Aussie Painting Contractor November 2026 by Aussie Painters Network

From the

Editor

CONTRIBUTORS • Daniel Wurm

Hey Everyone,

• Inga Lass

Welcome to the 164th issue of the Aussie Painting Contractor Magazine.

• James Graham

As we head towards the end of the year, there is still plenty happening across the industry and here at Aussie Painters Network. Between training apprentices, supporting employers and settling into our new home at the Everthought Training Facility in Salisbury, the team has been keeping busy. I have also been training apprentices throughout NSW, working with the next generation of painters and the employers supporting their development. Getting out to different workplaces is something I really enjoy. It gives me the opportunity to see how apprentices are progressing, understand the challenges their employers face and help connect their training with the work they do every day.

• Leo Babauta • Nigel Gorman • Oliver Kay • Robert Bauman

Next month, I will be heading to Western Australia to train apprentices there as well. Taking our training further afield is an exciting step and reinforces something I have always believed: where an apprentice lives and works should not limit their access to quality training and support.

• Sandra Price

Every visit is a reminder that developing a good tradesperson takes a shared effort. Trainers, employers and experienced painters all have a role to play in passing on their knowledge, building confidence and giving apprentices the opportunity to improve. Thank you to the businesses making that commitment, particularly when workloads are demanding.

EDITOR

This month’s magazine brings together a range of topics, from the skills showcased at WorldSkills Shanghai to the financial administration and everyday habits that help keep a business on track. There is also plenty to consider around artificial intelligence and how we use it while continuing to apply our own knowledge and judgement. Thanks again to our contributors, advertisers and readers for your continued support. After 15 years of publishing, sharing knowledge and supporting this industry remain at the heart of what we do.

Til next month, Happy Painting!! Nigel Gorman

nigel@aussiepaintersnetwork.com.au

07 3555 8010

Nigel Gorman

GRAPHIC DESIGNER J. Anne Delgado

COVER IMAGE Sharon, Jared, Peter, Caroline, Kellie

Advertise with us... 1800 355 344 07 3555 8010 info@aussiepaintersnetwork.com.au www.aussiepaintingcontractor.com

Contents 06 WorldSkills Shanghai 2026: Celebrating Excellence in Painting and Decorating

Artificial Intelligence: Is It Helping or Hindering Our Ability to Think?

26 Sonyx 101 SEMI-GLOSS 30 33

Terms & Conditions for Australian Businesses: A Practical Checklist The Human Habits That Still Matter

GROUNDED 12 STAYING without Checking Out

Building a Stronger Tradie Business:

from Abundance, 38 Operate NOT EXHAUSTION

Makes QBCC Compliance Easier

can I check my offset account 42 How is collecting the savings it should?

18 Why Good Financial Administration 20

Many Australians are overqualifified for their jobs – which comes at a price, new data shows

Is it the right time to take out a BUSINESS LOAN?

48 Industry Idiots 50 Important Contacts

Opinions and viewpoints expressed in the Aussie Painting Contractor Magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor, staff or publisher or any Aussie Painters Network’s staff or related parties. The publisher, Aussie Painters Network and Aussie Painting Contractor Magazine personnel are not liable for any mistake, misprint or omission. Information contained in the Aussie Painting Contractor Magazine is intended to inform and illustrate and should not be taken as financial, legal or accounting advice. You should seek professional advice before making business related decisions. We are not liable for any losses you November incur directly or indirectly as a result of reading Aussie Painting Contractor Magazine. Reproduction of any material or contents of the magazine without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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WorldSkills Shanghai 2026:

Celebrating Excellence in Painting and Decorating

The world's most talented young painters and decorators gathered in Shanghai, China, for the 48th WorldSkills International Competition, held from 22–27 September 2026. The event showcased the technical skills, creativity and craftsmanship required in modern painting and decorating, while providing an opportunity for young tradespeople to compete against the world's best. Held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center, WorldSkills Shanghai attracted approximately 1,400 competitors from 68 countries and regions, competing across 64 skill categories. The Painting and Decorating competition was one of the construction and building technology events, highlighting the importance of traditional craftsmanship alongside modern finishing techniques. Over 500,000 people attended the event, with painting and decorating being one of the most popular competitions. The events kicked off with an incredible opening ceremony, which featured nearly 1,400 competitors representing 68 countries and regions marching into the arena with their flags, and tributes to historical

Chinese innovators (Lu Ban, Cai Lun, Bi Sheng, and Huang Daopo) paired with human-robot performances. The official theme for the 48th WorldSkills Competition (WorldSkills Shanghai 2026) was “Master Skills Change Your Future”. The Painting and Decorating competition assessed a wide range of professional skills, including surface preparation, precision painting, decorative coatings, wallpaper installation, HVLP spray-painting, colour matching and problem solving. Competitors were required to demonstrate accuracy, consistency, efficient work practices and attention to detail under demanding competition conditions. The event showcased the technical aspects of the trade, but also gave competitors the chance to demonstrate their creativity. The competition occurred over 4 days, with the first day involving a wallpaper speed test, and the third day a colour matching speed test. There were 20 competitors from 18 countries, and most competitors had been practising for months prior to the competition. Competitors must be aged 22 or younger to compete.

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Australian representation Australia was represented by Jemma Glatz, who competed against leading young painters and decorators from around the world. Jemma works for a local government in South Australia, with limited opportunity to practice decorative finishes, so full credit to her for doing us proud on the world stage. Australia's designated Painting and Decorating Expert was Steven Baliga, who supported the Australian team and participated as a judge of the competition. Steve recently retired as head trainer at Tonsley TAFE in South Australia after 28 years teaching the trade. The Aussie crowd were pretty vocal and in the final 20 minutes of competition we broke out into chants of 'Aussie, Aussie, Aussie,

Oi, Oi, Oi'. The entire competition has the feel of a "World Cup' or Olympics competition, and most of us were dressed in green and gold. Jemma's parents had come to support her too of course, even though neither of them has a trade background.

Painting and Decorating MEDAL WINNERS

Jemma did incredibly well despite not finishing the wallpaper speed test due to sheer exhaustion. "She barely got any sleep the night before the first day of competition because the opening ceremony finished at 12pm and she had to get up at 5am", Jemma's mum reported.

