From the editor
T
Bill Key Editor
Swap meets and special events Aug 11: Rocklea Showground. 0412 183 804 Aug 17: Glenwood Swap, Glenwood Park, Pepper Road. 0408 458 303 Aug 17-18: Historic Leyburn Sprints, Leyburn. www.leyburnmotorsprints.com.au Aug 25: Auto Extravaganza, Maclean Bridge, Jimboomba. 07 3341 9618 Sept 2: Studebaker Concours & Swap, Fort Lytton. 07 3324 0024 Sept 14: Gympie Showgrounds, Exhibition Road, Gympie. 5482 2303 Sept 9: DJR Family Fun Day & Swap Meet,10 Emeri St, Stapylton
2 | Motor Trader August 2013
he most important issue for our industry at the moment is the Rudd Government’s changes to Fringe Benefits Tax rules and how they will affect us. MTAQ CEO and AADA National Chairman Ian Field warns that this decision has potential to seriously harm the automotive industry by causing a serious downturn in fleet sales. Fleet sales comprise a significant proportion of all vehicle sales. “The decision will force up operating costs for vehicle dealers – as the compliance costs of putting the log book system in place for every single used or demonstrator vehicle will be substantial and impractical,” Mr Field said. “A salesperson could drive ten or more cars in a day because that’s what we do to earn a living. “Q-Ford has estimated that this legislation, if it passes as is, will cost them in excess of $200,000 per annum. “To make a $1.8b change to the system without proper consultation and lead in time demonstrates at best a contempt for business, and at worst, no understanding.” Consultation, time and expert advice on tax system changes is important for all affected parties to understand and adapt to the changed circumstances. In Industry Insight on Page 32, automotive accounting experts BDO look at what is involved in the FBT changes. On Page 4 MTAQ General Manager Kellie Dewar reports on a meeting hosted by Ian Field with Leader of the Opposition, Tony Abbott and
the Shadow Treasurer, Joe Hockey regarding the FBT changes. In brighter news, Motor Trader was invited to the launch of the new Jeep Grand Cherokee held in South East Queensland, where we got to put the new models through their paces. Our Members Classic spread has a certain “je ne sais quoi” this month as we step back in time and explore the charms of a cheeky 1960 Renault Floride. In our Members’ Essentials section we throw the spotlight on member Frank Teggart who has designed an innovative new jump pack. We also have the first look at our new fleet of promotional vehicles on Page 23. Our reps will be out and about, visiting members around the state and promoting the MTA Institute of Technology. We sit down with Mike Clayton from Nambour-based company, Clayton’s Towing in our MTA Q&A and find out all about this successful family business. We have travel deals, members profiles, news, training and even a motorsport calendar for your reading pleasure. Have a great August, and drop me a line if you have a story or an idea for Motor Trader or if you would like to advertise in the magazine, I hope you enjoy the read.
President’s Ball
Interested in advertising through this event? There are still sponsorship packages available. Download a brochure, or contact Dani Fioretti on 0427 981 647 for more information. Opportunities start from just $750.
MTA Queensland is pleased to announce Suncorp Group as the naming sponsor for the 2013 President’s Ball. The Ball, which will be held on November 23 at Sofitel Brisbane Central, is sure to be the highlight of the automotive industry’s social calendar. The special black-tie event will be hosted on the evening by 4BC radio personality Gary Hardgrave and tickets will be available at a special price of only $75.
Cheers, Bill Key billk@mtaq.com.au