trust into investing large amounts by promising big payouts. They may make small deposits to users to lure them into investing more money.

3. Phishing Scams (Email and SMS) – These types of scams have been doing the rounds for many years, usually in the form of clicking a link in an email or text message or scanning a QR code. Again, the use of AI has made these types of scams harder to detect with realistic graphics and wording. The Logo may look the same and sent from a similar email address, these scams may be used to obtain confidential information or for financial gain. Phone scams are another stream whereby they may profess to be from the bank or credit card company in order to extract your bank, credit card or online banking details.

4. Romance Scams – Criminals spend days, weeks and months building trust with their victims, professing love in order to extract money. They often make excuses not to meet in person or over video call, they may send through fake photos and even using voice altering tech over the phone. Criminals may request explicit photos or videos in order to blackmail individuals.

5. Online shopping Scams – Criminals may use stolen credit cards to pose as buyers, making the initial payment then either requesting a refund or asking the seller to send the goods before payment clears. Fake websites with the lure of cheap goods are used to scam buyers into purchasing without the delivery of goods or ability to obtain refunds.

SCAM STATS Top 3 Contact Methods Email 42.29% Online 21.54% Phone Call 18.93% Top 3 Scam losses Investment$172m Phishing $31m Romance $28m 10

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

How to protect yourself: •

Do not respond to an sms using the phone number the message was received.

•

Look up the organisation and call them directly to check.

•

If it is someone saying they have a new number, try contacting them on their existing number first.

•

Hang up on a caller if you are unsure who they are or if they are threatening

•

Be wary of unknown phone numbers.

•

Use unique passwords and 2 factor authentication on accounts and log ins.

•

If an offer seems too good to be true it usually is, contact the organisation directly to verify.

•

Do not link on unverified links, always check the phone number and email address it has come from.

•

Be wary of any emails received from @hotmail, @gmail, @yahoo

•

Any correspondence from banks, ATO and any other financial or government body should be checked by contacting them directly and not through the message received.

If you think you have been scammed: •

Prevent further losses by cancelling bank and credit cards

•

Change passwords on accounts and log ins

•

Report the scam to Scamwatch.gov.au

•

Contact IDCare 1800 595 160 to help make a plan (free) to limit damage.

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CBS New penalties for builders and tradespeople

New laws have commenced to strengthen consumer protections and promote responsible business behaviour in South Australia’s building and construction industry.

Since 15 January 2026, there are new offences, significantly higher penalties, and expanded enforcement options for Consumer and Business Services (CBS) to take action against builders and tradespeople who break the rules.

These changes are the first major step in industry reform. They follow a comprehensive review of SA’s building and construction industry, with input from industry, government, and consumers.

New offences New offences exist for: • unlicensed work • hiring unlicensed subcontractors to undertake licensed work • using another contractor’s licence number • falsely claiming to be licensed or registered.

Industry members are urged to check their subcontractor’s licence, by using CBS’ Licensing public register.

Increased penalties Maximum penalties have been increased to discourage builders and tradespeople from doing the wrong thing. Repeat offenders can now face fines of up to $150,000 for individuals and $550,000 for companies.

There are also increased penalties for builders and tradespeople who give false or misleading information, break a contract or breach advertising laws.

For example, a licensed plumber doing business under a name that’s not their registered contractor name, can now face a maximum penalty of $250,000. Previously, the maximum penalty for this offence was $2,500.

Changes to Compliance and Enforcement Plumbers should be aware that the number of offences now fineable by CBS has also increased with expiations of $5,000 for key breaches.

For example, a plumbing contractor could now be fined $5,000 if any plumbing work done by their business is performed by someone without proper registration.

More changes to come The building and construction industry review canvassed other aspects such as improving dispute resolution and contract requirements.

Updates will be provided for industry as further reforms progress.

More information For more information about building industry reforms, including a table of penalties, visit www.cbs.sa.gov.au/BCIchanges.

12

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

WHS Changes have been made to the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012 (SA) by the South Australian government which reduces the height limit of high risk construction work from 3 metres to 2 metres.

This will mean that construction work that occurs at 2 metres or more will now be considered high-risk construction. The change will bring SA in alignment with the national WHS regulations as well as other states and territories. This change in regulation was made in consultation with key unions and industry associations.

