Aussie Painting Contractor

Issue #2, November 2011

Is Your Business a Crime Scene?

Am I an Independent Contractor?

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Instant access to our TWO pricing and estimating guides

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Quotation guide to assist you when quoting

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Work Method Statement and Risk Assessment Guide

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Personal service and phone advice

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Web Listing for prospective customers to find you easily

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Free targeted online marketing & advertising

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Back-links to assist you in SEO rankings

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Your own page on homepaintersinfo.com

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Painter Help section if you are looking for work or looking for painters to help

If now is not the right time to subscribe we can still offer you a complimentary 1 page listing in our 'Find a Painter' section.

Supply your details to obtain your complimentary page NOW! Make sure you include your address, phone number and current web site if you have one, if you don’t, use ours!

$49.97 is all you pay for a 1 year subscription

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Editor Nigel Gorman

Contents From the Editor 4 Members Consultant 4 About the Editor 5

Deputy Editor

Business Principles Series Part 2: Maintain An Open Mind 6

Caroline Miall

Networking Successfully Equals Listening 7 Building Blocks of a Business 8

Writers

Is Your Business a Crime Scene? 9

Belinda Ross

Introducing Home Painters Info – Online Painters Forum 10

Caroline Miall Elizabeth O’Brien Jennie Gorman

The House That A-M Built 11 Know Someone Looking To Purchase Their First Home? 12 Am I An Independent Contractor? 14 How To Become A Really Successful Painter 16

Jim Baker Leanne Staff Nigel Gorman

Understanding the World Wide Web 17 Safe Work Week 23 - 29 October 2011 18 Zero Harm Leadership Program 18

Shannon Michell

New WHS Laws imminent 18

Sharon Vollmer

Skin Cancer and Outdoor Work 19

Stephanie Gadd

Workplace Health and Safety 20

Tamara Simon

THIRD LIFE Award Win for MATES in Construction’s suicide prevention model!22

Zac Gethin-Damon

Modern Murals 24 Who Said Ceilings Had To Be White? 25 Lead Paint Removal - Inform you client and land the job 26

Images on cover are courtesy of The House That A-M Built

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Members Consultant

From the Editor

Well, the year is drawing to a rapid end, how quickly time flies! This past month has been huge with us at Home Painters Info. With the release of our e-magazine we have reached hundreds of painting contractors and suppliers alike. We would love to hear your impressions about the magazine as your feedback will allow us to supply you with even more valuable information in future editions.

I have spoken with a lot of painters recently and am working on getting on the phone to many more to introduce myself and Home Painters Info. I would like to emphasise the outstanding value for money you will get when you join Home Painters Info, if you have clicked onto our website you will have seen Member Benefits such as:

What an enormous month we have had here at Home Painters Info. We launched our Online Forum, devised a pro-forma for your Work Methods Statement to assist with compliance, as well as another convenient way for Members to work out how to price a job. Most significantly, we have accepted membership in an important government initiative. Home Painters Info has grown so much in such a short space of time, and the response we’ve had from members and industry partners has been overwhelming.

I am pleased to announce that Home Painters Info was this month welcomed as a member of the Zero Harm at Work Leadership Program. This has been designed by Workplace Health & Safety Qld to promote the healthy workplace cultures across all industries. Turn to page ___ for a full run down.

       

We would like to spread the word that as of 1 January 2012, there will be big changes to national Workplace Health & Safety Legislation. We will be providing details from the source, making you aware of how such changes will affect your business. See page ___ to see what changes are afoot.

Estimation Guide Quotation Guide Professional Personal and phone advice Free listing in our Find a Painter listing Help a painter page Search Engine Ranking help(google etc) Overheads Calculator Work Method Statement and Risk Assessment Guide

As you can see, for under $50, you get great value and helpful educational tools for apprentices who are going out into the industry as newbies. With more feedback from you, we will endeavour to expand these benefits to assist in your business growth. We encourage you to join to experience the full benefits and information we provide; try us and see. As I mentioned before, your suggestions and feedback will be noted and acted upon to the best of our ability. WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!

As this issue goes live, the National Safe Work Australia Week 2011 will be underway, 23-29 October. The 7th year running, this initiative is to promote safer work places to reduce death, injury and disease. Click here to learn more.

Our newly built forum is enjoying early success, with over 100 posts already. Thanks to those who are sharing their knowledge; I highly recommend you check it out.

Hope to talk with you soon, Stephanie Gadd

It’s been good speaking with our Members, and great to see Members assisting Members in seeking employment etc. Keep up the good work!

0433 724 794 steph@homepaintersinfo.com

Enjoy November’s issue of APC. I look forward to talking with you in the future.

Nigel Gorman 0430399800 nigel@homepaintersinfo.com 4

About the Editor Aussie Painting Contractor (and Home Painters Info) is the brainchild of Nigel Gorman, who has been involved in the Painting Industry at multiple levels for over 15 years.

Having started out swinging a brush, to having a dozen painters working for him, and running a successful Painting Contracting Company, Nigel has had a well-rounded experience in the industry.

Having run his own business for 15 years, Nigel has a personal understanding of the challenges of the small business owner, and with a background in the trade, a thorough knowledge of the problems painters experience on the job.

Nigel has sat on numerous industry boards, committees and other forums on both a State and Federal level for over 10 years and has been heavily involved in the training side of the industry. With an understanding of the inner workings of a training organisation and the competencies required to become a Certificate III Painter and Decorator, Nigel has a unique comprehension of the industry from a broad range of aspects and has always worked hard to support it.

