Issuu

Plumbing SA

WINTER 2026

End of Financial Year Changes and checks

PVC Pipe & Fuel Cost Rise

NCC 2025 Updates and timeline

ADELAIDE PIPELINE MAINTENANCE SERVICES

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OUR SERVICES INCLUDE

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Water Recycling Combination Jetvac and Hydrojet Drain cleaning

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CCTV inspections of new and existing stormwater and sewer

Patching and relining of pipework

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MASTER PLUMBERS SA STAFF

Andrew Clarke | Executive Ofﬁcer m: 0438 282 448

e: andrew.clarke@mpasa.com.au

Jodie Bischoff Operations Manager e: jodie.bischoff@mpasa.com.au

PRESIDENT: Matt Sando

DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Mike McEntee

INDEPENDENT CHAIR: Daria McLachlan

TREASURER: Tim Haslam

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

Orchard | Field Ofﬁcer m: 0487 407 186 e: ayden.orchard@mpasa.com.au Rachel Clark Payroll & Administration Ofﬁcer e: rachel.clark@mpasa.com.au

Brittany O’Neill Group Training Organisation Co-ordinator e: brittany.oneill@mpasa.com.au

Tina Reis | Business & Compliance Ofﬁcer m: 0472 744 473 e: tina.reis@mpasa.com.au

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.

CEO EDITORIAL

C E O E D I T O R I A L

By Andrew Clarke Executive Officer

BY ANDREW CLARKE

EXECUTIVE OFFICER

MPA SA push for licensed plumbers 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 stormwater installations be carried out exclusively by licensed plumbers For decades, this issue has remained unresolved, but we now have a critical opportunity to drive meaningful reform Consumers building new homes are frequently misled by poor advice, often opting for unlicensed individuals such as handymen, irrigation installers or builder’s labourers to install 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 damage, costly repairs, and long-term financial burdens.

LABOUR SECURES CONSECUTIVE VICTORY

The South Australian Labor Party, led by Hon. Peter Malinauskas, has secured a second consecutive term following a decisive landslide victory in the 2026 state election.

While the outcome was largely anticipated, a notable development was the increased support for One Nation, which captured a signifi cant portion of the remaining vote. The Liberal Party retained a share of this vote, with some observers suggesting this result was fortunate under the circumstances.

The broader building and construction industry must address these shortcomings Poorly executed stormwater installations contribute to structural failures, escalating maintenance costs, and preventable damage. I have also included in my submission 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 that legislative change be enacted to ensure stormwater syste standards, safeguarding consumers and the integrity of our buil

In response to the election outcome, MPA SA will continue to work collaboratively with all parties to ensure that the voices of our members are effectively represented. We remain committed to promoting an understanding of the vital role the plumbing and gas industry plays across South Australia.

2026 Roadshows Off to a Strong Start

This year’s Plumbing and Gas Roadshow series has begun with some of the strongest attendance seen in recent years. The level of engagement across regional areas has been particularly encouraging, with licence holders recognising the importance of staying informed and up to date.

The question of ‘’What would be the costs and benefits for co tradespeople in the construction industry if the current exemp removed?

Presentations delivered by the Offi ce of the Technical Regulator (OTR) have been focused and highly relevant, reinforcing the critical role that standards and compliance play within our industry—now more than ever.

Currently, work on stormwater drainage pipes not exceeding 9 outlined in the PGE Regulation 2010 There are no restrictions o stormwater pipes less than 90mm in diameter.

Snippets of the response in the submission read:

The removal of the exemption under the South Australian PGE Act, which currently allows anyone to install stormwater pipes below 90mm, could have both costs and benefits for consumers Below is a number of the potential impacts with this removal of the exemption: Benefits of Removing the Exemption

Workloads across the building and construction sector continue to reach unprecedented levels. As a result, the need for effi cient work practices and high-quality outcomes has never been greater. Ongoing changes to standards, codes, and inspection processes are placing increased emphasis on compliant workmanship, creating both challenges and opportunities for business owners and practitioners.