With the building and construction industry being one of the most high risk industries in Australia, In SA between 2020-2022 there were 149 incidents of a person falling from a height of over 2 metres.

There will be a transition period with the regulation coming into effect from 1st July 2026. From that point in time SA construction businesses will need to prepare and follow a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for any work involving a risk of a person falling 2 metres or greater. This is a legally required document that must be that must be available on site outlining work to be undertaken, identify potential hazards and steps to control and manage the risks.

This legislation change is in a bid to reduce the incidents of injury and death in the construction industry.

For more information head to www.safework.sa.gov.au

SAPIPERELINING

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13

Local service and support Our dedicated and experienced state-based teams can help get your super sorted so you can get on with running your business.

Contact Martha for your business super needs Martha Coro – Manager, Employer 0429 166 785

martha.coro@cbussuper.com.au

cbussuper.com.au

This information is about Cbus Super. It doesn’t account for your specific needs. Please consider your financial position, objectives and requirements before making any financial decisions. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination to decide if Cbus Super is right for you. Call 1300 361 784 or visit cbussuper.com.au United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 as Trustee for the Construction and Building Unions Superannuation Fund ABN 75 493 363 262 (Cbus and/or Cbus Super).

14

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

APPRENTICE COMPLETIONS Congratulations! To all of the apprentices that have completed their apprenticeship last quarter

Caleb Munn

Cooper Forward

Dominic Pirrotta

Hamish Maxwell

Harley Fisher

Imran Pettit

Jaiden Howard

Paul Parsons

Zane Geue

www.mpasa.com.au

15

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UNLOCK YOUR ASSOCIATION FLEET DISCOUNT Industry Association Members get access to exclusive member benefits The Association Fleet Discount unlocks discounts normally reserved for large businesses. It’s part of our commitment to helping local businesses save time and money by providing reliable, safe, and comfortable vehicles. Available at all Toyota Dealerships, exclusive to select industry association members.

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2026 Events MARCH

11 Member Expo & World Plumbing Day

17 Port Lincoln Roadshow 18 Whyalla Roadshow 19 Port Augusta Roadshow 20 AFL Crows Member Round 25 Lonsdale Roadshow

APRIL

29 Mt Gambier Roadshow

MAY

8 AFL Port Adelaide Member Round 12 Pt Adelaide Roadshow 20 Murray Bridge Roadshow 27 Tonsley Roadshow

JUNE

3 Modbury Roadshow 10 Gawler Roadshow 17 Renmark Roadshow

JULY

22 Mount Barker Roadshow 28 Marion Bay Roadshow 29 Wallaroo Roadshow

www.mpasa.com.au

AUGUST

5 Norwood Roadshow

OCTOBER

16 Presidents Lunch

For further details contact us at admin@mpasa.com.au or 08 8172 8800

19

MEMBER OF THE MONTH D’Ettorre Plumbing Pty Ltd 30+ Year Member

D’Ettorre Plumbing Pty Ltd began in 1973 when Gino Alfredo D’Ettorre completed his apprenticeship with N D Birchmore Plumbing he made the decision to work for himself at just 22 years old.

With determination, long hours and a strong work ethic, he built the business from the ground up. Nearly five decades later, Gino still takes pride in the company he created and continues to work hard, standing by the same values he started with.

Growing up, his son Fabian Gino D’Ettorre watched closely.

He remembers the late nights and weekends, seeing firsthand the commitment it took to run a business and the importance of doing every job right the first time. That lesson became the foundation of everything.

Fabian officially began working alongside his father at just 15 years old in 1998, learning the trade from the ground up, just as his dad had. Today, he is continuing the family legacy while upholding the same standards of hard work, pride in workmanship and reputation that the business was built on.

For over 50 years, D’Ettorre Plumbing has remained a family business in every sense built on trust, consistency.

1. What inspired you to join the plumbing industry, and how did you get started?

For us, plumbing has always been about family. I grew up around it watching my father work, seeing the pride he took in every job, and understanding that our name was attached to everything we did. It wasn’t just about earning a living. It was about building something steady, honest and long lasting. I started the way most of us did on the tools, and I still am to this day learning from the ground up, with early mornings and long days. Dad always said, “Do it properly the first time, because you’ll only have to come back and fix it if you don’t.” That really stuck with me.