Since February 2011, when Nigel sustained a workplace accident putting an end to his days as a painter, he started looking into what alternatives he could pursue. He decided to try and ‘give back’ to industry from which he had gained so much, and share what he had learned. The most effective way of achieving this was by developing a personal service at a minimal cost, which could provide practical assistance to painters. Hard times are upon small business, and with an online information hub, and partnership publication, Nigel hopes to make things run a little smother for all.

From those beginnings Home Painters Info .com was created, followed soon after by monthly E-zine, Aussie Painting Contractor, and both are now growing at a rapid rate to be a strong voice in the painting industry.

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Business Principles series

valued for their opinion, and feel they have a voice in an organisation will stay with you longer, and be better representatives for you, and will likely work harder. Then value the ideas as part of why you hired them. Don’t fall into the trap of feeling that only the compliant staff member is always the best one. And remember, if you use an idea from a staff member, make sure you acknowledge them for it!

Part 2: Maintain An Open Mind If a company is to continue to grow and improve the quality of its products and its market, its leaders must maintain an attitude of openmindedness. They will ask their customers as well as all team members for feedback and ideas to help the company to continue its pattern of growth.

It’s not always easy to hear criticism or negative feedback, but it is a great deal easier to receive when you have specifically asked for it. Actively seek feedback/criticism and make it count, so that you will never hear it as a complaint against the business, which is far worse. Understand that it isn’t always going to be positive, but know that most often it’s the negative criticism (assuming its constructive) that will make for the biggest positive change to your business.

As a Business Owner it’s wise to always be on the lookout for ways to keep current and competitive.

Often these opportunities may first present themselves as unwanted challenges. Being open to change in your business and being willing to adapt to circumstances will make you more viable and resilient in the long run.

Collaborate with your industry fellows.

You may be in competition with one another, but ultimately, those with the same goals as you, in the same industry, are going to be in a unique position to understand your challenges. Sharing information, ideas and solutions will help you with your problems as much as it will help others with theirs. A collaborative approach will help increase the profile of the industry, stabilise a fair rate for professional painters, and strengthen the trade for all involved in it.

In whatever capacity you employ your staff, they are often your main contact with your client and the public. They are the most valuable asset you have. They are also going to be the only ones, who know nearly as much about your business as you, and sometimes more! Ensure you choose the most qualified and enthusiastic people you can, and listen to what they have to say. Staff who are

Image: digitalart / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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two eyes and one mouth … so use the eyes before the mouth. If you allow the person you are communicating with to talk at least twice as much as you do, then naturally you will learn things that you would not have learnt by doing all the talking.

Ask questions that are pertaining to them, not you.

Networking Successfully Equals Listening

By Jennie Gorman© The most important part of networking and building relationships is listening. This is a skill that successful and professional sales people use to perfection.

The greatest compliment you can give someone is to listen to them, as people love to talk, especially about themselves or their products. Really listen though, and ask questions as much as you can.

This way you are empowering and encouraging them to tell you more. Don’t get that glazed look when they are speaking, as there is nothing worse than watching someone you are talking to, when you know they aren’t listening at all. A bored listener shows too!

Are you really hearing what the speaker is saying?

Are you watching them as well? Listening is more than listening with your ears to someone’s voice and the words they are saying. It is all about watching their expressions as well as their movements and gestures. Look at the eyes of the person who you are speaking with, be involved and listen to what isn’t being said too! This will help with your questioning.

So, start listening more and finding out some interesting information that can support your clients as well. Being able to refer someone to your friends, customers and clients, is a wonderful way to let them know that you are supporting their businesses to grow.

To be successful as a networker you need to be a great listener as well as being alert and interested in what the speaker is saying. Body language can tell you more than the words that are said. If you haven’t read anything about body language, I suggest that you read at least one of Allan Pease’s books. Go to his website http://www.peaseinternational.com/ and see what he offers.

If you want to learn more go the http://www.connexionsunlimited.com.au to receive your FREE ’21 Days To Become a Networker’ e-course.

Wishing you happy listening and learning,

Really listening to what the person you are speaking with is saying, what their needs are and where you can support them, will bring you clients and advocates quicker than anything else. When you are speaking with a prospective client, what are they really wanting and needing? Can you support them with something totally unrelated to theirs or your work? Can you pass on a good referral from your contacts that may be able to help them achieve that they are wishing to achieve?

Jennie Gorman http://www.connexionsunlimited.com.au 0414 278 34

I have said for many years that we have been given

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Building Blocks of a Business One of the biggest hurdles in any business is finding the balance between your processes, your finances, your people and your clients. These are the ‘building blocks’; the primary elements building your business, which if managed well, and in respect of each other, will help you on the road to success.

Your Processes/Procedures:

This is the foundation of how your business runs; the systems that are in place to make it function. And no matter how big or small your procedures are, you need to document them.

Documentation means you are better connected to your money, you are in a better position to replace key staff if required, and you can even empathise more with your staff’s experiences within your business because you can more transparently see what it is they do.

Your Finances:

Without cash-flow, your business won’t survive, so it is crucial that you keep an eye on what costs you money and what makes you money.

Your People:

The staff, contractors, apprentices or anyone that works for you are all crucial to your business’ success. They are representing you as the face of your business. If they are good at what they do then so, too, will you be.