Improved Quality of Installations:

By requiring qualified professionals to install all stormwater pipes, the overall quality of workmanship would likely improve. Poorly installed stormwater systems can lead to significant issues, such as 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 consumers from costly repairs in the future. Increased Compliance with Standards:

I strongly encourage all licensed practitioners—whether apprentices, tradespeople, or contractors—to attend at least one roadshow in 2026. These events provide valuable insights, practical guidance, and an opportunity to stay ahead of industry changes.

The industry is evolving rapidly, with factors infl uencing our work that were not previously considered signifi cant. Staying informed and engaged is essential to maintaining high standards and protecting the future of our profession.

I look forward to seeing continued strong participation at future events

PVC Pipe and Fittings

Qualified professionals are more likely to follow industry standards and regulations, ensuring that stormwater systems function efficiently. This would improve public safety, prevent environmental degradation (e g , erosion or flooding), and enhance the lifespan of the system

Reduced Long-Term Costs:

The recent supply pressures affecting PVC pipe and fi ttings have begun to ease, with merchants now providing greater certainty around availability. However, prices have stabilised at higher levels, and these increases may persist based on historical trends.

While the upfront cost may increase, better-quality installations would reduce the likelihood of future repairs, maintenance, or complete system replacements This would represent a long-term saving for consumers.

Contractors working within fi xed-price agreements, particularly in residential developments, are continuing to manage these cost pressures. It is important that all parties recognise these challenges and approach them with a level of understanding and fl exibility where possible.

Fuel Prices

Forecasting fuel prices and supply conditions in Australia remains highly uncertain, influenced by global economic and geopolitical factors. Current volatility highlights the challenges faced by industries that rely heavily on fuel as a critical input.

MPA SA will continue to support members by providing timely information and advocating for improved fuel security. Reliable and affordable fuel access remains essential to ensuring our industry can continue to operate effectively as a vital service to the community

Member Engagement Reaches New Heights

Member engagement continues to strengthen, with a growing number of previously disengaged members now actively participating. This shift reflects the effectiveness of our marketing, communication and member offerings. Increased visibility through word-of-mouth and social media has also contributed to broader awareness.

MPA SA remains committed to delivering value for members. While no organisation can meet every expectation, we are focused on continuing to close the gap by enhancing engagement and expanding our offerings. Current high-demand services include:

• Human Resource Management

• WHS

• Modern Award support

• Contract packs and terms & conditions

Free Standards: A Long-Awaited Outcome

After more than a decade of sustained advocacy—both within South Australia and at a national level through MPANZ—there now appears to be a clear and encouraging development on the horizon. Australian Plumbing and Gas Standards are set to become freely accessible to all licensed tradespeople. This represents a significant step forward in improving accessibility and supporting industry professionalism across the country.

Whether this outcome has been driven by practical considerations or the result of timely negotiations is ultimately secondary. What matters is that a formal commitment has been made. While it would be premature to demand immediate delivery, it is reasonable to acknowledge that the implementation process will take time, particularly given the constraints associated with Federal Budget allocations and prioritisation. The relative importance assigned to this initiative, particularly in comparison with competing funding priorities, remains uncertain. Historically, productivity-related measures have not always ranked highly on government agendas. Nevertheless, the commitment itself signals a positive shift.

Based on current expectations, it is reasonable to anticipate progress within the next 12 months. In the meantime, it may be prudent to delay purchasing updated Australian Standards unless your existing resources are significantly outdated, such as those published prior to 2000 in which case you have significant catching up required.

100 YEAR MEMBERS

A J PATERNOSTER & SON PTY LTD W.F. GRAY & CO PTY LTD

50 YEAR MEMBERS

A S CARLSON & SONS PTY LTD

B T & R B FOREMAN

DENIS HEBBARD

DINEEN PLUMBING

E J NORTHWAY & SON PTY LTD

F S SCOTT & CO PTY LTD

GLENELG PLUMBING SERVICES PTY LTD

LIFE MEMBERS

D. J. HEBBARD

HALL & BAUM

HINDMARSH PLUMBING SERVICES PTY LTD

LC & HPR PORTLOCK

N D BIRCHMORE PTY LTD

T G & A V BOOKER

TISCHENDORF PLUMBING PTY LTD

S. B. HALL T. DRIVER B.HARRIS

NCC 2025 CHANGES

NCC 2025 includes some practical changes to improve the plumbing and drainage provisions in the National Construction Code, Volume Three, also known as the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA).