Silver – Luca Ladler, Austria Austria maintained its strong international reputation for precision craftsmanship and decorative finishes.

Jemma and Steve, Australia could not be prouder of your efforts.

Gold – Zhaoxi Yang, China China secured the gold medal, continuing its outstanding international performance in painting and decorating.

Silver – Zoltán Czimmer, Hungary Hungary shared the silver medal position, demonstrating the exceptional standards achieved by European competitors. Bronze – Yann Mercier, France France completed the medalwinning group, reinforcing its long-established traditions in decorative painting.

In addition to the gold, silver and bronze medallists, WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 recognised competitors who achieved world-class standards with a Medal for Excellence (also known as a Medallion for Excellence). These awards recognise outstanding technical competence, accuracy, workmanship and professional performance, even when competitors do not finish in the top three positions. MEDAL FOR EXCELLENCE JIN-WEI HONG Chinese Taipei NADINE BÜNZLI Switzerland SHELBY FITZAKERLY United Kingdom IZABELA LOPES LIMA Brazil CHAK SUM LAW Hong Kong, China MUSKAN MUSKAN India

Judges, experts and international standards WorldSkills competitions rely on internationally appointed Experts, who bring industry and training experience to the assessment process. Their responsibilities include applying technical standards, evaluating competitors' work and ensuring consistency in judging. The assessment process provides a valuable opportunity for international cooperation and the exchange of best practices in vocational training. One of the best effects I saw was from the Polish competitor, who replicated rust using nothing more than normal acrylic paint and a sponge.

WorldSkills International 2028 The next international competition will be held in Aichi, Japan. I highly recommend getting to one of these competitions at least once in your career and cheering on all the competitors. It is a oncein-a-life-time experience you will never forget. To watch the 2026 competition, including live streams, and interviews with the head judge, check the Painters Institute Youtube channel and Facebook group ----------------------------------------------------------------Daniel Wurm +61 402312234

Artificial Intelligence:

Is It Helping or Hindering Our Ability to Think? Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an increasingly important part of our daily lives. From answering questions and writing essays to solving mathematical problems and providing recommendations, AI has made many tasks faster, easier, and more convenient. As technology continues to advance, more people are relying on AI for information, guidance, and decision-making. However, this growing dependence raises an important question: Is artificial intelligence helping us become smarter, or is it gradually weakening our ability to think independently? On one hand, artificial intelligence offers many benefits. It allows us to access information quickly, understand complicated topics, and explore ideas that we might not have considered on our own. Students can use AI to clarify difficult lessons, while professionals can use it

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to improve productivity and solve problems efficiently. When used properly, AI can serve as a valuable learning tool that encourages curiosity, supports creativity, and helps people develop new skills. Rather than replacing human intelligence, it has the potential to strengthen our ability to learn and understand the world around us. On the other hand, excessive reliance on AI can have negative effects on our thinking abilities. When people depend on technology to answer every question or complete every task, they may become less willing to think critically, analyze information, or solve problems independently. For example, students who consistently use AI to write their assignments without understanding the content may finish their work quickly but miss valuable learning opportunities.

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Over time, this habit can weaken their problem-solving skills and reduce their confidence in their own abilities. Instead of making an effort to understand something, they may become accustomed to accepting answers without questioning them. Another concern is that AI does not always provide accurate or unbiased information. Although it can produce convincing answers, it can also make mistakes or present misleading information. People who accept AIgenerated responses without checking their accuracy risk developing false beliefs or making poor decisions. This highlights the importance of critical thinking, factchecking, and independent judgment. Technology can provide information, but it is still our responsibility to evaluate that information carefully. Furthermore, excessive dependence on AI may affect human creativity and originality. Thinking involves more than finding the fastest answer; it also requires imagination, reflection, and the ability to learn from mistakes. When we allow AI to do most of our thinking, we may miss opportunities to develop our own ideas and discover creative solutions. The process of struggling with a difficult question, making mistakes, and trying again is often what helps us grow intellectually. If we constantly choose convenience over effort, we may gradually lose the patience and determination needed to think deeply. Nevertheless, the problem is not artificial intelligence itself but how we choose to use it. AI should

be treated as a tool that supports human thinking rather than a substitute for it. Students can use it to explain concepts, generate practice questions, and receive feedback, but they should still make an effort to understand lessons and form their own conclusions. Similarly, individuals should use AI to explore possibilities and gather information while maintaining the ability to question, evaluate, and make decisions independently. Ultimately, artificial intelligence can either strengthen or weaken our thinking abilities, depending on how we use it. If we rely on it blindly, we risk becoming passive consumers of information who struggle to think for ourselves. However, if we use it responsibly, we can benefit from its capabilities while continuing to develop our intelligence, creativity, and criticalthinking skills. In conclusion, the growing reliance on artificial intelligence presents both an opportunity and a challenge. It can make learning more accessible and everyday tasks more manageable, but it can also encourage intellectual laziness when used without discipline. As AI becomes more integrated into society, we must remember that the purpose of technology should be to improve human capabilities, not replace them. After all, the most important skill in the age of artificial intelligence may not be knowing how to find an answer, but knowing how to question it, understand it, and think for ourselves.

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STAYING GROUNDED without Checking Out A lot of people right now are feeling exhaustion from the news, the economy, politics, wars, the AI frenzy … it’s a lot to deal with.

Is there a way to stay grounded and engaged, without checking out? Is there a way to stay engaged while not feeling so exhausted?

People tend to have two responses to feeling like the world is too much: 1. Being over-engaged: Feeling anxious about the world, you can get hooked on following the latest news, doomscrolling through social media and other feeds, and spinning in your head about it all; 2. Disengaging: It feels like too much, and so you check out. You don’t follow any of the news, you don’t check social media (or only the entertaining parts), you don’t get involved. Not my problem.

I think most of us want inner steadiness and groundedness, and none of us want to be exhausted. But can we do that when so much is going on in the world?

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Let’s call this a third option: being grounded and engaged with the world. Let’s talk about it.