Your Clients:

It goes without saying the “Customer is King”. Without them you have no business.

•Structure & Strategy •Risk Management •Operations •Quality Control •Systems & Documentation

•Financial Control •Cashflow •Debt Management •Performance & Profits •Reporting

Processes

Finances

Your People

Your Clients

•Leaders •Employees •Contractors •HR Systems

•Marketing Strategy •Client Services •Follow Up •Sales

Get these crucial aspects of your operation working together, and your business will be sound. Keep reading (Is your Business a Crime Scene?) for clues that you might need scrutiny and repair in these areas!

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Is Your Business a Crime Scene?

Use forensic skills to increase your business profitability and productivity.

Most people would be familiar with the TV show ‘Crime Scene Investigation (CSI)’ in which investigators use forensics, science and logic to view the evidence presented from all angles to solve the crime.

There are many similarities between a business and a crime scene. By using some forensics skills, you can increase the profitability and productivity of your business. When did you last stop and really take a look at your business, people and systems?     

Today?

Yesterday?

Last week?

Last year?

Or has it been too long to remember?

If you’ve ticked one of the first few boxes, great! It shows you have been working on your business (as well as in it). This reduces the risk of your business looking like a crime scene.

If, however, you ticked one of the last two boxes, there’s a strong possibility your business is looking like a crime scene.

Signs your business is like a crime scene 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

There is a lack of leadership, with mixed messages given to both clients and staff Staff choose not to use business systems (that is they don’t follow procedures) A lack of communication leads to too many assumptions and confusion reigns supreme You’ve built your business systems around people not positions You are time poor The office (including the files) is messy and needs de-cluttering A lack of documentation means knowledge is in people’s heads and not written down.

If this sounds a bit too familiar, then perhaps you need to become a BSI (Business Scene Investigator).

Tips to becoming a great BSI    

Look for the evidence – how do you know if your business is profitable and productive? Remember the devil is in the detail.

Wear gloves – be delicate as you handle the evidence and make changes within yourself, your staff and your business.

Put your business under the UV light – look under things and in things to see what’s really there.

Don’t see the business through rose coloured glasses – get an external perspective on how your business is seen by your clients, staff and competitors to ensure it matches your vision and purpose.

Every successful business needs a BSI to take a step back and honestly review the business, people and systems to ensure it is simple, profitable and productive.

As B.C Forbes said, “If you don’t drive your business, you will be driven out of business”. So, who will be the BSI for your business?

If you want a simpler and more profitable business, call Tamara Simon from Take Another Look on 0438 262 727, email info@takeanotherlook.com.au or go to www.takeanotherlook.com.au.

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Introducing Home Painters Info – Online Painters Forum Painters talking to other painters and sharing ideas… What a strange concept!

We believe the time has come that painters need to start talking to each other. You see the sparkies, chippies, plumbers and most other trades talking to each other and helping each other out, so why don’t painters? It’s time to make a change. We are proud to announce the opening of our online Forum for Painters.

Have you ever had a problem on a job that you just can’t work out? Who do you talk to? The guy in the paint shop? Your paint rep?.. Or do you talk to other painters to find a solution? On the forum we have developed, you have the opportunity to ask questions of fellow painters, share some opinions, as well as help others with your knowledge.

Joining is simple; all you have to do is give yourself a username and choose a password. You can call yourself anything you like, so you can remain anonymous if you wish. We just ask to please keep it clean!

We have had great feedback from the people who have already got involved and shared their experiences. The Forum deals with all facets of the industry; surface preparation, lead paint issues, wall coverings, business ideas, technology, and many other areas that have already had people asking questions, and others coming up with answers.

We went live with the Forum on the 27th September 2011, and it is rapidly moving ahead, exceeding our initial expectations. We have over 30 topics already being discussed with over 100 posts in less than 2 weeks.

So go and check out Home Painters Info’s Forum and see what it is all about.

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The House That A-M Built

This month’s cover is brought to you by The House that A-M Built.

This beautifully designed and built

home has bought a little bit of The Hamptons to Brisbane.

The immaculate finishing touches, wallpapering and paintwork colours show a real flair for design and understanding how to take a vision and turn it into a reality.

Go and have a look at the gallery of how this house was started and finished.

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Know Someone Looking To Purchase Their First Home?

Help them with the following tips and action plan from RFS Finance.

Purchasing your first home can be daunting.

Deposit, genuine savings, Government grants, lenders, mortgage insurance… the list of considerations goes on. If you, or someone you know, is considering entering the property market then the following article is a must read.

Lenders policy We need to match your personal situation with a lenders policy in order to gain approval. Areas such as deposit amount and the need for genuine savings (a pattern of savings built up or held over time) differ between lenders. Also other factors such as time in employment and the location and size of the property being purchased exclude some lenders. A recent example of this occurred when a client came to us after being refused finance through their own bank for an inner-city apartment due to size and classification of the property as “high density living”. We were able to finance the property through a major lender who did not share the same limitations for security.

Pricing Interest rate and fees are always high on a borrowers mind. At RFS Finance we take this a step further to ensure that the client understands the true cost of a loan. One example is Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). LMI is generally required when a borrower does not have a 20% deposit. It is often many thousand dollars in premium and covers the bank and not the borrower. Many banks and other brokers will focus on the interest rate and ongoing fees of a loan, but neglect to compare lenders LMI premiums. By doing exactly this RFS Finance has been able to save its clients thousands of dollars.