What’s changed?

Improvements to water services provisions: cold water services velocity

A new Verification Method for cold water services velocity provides practioners with an: alternative method to demonstrate compliance with the requirements of B1P2 Velocity alternative option to the Deem-to-Satisfy (DTS) provisions and other Performance Solutions.

A new fire-fighting water supply Deemed-to-Satisfy Provision B4D3(3) provides clarity for allowable materials for above ground pipework for hydrant systems pipes and fittings.

Improvements to water services provisions: cross-connection control

Specification 41 Cross connection hazards has been deleted and the contents relocated to Part B5. Hazard scenarios have been clarified and are included in B5D7.

Improvements to sanitary plumbing and drainage systems provisions: sanitary plumbing pipe sizing Verification Methods

The amended Verification Methods will help practitioners to calculate optimal sanitary plumbing pipe sizing that is more appropriate for Australian plumbing systems.

The new changes to C1V1 and C1V2 Verification Methods will improve sanitary plumbing pipe sizing, benefitting practitioners and end users by reducing costs and materials.

Clarifying performance requirements

Improvements have been made to the wording used in the Performance Requirements for water services, sanitary plumbing and drainage provisions.

Why did we make these changes?

The proposed changes are expected to bring overall benefits for practitioners and users of plumbing systems. These changes do not increase stringency, instead they clarify the provisions, and make the PCA easier to use.

information

This article does not cover all NCC 2025 changes. Each NCC volume and the ABCB Housing Provisions includes a list of amendments that identifies all changes made. We recommend using these lists to find the changes that are relevant to you.

• The Plumbing Code of Australia will be adopted in South Australia from 1 May 2026.

• The Building Code of Australia 2025 will be deferred in South Australia until 1 May 2027.

• The existing concessions for small allotments under the Ministerial Building Standard (MBS-007) will continue until at least 1 May 2027.

• The Draft Ministerial Building Standard (MBS-013) for alterations and additions has been deferred until 2030.

To access the list of amendments head to www.ncc.abcb.gov.au

Reference National Construction Code, NCC2025, NCC 2025 Key changes, NCC 2025 – Plumbing and drainage changes.

PLUMBING BUSINESS CONTRACT PACK

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

Cost: $200

your

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Terms & Conditions

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

Relevant

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

Dispute Resolution

Dispute Resolution iis

onflicts and what responsibilites

Ongoing Value

If legislation is updated, you can request a renewed pack at no further cost for up to 2 years after initial purchase. Conflicts can happen. Know where you stand and what your responsibilites are

CHEESE FINDS A WHEY

Already boasting a questionable diet, hungry digesters at SA Water’s Glenelg Wastewater Treatment Plant are now feasting on excess cheese whey from 3 major producers and converting it into electricity to power the plant.

Since April 2024, Glenelg has received regular weekly loads of more than 200,000 litres of cheese whey and milk waste, with SA-based La Casa Del Formaggio contributing around 150,000 litres per week. Another multinational company has added 30,000 litres since December 2024, and a third contributing 50,000 litres a week since April 2025.

The whey is delivered by the dairy manufacturers to the plant where, alongside other sources of organic waste and wastewater, it’s fed into the site’s digesters – which are used in the fi nal stages of wastewater treatment – where it’s broken down to produce a source of sustainable energy known as biogas.

The boost to biogas production means the plant now generates about 589 megawatt hours of electricity every month, which is enough to power about 1,000 homes.

SA Water’s Senior Manager of Production and Treatment Paul Bendotti said the dairy by-product has driven a signifi cant boost in energy production, with the plant’s average daily biogas output increasing by more than 16 per cent – up to 9,400 cubic metres – between April 2024 and August 2025.