2. How has the plumbing industry evolved since you started?

The industry has changed a lot, more technology, a lot more paperwork and the introduction of Rehau and press fittings.

But the thing that hasn’t changed is hard work. Good workmanship still matters. Turning up when you say you will, doing the job right the first time still matters.

3. What do you see as the biggest challenges facing today’s plumbers and the industry as a whole?

There’s definitely more pressure on the industry today. One of the biggest challenges is finding experienced tradespeople and young people coming through who really want to learn the trade properly and take pride in their workmanship. It’s not always an easy job. It takes patience, effort and pride. But if you stick with it and do it properly, it’s still a career you can build a life around.

4. What innovations or technologies do you believe have had the most impact on the plumbing trade over the years?

Technology has definitely made the job more efficient over the years. Machine control and surveying equipment has become more accurate and easier to use, and tools like CCTV drain cameras have completely changed the way we diagnose and solve problems. Improved systems and modern equipment have made the work faster and more precise.

But at the end of the day, tools don’t replace experience. The person holding them still makes the difference.

5. What advice would you give to young apprentices or new business owners?

Slow down and learn it properly. Respect the trade, listen to the older plumbers around you, and take pride in neat, clean work. Your reputation will carry you further than anything else. For new business owners, don’t forget that relationships matter just as much as skill. Look after your customers and your staff, and the work will follow.

6. How has your membership with the association supported your professional journey?

Being part of the association has helped us stay connected and informed over 20

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

the years. They’re only ever a phone call away, and no matter how small the question, they’re always willing to help. That support extends beyond the tools as well even our admin staff know they can reach out for guidance with the day-to-day running of the business. Having that backup and reassurance has made a real difference.

7. What do you think the future of the plumbing industry looks like?

Plumbing will always be essential. The systems may change and technology will keep improving, but there will always be a need for skilled tradespeople who care about what they do.

8. What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned in your career?

Your reputation is everything. It takes years to build trust and seconds to lose it. We’ve learned to treat people fairly, stand by our work, and never walk away from a job we wouldn’t be proud to put our name on.

9. What are some of the biggest projects or challenges you’ve tackled in your career?

Over 50+ years, we’ve worked on everything from large commercial jobs to apartments, nursing homes and warehouses.

But the biggest achievement hasn’t been one single project it’s been keeping the business strong and still being here after all these years.

10. What legacy do you hope to leave in the plumbing industry?

We hope to leave behind a name that stands for honesty, quality workmanship and family values. Work that we can drive past years later and still feel proud of. Apprentices who carry those same standards forward. If people remember D’Ettorre Plumbing as reliable, fair, and known for doing the job right the first time that’s enough for us.

11. What message would you like to share with the next generation?

Be proud of what you do. Respect the trade and respect the people who taught you. Learn from those before you, honour the standards, and build something you can truly be proud of. Remember hard work and your reputation will follow you for life.

APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH Harrison Barnes What do you enjoy most about plumbing?

The problem solving and how there are so many different areas of plumbing.

What advice would you give someone thinking of becoming a plumber?

Dec 2025

Caleb Munn

Do the type of work you love and enjoy every moment.

What inspired you to become a plumber?

I always wanted to get into a trade, I just didn’t know what one. After experimenting different trades and advice from others, plumbing was the one that stuck!

What are the biggest challenges you have faced so far?

Jan 2026

Jess Watson

My biggest challenge by far was self confidence, in this trade you gotta believe in your work!

What do you enjoy most about plumbing?

I enjoy the problem-solving side of plumbing. Every job’s a bit different, and figuring out the best way to fix something or make it work properly keeps it interesting.

How to you see your plumbing career progressing?

Feb 2026

22

Over the next few years I want to really sharpen my skills across all areas of plumbing and become someone the team can rely on for quality work.

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

OTR ARE YOU WORKING WITHIN THE SCOPE OF YOUR GAS LICENCE REGISTRATION? It is your responsibility to ensure that you and any worker acting on your behalf are appropriately licensed.

The Office of Consumer & Business Affairs (CBS) is the licensing authority for gas fitters in South Australia.

If you are performing work within the gas industry, you must obtain a Workers Licence issued by CBS under the Plumbers, Gas Fitters and Electricians Act 1995.

The scope of work that you can perform will be listed on the rear of your licence and is based on the qualifications you have presented to CBS on your application.