The Costs of the False Choice

If we think that we either have to be engaged and spiraling with anxiety, or disengaged for the sake of our sanity … then we are forced to make a choice between the two. But maybe that’s a false choice. There’s a cost to this false choice, no matter what we choose: Cost of Over-engaged: Constantly scrolling, constantly feeling anxious or enraged, not getting enough sleep, not being able to focus on any meaningful work or anything that requires us to be calm with a battery that isn’t drained. That’s a real cost beyond our peace of mind (which is already a huge thing) … we can’t focus. That drains us of our joy and life purpose. Cost of Disengaged: Checking out can feel like relief, but it has some big costs as well — including being excluded from the conversation about how we want the world to be, what our future is going to be like, and what solutions there might be. We also become disconnected from people, and remove our agency. I’m not judging either of these — I’ve done them both, and they both seem like reasonable choices. I’m not saying either are bad … I just want to acknowledge their costs.

Grounded and Engaged

First, let’s be honest: news about what’s happening in the world can bring up anxiety, anger, frustration, overwhelm, sadness and powerlessness in all of us. This is the reality. So what we need to do is find a way to ground ourselves when these emotions come up.

Here’s a simple method (simple, but it needs lots of practice): Acknowledge that you’re feeling stuff: this is something you can do when you read the news or scroll a feed. Be very intentional as you do so, and try to notice when your emotions are getting riled up. Notice how your feeling in your body: People engage with the thoughts about things, but don’t notice the physical sensations of the body as it’s happening. If you’re frustrated and angry, where is that located physically in your body? What does it

feel like? Can you get curious about the sensations without engaging with the thoughts? Breathe and soothe yourself: Take a few deep, slow, soothing breaths. This starts to slow down your nervous system. Let your tensed muscles relax. Remind yourself that you’re safe and there’s nothing to fear. Remind yourself of what you can control in this moment: You can’t control the entire world, and you don’t need to. You only need to focus on the power you have right now, in this moment — to breathe, to soothe yourself, to appreciate the beauty of the world that’s around you. Steps beyond: You can also talk with others about this, and have a conversation, once you’re a bit calmer. And you can make a list of a few things you can do in the next couple of weeks to engage. And that’s the engaged part of grounded and engaged — you can have conversations and take small actions. You can read a little more and get a bit more educated. You can also talk to people who have different opinions, and try to understand them and have compassion for the fear and anxiety they’re feeling as well. You can get involved with organizations trying to make change, as you practice your groundedness. You can also realize when you need a break from being engaged, and take care of yourself. Replenish your resources before getting burned out. You don’t need to exhaust yourself — and in fact, I’d argue that you’re better of not doing so. The world is a better place when you’re grounded, and when you get engaged from a place of feeling like your battery isn’t drained. How would you like to practice?

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Leo Babauta

ZEN HABITS

2026 November Issue | 15

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Building a Stronger Tradie Business: Why Good Financial Administration Makes QBCC Compliance Easier For tradies across Queensland, running a successful building and construction business involves much more than delivering quality workmanship. Business owners must also manage cash flow, monitor expenses, maintain accurate financial records and meet their regulatory obligations with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). For many small trade businesses, financial administration is something that gets squeezed in between jobs, supplier payments, quoting and managing staff. Records can end up scattered across bank statements, accounting software, spreadsheets, invoices and emails. But there is a better way. A well-organised financial administration system can make QBCC compliance reporting easier, reduce the stress of meeting deadlines and give tradies greater control over the financial health of their business. 1. Making QBCC compliance reporting less stressful Depending on the type of licence held and the business's circumstances, QBCC licensees may need to provide financial information or reporting to demonstrate that they meet the applicable financial requirements. When financial records are incomplete or spread across multiple systems, preparing this information can become a time-consuming exercise. Business owners may need to reconstruct transactions, chase missing invoices, reconcile bank accounts or ask their accountant to piece together information at short notice. A structured financial administration system keeps important information organised and accessible throughout the year.

This can include: • Regularly reconciled bank accounts. • Up-to-date income and expense records. • Accurate accounts receivable and accounts payable. • Current records of loans, assets and liabilities. • Organised supplier invoices, customer invoices and supporting documents. • Timely financial reports and accounting records. When it is time to prepare a QBCC financial submission, much of the necessary information is already available. Instead of scrambling to collect documents, the business can focus on checking the figures, confirming the applicable requirements and preparing the required information. 2. Better visibility of the business's financial position Financial compliance is not just about submitting paperwork. It is also about understanding the financial position of the business. Tradies can be busy, have plenty of work booked and still experience financial pressure. Materials, wages, subcontractors, equipment, insurance, vehicle costs and tax obligations can quickly consume incoming cash. A reliable financial administration process helps business owners understand: • How much money is coming into the business and how much is going out. • Which customers owe money and how long invoices have been outstanding. • What payments are due to suppliers, employees and other creditors. • What loans and other financial obligations the business has. • Whether the business is operating profitably and maintaining adequate working capital.

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This visibility allows problems to be identified earlier, rather than when a compliance deadline approaches or a major bill cannot be paid. 3. Keeping financial records accurate and up to date Accurate financial information is essential when preparing reports for regulators, lenders, accountants and other stakeholders. A strong financial administration system establishes consistent processes for recording transactions, allocating expenses, reconciling accounts and reviewing financial reports. For example, if a business owner purchases materials for several projects, those costs should be recorded correctly and supported by appropriate documentation. Customer payments should be matched to invoices, and business loans should be recorded separately from trading income. These processes help reduce errors, missing information and inconsistencies between financial records. They also make it easier for an accountant or other qualified financial professional to review the business's records and prepare the financial information required for a particular purpose. 4. Reducing last-minute costs and disruption When financial administration is left until the last minute, business owners can face unnecessary pressure. They may need to spend evenings sorting paperwork, divert employees from productive work or engage professional assistance urgently to resolve gaps in their records. A regular administration routine spreads the workload across the year. For example, a business might reconcile

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its accounts monthly, review outstanding debts weekly, prepare management reports each month and schedule periodic reviews of its financial position and compliance obligations. This approach makes reporting more predictable and can reduce the amount of remedial work required when a submission is due. It also helps the business provide information to its accountant or adviser in a more organised format, making professional assistance more efficient. 5. Creating a reliable source of financial information A well-run business should not have to rely on the owner's memory to answer basic financial questions. By maintaining a centralised accounting system and a consistent document management process, the business creates a dependable record of its financial activities. The system should make it straightforward to locate relevant information, such as: • Financial statements and management reports. • Bank reconciliations. • Customer and supplier balances. • Loan statements and repayment information. • Asset and liability records. • Supporting documents for significant transactions. Access controls, regular backups and secure document storage are also important, particularly when financial information is shared with external advisers. Having these records readily available supports not only QBCC-related reporting but also tax preparation, business planning, finance applications, insurance reviews and the resolution of financial queries.