We will list and explain the important factors when purchasing your first home and demonstrate how at RFS Finance we can take the uncertainty away, making the purchase of your first home an exciting and pleasant experience.

Borrowing capacity The first step on your path to home ownership should be to have your borrowing capacity calculated. A Broker is really the best choice here, as Brokers with access to hundreds of products can give a more complete answer. This will allow you to identify a target purchase price range and to investigate the affordability of the repayments, ensuring that you are comfortable with the ongoing commitments of a mortgage.

Pre-approval A pre-approval is a useful tool when purchasing your first home as it can remove many of the variables and uncertainty out of the process. A seller may feel more confident accepting an offer where pre-approved finance can be demonstrated any many clients use this as a negotiation tool.

There are however many traps with pre-approvals including short expiry dates, credit rating issues & confirmation of income.

Selecting a lender At RFS Finance we will show you your most suitable options for your consideration and assist you in selecting the “right financial solution”. Here are some important factors that we consider when assessing your options.

Assistance to buy your first home In response to the difficulties facing First Home Buyers in today’s market, lenders have introduced and refined policies to enable family members to offer assistance through the use of a Limited guarantee. This option is possible where the borrower/s are able to demonstrate that they can afford the loan but are unable to contribute a 12

sufficient deposit, or wish to avoid paying LMI. By limiting the guarantee amount from the family member they are able to help without the large commitment needed in the past.

Government assistance: Various forms of assistance are available from the State Government, ranging from the $7,000 First home Owners Grant, to Stamp Duty waivers/discounts.

Till Jan 31 2012 the QLD Government is offering a $10,000 Boost payment for anyone constructing a home or purchasing a new home (that has not been occupied previously). Although Transfer Stamp duty has increased following the recent changes by the QLD State Government, stamp duty remains waived for First Home Owners purchasing under $500,000. Your RFS Finance Manager will arrange all the paperwork for the First Home Owners Grant or Boost application.

o

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Extra advice to make the process easier These are just some of the things that can impact on a First Home Buyers loan application.

Additionally your RFS Finance Manager can discuss with applicants how to sign the contract, getting a finance pre approval or including a finance clause, getting a building and pest inspection, insuring the property, obtaining the first home buyers grant, how much stamp duty is payable, referral to a reputable conveyancer, and of course just as importantly, protecting your home and family in the case of an unforeseen event.

Other Grants o $10,000 Queensland Building Boost Grant Available for a limited time only – 1 August 2011 to 31 January 2012. The Building Boost Grant is available to any person or corporation buying or building a new home to live in, or to rent out for investment purposes, for homes less than $600,00.

Following is a list of State Government grants and concessions available to first home buyers as announced in the 2011-2012 State Budget. o

home buyers purchasing a home with a value less than $750,000.

• Check your eligibility for the $7,000 First Home Owner Grant (guide only)( http://www.osr.qld.gov.au/eligibilitytesters/fhog-decision-tree.shtml ) • Visit the Office of State Revenue website for more information( http://www.osr.qld.gov.au/first-homeowner-grant/index.shtml ) • Read the Premier and Treasurer’s media statement( http://statements.cabinet.qld.gov.au/M MS/StatementDisplaySingle.aspx?id=752 03 ) First Home Concession and Vacant Land Concession – Continuing, but changed from 1 August 2011 First home buyers will continue to receive a First Home Concession on their transfer duty costs. This includes first home buyers purchasing blocks of residential land to build on.

The concession rates have been adjusted to take into account the removal of the Home Concession.

$7,000 First Home Owner Grant Continuing and available now. The First Home Owner Grant was created to help you buy or build your first home. The grant applies to first

Shannon Michell Finance Manager Australian Credit Licence: RFS Finance Pty Ltd No 388022 M 0408 759 030 | F (07) 3112 5058 | E smichell@rfsfinance.com.au | W www.rfsfinance.com.au

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Am I An Independent Contractor?

The Australian Government's independent contractors’ legislation aims to protect the status of independent contractors in the workplace.

The Independent Contractors Act 2006 recognises the role independent contractors play in Australian workplaces.

The laws ensure that genuine independent contractors are not treated as employees. The laws also protect genuine employees from being treated as independent contractors.

Most independent contractors run their own business, control their own working times and decide how and where they undertake work. Many independent contractors also advertise their business, provide their own tools and equipment and may pay others to carry out work on their behalf.

In contrast, employees are typically subject to controls on how, where and when their work is performed.

They are paid regularly and cannot pay someone else to do their work for them.

How do I know if I am an independent contractor?

The courts have adopted a multi-factor test to determine whether a person is an employee or independent contractor. No single issue will be determinative. However, courts will place greater weight on some matters, in particular, on the right to control the manner in which the work is performed.

In applying the test, a court will look at the whole relationship and make a decision on balance. Any written agreement stating the nature of a relationship as either employment or contractual is relevant but not conclusive. Building industry participants should use the common law test to assist in a self-assessment of their status.

A table summarising the common law test is provided below. If in doubt, it is strongly recommended you seek independent legal advice. In the instance of a dispute, it is the court that will ultimately decide whether the relationship is that of an independent contractor or an employee.

What if I am an independent contractor under taxation or superannuation laws?