Contractors Licences are required for individuals, including partners in a business, and companies if they run a business that carries out or organises plumbing, gas and electrical work. To submit an eCoC, there must be certification by both the Worker and the Contractor with the appropriate endorsement on their licences (these may be the same person, for example in the case of a sole trader).

If you have attended and successfully passed recognised certificate courses applicable to your trade, you must provide these certificates to CBS so that they can be applied to your licence. If you do not provide these certificates to CBS, your qualifications will not be included on your licence, preventing you from legally performing work that you have trained for and invested valuable time and money to achieve.

In short, obtaining a qualification does not allow you to actively carry out that work unless, and until, you are appropriately licensed to do so. You may be liable for a penalty if you are found to be carrying out gas work in an unlicensed state.

As part of our audit process, OTR checks the status of persons carrying out gas work to verify that each person is appropriately licensed. In recent months, we have identified a considerable number of gas fitters working outside the scope of their licence or carrying out gas fitting work without holding a current gas fitting licence at all. In such situations, we will refer the matter to CBS for investigation.

If you are unsure what the scope of your licence is, take a few minutes to read the back of your licence for the specific endorsements or limitations. If there are any concerns, or you are unsure what your endorsements include, it is in your best interest to contact CBS on 13 18 82 and ask them to explain the limits of the endorsements listed. To check licence status of workers and contractors you can visit the CBS licensing website here www.cbs.sa.gov.au. *Example of a Combined Workers and Contractors Licence*

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MASTER PLUMBERS SA

OUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS Sponsorship of Master Plumbers makes It possible for us to add significant value to the service we provide to our members. We wish to express our sincere appreciation to our Partners for their generous support.

Please support them by purchasing their goods or services

For further details on our industry partnership deals or products, Contact Master Plumbers SA on 8172 8800 or admin@mpasa.com.au www.mpasa.com.au

www.mpasa.com.au

25

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RTO Code: 45744 MASTER PLUMBERS SA

BECOME A HOST Hosting an apprentice with Master Plumbers SA lets you get on with the job, while we take care of the rest

OUR SERVICES Recruitment Wages, leave entitlements Trade School Costs Government Clearances WHS Compliance, PPE and Return to Work Superannuation & portable long service leave

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08 8172 8800 www.mpasa.com.au

27

2026 MEMBER EXPO Thank you to all that attended our 2026 Member Expo, it was a beautiful afternoon at the Victoria Park Social Club.

With representatives from Safework SA, Consumer & Business Services, the Small Business Commissioner Hon. Dan van Holst Pellekaan, Ventia and the Office of Technical Regulator.

We had a great turn out and a wide range of exhibitors from the industry with the latest products and services.

We thank all the sponsors involved in our 2026 Member Expo held on World Plumbing Day.

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MASTER PLUMBERS SA

2026 PLUMBING AND GAS ROADSHOWS MARCH

JUNE

17th Tues - Port Lincoln

3 rd Wed - Modbury

Ravendale Community Sport Centre, 40 Stamford Tce, Pt Lincoln

Modbury Bowling Club, 50-97 Jack High Lane, Ridgehaven

18th Wed - Whyalla

10th Wed - Gawler

Whyalla Hockey Association, Crn Nicolson and Searle St, Whyalla Norrie

19th Thurs - Port Augusta

Gawler Greyhound Club, Nixon Tce, Gawler

17th Wed - Renmark

Central Football Club, 3 Hannagan St, Pt Augusta

Hotel Renmark, 81 Murray Ave, Renmark

25th Wed - L onsdale

JULY

South Adelaide Football Club, 1 Lovelock Dr, Noarlunga Downs

APRIL 29th Wed - Mt Gambier Mantra Mt Gambier, 96 Jubilee Highway East, Mt Gambier

MAY

12th Tues - Port Adelaide

British Hotel, 13 North Parade, Port Adelaide th

20 Wed - Murray Bridge Murray Bridge RSL Club, 2 RSL Lane, Murray Bridge East

27th Wed - Tonsley Tafe Tonsley, 1284 South Rd, Tonsley

Tickets - $15 To register scan the QR code

22nd Wed - Mt Barker Mt Barker Summit Sports & Rec Centre, 304 Summit Rd, Mt Barker