“Through the advancement of technology, our wastewater treatment plants have transformed into sources of renewable energy, and our Glenelg facility has always been a strong performer,” Paul said.

“Glenelg’s co-digestion program adds high strength organic waste from various industries to sludge from the wastewater treatment process, which is heated in an oxygen-free environment within our digesters.

“Digesters are large, sealed concrete tanks with a fl oating dome roof and they facilitate a natural biological process that breaks down the combined waste to release biogas – a fuel mostly consisting of methane.

“The biogas is captured and piped to the plant’s 3 gas engines that convert it into a source of electricity to power the treatment plant and heat to keep the digesters warm and productive, making use of industrial waste that’s otherwise diffi cult to dispose of and treat.

“Cheese whey is a clear, yellowish liquid left over from the process of separating curds to make cheese, and is rich in nutrients and sugars like lactose, which gives it a high methane potential perfect for co-digestion.

“Since adding the daily deliveries of cheese whey into the digesters from mid-April last year, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in biogas production.

“This sustained emphasis on generating renewable energy across our metropolitan wastewater treatment plants is helping to reduce our carbon footprint and keep our operating costs down.”

At the height of COVID-19 restriction measures on the local hospitality industry in mid-2020, millions of litres of expired beer was used within Glenelg’s digesters to fuel record power generation – making the wastewater treatment plant 95 per cent energy self-suffi cient during July of that year.

Since July 2024, Glenelg’s energy self-suffi ciency has fl uctuated between 77 and 90 per cent, with biogas production infl uenced by the availability of industrial waste for co-digestion.

Paul said co-digestion gives industrial waste a new lease of life, while protecting Adelaide’s sewers.

“Certain waste produced by industry, such as cheese whey and expired beer, is challenging and costly for manufacturers to manage and unlike domestic waste, isn’t suitable for discharge into our sewers as it has a detrimental impact on our infrastructure by damaging pipes and pump stations,” Paul said.

“Pleasingly, we work closely with members of the industry – including La Casa Del Formaggio – to help them segregate their waste to ensure it doesn’t enter our network, with a range of other substrates including milk, soft drinks and trapped grease accepted by our digesters.

“La Casa Del Formaggio recently moved into a new facility and installed equipment that can separate the cheese whey before it’s repurposed at our Glenelg plant on an ongoing basis at no cost.

“Rather than allowing it to go to waste, and seeing local manufacturers pay to safely dispose of their waste elsewhere, these substrates provide the complete ingredients to power a green energy source.”

BUSINESS GUIDE – EOFY BUSINESS REVIEW

The end of financial year is a great time to have a refresh of your business systems as well as take a look at your income and expenses for tax planning and impending reporting obligations.

Charge Out Rates

End of fi nancial year is a great time to review your charge out rates and on costs to ensure the long-term profi tability of your business. Setting the right charge out rate ensures your costs are covered whilst also turning a profi t, it shows consistency to your clients and gives you a clear understanding of your earnings, costs and profi ts.

Review your previous calculations for your charge out rates to determine whether overhead costs have increased, in particular insurance and motor vehicle costs. With the rise of PVC piping and fuel in recent months it is important you are not wearing the increase which eats into your profi t margin.

Consider whether you will charge additional fees such as a call out fee for assessing and quoting, or after-hours rates considered for work on weekends and 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.

Checks, licences, clearances

Ensure you and your team have the relevant checks and clearances such as Police clearances, Working with children checks or any other clearances that maybe required to go onsite.

Check you have the correct Plumbing licence, if you have changed your business structure from a sole trader to a company ensure you have a plumbing contractors licence in the company name as well as your individual plumbing licence.

Safety

To comply with some recent WHS changes, review whether all workers have their Working at Heights, EWP and Silica awareness training.

Review safety induction processes, SWMS, signage and equipment to protect both yourself, your business and others. Toolbox meetings are a great way to update the team, consider holding them at least weekly to discuss safety, operations and any concerns.

Payroll

Superannuation

- Contributions owing for the June 2026 fi nancial year need to be received by the fund prior to 30th June if you would like to claim the deduction in 2025/26.