An individual may be called a ‘contractor’ according to other federal and state laws. This does not automatically make them an independent contractor for the purpose of the independent contractors’ legislation. For example, even if an individual is classed as a 'contractor' for taxation purposes, this will not necessarily mean that they are an independent contractor under independent contractors’ legislation. Being a contractor for tax purposes may be a relevant consideration but does not determine an individual's status for independent contractors’ legislation purposes.

Some state laws also treat contractors as employees, in particular workers’ compensation laws.

What if I have an Australian Business Number (ABN)?

Having or obtaining an ABN does not automatically mean that a person will be classed as an independent contractor for the purposes of the independent contractors’ legislation.

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Summary of Common Law Test * Indicative of Employment

Indicative of Independent Contracting

No

Yes

No

Yes

Do I work standard hours?

Yes

No

Am I paid according to task completion, rather than receiving wages based on time worked?

Do I incur any loss or receive any profit from the job?

Do I accept responsibility for any defective or remedial work which was my doing?

Am I free to work for others at the same time?

Do I accept that work lasts for the term of each particular task or contract?

Do I have the right to employ or subcontract any aspect of my work to another person?

Do I have the right to employ an apprentice or trainee in the execution of contracts?

Do I understand the arrangement between us as a contract for services?

No

Is tax deducted by the hirer from my pay?

Yes

No

Do I provide my own public liability and sickness and accident insurance cover?

No

Yes

Do I receive paid holidays or sick leave?

Yes

No

Do I render tax invoices for payment?

No

Yes

Do I file GST returns?

No

Yes

Factor Do I have control over the way I perform a task?

Do I supply/maintain my tools or equipment?

Yes No No No No

Yes Yes Yes Yes

No Yes No No

Yes Yes

* The outcome of this test is not determined by adding the number of factors and no one factor will be conclusive. If in doubt, it is strongly recommended that you seek independent legal advice.

Further information The Office of the Australian Building and Construction Commissioner Hotline: 1800 003 338 Website: www.abcc.gov.au Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations Independent Contractors Hotline: 1300 667 850 The information contained in this fact sheet is correct as at 5 January 2010 This material is for general information only. You should seek legal advice in relation to your particular circumstances. The Australian Government, its employees and agents do not accept any liability for action taken in reliance on this document and disclaim all liability arising from any error or omission. ABN 68 003 725 098 V5.00 Š Commonwealth of Australia 2010

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How To Become A Really Successful Painter My name is Jim Baker. I have been a painter for 42 years and have run my own successful painting business in Brisbane for 27 years under the name of James W Decorating.

At the Dulux National Conference in 2004 and 2006, I won the title of Dulux Accredited Painter of the Year for Queensland. I have also been a finalist in the Action Coach My Business Awards for Best Small Business in 2008, the Dulux Accredited Business Professional finalist in 2011 and the Micro Business Queensland Telstra Business Awards finalist also in 2011.

When I was first in business, my main concern was to be cheaper than my competitors’ price. Experience has taught me that this is not what a client is looking for, which is the reason I wrote a book, “How To Become A Really Successful Painter”. If you are in business, or one day want to start up a business, then my book can help you. I can show you how, using a series of 8 easy steps, your business will be one jump ahead of your competitors and more profitable. It doesn’t matter if you want to be a one man operator or have 50 people working for you. The outcome is the same. Success for your business!

What I have learnt through trial and error, attending seminars, observing how others run their business and being in the trade myself for 42 years, will be of huge benefit to you.

I will show you how to:         

Advertise efficiently without spending a fortune.

Get more exposure.

Increase the number of your potential clients.

Win the job even though you are the highest quote.

Improve quote acceptances.

Be more of a business person rather than ‘just a painter’.

Make your quotes more appealing.

Design graphs to help keep track of calls and clients.

Get and keep that competitive edge over other painters.

Just one small detail could mean either a Yes or a No on a job acceptance.

By following even a few of my proven ideas, I assure you that you will have more success in winning a job over your competition. This is not done by lowering your prices. From feedback I receive from my clients, I am often the most expensive and I am usually booked 3 to 4 months in advance.

My book has been thoroughly approved by Dulux, Master Painters, Be Constructive Qld. And TAFE teachers from various colleges around Australia. 1200 books are being given out by Dulux to every final stage painting apprentice and Post Trade graduates in Australia each year. It is also being used as a reference book by Dulux in New Zealand and a TAFE College in Fiji.

If you are looking for improvements in your business, then “How To Become A Really Successful Painter” can really help you.

A copy of my book is available by emailing your name and address to jimbaker@notjustapainter.com.au http://www.housepainteradvice.com.au Regular retail price: $25.50 (inclusive of GST and postage).

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Understanding the World Wide Web The World Wide Web, often seen as WWW or called ‘the web’, has now become one of the most popular forms of communication worldwide.

Forming part of the ‘internet’, the information that can be found on this resource is HUGE! It grows so fast that it would be almost impossible to see, or keep up with, all of the web pages appearing on, and being added to the web.

To understand how the Internet or ‘web’ works it helps to understand some of the lingo used. We often see words and abbreviations such as URL, HTML, JAVA, links, browser, http etc etc. With the development of the web, new words were also created to help explain new ideas or resources. It helps to know what the basic ones mean.

Browser – This is a software program designed to allow you to view web pages and other documents on the Internet. Browsers translate HTML code into text, images and sounds that are easier to understand.

Cache – This word is used to explain the space that is used on your computer to store the web pages that you have visited online.