28th Tues - Marion Bay (dinner only) Marion Bay Tavern and Motel, 5 Stenhouse Bay Rd, Marion Bay

29th Wed - Wallaroo Moonta Football Club, Milne Tce, Moonta

AUGUST 5th Wed -

Norwood

Kensington Gardens Bowling Club, 432 The Parade, Kensington Gardens

Product Expo followed by Office of Technical Regulator 4.30pm - 8.30pm • Workmanship • AS/NZS 3500 series update • Bedding of drains • Standards access • How to present an installation for • No Way in SA inspection • AS/NZS 2845.4 • Inspectors wearing body worn cameras • NCC 2025

Proudly brought to you by

SHORT COURSE TRAINING Each financial year, eligible persons with an approved CITB num ber can obtain up to $3,000 of training subsidies off any CITB endorsed short course with a CI TB endorsed training provider.

accounts@mpasa.com.au www.mpasa.com.au

08 8172 8800

www.mpasa.com.au

29

SA & NT INDUSTRY MEMBERS Abey Australia

03 9747 7777

PEER Education Employment & Training Ltd 08 8348 1200

Aptella Pty Ltd

08 8115 2525

Perks

08 8273 9300

Arthur J Gallagher

08 8172 8000

Pete's Treat Waste Water Solutions

08 8556 4111

Austworld

1300 780 430

Plasson Australia Pty Ltd

1300 752 776

Australian Gas Networks

0447 930 657

Plastec Australia Pty Ltd

07 5413 4444

BioCycle - Jowa Group Pty Ltd

08 8381 9100

Plumbing Plus

03 9600 1899

Billi

1800 812 321

Podium

0425 861 546

Business Benchmark Group

03 9001 0878

Rain Harvesting Pty Ltd

07 3248 9600

Caroma Industries Limited

08 8405 0311

Reece - Adelaide

08 8231 4444

Chromagen Australia Pty Ltd

08 8346 8331

REHAU Pty Ltd

1300 768 033

CMG Adelaide

08 8223 7666

Reliance Worldwide Corporation (Aust) Pty Ltd

0408 834 572

Crystal Clear Purification Systems

08 8340 4344

Rheem Australia Pty Ltd

08 8343 0062

Davey Water Products

1300 232 839

Rhino Industrial Pty Ltd

08 8947 3400

Dill-Tech

0407 425 315

Ridge Tool (Aust) Pty Ltd

1800 743 443

Elson Australasia

1300 169 026

Ri-Industries Pty Ltd

08 8444 8100

Emmetts

03 5362 3010

Rinnai Australia Pty Ltd

1300 555 545

Energy Hothouse

0422 122 777

Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd

Enware Australia Pty Ltd

08 8352 3577

Scotts Plumbing Supplies

08 8261 6666

Forge Plumbing Australia

1300 120 100

SFA Australia Pty Ltd

02 8422 7706

Fusiontech Australia

08 8186 0269

Shore Hire

08 7077 0833

Jetwave Group

08 8371 3599

SimPRO Group

1300 139 467

Geberit

02 9889 7866

South Australian Plumbing Supplies

08 8682 4493

Gould Instruments

07 4779 6760

Storm Plastics Pty Ltd

08 8374 3277

Gra-Mall Hot Water Systems

08 8251 2979

Studor Australia

02 9637 1042

Halgan

08 9939 8030

TAFE SA - Elizabeth

08 8207 9700

Harsmith Building Products

0408 825 618

TAFE SA - Tonsley

08 8207 2854

Harvey Norman Commercial

08 8150 8000

The Gas Shop

08 8271 1333

HazardCo

1800 954 702

The South Australian Water Corporation 1300 650 950

Iplex Pipelines

08 8256 2031

Total Tools Thebarton

08 8152 8100

Tradelink Head Office

1800 PLUMBING

VTM Valves

02 6365 3121

Waterpro Pty Ltd

08 8321 8400

Wireless Communications Pty Ltd

08 8274 0000

Zip Water

0406 383 973

Lightening Building Products MM Kembla

1800 804 631

Office of the Technical Regulator Department for Energy & Mining

08 8226 5500

Officeworks

0419 299 217

Paradise Mazda

08 8337 3377

30

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

S U P E R I O R

P R E S S F I T

S Y S T E M

Scan to view the Metpress Range

www.mpasa.com.au

31

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