Plumbing SA - Summer 25/26

Plumbing SA SUMMER 2025/26

Networking

2025 President’s Lunch

www.mpasa.com.au

Awards

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INSIDE THIS EDITION...

FOREWORDS CEO Editorial

6

MEMBERSHIP Member Benefits

4

Become a Host Employer

5

Our Industry Partners

25

SA & NT Industry Members

27

Editorial

page 6

Hall & Baum Plumbing Member Profile

page 20

2025 MPA President’s Lunch

page 10

INDUSTRY Legal - Liability Issues

8

Business Contract Pack

9

2025 President’s Lunch

10

CBS - Breaches

12

Business Guide - Charge Out Rates

19

Hot Products - Iplex

23

EVENTS & SOCIAL Plumbing...Did You Know?

7

Apprentice Completions

15

Member of the Month - Hall & Baum

20

Apprentice of the Month

22

Events Calendar

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

Brock Perkins | Group Training Team Leader

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

m: 0499 975 475

e: brock.perkins@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.

Member Benefits Access to fleet discounts

Vehicle Hire

Fuel cards across SA/NT

Legal

HR

Super

Free 30 minutes call

Discount on services

Local support

Member Pricing & Discounts

Member Events

President’s Lunch

Roadshow Series

Business Services

Member Expo

AFL Member Round

Plumbing SA Magazine

HR Advice Payroll and Award Guidance WHS Documents 8172 8800

accounts@mpasa.com.au

www.mpasa.com.au

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

REGISTER TODAY!

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08 8172 8800 www.mpasa.com.au

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 Parliament House – Canberra Visit stormwater installations be carried out exclusively by licensed plumbers.

Master Plumbers Australia and New Zealand (MPANZ), visited Parliament House, For decades, this issue has remained unresolved, but we now have a critical opportunity to drive Canberra on Thursday 6th November to meet with key Ministers, and various Advisors meaningful reform. Consumers building new homes are frequently misled by poor advice, often opting for to advocate on behalf of our members and industry. Some of the key political personnel unlicensed as handymen, irrigation installers or builder’s labourers —to install we spoke individuals—such to included: stormwater systems in an effort to reduce costs. This practice, based on the misconception that lower • Hon. Dan Tehan MP – Shadow Minister for Energy and Emissions Reductions prices equate to better value, has led to substandard installations that result in significant structural • Zac – Advisor to Hon. Alex Hawke MP – Shadow Minister for Industry and Innovation damage, costly repairs, and long-term financial burdens.

Jake – building Advisor and to Hon. Claire O’Neil MPmust – Minister Housing, Homelessness The•broader construction industry addressfor these shortcomings.

Poorly executed and Cities stormwater installations contribute to structural failures, escalating maintenance costs, and preventable • Hon. Tim Wilson MP – Shadow Minister fordamning Industrial Relations & proves Employment damage.

I have also included in my submission evidence that higherand rainfalls in the state Business leads to higher complaints to SA Water in respect to sewer blockages and drainage issues. It is imperative Ashley and Laura be – Advisors Minister Andrew Giles MP Ministerto forthe Skills & Training that•legislative change enactedto to Hon. ensure stormwater systems are–installed highest professional • Ned safeguarding – Advisor to consumers Hon. Senator Bragg – Shadow Minister for Productivity & Deregulation / Housing & standards, andAndrew the integrity of our built environment.

Homelessness The•question of ‘’What would the costs and benefits consumers, plumbers and other Hon. Scott Buccholz MP –beShadow Minister for Skillsfor & Training tradespeople in theAdvisor construction if the current exemption for stormwater piping workFinances was • Amy – Senior to Hon.industry Katy Gallagher – Minister for Women, Government Services, and Public Service removed?

• Riley – Advisor to Senator the Hon. Murray Watts – Minister for the Environment & Water

MPANZ had nine representing all States and Territories, messagesiswere laid the out Act in simple terms and covered Currently, work on Directors stormwater drainage pipes not exceeding 90mmour in diameter exempt aS specific areas of each portfolio.