Payday Super - From 1st July 2026 superannuation must be paid at the same time as wages with contributions to reach the super fund within 7 days, this replaces the previous quarterly requirement. Must payroll software have the ability to pay and report super, alternatively superannuation may be reported and lodged through a superannuation clearing house.

Payroll Finalisation - The 2025/2026 payroll must be reviewed, balanced and fi nalised by 14th July 2026, Payroll information must be submitted to the ATO via Single Touch Payroll this can be carried out through your software provider.

Wages Increases - Award wages are increasing from 1st July 2026, check your award to ensure your staff are receiving the correct rate.

Return to Work SA - If you employ workers in SA you must be registered for Workcover, a renumeration return for RTWSA (Return to Work SA) is required to be lodged after each fi nancial year by 15th September via the online portal for both 25/26 actuals and 26/27 projected.

Income

Review debtors and assess whether any are bad debts or if they may be recoverable, you may be able to write off bad debts as a tax deduction if they are not recoverable.

Review any deposits being held and whether they relate to services performed in 2026/27 in which case this would minimise income for 2025/26.

Expenses

Review your expenses, any work-related expenses must be in direct relation to income earnt, ensure that any personal portions have not been claimed as well as any GST-free portions such as stamp duty on insurance and vehicles and bank fees. Review any expenses such as subscriptions, insurance or membership fees and pay them within the fi nancial year in order to claim a deduction. Review personal accounts and credit card to ensure reimbursement for any business-related expenditure made.

The instant asset write-off for businesses with a turnover of less than $10 million is now permanent for assets under $20,000, they must be purchased and ready to use prior to 30 June 2026.

TPAR

The Taxable Payments Annual Report (TPAR) may need to be lodged with the ATO for the 2025/26 tax year, if you have engaged subcontractors in your business throughout 25/26. The due date for lodgement is 28th August 2026 and can be made via your software system, the ATO online portal or via paper form.

Quoting and Contracts

Review your quoting and contracting templates to ensure you are covered for any legal eventuality including cost increases and confl icts. Contact us to discuss our Business Contract Pack offered to MPASA members.

YOUR LEVY, YOUR INDUSTRY

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

BUDGET SUMMARY

The 2026/27 Federal Budget was handed down on Tuesday 12th May 2026, this comes at a difficult time for many small and medium sized businesses throughout Australia.

Please find below a snapshot of the 2026/27 Federal Budget, for a more in-depth read please log into the Members Portal of the website and head to ‘Member News’.

Free Access to Australian Standards - Access to Standards referenced in Commonwealth, State and Territory legislation are now free from 1st July 2026. The Government has committed to a $42.7 million grant over four years to Standards Australia to allow free access.

Minimum Wage Increasing - Recommendations to Fairwork of a ‘real’ wage increase.

Instant Asset Write-off - From 1st July 2026 the $20,000 instant asset write-off will be permanent for businesses with aggregate annual turnover below $10 million.

Domestic Gas Reserve - A Domestic Gas Reservation Scheme will be established, LNG exporters are required to reserve 20% of gas for domestic use from 1st July 2027.

$35.5 million over four years will support the domestic wholesale gas market, includng $30.6 million to develop and implement.

Migrant Skills - $85.2 million over four years will be spent for faster and more flexible migrant skills assessments.

Capital gains - From July 2027 the 50% CGT discount is replaced with inflation adjusted indexation plus 30% minimum tax applicable to all assets including shares.

Productivity package - This includes faster and simpler planning approvals linked to the housing infrastructure fund and a national code with state governments.

ATO PAYG - $10.9 to expand dynamic PAYG instalments from 1st July 2027 (vary instalments based on actuals)

Investment - Nothing changes if you already own investment property as at 7.30pm 12/05/2026.

From July 2027 negative gearing is for new residential builds only.

Property bought after 12/05/2026 can have rental losses deducted against rental income but not against wages or business income.

Fuel Security - $11.9 Billion over five years will be invested through the National Fuel Security Plan.

AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS – SO WHAT?

All plumbers should know about Australian Standards. They are very detailed and you cannot ignore them. What happens if your work does not comply?