6. Helping the business prepare for growth As a trade business grows, its financial administration becomes more complex. More employees, subcontractors, vehicles, equipment, suppliers and projects create additional transactions and obligations. A system that worked when the business consisted of one tradie and a ute may no longer be adequate when it employs a team and manages multiple projects. Putting sound financial processes in place early helps establish a foundation for sustainable growth. Regular reporting can highlight rising costs, slow-paying customers, shrinking profit margins and increasing debt. It also gives the owner better information when deciding whether the business can afford to expand. Importantly, growth should be matched with an understanding of the business's applicable QBCC licensing and financial requirements. Financial administration helps owners monitor their position, recognise when circumstances change and seek professional advice before a problem becomes urgent. 7. Supporting accountability and peace of mind Many tradies start their businesses because they are skilled at their trade, not because they want to spend their weekends doing bookkeeping. A good financial administration system provides structure without requiring the owner to manage every detail personally.

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Responsibilities can be clearly allocated between the owner, administration staff, bookkeeper and accountant. Regular reviews help ensure records are maintained, unusual transactions are investigated and important deadlines are not overlooked.

2. Regular reconciliations: Reconcile bank accounts and other relevant accounts at least monthly.

This creates a clearer picture of who is responsible for each task and what needs to happen before a financial report or compliance submission is prepared.

4. Debtor and creditor management: Monitor money owed to the business and payments that the business must make.

The result is greater confidence that the business's financial records are being maintained properly and that potential issues are more likely to be identified early. What should a tradie's financial administration system include? A practical system does not have to be complicated. It needs to be appropriate for the size of the business and consistently maintained. A useful starting point is to establish the following: 1. Accounting software: Maintain a single, reliable record of business income, expenses, assets and liabilities.

3. Document management: Store invoices, receipts, loan documents, contracts and financial records in an organised, secure location.

5. Regular financial reporting: Review profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow and other relevant reports. 6. Compliance calendar: Record QBCC reporting dates, applicable financial requirements and the lead time needed to prepare supporting information. 7. Professional review: Engage an appropriately qualified accountant or other relevant professional to help interpret the requirements and prepare or review information where necessary. The business should also establish a clear process for checking the accuracy and completeness of information before it is submitted.

necessarily establish compliance. Business owners should confirm their current obligations directly with the QBCC and obtain professional advice where needed. A well-maintained financial administration system supports the process, but it does not replace the requirement to meet the applicable rules or submit the correct information by the relevant deadline. Conclusion: Spend less time chasing paperwork and more time building your business Making QBCC compliance part of everyday business management The most effective approach is to treat financial administration as an ongoing business function rather than a task that only matters when a report is due. QBCC financial requirements can vary according to the applicable licence category, the financial reporting framework and the circumstances of the licensee. Not every tradie will have the same reporting obligations, and ordinary bookkeeping records alone do not

For Queensland tradies, good financial administration is much more than bookkeeping. It is a practical way to improve financial visibility, maintain accurate records, reduce last-minute pressure and make regulatory reporting more manageable. By keeping accounts up to date, maintaining supporting documentation, reviewing financial reports regularly and planning

for compliance deadlines, a trade business can be better prepared when QBCC financial information is required. The key is simple: organise the finances throughout the year, rather than trying to organise the entire business's financial history when a report is due. A well-structured financial administration system helps tradies spend less time chasing paperwork, make better business decisions and focus more of their attention on what they do best: running a successful building and construction business. Feel free to book a call with me straight from my Home page at www.straighttalkat.com.au to arrange a FREE Business Health Check that focuses on productivity through good HR practices. Copyright © 2026 Robert Bauman.

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Many Australians are overqualified for their jobs – which comes at a price, new data shows Close to half of Australians believe they have more education than their job requires, a dynamic that is associated with lower job and life satisfaction. A quarter of people also cannot fully use their skills and abilities in their current job. These figures come from the latest annual report from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey, released today, with data through to 2024. It presents new insights on how well people’s educational level, skills and abilities match the jobs they work in. The HILDA survey has been following the same group of about 17,000 people every year since 2001, which makes it possible to examine how lives of Australians are changing over time. The survey is one of Australia’s most valuable social research tools. I am part of the team that collects and analyses the data – here’s what we found.

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Half of workers are overeducated for their jobs Let’s start with the good news. Over the last two decades or so, access to tertiary education has dramatically improved for Australians. The proportion of people aged 18 to 64 with a bachelor’s degree has increased from about 14% in 2001 to almost 22% in 2024, making it the most prevalent level of education.

On the downside, people’s educational qualifications, skills and abilities often do not perfectly match their jobs. The data show that 49.5% of workers aged 18 to 64 were overeducated in 2024, meaning they held a higher educational level than they believed is the minimum required to successfully do their job.

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In addition, 25.7% of workers were “overskilled”, meaning they told us they do not use many of their skills and abilities in their job. Young people and casual employees are more affected by both of these kinds of mismatch. Certain occupations, like retail workers, labourers and machinery operators and drivers, are also more affected, as well as people working in accommodation and food services. Why does overeducation matter? Both overeducation and overskilling are associated with lower job satisfaction, including pay and the work itself, and with lower life satisfaction, our study found. These workers are also more likely to consider quitting their jobs.