Our purpose was to discuss opportunities for collaboration on national productivity, outlined in the PGE Regulation 2010. There are no restrictions on who can install, maintain or repair innovation, and workforce priorities, highlighting how the plumbing industry can help drive Australia’s industrial innovation stormwater pipes less than 90mm in diameter. agenda, strengthen small business capability and contribute to the clean energy transition. Key Discussion Points included: 1. Enabling Innovation and Productivity Snippets of theIndustry response in the submission read: • The plumbing industry is at the of Australia’s infrastructure and anyone clean energy transition, directly The removal of the exemption under the centre South Australian PGEhousing, Act, which currently allows to install contributing to national productivity and sustainable goals. stormwater pipes below 90mm, could have both costs and benefits for consumers.

• Support is sought innovation incentives andremoval digital transformation programs that help small and medium plumbing Below is a number of thefor potential impacts with this of the exemption: businesses adopt AI, compliance technology and advanced digital tools.

Benefits of Removing the Exemption

• National access to Australian Standards at no cost to licensed practitioners would drive compliance, innovation and Improved Quality of Installations: efficiency across industry.

By requiring qualified professionals to install all stormwater pipes, the overall quality of workmanship • Industry strongly supports a review of the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) and governance structures such as the would likely improve. Poorly installed stormwater systems can lead to significant issues, such as Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) to ensure greater accountability and industry representation in decision making. blockages, poor drainage, water pooling, and even property damage, as well as the impact on the SA Water infrastructure particularly during heavy rainfall. Addressing 2. Workforce Development, Skills and Employer Support these issues upfront could save • The plumbing industry faces significant consumers from costly repairs in the future. skills shortages, particularly as experienced tradespeople retire and demand rises Compliance for housing and Increased withinfrastructure Standards: delivery.

Qualified professionals are more likely to follow industry standards and regulations, ensuring that • Employers, especially small businesses, face high costs when apprentices attend training, losing both wages and stormwater systems function efficiently. This would improve public safety, prevent environmental productivity time. degradation (e.g., erosion or flooding), and enhance the lifespan of the system.

• MPANZ are calling for increased government funding to cover wages while apprentices are attending their respective Reduced Long-Term Costs: campus, that training participation does not financially Whiletraining the upfront cost ensuring may increase, better-quality installations would reduce disadvantaged the likelihood ofemployers. future repairs, maintenance, complete system replacements.

This would care, represent a long-term saving during for • Greater support or is also needed to expand mentoring, pastoral and financial incentives the first two years consumers. of apprenticeships to improve completion rates.

• Industry supports the establishment of a national Continuous Professional Development (CPD) framework and licensing consistency to enhance workforce mobility and recognise upskilling across jurisdictions.

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MASTER PLUMBERS SA

3. Lead Free and Safe Drinking Water • Ongoing progress on the national transition to lead free plumbing products, in line with health based guidelines.

• Request for the continued Government support for education, regulatory alignment and clear implementation time frames across all jurisdictions.

• Bidets, handheld bidet sprays (bidet hoses) and combination toilet bidet seats are increasingly popular in both residential and commercial installations. While beneficial for hygiene and water efficiency, these fixtures introduce a potential cross connection hazard between potable (drinking) water supplies and Wastewater systems if not properly protected.

4. Encouraging Collaboration and Fair Business Practice • Small and medium plumbing businesses face increasing cost pressures due to insurance, payment delays, and unfair contract terms.

• There is an opportunity to collaborate on industry led innovation partnerships, where fair contracting and payment practises underpin investment in training and modernisation.

In summary, the day was highly productive despite several disruptions caused by internal Federal Parliamentary processes, including in-house voting requirements. These interruptions, while unavoidable, did not detract from the quality of the discussions. All participants agreed that the engagements were constructive, and we look forward to advancing our conversations and continuing to advocate strongly for greater support and recognition across our industry.

CONTACT US Our Office Phone Number has Changed Ph. 08 8172 8800 Email. admin@mpasa.com.au

Plumbing...Did you know?

• About 23% of energy used in Australian homes

goes to hot water systems. The bathroom is where water heating is used the most, followed by laundry (washing machines) and kitchen activities.