HTML – This stands for Hyper Text Mark-up language. It is a standardised computer language that was developed to sit behind all web pages containing all the text, images, links etc., that are used to display the web pages correctly on your computer screen. When you view any web page what you are seeing is a product of this HTML code working with your browser to display the page as accurately as possible.

JAVA – This is a programming language created for writing safe programs that can be downloaded to your computer through the Internet. By using small JAVA programs web pages can then include extra functions such as animations and other special features.

Links – Links are highlighted text (usually underlined), buttons or images that, when clicked bring up additional web pages. When your mouse hovers over these they usually change shape or colour to indicate that a link is present.

URL – This stands for Uniform Resource Locator. Simply put, this means it is the unique web page address. This often begins with http:// followed by words to indicate the domain name. No mistakes can be made when keying in a URL as any typo can result in a failure to reach the desired web address. The URLs are the addresses used to locate files on the web.

With the development of the web more things are becoming possible. If you like up to the minute information you can subscribe to data feeds known as RSS, which will deliver straight to your desktop.

You can now find jobs online through social networking sites, employment sites and online job boards. What about online shopping? The development of e-commerce sites has meant that millions of people can shop from the safety of their desktops. It doesn’t stop there! You can study online, book and plan holidays and get access to virtually any information you want. Looking for a service? Enter the service required, and locality into a search engine and it will deliver the names of all suitable services in the area.

It’s a fascinating tool and one that it pays to be a part of. Once you spend a little bit of time ‘surfing’ the net, you will realise that there is no end to what you can discover and learn!

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Safe Work Week 23 - 29 October 2011 Zero Harm Leadership Program New WHS Laws imminent We are pleased to be able to have November’s issue of Aussie Painting Contractor out early, in time for the 7th annual Safe Work Australia Week, 23 – 29 October 2011. You may have seen the ads on TV recently, featuring Safety Ambassador, Mal Meninga. Safe Work Australia Week aims to raise awareness of how crucial it is for a safe and healthy workplace for all. There are dozens of events and resources available to you to encourage participation in the week, and throughout the year, to promote safety for your work, so check out the website and get involved.

Well over 100,000 Australians are injured every year carrying out their work, and annually there are over 200 fatalities. Home Painters Info has recently been accepted into the Zero Harm at Work Leadership Program, a Queensland Government initiative which strives to reduce this number to nil – i.e. no harm to anyone, anytime while at work. Industry leaders play a vital role in achieving this, through sharing information and experience and providing commitment to ongoing change. Our involvement in the program will help us to advocate for our industry, and provide good representation for you, our members. Participation will ensure we can keep you up to date with regulation changes affecting your business.

Work Safe Australia has been a key player working towards the integration of OHS laws across the country, following a 2008 agreement among Workplace Relations Ministers to harmonise what is now called Work Health and Safety (WHS Act 2011). These are the changes we are now seeing in action, to be implemented by the end of 2011.

Home Painters Info is here to assist painting businesses to understand the ideas at play with Zero Harm at Work as well as the rules and regulations of the newly harmonised WHS laws. We recently attended a forum to provide a better understanding of the incoming national legislation (which will be effective as of the 1 January 2012), putting us in a good position to advise our Members Australia-wide.

We will be providing an ongoing commentary in each issue until these laws are in place, updating our readers and helping keep you compliant! So, look out for further features on Work Health and Safety in upcoming Aussie Painting Contractor.

Image: digitalart / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Skin Cancer and Outdoor Work Slap – slap on a broad-brimmed hat that covers the face, neck and ears. Caps offer limited protection and are not a good choice.

Australia has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. At least two in every three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer before they reach the age of 70.

Queensland in particular has dangerously high levels of UV radiation all year round.

Even during winter and on cloudy days UV radiation can be strong enough to damage unprotected skin and eyes. Working outdoors for most or part of the day can put you at greater risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

Seek – seek shade where possible. If you can, work under a portable shade structure and take your breaks in the shade. Try to work outdoors before 10am and after 3pm and indoors during the middle of the day when UV radiation is at its strongest.

Slide – Slide on sunglasses to protect your eyes. Close fitting wrap-around styles are best. Choose sunglasses that have an eye protection factor (EPF) of 10 and state on the tag: AS/NZS 1067:2003 to ensure that they conform to the Australian Standards.

All skin types can be damaged by UV radiation. Damage is permanent and irreversible and increases with each exposure. Therefore, the more sun exposure you receive over the course of time, the greater your risk of developing skin cancer. Whenever you are working outdoors it is important to protect your skin and eyes. Cancer Council Queensland recommends the following tips to reduce your risk of skin cancer: Slip – Slip on sun protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Choose work shirts with collars and longer sleeves.

Clothing that is lightweight, loose fitting and has an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50+ is best.

Skin cancer can be successfully treated if found early, however it can be fatal if left untreated. Keep an eye on your skin and be aware of what is normal for you. Every three months, check your skin from head to toe. Use a mirror or ask a family member to help you check hard to see places such as the back or scalp. If you have any concerns about skin cancer or there are any changes to your skin, talk to your doctor especially if you notice the following:

Slop – Slop on SPF 30+ sunscreen 20 minutes before starting work and reapply every two hours. Protect your lips with SPF 30+ lip balm. Never rely on sunscreen alone as your only protection from the sun.

A new spot, or a spot that is different from the ones around it.  A spot that itches or bleeds, like a sore that doesn’t heal.  A spot or mole that changes in size shape or colour.