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These findings suggest that being unable to make full use of one’s education or skills in the job can lead to feeling bored, unappreciated or underpaid – and thereby hurt overall wellbeing. And things are not getting any better. Admittedly, we do see a shift towards more jobs that require higher levels of education. But that growth has merely kept up with the growth in people’s actual levels of education. So the overall proportion of people experiencing labour market mismatches has remained roughly stable. What is more, this apparent stability hides structural changes in the labour market towards occupations

and industries that tend to have relatively few overeducated workers, such as professional occupations or the health care and social assistance sector. Once we take that into account and compare workers with similar types of jobs, we do see a weak, rising trend in both over education and overskilling. Overeducated workers stay overeducated The poorer wellbeing outcomes for mismatched workers are all the more concerning because these mismatches can last for a long time. Of those workers who are overeducated in one year, almost two thirds (65%) are still working in jobs for which they are overeducated four years later. And about 40% of overskilled workers are still overskilled four years later.

What is more, mismatched workers are more likely to stop working altogether – about 11% of overeducated workers and 12% of overskilled workers are no longer employed four years later. That compares with only about 8% of workers well matched to their jobs. What needs to be done? The increase in workers who are not well matched to their jobs, and the likelihood they will stay in this situation for some time, suggests more must be done to ensure workers are well matched by education and skills. There are multiple avenues to improve job matches. For example, schools and higher education providers can support young people through targeted career advice and internships in choosing a career path that strikes a balance between their interests, skills and employer demands. Workers who are already in the labour market benefit from employer investment in on-the-job training and government financial support for retraining, ensuring their skills remain aligned with labour market needs. Finally, people must be able to access suitable jobs from where they live. This requires coordinated urban policy, such as mixed-use zoning and affordable housing, as well as investments in transport infrastructure, while employers can reduce distance-related barriers by offering working from home arrangements.

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Inga Lass

Senior research fellow, The University of Melbourne

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Is it the right time to take out a BUSINESS LOAN? In the lean, early years of running a business – that crucial time when most startups need capital – qualifying for a loan can be difficult. Step one is to build a solid credit rating, so a lender feels confident your company isn’t a high risk for repayment and can say “yes” to your application. Once you’ve established a positive credit score, the perfect time to take out a business loan might, in fact, be sooner than you think. Here’s why. Apply before you need the cash Healthy cash flow is essential for a young business to avoid getting into financial trouble – relying too heavily on credit cards, for instance, to cover unpredictable costs and day-to-day expenses at exorbitant interest rates. A line of credit can provide a new business with a bit of wiggle room and flexibility, allowing business owners to invest in opportunities that will bring in more revenue and nurture growth. Likewise, having access to “rainy day” funds can help business owners take care of unforeseen

yet unavoidable expenses, rather than putting them off to the company’s detriment. Waiting too long can be risky When a business desperately needs cash to stay afloat, the best time to ask for a loan was probably six months ago. A company in trouble isn’t going to convince a bank to approve a loan, which is why it’s wise to speak to a lender well in advance of when you think you’ll need additional funds. Naturally when a business is performing well, a loan or line of credit may not be on your radar – but when the books are looking their best is actually the perfect time to ask. As a rule of thumb it’s wise to apply for twice as much as you project your business actually needs. It’s always better to have access to more funds than you need as a cushion than to have too little – or risk not qualifying when you apply for additional funds later. Borrow funds early to fuel growth When a business is ready to expand, the need for cash can be the only thing holding it back.

other location, or scaling to serve more customers, talking to the bank earlier rather than later can help you overcome any financial obstacles in the way of meeting your future business goals. Always think ahead Small business owners can get into trouble when they try to manage long-term costs with short-term financing solutions, such as lines of credit – which can eventually lead to cash flow problems. Keep your financial records up to date, so you’re able to spot the need for longer-term financing early – if, for instance, you’ll need to invest in new equipment or hire new staff to meet next year’s production targets. Applying well in advance can help preserve your savings and shortterm financing reserves. The bottom line So what’s the simple answer to the question “When is the right time to borrow for the business?” For most companies, as soon as a lender will approve financing. Talk to your bank about your desire to proactively invest in your company’s growth and sustainability, so you don’t miss any opportunities to secure the funds you need to achieve your dreams. Get in touch with us to find out how we can help you. ----------------------------------------------------------------------Sandra Price

tradiebookkeepingsolutions.com.au

Whether your plans include buying another business, opening an-

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Sonyx 101 SEMI-GLOSS

Part of Resene’s family of waterborne coatings, Resene Sonyx 101 waterborne semi-gloss exterior has been optimised for superior toughness, durability and adhesion, as well as generous coverage, straightforward application, and good looks with minimal brush marks. Sonyx 101 has been formulated to impart a sleek, semi-gloss look, allowing architectural features, such as fretwork, to stand out. Additionally, the semi-gloss finish makes it easier to clean than a low sheen finish. Suitable for use on a range of substrates, including block and brickwork, concrete, fibre cement, G.R.C. panels, primed galvanised steel, primed timber and solid plaster. Sonyx 101 can be applied via brush, synthetic fibre roller, speed brush or spray application, spraying easily through an LP515 or FFLP516 tip. Semi-gloss paints like Resene Sonyx 101, as well as Resene Lustacryl and Resene Lusta-Glo, have a softer shine than full gloss, which makes them more forgiving when it comes to surface imperfections, while offering excellent durability in high-UV environments. Sonyx 101 is also available in a range of Resene CoolColour options. Sonyx 101 holds a verified Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) issued through EPD Australasia. As such, the use of Resene Sonyx 101 aligns with, and contributes points toward, recognised sustainability and building rating systems across Australia including: Green Star; NABERS; and, Infrastructure Sustainability Council. For a FULL LIST OF SPECIFICATIONS and application instructions, refer to Resene Data Sheet D30.

www.resene.com.au 2026 November Issue | 33

Terms & Conditions for Australian Businesses: A Practical Checklist Good Terms & Conditions should reflect the way your business actually operates. That means more than having a formal-looking document. Your terms should explain what you supply, how customers engage with you, when payment is due, what happens if plans change, and how important risks and responsibilities are allocated. This practical checklist explains the main areas Australian businesses should consider when preparing or reviewing their Terms & Conditions. Key Takeaways • Start with the transaction and customer journey, rather than a generic template.