You must comply with the Australian Standards. They are legal requirements and also they are required under the contract relating to your work whether or not that contract is in writing.

It is no excuse to say you didn’t know what the Standard requires.

A failure to comply with a Standard can lead to serious financial consequences.

If you do not comply, you might have to either:

• redo the work so it does comply; or

• pay damages to the person you did the work for so that they can get someone else to do the work properly so that it complies.

That might not be the end of it. If you do work that does not comply and other work is done on top of your work or the non-compliance is not discovered until later, the cost of fix might be significantly more than it would be at the time that you originally did the work. Also fixing up the problem might disrupt the initial use of the completed project. For example, if you did not comply with the Standard when building a hotel and the non-compliance is not discovered until later, the business of the hotel might be disrupted while remedial work is done and you could be liable for the losses suffered by that business while that is happening.

A failure to comply which leads to an incident like a flood or the like could result in significant damages being payable to the owner or occupier of the property. Usually, when something like a flood happens, the owner’s or occupier’s insurer is called in and they will fix the problem and then come after the plumber who did not do the work properly. Often, in that situation, the first you hear about the problem will be after it is all been fixed up and lots of money has been spent. You will likely receive a letter from Your insurance won’t cover you for the cost of fixing non-compliant work. So, make sure you know the Standards that apply to your work and that you comply with them.

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

SAPIPERELINING

Natural Gas. Feels like home.

For many buyers, natural gas is part of that experience. Cooking with a flame or using a plumbed-in BBQ isn’t just practical, it can create a premium look and feel.

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

Modern homes are also increasingly designed with solar and space efficiency in mind. Alongside these design choices, some homeowners opt for gas continuous flow hot water systems, which deliver hot water when it’s needed without taking up valuable space.

For many buyers, it’s about the experience their home will offer. Natural gas appliances provide a proven and reliable solution that enhances how people live, cook and entertain.

Local builders can offer real choice, giving homeowners the ability to shape how they want their home to feel.

Austin Pocock

Cooper Lachs

Jacob Cervini

Liam Cassidy

Zac Moody

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MEMBER OF THE MONTH

JH Hebbard Pty Ltd

JH Hebbard Pty Ltd was a successful family run business for over 63 years. Initially founded by Jim Hebbard, his eldest son Denis, and youngest son Paul, both joined the company in the years that followed. Paul branched out to start his own business in Cairns, before returning home to be a lecturer at TAFE SA and Denis took over the business from Jim when he decided it was time to slow down a bit. Then there was Jenny who kept everything in order and went above and beyond anything you’d expect from admin perspective. Both Denis and Jim were forever grateful for the support from Jenny, who worked for the company for around 40 years.

In the early years, the work focussed on new housing, followed by commercial industrial work, and then specialising in maintenance and leak location services for insurance companies. The company ceased trading in 2018 when Denis retired.

Jim and Denis are both Past Presidents and Life Members of the Master Plumbers Association having represented the MPA on numerous boards, State and Federally. They enjoyed attending many MPA conferences and let’s just say they got up to some rather mischievous things that shouldn’t be repeated here. Sadly, Jim is no longer with us but the values he instilled in Denis remain today.

Officially retired, Denis continues to have strong connections with the plumbing industry as Chairman of TAPS. And in his spare time, you’ll find him playing golf, going for walks at the beach with his wife Wendy, visiting his mum Glenda at Bolton Clarke, picking up grandkids from school and as Denis would say, Wendy making me cook for the rest of the family every second Tuesday night.

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

My first memories of plumbing are being a young kid, going to sites with dad in a blue FE Holden ute. I used to climb over roofs, explore demolished bathrooms and talk to the plumbing merchant staff while dad was bending up flashings.

When I was a bit older, I started spending my school holidays onsite with dad and his employees. And I officially started my plumbing career as an apprentice with R & A Morgan on 17th January 1974.

Dad was always passionate about the industry which inspired me to become a plumber and work for the family business. Jack Holder was also very influential and really took me under his wing throughout my career.