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Workplace Health and Safety

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THIRD LIFE Award Win for MATES in Construction’s suicide prevention model!

What started four years ago as a good idea among Queensland construction workers to tackle very high rates of suicide in the industry, is now becoming a model for suicide prevention across Australia.

Construction workers are up to six times more likely to die from suicide than accidents at work with suicide rates close to twice the national average for men.

“Considering that three out of four suicides in Australia are completed by men, the suicide rates within the Queensland construction industry are truly frightening,” MATES in Construction CEO Jorgen Gullestrup said.

The MATES in Construction programs started running in 2008 and are this year’s winner of Suicide Prevention Australia’s annual LIFE Award for the third consecutive time.

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“We thought it was a mistake when we won the LIFE Award in 2009 as the suicide-prevention and intervention model had only been operating for 9 months, but when we won the award again in 2010 we realised this time there was no mistake,” Gullestrup said.

“To be honest, we never thought we had a chance compared to the more established organisations such as Beyondblue who received an honourable mention."

“Of course we are really proud to take the trifecta by also winning this year,” he said. MATES’ Third LIFE Award was presented at The Dome in Melbourne on International Suicide Prevention Day on Saturday 10 September 2011.

MATES in Construction has been taking off across Queensland and over the past two and a half years the programs have grown from training 2,000 workers on 10 sites to 15,000 workers on 160 sites across the state.

“It has grown into a massive network of ‘mates looking after mates’,” Gullestrup said.

Other states are showing interest in the successful model too with the Western Australian building and construction industry launching a MATES in Construction program on Friday 9 September 2011.

The Fiona Stanley Hospital project will run a pilot with the Western Australia Construction Industry Redundancy Fund (WACIRF), CFMEU and Master Builders Association jointly committing funding for the project.

“We are very proud of the programs and the success we have achieved,” Gullestrup said.

“It’s great that other states are now recognising the value of the MATES in Construction model and are deciding to implement it in their industries.”

“However this all fades to insignificance compared to providing practical and useful help to another person,” he said.

MATES in Construction connects two to three workers to help every day and intervenes in a workers suicide plans on average once per week.

“If anything, this is the achievement that really makes us proud,” Mr Gullestrup said.

It’s normal to have good times and bad times.

If you are you or your mate are doing it tough and need help, please see your Connector on site or contact the MATES in Construction, 24/7 helpline on 1300 MIC 111 (1300 642 111).

Other major MIC sponsors: Queensland Health, Construction Skills Queensland, Queensland, Master Builders Association, QMCA, CIRT, BUSS(Q) Building Super, CBUS, STIF, Abigroup, ETU, CFMEU, BLF, Queensland Plumbers Union

Image: Simon Howden / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Modern Murals ‘In Home’ Decorating Murals could very well be the new Feature Wall of the contemporary domestic scene. These can add to your room design something bold and original, really giving your property that Wow factor so often described.

Contemporary mural wall coverings are now available in so many styles, designs and photographic reproductions; it isn’t difficult to find a look to suit.

There are basically two different application methods with murals. The Eijffinger murals are on a roll with a white strip separating each drop. You simply cut at the white strip and you have drops of wallpaper that butt up to each other; very easy and looks fabulous. The Vision murals come in two, four and eight squares, which are somewhat harder to fit. They can be designed in multiple configurations; two squares is generally a door mural but can be used on any wall space, and then the four and eight square sets are laid in a cube/oblong shape or horizontal line. These are slightly overlapped so care should be taken to ensure the bottom one is put up first and the top one sits about a centimetre on the top of it.

Sizes start at 120w x 210h - 184w x 254h and 365w x 254h, if the mural does not fit the space there are a few things you can do: • Too large; simply trim to fit the space, ensuring it sits well visually.

• Too small in width or height; the mural can be centred, and the sides and/or top and bottom are painted in a complementary colour.

If you’re feeling adventurous and don’t mind a bit of DIY, you could attempt to install these murals yourself, particularly if you’re experienced at wallpapering. However, as these products can attract a considerable cost and you don’t want to destroy them in the process, it might be safer to contract an experienced Painter and Decorator to apply these for you – just to be sure!

So, when you’re looking to give a white house a touch of colour, make a sensational statement, or to celebrate an image that means something in your home, investigate the possibilities in murals.

The obvious differences between using murals as opposed to wallpapers is that your wall has one large motif, (sometimes filling the entire wall, or as big as you want it) instead of the repetition of a pattern. This can give a room the illusion of a larger space and an uncluttered look. There is a huge variety of photographic images to choose from - travel - fantasy - modern - urban – marine, even space! From children’s rooms to entertaining areas - and the colours are fantastic.

An affordable option and popular brand is the Vision Wallcoverings- Komar Photomural, priced from $120.00 through to $289.00. For the bigger budget, some of the top of the range are the Dutch Eijffinger Murals which range from $690.00 to $1790.00 and include fabric wall coverings. This may seem excessive but when you see how they look, you see they are well worth the money.

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Who Said Ceilings Had To Be White?

Well, let’s start at the top and work down.

In a media room I would consider a much darker colour, go on, go for it… who said after all that ceilings had to be white? Consider a smoky grey, with burgundy walls, a brown grey with dark blue walls, there are endless possibilities here.

Ceilings seem to be the bane of every building, but they don’t have to be…

But white ceilings, Oh Please! How uninteresting.