34 | Aussie Painting Contractor

•

• •

Check that your terms clearly deal with scope, ordering, payment, delivery or performance, cancellations, changes and liability. Australian Consumer Law protections may apply even where the customer is another business. Standard-form contracts may also need to comply with the unfair contract terms regime. Gather your quotes, invoices, website wording and customer communications before reviewing or updating your terms.

What Terms & Conditions Do Terms & Conditions set out the rules that apply to a particular commercial relationship or transaction.

They may deal with matters such as: • who the parties are; • what goods or services are supplied; • what each party must do; • how orders are placed and accepted; • pricing and payment; • delivery or performance; • variations; • cancellations; • intellectual property; • confidentiality; • liability; • termination; and • other rights and obligations relevant to the arrangement. The wording should reflect the transaction your business actually enters into rather than simply using clauses because they appear in a template.

Website Terms and Sale or Service Terms Are Different Website-use terms and Terms & Conditions governing a sale or service arrangement serve different purposes. Website terms may deal with matters such as: • permitted use of the website; • website content; • intellectual property; • links to other websites; and • general website disclaimers. Terms governing the actual sale of goods or supply of services may instead address: • the goods or services being supplied; • pricing; • payment; • ordering; • delivery or performance; • customer responsibilities; • cancellation; and • liability and risk.

• •

quote or proposal; whether different customer groups receive different pricing or services; and whether different sales channels involve different processes.

One set of Terms & Conditions may not always describe every transaction clearly.

Terms & Conditions Checklist for Your Business Use the following checklist to test whether your Terms & Conditions reflect the deal your customers actually enter into. 1. Parties Identify the business supplying the goods or services and the customer entering into the agreement. Make sure the correct legal entity is named rather than relying only on a trading or business name.

3. Ordering and Acceptance Explain how a customer places an order or engages your business and when the agreement becomes binding. This may involve: • accepting a written quote; • signing an agreement; • placing an online order; • paying a deposit; • issuing a purchase order; or • another agreed acceptance process. 4. Payment Payment clauses may address: • prices; • GST; • deposits; • invoicing; • payment methods; • payment periods; • late payment; • interest on overdue amounts; • debt recovery costs; • expenses; and • disputed invoices.

A website notice alone may not explain the contractual arrangement a customer accepts when placing an order, accepting a quote or engaging your business. You can read more about Rise Legal’s Terms & Conditions services.

The payment process should match the way your business actually invoices and collects money.

Which Business Relationship Do Your Terms Cover?

Relevant issues may include: • delivery dates or estimated timeframes; • shipping; • customer access requirements; • information the customer must provide; • dependencies; • delays; • approvals; and • completion or acceptance processes.

Before drafting the document, identify the type of customer and transaction the terms are intended to cover. Consider: • whether you deal with consumers; • whether you deal with other businesses; • whether you deal with both; • whether customers buy online; • whether work is accepted by

5. Delivery or Performance Explain how goods are delivered or services are performed.

2. Scope Explain what your business will provide. This may include: • goods; • services; • deliverables; • timeframes; • limitations or exclusions; • customer responsibilities; and • things that are specifically outside the agreed scope.

2026 November Issue | 35

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6. Cancellations, Refunds and Complaints Your terms should explain the relevant processes for cancellations, refunds and customer complaints. These clauses need to be considered alongside any rights that apply under Australian Consumer Law. A broad statement such as “all sales are final” will not remove statutory consumer rights where those rights apply. 7. Changes and Variations Explain how changes to an order, project or ongoing arrangement are handled. This may include: • • • • • •

who can request a change; how the change is approved; changes to price; changes to timeframes; additional work; and how amendments are documented.

Privacy obligations should also be considered separately where your business collects or handles personal information.

8. Intellectual Property, Privacy and Liability Consider how the terms deal with intellectual property, confidential information, personal information and liability.

Terms & Conditions must operate alongside any rights that apply under Australian Consumer Law.

Depending on the business, this may include: • • • • • • • •

ownership of existing intellectual property; ownership of newly created material; licensing rights; use of customer materials; confidential information; limitations of liability; indemnities; and specific disclaimers relevant to the goods or services.

Australian Consumer Law

Consumer guarantees can apply automatically and cannot simply be removed or contracted out of where they apply. A customer can also qualify as a consumer even where they are purchasing for business use in certain circumstances. For example, consumer guarantees may apply to a business purchase where the goods or services cost less than the statutory threshold or are of a kind ordinarily acquired for personal, domestic or household use.

This means businesses should take care with clauses dealing with: • refunds; • replacement; • repair; • cancellation; • warranties; • liability; and • statements attempting to exclude customer rights.

Unfair Contract Terms Businesses using standard-form contracts should also consider the unfair contract terms regime. Australian Consumer Law prohibits proposing, using or relying on unfair terms in certain standardform consumer and small business contracts. For contracts entered into or varied from 9 November 2023, small business protections can apply where the business has fewer than 100 employees or annual turnover of less than $10 million.

2026 November Issue | 37

A term is not automatically unfair simply because it favours one party. The legal test considers matters including whether the term: • creates a significant imbalance between the parties’ rights and obligations; • is reasonably necessary to protect the legitimate interests of the party advantaged by it; and • would cause detriment if applied or relied upon. This can be relevant to Terms & Conditions dealing with matters such as unilateral changes, automatic renewal, termination, liability and other one-sided contractual rights. Check the Wording Against the Customer Journey Terms should be reviewed along-

side the way customers actually engage with your business. Trace the transaction from first contact through to completion. Ask: • Where does the customer first see the terms? • How are the terms provided? • How does the customer accept them? • Can the customer access a copy afterwards? • Does the quote match the terms? • Does the website match the terms? • Do invoices contain inconsistent wording? • Do staff emails promise something different?

particular timeframe but your Terms & Conditions describe a different process, that inconsistency should be addressed. The written terms should reflect the actual customer experience as closely as practicable. A practical checklist for reviewing business Terms & Conditions, including scope, ordering, payment, delivery, cancellations, changes, intellectual property, privacy and liability.