• The plumbing industry is facing a labor shortage, due to growing population and investment in construction and renovation on the rise.

• The market size of the Plumbing Services industry in Australia is $22.2bn in 2025

• There are 28,615 businesses in the Plumbing Services industry in Australia, which has grown at a CAGR of 0.8 % between 2020 and 2025.

www.mpasa.com.au

100 YEAR MEMBERS A J PAternoster & son pty ltd

W.F. Gray & Co Pty Ltd

50 YEAR MEMBERS A S Carlson & Sons Pty Ltd

Hall & Baum

B T & R B Foreman

HINDMARSH PLUMBING SERVICES PTY LTD

DENIS HEBBARD

LC & HPR Portlock

Dineen Plumbing

N D Birchmore Pty Ltd

E J Northway & Son Pty Ltd

t g & a v booker

F S Scott & Co Pty Ltd

tischendorf plumbing pty ltd

Glenelg Plumbing Services Pty Ltd

LIFE MEMBERS D. J. HEBBARD

T. DRIVER

S. B. HALL

B.HARRIS

7

LEGAL Liability issues

Plumbers are experts. Only licensed plumbers can carry out plumbing work. Plumbers not only have to do work properly and use proper materials but, as experts, they might also be required to provide advice to their customers. Any advice given whether verbal or written must be good and proper.

Often a plumber has to design a plumbing system for a job and, in that case, the plumber owes their customer a duty of care to properly design. Sometimes a plumber installs a device (like a filter, tempering valve or a backflow prevention valve) that must be regularly maintained. An aspect of the plumber’s duty of care when installing such devices is to provide advice to the customer about maintenance and spare parts. This can be done simply and effectively by providing some form of written fact sheet which describes: • the type of maintenance that is required; • how often the maintenance is required; and • what sort of parts must be replaced and how often.

Providing this information to your customer is usually sufficient to discharge your duty of care. It is best practice to recommend that only spare parts approved by the manufacturer or supplier should be used. We all know that there are aftermarket (also known as OEM) parts available which might be cheaper but they are not necessarily approved by the manufacturer or supplier of the original device. Your fact sheet should contain a warning about using these sorts of “cheaper” parts. If the manufacturer or supplier does not say anything about approved spare parts, you should ask the question of them. At the very least, your fact sheet should direct the customer to the manufacturer or supplier for advice about the appropriate parts to use.

If you are called to a job to do maintenance on one of these devices and the customer wants you to use “cheap” parts, you should warn the customer (in writing) that cheap parts are not recommended and before you start work you should get written instructions about which parts they want you to use. If you do that, and the customer tells you to use the cheaper parts and there is a problem with them down the track, you will be able to point to your written advice and the written instructions from the customer to defend yourself against a claim. Using approved parts is best practice because, if those parts fail, you will have a defence to any claim against you on the basis that you: • used and recommended approved parts; and • you did not make those parts so you are not responsible for their failure.

On the other hand, if you use “cheap” parts and they fail, you may have some liability if you did not: • Give proper advice (usually in the form of a warning) before using them; and • Obtain written instructions from your customer to use the cheaper parts despite your advice.

The above is general advice only. If you need advice about your situation, you should call us. The first half hour of our time will cost you nothing!

Michael Hutton - Partner

Lynch Meyer Lawyers

mhutton@lynchmeyer.com.au

D: 8236 7612

25 YEAR  GUARANTEE

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PLUMBING BUSINESS

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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

2025 PRESIDENT’S LUNCH

10

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

Our 2025 President’s Lunch was a fantastic celebration held on Friday, 17 October, in the beautiful William Magarey Room at Adelaide Oval.

We were delighted to once again have the fabulous Jess Adamson as our host, bringing her signature energy and charm to the event.

It was an honour to welcome The Hon. Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia, The Hon. Connie Bonaros MLC, and South Australian Skills Commissioner, Cameron Baker, who joined us for this special occasion.

With almost 400 guests in attendance, the room was buzzing as we celebrated our plumbing apprentices, the future of our industry, recognised our membership milestone recipients and were thoroughly entertained by the incredible Jack Daniels and Mick Colliss.