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

When the family business first started, we used a landline or public phone box, and everything was done on paper. Now we have everything digitally in our pocket. Our mobile phones are used not just for calls but to send and receive emails, create invoices and receive payments on the spot.

Materials were lead, copper, galv, earthenware, and cast iron but now we use poly and PVC with completely different jointing.

The other considerable progression I’ve seen is WHS. Can you imagine letting a kid climb on roofs with no harness or not wearing any PPE like I did when I was a kid!s.

3. What do you see as the biggest challenges facing today’s plumbers and the industry as a whole? It’s becoming harder to attract and keep quality tradesman and apprentices in the industry. We have more industries competing for the workforce, specifically mining and large government projects, offering huge amounts of money to come and work for them.

Compounding this is a shortage of training availability for our apprentices. We’ve had instances where it is taking more than 4 years for apprentices to complete their off the job training before they can be signed off as a qualified plumber.d.

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

It’s hard work so you have to enjoy what you do. But as long as you enjoy it, stick it out, it’s worth it.

Keep up your skills and if you do the right thing by yourself, your employees or your employer, and your clients, you’ll be successful.

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

Being a member has had a big influence on my career. We have been members for over 55 years and serving on the Board of the MPA the exposure it’s given, not just in South Australia, but federally, has been enormous. The membership of and advice gained by various organisations such as CBS, OTR and Government authorities, suppliers and manufacturers has been invaluable.

We’ve also been lucky enough to make some lifelong friends with others involved with the MPA.

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

With the forecast growth required, the industry needs to be able to attract, train and retain personnel. As an industry we need to be careful of specialisation. Every plumber needs to be able to do the same range of work instead of splitting up each skill.

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

Make sure you guarantee your security of payments. Maintaining cashflow is key. And don’t be afraid to restructure your business.

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

Some of the biggest projects we worked on were the Tea Tree Gully Tafe, Elizabeth Town Centre and the Mount Gambier Hospital..

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

My family’s contribution to the plumbing industry. With over 50 years representing the Master Plumbers Association of SA and various other plumbing related Boards to help shape what it looks like today. Including my current role as Chairman of TAPS to assist in future proofing the plumbing industry.

10. What message would you like to share with the next generation of plumbers? Work hard, be honest, contribute to the industry and get involved to help shape what the future of the industry will look like.

APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH

Mar 2026

Seth Pain

Seth is a 2nd Year apprentice currently hosted with Connekt Contracting.

Apr 2026

Cooper Wojtasik

Cooper is a 1 Year apprentice currently hosted with Mac & Cas Plumb & Gas.

May 2026

Alex Berryman

Alex is a 4 Year apprentice currently hosted with Nagle Plumbing & Mechanical.

BOOKING RECYCLED WATER AUDITS

Booking recycled water audits

We supply recycled water in select areas of metropolitan Adelaide, including throughout Bowden, Mawson Lakes, Campbelltown (Lochiel Park), Seaford Heights, Seaford Meadows and Port Noarlunga South. Recycled water is not suitable for drinking, cooking or bathing.

Audits are required to ensure recycled water is only used for acceptable purposes and no contamination with the drinking water supply, and must be booked in advance and will be attended by an SA Water Offi cer (excluding self-audits).

TYPES OF RECYCLED WATER AUDITS

COC audit

These are completed prior to settlement of a property and are booked by the conveyancer or property owner.

5-yearly recycled water audit

You’ll need to do a self-audit in Mawson Lakes, Seaford Heights and Seaford Meadows.

For Bowden, Campbelltown (Lochiel Park) and Port Noarlunga South, we’ll conduct an audit. A reminder letter is sent to the property owner to make a booking,

Final audit

Booked by the plumber prior to handover of a newly built property. This booking requires the property reference number from the Offi ce of the Technical Regulator and must be completed before you’re connected to recycled water.

In good news, you can now book your recycled water audit online in minutes, 24/7. You no longer need to call us – simply use our new online booking system.

You can fi nd this at https://www.sawater.com.au/forms/recycled-water-audit.

25 YEAR GUARANTEE

Sponsorship of Master Plumbers makes It possible for us to add signifi cant 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