For example, if your website promises delivery within a

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CHECK OUT THE QBCC’s INDUSTRY SNAPSHOT

The QBCC’s Industry Snapshot provides valuable insights into Queensland’s building and construction industry, including licensing trends, demographic shifts and defect reporting— providing an understanding of industry dynamics, planning workforce development, and improving compliance and quality standards. SOME NOTABLE CHANGES OVER THE PAST TWO YEARS INCLUDE: GROWTH IN LICENSEES • Total licensees under the QBCC Act increased by 6.3% from 96,908 in 2023 to 103,011 in 2025 (total licensees are more than 120,000 under all Acts regulated by the QBCC). • The most notable increases were in the Brisbane region (+7.5%) and the Sunshine Coast region (+11.7%). DEMOGRAPHIC SHIFTS • The proportion of licensees aged under 30 years has slightly increased, indicating a modest rejuvenation of the workforce. • A large portion of licensees remain over 60 years old, especially in key trades like plumbing, painting and carpentry, highlighting ongoing succession challenges. DEFECT TRENDS • Painting continues to top the list of reported defects. • Driveways and paths defects have increased in frequency. • The incidence of footing and slab defects has increased. If you need a refresher on any of these defective work items, the QBCC’s standards and tolerances guide is a quick and easy reference for industry, licensees and home owners, based on recognised industry standards in Queensland.

Licensee feedback and suggestions are welcomed, so the QBCC can continue to evolve and provide the most accurate picture of the industry possible. To read the full and latest version of the Industry Snapshot or find out more on the state of the industry please visit www.qbcc.qld.gov.au

139 333 | qbcc.qld.gov.au

A006854 APN_10/25

The QBCC will publish the Industry Snapshot annually to ensure the building and construction industry is armed with current and reliable industry data.

THE HUMAN HABITS That Still Matter These days, you can’t avoid hearing and thinking about AI — it’s all around us, and it’s taking over the world. So much of our lives are being automated … which in some ways is breathtaking. In other ways, I think we can all feel that we’re losing something. This is a moment to stop and reflect: what is important to remain human? What human skills do we want to protect? Let’s explore some of those very human habits that we can’t let fall to the bots.

The Habits That Matter While AI can generate a lot of amazing things, and help us in incredible ways … there are some things that are ours, as humans: Being present: The AI bots can’t actually be present with us. That’s for humans to do with each other. There’s something in our nervous system that gets soothed when we’re in the loving presence of someone we care about. There’s something that opens in

40 | Aussie Painting Contractor

us when we’re present with someone we’re learning about. Caring: One thing we notice from AI generated stuff is that it’s very intelligent … but there’s no feeling that it cares. Of course not — because AI doesn’t care. That’s for us humans to do, and it’s incredibly important in our lives. We can’t lose connection to what we care deeply about. Sitting with discomfort: I think technology is slowly seeping away our ability to be OK with discomfort. Our phones, computers, social media, AI, and the abundance of entertainment means that we can be comfortable all the time. But it’s a very human capacity to allow ourselves to sit in the middle of discomfort. And it matters: it’s how we expand, connect with each other, have difficult conversations where we disagree, and meet our resistance to doing hard things. Choosing what matters: Sometimes, we want things to be chosen for us, because we have so much decision fatigue. But AI can’t choose what matters, because nothing matters to it. That’s for us — we have to think deeply about what matters to us, and choose to step in that direction.

The Habit of Being Human All of this is a choice: we can choose to care, to sit with discomfort, to be present with the world and each other, and decide for ourselves what matters. And it’s a choice we can make a habit — something we do regularly, because we care about these human things. Because they matter to us. I encourage us to make it a habit to do our focused work — the work that matters to us — in the presence of another human being. And have conversations with them, even if it’s uncomfortable. Go deeper, and discover something new together, without reaching for AI. Notice when you reach for technology when you’re uncomfortable, bored, feeling resistance or uncertainty. And then turn towards that, as a human habit. Feel it. Only we can feel boredom, and sit with that discomfort. In this place, the deepest discoveries of humanity have been made. What would Aristotle, the Buddha, Epictetus, Shakespeare, Tolstoy, Jane Austen, Newton have created, if they had technology to keep them from being bored? Choose to care about what you work on, what you put your attention on, who you spend your time with. Find a deeper appreciation for each of these, in each moment. Let yourself be filled with wonder, that great human experience that’s always available to us. Slow down, and let yourself savor human connection and weirdness and huge loving hearts. These are the human habits I urge you to care about. Automation will eat the tasks. But we are so much wilder than our tasks.

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Leo Babauta ZEN HABITS

2026 November Issue | 41

Operate from

ABUNDANCE,

NOT EXHAUSTION 42 | Aussie Painting Contractor

Business owners tend to run their businesses on the edge. They get so caught up in their ideas, visions, and opportunities that they invest everything into making them happen. They want to build, expand, and succeed all at once. Their creativity is their greatest asset, but it can also become their greatest liability. Ideas are unlimited, but time, money, energy, and attention are not. Every new idea demands resources, and without discipline, business owners can exhaust their reserves faster than they can replenish them. The solution is to create reserves in every area of your business. When you operate on empty, you react to every situation. Unexpected expenses become emergencies, delays create stress, and new opportunities become burdens. But when you operate with reserves, you have the space to think, evaluate, and choose your response.

•

Energy: Take care of yourself before exhaustion forces you to stop. Opportunities: Keep resources available so you can pursue the right opportunity when it appears. Relationships: Build trust and maintain connections before you need help. Attention: Stop chasing every idea and focus on the opportunities that matter most.

Practice creating a surplus wherever practical. Fill your gas tank when it reaches half instead of waiting until it's empty. Keep extra essential supplies on hand. Set aside money for future projects. Allow more time than you think you need. Build a healthy pipeline of clients rather than waiting until business slows down.

How Do You Build Reserves?

•

Money: Maintain financial reserves instead of investing every available dollar into new ideas or projects. Time: Build buffers into your schedule rather than filling every hour with commitments.