Master Plumber Apprentices Awards

Our apprentices represent the future of our industry, and we’re proud to celebrate their achievements at our annual President’s Lunch.

Each year, we present a range of awards that recognise the qualities we value most in our apprentices including strong work ethic, leadership, and a positive attitude. We are proud to congratulate the following award winners:

High Achievement in a 1st Year Apprentice Award Peter Tsitsinaris (DPS Distinctive Plumbing Solutions)

High Achievement in a 2nd Year Apprentice Award Luke Owen (Platinum Plumbing & Gas Solutions)

High Achievement in a 3rd Year Apprentice Award

Cody Ramage (Purple Trade Services)

High Achievement in a 4th Year Apprentice Award Ben Manning (Axis Services)

Rising Star Award

Corey Gillings (Urban Plumbing)

Excellence in Leadership and Initiative Award Alex Bain (Jordan Plumbing)

Most Outstanding Apprentice Award Mitchell Carter (Klein Plumbing & Gas)

Member Milestone Awards

Each year, Master Plumbers proudly recognises members who have demonstrated long-standing commitment and continual support of the Association.

We also had the pleasure of acknowledging eight members who reached their 25-year milestone, a testament to their long-term commitment to excellence and to the Master Plumbers community, this included Priority Plumbing, Hannam Plumbing, Keith White Plumbing, Precise Plumbing, Bury Plumbing, M A Oliver Plumbing & Gasfitting, Ridge Tool (Aust) and Crystal Clear Purification System.

Congratulations to all our milestone members, and thank you for your ongoing dedication and contribution to our industry!

Jack Holder Gold Medal

The Jack Holder Gold Medal is the most prestigious award presented to apprentices within the plumbing industry.

It recognises outstanding skill, dedication, and commitment to excellence among the next generation of tradespeople.

The award is named in honour of the late Jack Holder, a distinguished leader who served as President of the Master Plumbers Association of South Australia as well as Master Plumbers Australia.

His lifelong contribution to the plumbing industry and the Association was recognised nationally when he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2012.

This year, we were proud to have four outstanding finalists for the Jack Holder Gold Medal.

Each finalist demonstrated exceptional technical ability, professionalism, and a strong commitment to their trade, qualities that reflect the spirit of this award and the future of our industry.

We congratulate our finalists Zak Laver, Jed Barnes, Colin Richardson, and Samuel Glapa on their achievements and dedication.

A special congratulations goes to Jed Barnes, who was named the 2025 Jack Holder Gold Medal recipient. Jed recently completed his apprenticeship with Hindmarsh Plumbing, and we look forward to seeing him continue to excel and make valuable contributions to the plumbing profession in the years ahead.

To all those who attended and contributed to this year’s event, thank you for your continued support and participation. Your involvement helps us celebrate the achievements and dedication within our industry.

We look forward to welcoming you all again in 2026 for another memorable celebration of excellence in plumbing.

This year, we were thrilled to celebrate Northway Plumbing, who marked an incredible 75 years of continual membership.

Brett and Grant Calladine joined us to commemorate this significant achievement, representing a legacy of dedication to both the plumbing profession and the Association. www.mpasa.com.au

11

CBS Fined, sanctioned and disqualified for legislation breaches

Builders and tradespeople who do the wrong thing tarnish the industry’s reputation and put consumers and other building industry workers at risk. Consumer and Business Services (CBS) takes strong action against tradies that work unlicensed, perform shoddy work, or leave others out of pocket. Prosecutions and disciplinary actions finalised so far from last financial year’s investigations include 4 matters relating to the building and trades sector and an assurance received from a company for alleged breaches.

Prosecutions / disciplinary action

Action was taken through the court and the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) with the following outcomes.

• An unlicensed contractor was fined $6,000 and ordered to pay $2,570 in compensation to affected consumers and prosecution costs of $1,160.

• Another contractor prosecuted for unlicensed activity and accepting payment for services that he failed to provide within a reasonable time was ordered to pay $34,423 in compensation to affected consumers and $2,224 towards the victims of crime levy.

• Action against a business that acted negligently in completing work at seven different properties resulted in the company’s reprimand and it received an $8,000 sanction. The company’s director received a $4,000 sanction.