In the kids’ rooms, why not do a coloured ceiling?

Little people love pink, purple, blue, green, yellow.

Try pink walls with a soft lavender ceiling, green walls with a blue sky – I mean ceiling!

Whoever made that rule just wasn’t thinking clearly. It’s easy – yes, but lovely? Interesting? – Probably not. Here are my thoughts on ceilings.

The other thing I feel obliged to mention here is that you don’t always have to use ceiling flat.

Quite frankly, as a home owner – it sucks! (sorry if that offends you – but have you ever tried to clean it?!)

I don’t mind using a standard tintable ceiling flat in bedrooms, maybe even a living room, but in the rest of the house I mix things up a little.

In the bathrooms I use a Semi-gloss bathroom and kitchen paint, so easy to wipe over and keep streak free. Your clients will love you for this suggestion.

Same colour walls and ceilings, up and over, done.

Firstly, in a small house with standard height ceilings…

In the kitchen and if the ceiling spreads through the dining, family rooms and even hallway, my hot tip is this – use a washable wall paint in a low sheen! It doesn’t even matter what colour it is as long as it’s easy to clean. Ceilings in these areas are usually painted in the standard flat ceiling white, and what a shame, and how difficult is it to keep clean. Your clients will worship you for this suggestion and tell all their friends of your genius!

I would consider painting the ceilings a ¼ or ½ strength of the white wall colour, this gives the illusion of it all being part of the one thing aiding in the theory of space. This is even easier to achieve if there is no cornice.

A bright white ceiling on a (shade of) white wall, still gives definition and in turn gives a finish line to the wall and a definite height to the ceiling.

Belinda Ross Dip. Bus. Man., Cert. IV Rem. Th. Colour Specialist Master Profiler 0413 464 289 E: belinda@colourtransfor mations.com.au

Don’t forget that our ceilings sit in shadow and therefore always look a shade darker anyway.

Secondly, in a larger home with wide open spaces…

If the client wants that designer white on white look then I would consider doing it all the same 100% of their shade of white, the reason I say this is because by the time they add their furniture and flooring there will be many more shades of white with a touch of ‘something’

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A: It says the colour change kits can give false negatives and false positives so you should either assume that pre-1990 housing has lead paint or get it tested at a lab. The DIY-sampling kits sold by The LEAD Group are listed as the first choice in lab testing options, to find out how much lead is in the paint.

Q: What are the Occupational Health and Safety procedures that, as an employer, I am required to follow, where lead in paint is concerned?

A: See the Queensland Government’s Workplace Health and Safety web-site: http://www.deir.qld.gov.au/workplace/subjects/ha zardousmaterials/lead/index.htm or The LEAD Group’s fact sheet: http://www.lead.org.au/fs/fst38.html

Lead Paint Removal - Inform you client and land the job

By Elizabeth O’Brien and Zac Gethin-Damon of The LEAD Group Inc.

If a potential client in a pre-1990 home is given credible information on lead paint hazards by you when you are quoting, they are far more likely to hire you to do the job – even though your quote will normally be higher than one from a painter who says nothing about lead. Here is just a bit of information to help you help your customers.

Q: Wasn’t lead in paint banned in 1970?

A: NO! The paint in pre-1970 houses is very likely to be leaded but even houses built before 1990 can contain enough lead to turn a colour change kit pink and dry-sanding such paint can create a lead poisoning risk for resident children and pets. Pre1970 paint typically contains more than 1% lead (can be up to 50% lead or more) and is defined as a hazardous substance under government regulation.

Q: Where can I get free copies of credible information on lead paint?

A: You can ask for as many copies as you need (to be delivered to you for free), of the “Lead Alert: Six Step Guide to Painting Your Home” by phoning 1800 803 772 (the federal environment department’s Community Information Unit).

Image: digitalart / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Q: What does the Six Step Guide say about testing paint for lead?

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LEAD TEST KITS Even low levels of lead are harmful Paint contractors, parents, renovators, child-care centre operators, teachers, landlords, agents, pet-owners: Find out if paint, dust, soil, drinking water, toy paint, plastics, ceramics, jewellery, and other items are safe for humans and pets.

Buy a DIY-sampling / lab analysis lead kit The LEAD Group’s lead test kits are the only ones available in Australia for testing a wide variety of samples at a lab (which charges us a charity rate so you pay less).

You take the samples, and send them to Sydney Analytical Labs.

The lab analyses the samples, and we explain the results.

See the factsheet for ideas about items and locations to test, and read why purchasers are so impressed with the kit and follow-up advice.

Order online at http://www.lead.org.au/clp/products/Do-It-Yourself-Lead-Safe-Test-Kits-Orders.html OR print form at http://www.lead.org.au/clp/products/Print_to_fax_or_post_DIY_lead_sampling_test_kits.html for mail order or fax OR phone 1800 626 086 with your credit card details.

Comprehensive Kit $250

Water Kit $85* Basic Kit $100

*The water test kit requires less lab work and a lot less interpretation that is why it costs less Prices include postage within Australia, handling, lab charge, results, interpretation & GST.

Four videos showing how to use the sampling kits are available on You Tube: Search www.youtube.com for Lead Poisoning DIY Lead (Heavy Metal) by globalleadgroup

The LEAD Group is a charity (ABN 25819463114 ) which aims to create a lead-safe world. Check out The LEAD Group’s website www.lead.org.au or donate at http://www.givenow.com.au/lead

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