When you have reserves, you make decisions from preparation rather than desperation. You can turn down unfavorable deals, handle unexpected challenges, and pursue opportunities without jeopardizing what you have already built. Reserves also create room for better thinking, fewer mistakes, higher-quality work, and stronger relationships. They allow you to maintain your integrity because you are less likely to compromise your standards under pressure. Most importantly, reserves give you the freedom to work on your business instead of constantly reacting to it. You can still dream big, take calculated risks, and pursue extraordinary growth. The difference is that you no longer have to put everything at stake to make progress. Stop operating at the edge of your capacity. Stop spending everything you have to create everything you want. Build reserves in every area of your life and business.

When you operate on empty, you react to life. When you operate with reserves, you respond to life. When you respond, you are always at choice.

Begin by establishing new standards. Instead of asking how little you can get by with, ask how much capacity you need to operate comfortably and confidently.

The Power of Operating with Reserves

Equally important, learn to say no. Stop overpromising and start making realistic commitments. Not every idea deserves your immediate attention, and not every opportunity deserves your investment. Reserves are not about accumulating more for the sake of having more. They are about protecting your ability to make choices.

Because the objective is not simply to have enough to survive what comes next. It is to have enough capacity to choose what comes next.

----------------------------------------------------------------------Sandra Price

tradiebookkeepingsolutions.com.au

2026 November Issue | 43

aussie painters network

How Do You Quote a Painting Job?

Quoting is one of the most important parts of running a successful painting business. In this video, we break down the process of creating accurate, professional quotes that win jobs and keep your business profitable.

44 | Aussie Painting Contractor

Recruitment in the Painting & Decorating Industry Finding and keeping the right people is one of the biggest challenges for painting and decorating businesses.

Smoko – What does it really Cost

Smoko isn’t just a break – it’s a tradition in the trades. In this video, we take a look at what smoko means on site, why it’s important, and the stories that come with it.

2026 November Issue | 45

How can I check my offset account is collecting the savings it should? Do you use an offset account to save money on your mortgage? It might be a good idea to contact your bank and check it has actually been set up and is working as it should. That’s according to a report released on Wednesday by the corporate watchdog, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). ASIC’s review of eight banks – accounting for more than 70% of the Australian home loan market – found “weaknesses” in how all of them “set up, monitored and managed offset accounts, resulting in some customers missing out on promised savings”. Across the entire banking sector, ASIC says Australian banks have paid out more than A$55 million in compensation for offset account failures reported between September 2023 and August 2025. Reserve Bank data show 55% of Australian mortgages – representing an estimated 1.8 million

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households – have an offset account. According to ASIC, in March, Australians held a total of $349.1 billion in offset account balances, up 28% over two years. The watchdog’s findings raise concerns some aren’t getting the savings they’ve been promised. As my recent research has explored, even when operating as intended, these products can be difficult to navigate as a consumer and won’t save everyone money. How does an offset account work? An offset account is a type of bank account linked to a mortgage. Instead of earning interest, the savings in the offset account reduce the interest payable on your mortgage balance. To give a simplified example, if you owe $1 million on a mortgage, but also have $100,000 in a linked offset account, the bank will only calculate interest based on an effective balance of $900,000.

It might seem like an easy way to save money, but there are some important caveats. First, many banks charge customers to open or operate an offset account, or impose other costs such as higher interest rates on a linked mortgage. Second, they won’t be a good deal for everyone. Savings depend on a household’s ability to save and the specific costs of the product.

Why the regulator is concerned Across eight banks, ASIC reviewed 204,000 home loans that were settled between March and August 2025. Among various types of offset account failure identified, the two most common were banks not opening an offset account when it had been requested, or an account being opened but not linked to the mortgage. Manual errors by staff were identified as the main cause of account failures.

Overall, the report identified four overarching concerns, finding some banks: • struggled to “readily identify” offset account requests • did not consistently detect failures • were slow to fix issues or failed to compensate customers • did not consistently provide customers with “clear, timely information” about their offset accounts.

Offset accounts are designed to lower the total amount of interest you have to pay on a mortgage. James Ross/AAP

These findings are particularly concerning where a customer has opted to use an offset account instead of another type of account that pays interest. If their offset account hasn’t been linked correctly, they are missing out on both mortgage interest savings and the benefit of using another savings mechanism. Not for everyone My own recent research examined who uses offset accounts in Australia, and how much of a benefit they actually receive. I found mortgage holders are only likely to benefit from an offset account if they can save enough money – after mortgage payments and other expenses – that the mortgage interest savings outweigh the ongoing fees associated with the account.

Overall, the report identified four overarching concerns, finding some banks: • • • •

struggled to “readily identify” offset account requests did not consistently detect failures were slow to fix issues or failed to compensate customers did not consistently provide customers with “clear, timely information” about their offset accounts.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

James Graham

Senior Lecturer in Economics, University of Sydney

2026 November Issue | 47

48 | Aussie Painting Contractor

IMPORTANT

Contacts

Aussie Painters Network aussiepaintersnetwork.com.au

1800 355 344

National Institute for Painting and Decorating painters.edu.au 1300 319 790 Australian Tax Office ato.gov.au 13 72 26 / Ph. 13 28 65 Award Rates fairwork.gov.au 13 13 94 Australian Building & Construction Commission www.abcc.gov.au

1800 003 338

Mates In Construction www.mates.org.au

1300 642 111

Workplace Health and Safety Contacts Comcare WorkSafe ACT Workplace Health and Safety QLD WorkSafe Victoria SafeWork NSW SafeWork SA WorkSafe WA NT WorkSafe WorkSafe Tasmania

comcare.gov.au worksafe.act.gov.au worksafe.qld.gov.au worksafe.vic.gov.au safework.nsw.gov.au safework.sa.gov.au worksafe.wa.gov.au worksafe.nt.gov.au worksafe.tas.gov.au

1300 366 979 02 6207 3000 1300 362 128 1800 136 089 13 10 50 1300 365 255 1300 307 877 1800 019 115 1300 366 322

actcancer.org cancercouncil.com.au cancercouncilnt.com.au cancerqld.org.au cancersa.org.au cancervic.org.au cancerwa.asn.au

(02) 6257 9999 (02) 9334 1900 (08) 8927 4888 (07) 3634 5100 (08) 8291 4111 (03) 9635 5000 (08) 9212 4333

Cancer Council Australia ACT NSW NT QLD SA VIC WA

2026 November Issue | 49