• Disciplinary action against an individual over unsafe and non-complaint electrical work resulted in SACAT ordering the installer be disqualified from: holding an electrical contractor’s licence or worker’s registration, being director of an electrical contractor company, and being employed or engaged in an electrical contractor business. These disqualifications apply until further order.

Assurance

A garage and shed company was investigated for failing to obtain building indemnity insurance and demanding a bigger deposit than allowed under regulations for building work contracts. The company provided a written assurance to CBS that it would not engage in such unlawful conduct in the future. Written assurances are publicly available on the assurances register on the CBS website, along with the names of other traders who have provided written assurances that they will not engage in certain unlawful conduct.

Other enforcement action

CBS’ enforcement action extended well beyond these finalised matters, launching investigations into other concerning business practices in the building and trades industry. Formal warnings have been issued in some instances, while other investigations are continuing.

CBShalf works to maintain a fair playing field for4:53 licensed trades and welcomes reports from industry and members of the Uponor Page hard Horizontal_210x148_5_v1.pdf 1 28/10/2025 am public about tradespeople operating without a licence, outside the scope of their licence, or tradies not complying with other aspects of consumer protection laws. Reports can be made via the online CBS complaints form.

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www.mpasa.com.au

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

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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

Aidan Draper

Alex Sapac

Cooper Lynch

Jesse Heath

Adrian Vagenas

Dylan Vandenbos

New member benefit

www.mpasa.com.au

15

YOUR LEVY, YOUR INDUSTRY DO YOUR PART TO HELP: Train more apprentices Fund practical, job-ready training Grow a skilled, local workforce

Scan to learn more about how the mandatory levy helps your industry.

The mandatory CITF Levy threshold has increased to �100,000 ex GST from 1 January 2025. Conditions apply.

SEE OUR TRANSITION TO LEAD FREE

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FOR MORE DETAILS CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM AND LEADING SUPPLIERS.

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

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BUSI NES S GUI DE - C H A R G E OU T R ATES Calculating your hourly charge out rate is an important factor in running a business and can determine the long term profitability. Setting the right charge out rate ensures your costs are covered whilst also turning a profit, it shows consistency to your clients and gives you a clear understanding of your earnings, costs and profits. In order to get it right there are a number of factors to consider, the charge out rates must match the market, suit the skills and experience of the tradie, cover your costs and ensure profitability.The formula for charge out rate calculation is quite simple:

Billable hours

The estimated billable hours for the year needs to be calculated, which takes into account any annual, public holiday and sick leave as well as non-billable hours such as those spent on administration.

Example: Gordon works 8 hours a day 5 days a week but takes 20 annual leave days and 10 public holidays per year.

5 days x 52 weeks = 260 days 260 Days – 30 Days leave = 230 Days 230 Days x 8 hours = 1840 Hours worked per year Gordon kept a months’ worth of timesheets and calculated he spent 1.5 hours each day on nonbillable work, so worked hours each day would then be 6.5.

In this case billable hours would now be 230 Days x 6.5 billable hours per day = 1495 billable hours per year.

Calculate your Income

Decide on the income you would like to be paid per year, considering what you need for living expenses, savings and investments. (You may also need to add in workers comp and payroll tax as applicable.) Divide your income by the number of billable hours to calculate your hourly rate.

Example: Gordon would like to earn $100,000 per year plus 12% superannuation. $100,000 x 1.12 = $112,000 salary plus superannuation $112,000 / 1495 = $74.92 Gordon’s hourly rate per hour.

Overhead Costs

Overhead Costs must be added into the calculation, these may include Insurance, Tools, Rent, Electricity, Phone, Internet and Motor vehicle maintenance.

Example: Gordon has calculated his overhead costs total $27,500 per year broken down as follows: PI, PL & MV Insurance $8,000 Accountant - $3000 Add a profit margin Business and licenses- $1000 Depreciation $3000 Gordon wants a profit margin of 25% in order to grow the business long term, this will Office - $1500 ensure a healthy cashflow for unexpected expenses, time off, business investment and growth.

Tools and Equipment hire $3000 $93.31 + 25% = $116.64 MV - $5000 Phone & Internet Adjustments $3000

Gordon divides his total overhead costs by the billable hours $27,500 / 1495 =$18.39 overhead costs per hour.

Gordon must also consider whether he will charge additional fees such as a call out fee for assessing and quoti This will bring Gordons Hourly $74.92 + 15 $18.39 = $93.31 . whichrate may to also include – 30 minutes of work.

Add a profit margin

After Hours Rates may need to be considered for work on weekends and evenings which may attract a mark-up 20%.

Gordon wants a profit margin of 25% in order to grow the business long term, this will ensure a healthy cashflow for unexpected expenses, time off, business investment and growth.

Research of the rates in the area are also worth comparing to determine whether your charge out rate is fair an

$93.31 + 25% = $116.64 competitive without undervaluing your work.

Adjustments

In addition to the abovementioned costs any additional expenses must also be charge to the client such as cos

Gordon must also consider whether he will charge additional fees such as a call out fee for assessing and quoting which materials and hire of equipment or cost of equipment used which may be divide over the anticipated jobs to may also include 15 – 30 minutes of work. After Hours Rates may need to be considered for work on weekends and ascertain the equipment cost charge out rate. evenings which may attract a mark-up of 20%. Research of the rates in the area are also worth comparing to determine whether your charge out rate is fair and competitive without undervaluing your work. In addition to the abovementioned costs any additional expenses must also be charge to the client such as hire of equipment or cost of equipment used which may be divide over the anticipated jobs to ascertain the equipment cost charge out rate. www.mpasa.com.au

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MEMBER OF THE MONTH Tell us about Hall & Baum Plumbing?

Hall & Baum Plumbing began operations in 1952, founded

by Brian Baum and Malcolm Hall in Camden Park. The company initially specialised in new homes and small construction projects. After Malcolm’s retirement in 1978, Brian’s son Grant joined the business in 1979, followed by his brother Greg in 1981.

As the company grew, Hall & Baum expanded into large-scale construction and maintenance work. In 1982, Adelaide Pipeline Maintenance Services (APMS) was established, marking the company’s entry into the civil market with the purchase of South Australia’s second JetVac unit and first robotic CCTV drain camera system.

The team at Hall & Baum Plumbing

In 2013, Streamline Plumbing was launched to service the government housing sector. That same year, Brian’s granddaughter Rachael Baum (Greg’s daughter) joined the business to oversee accounts, followed by Ryan Baum (Grant’s son) in 2014 after completing his apprenticeship at Jordan Plumbing. In 2022 Green Hot Water was added to the Hall & Baum Group.

Today, Rachael and Ryan proudly represent the third generation of family leadership at Hall & Baum Group. Their vision is to continue building on the company’s strong foundations and carry the family legacy forward to its 100th year — and beyond.

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

Ryan: For me, joining Hall & Baum was a natural progression — I practically grew up in the office. From the age of 12, I spent a week of every school holiday working there, learning the trade and getting a firsthand look at the family business.

After finishing Year 12 on a Friday, I was already interviewing with the MPA the following Monday. Watching my grandfather, father, and uncle over the years, I always knew that plumbing was the path I wanted to follow.

2. How has the plumbing industry evolved since you started? What are the most significant changes you’ve witnessed?

Greg: In 1982 I joined the business and became involved in our small contracts, maintenance, and hot water division. In 1983 we purchased a Motorola 2-way radio system for the vehicles to contact base. In 1985 when Telstra launched pagers, we added this to our fleet, this was quite a step forward at the time and improved our service delivery significantly. In 1987 the Motorola mobile phone (the brick phone) was introduced, this was a game changer for us, then along came the smart phone and the internet- the rest is history.

The other thing that has changed radically is the way the sales and marketing of your business is done. Yellow pages were HUGE and now almost forgotten, who can forget NOT HAPPY JAN. If you weren’t on the first page in the plumbing and hot water sections you weren’t in the game, how things have changed.

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

Ryan: The rising cost of doing business, increasing competition, and growing consumer and employee expectations are placing significant pressure on companies across the industry. At the same time, there is a shortage of experienced, longserving tradespeople who take genuine pride in their workmanship and uphold the standards of the plumbing profession.

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

Ryan: CCTV Drain Cameras, Pipe Relining, Leaking locating gear, composite lower cost materials and probably the biggest one is job management software. Press tools have their place in the industry but In my opinion they have taken away the craftsmanship resulting in fast poor quality plumbing.

5. What advice would you give to young apprentices or new business owners entering the plumbing industry?

Greg: My advice to anyone wanting to pursue a career in the plumbing industry is to genuinely try to be the very best at what you do and have a long term view, it’s a great industry and if you work hard, it will set you up for the rest of your life.

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

Rachael: Over the years the association has guided us countless times with queries relating to payroll, they are the gurus when it comes to anything regarding the plumbers award. We have also worked closely with them throughout the many apprenticeship journeys of our employees, it’s always a positive experience speaking to their staff.

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MASTER PLUMBERS SA

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

Grant: Always keep records, cross check materials and treat materials not used as loss profit. Keep up with your accounts, plumbers are well known for falling behind in this area.

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

Grant: Running the Blood Bank Pirie Street construction build for Hansen Yuncken as a third year apprentice and having to tell tradesman 3x my age what to do. Rogerson Building at the Womens and Childrens Hospital where The team at Hall & Baum Plumbing I was the project administrator and manager. It was the largest project in Australia at the time. Delphin Property Group, this was for the development of Delphin Island at West Lakes, Hall & Baum installed the sewer, water and fire mains and the entire stormwater network.

9. What is your experience as a female in the plumbing industry?

Rachael: My experience in what is traditionally and still is a very male dominated industry has been almost entirely positive.

Possibly because I have worked here since a very young age but I have always felt supported and respected within my job and I like to think people I work with feel that same way about working with me. I think Ryan and I have different strengths that complement each other and it’s interesting being able to highlight different perspectives in certain situations that may otherwise be overlooked.

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

Greg: I feel my legacy is the continuation of the family business into its 75th year and to have my daughter Rachael and nephew Ryan fully committed to seeing the business reach its 100-year milestone, the fourth generation is not far away, I think our father Brian would be extremely proud.

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

Grant: Head down bum up, work hard and be proud to work in the plumbing industry. You have to be honest to your clients, always show respect, always show up on time and communicate well.

SAPIPERELINING

APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH Cody Ramage

What are the biggest challenges you have faced so far?

I struggle on the academic side of things and so trade school has been a challenge but the staff have been very supportive and doing this with other apprentices is helpful.

How do you see your plumbing career progressing?

Sept 2025

Alexander Halls

I hope to continue working for my host Purple Trade Services as I’m quite enjoying the work I’m doing with them and I also hope to work for myself one day.

What do you enjoy most about plumbing?

I enjoy plumbing because of the variety of work it offers as well as the endless amounts to learn.

What inspired you to become a plumber?

Oct 2025

Luke Owen

A friend of mine who is with Master Plumbers told me he enjoyed the work and thought I’d find it interesting, and I wanted to get into a trade as well so I decided to go with plumbing.

What do you enjoy most about plumbing?

The work culture and learning new things, making mistakes and being shown how to improve and get better, solving problems on my own.

What inspired you to become a plumber?

Nov 2025

22

How looked up upon the trade is and how many things you can learn from it whether it’s communication skills, Neatness or Gaining knowledge.

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

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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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FOR MORE INFORMATION Call 8348 1200 or visit peer.com.au 26

RTO Code: 45744 MASTER PLUMBERS SA

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

www.mpasa.com.au

27

2026 Events MARCH

11 Member Expo & World Plumbing Day

17 Port Lincoln Roadshow 18 Whyalla Roadshow 19 Port Augusta Roadshow 25 Lonsdale Roadshow

APRIL

29 Mt Gambier Roadshow

MAY

8 AFL Port Adelaide Member Round 13 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

AUGUST

5

Norwood Roadshow

OCTOBER

16 Presidents Lunch

* AFL Crows Member Round - date to be confirmed *

admin@mpasa.com.au

08 8172 8800