B2B in Canberra November 2011 (Issue 65) by B2B magazine

Contact RSM Bird Cameron on 6247 5988 and mention this feature to be in the running to receive a FREE SMSF set-up *Conditions Apply

Canberra’s busIness & government magaZIne

b2bincanberra.com.au

November 2011

Do you have control over your retirement planning? RSM Bird Cameron shows you how. 4 page self managed super fund pullout feature page 19

GJK FACILITY SERVICES

FAMILY LAW LITIGATION

Keeping Canberra businesses neat and clean.

Is it all what it’s cracked up to be?

DON’T FORGET THE ATO’S OLD WEAPONS Tony Lane from Kazar Slaven warns

$4.95 inc. GST $4.95 inc. GST ISSN 1833-8232 01

9 771833 823005

www.peugeot.com.au

INTRODUCING

THE CAR YOU NEVER KNEW

YOU ALWAYS WANTED

SportS luxury haS never been So affordable.

from only

199

1 per

week

for approved buSIneSS applICantS only

NEW PEugEot

62,412

drIve away

RCZ

CANBERRA. Melrose Peugeot. 6282 2311. AT PARTICIPATING ACT DEALERS ONLY. All driveaway prices shown are single prices and comprise the vehicle price, registration, CTP, stamp duty and dealer delivery charge. Offer ends April 30 or while stocks last. Excludes government and fleet buyers. 1 Offer is available from Alphera Financial Services, for business use vehicles to approved applicants only. Monthly repayment is $862.33 based on a business use loan with Alphera Financial Services, a driveaway price of $62,412, $0 deposit, final payment of $30,375, 60 month term and interest rate of 8.40% per annum. Total amount payable under the contract is $82,114.80. Terms and conditions, fees and charges, and approval criteria apply. 2 Recommended Retail Price for a Peugeot RCZ with metallic paint, subject to change without notice. PEU7508

CONTENTS PUBLISHER’S NOTE Our cover story and four page pull out feature is all about self managed super funds (SMSF). If you provide business services, don’t have one or think you should be doing more with your SMSF then read this section immediately (pages 18-21). B2B is pleased to, again, to be a media partner to the Canberra International Film Festival. The festival runs from 26 October to 6 November. This year there will be 58 films, 98 screenings, including 17 Australian premieres. Also our own Hollywood superstar Mia Wasikowska will headline the opening Australian film, Restless (page 8 and inside-back-cover). A film festival is also good opportunity for us to evaluate the contribution the arts make to our community and our economy. Therefore the VOX POLI question set for our political representatives this month is ‘How does the arts industry contribute to the economy of the ACT?’ (page 15)

19 Cover storY rsm bIrD Cameron shows you how to take control over your retirement planning

TIM BENSON Publisher

UPFRONT 06 GJK Facility Services –

Creating a bright future in the ACT

07 Qantas and British Airways enhance Joint Service Agreement.

08 Aia Wasikowska opens Canberra International Film Festival

Top business award for woman behind healthy troops cover photo by Andrew Sikorski

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S T O T H E

2011 ACT CHIEF MINISTER’S EXPORT AWARD WINNERS ACT Distinction | National Recognition | International Success

On behalf of the ACT’s dynamic exporting community and the 2011 ACT Export Award sponsors, ACT Government and Canberra Business Council congratulate the 2011 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards category winners: MICROBUSINESS AWARD (ACT SPECIFIC AWARD)

2011 ACT EXPORTER OF THE YEAR AND 2 0 1 1 A C T E X P O R T H A L L O F FA M E R E C I P I E N T

Lipotek Pty Ltd w w w. l i p o t e k . c o m . a u EMERGING EXPORTER AWARD

I N F O R M AT I O N A N D C O M M U N I C AT I O N T E C H N O L O G Y A W A R D MINERALS AND ENERGY AWARD

Sentinel Pty Ltd w w w. s e n t i n e l p l . c o m . a u

QuintessenceLabs Pty Ltd

ASPEN MEDICAL

w w w. q u i n t e s s e n c e l a b s . c o m . a u LARGE SERVICES AWARD

Aspen Medical w w w. a s p e n m e d i c a l . c o m . a u

e WAY w w w. e w a y. c o m . a u A R T S A N D E N T E R TA I N M E N T A W A R D

Benjamin Shine Studio SMALL TO MEDIUM SERVICES AWARD

Noetic Group w w w. n o e t i c g r o u p . c o m

w w w. b e n j a m i n s h i n e . c o m SMALL BUSINESS AWARD

Recruitment Systems Pty Ltd w w w. r e c r u i t m e n t s y s t e m s . c o m . a u

ACT category winners now progress as national finalists in the 49th Australian Export Awards. The national winners will be announced at a dinner in Brisbane on 8 December 2011. We wish our ACT winners every success at the National Awards.

The 2011 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards are an initiative of the ACT Government, managed and delivered by Canberra Business Council and proudly sponsored by:

CONTENTS

OPINION 08 Juliette Ford, Director, Consensus Family Lawyers asks if Family Law Litigation is all its cracked up to be?

PROFILE

12 Lawyer Monisha Lazarus, Elringtons FEATURES Greg Castle, Westpac Regional General Manager

VOX POLI 16 How does the arts industry contribute

30 MARKETING Make your message last longer By Mary Curran, Brandnet WEBSITES Take the time to be inspired! By Synapse Worldwide

to the economy of the ACT?

COVER STORY 19 RSM Bird Cameron’s 4 page pull-out

A2B: ASSOCIATIONS TO BUSINESS 32 ACT EXPORTERS NETWORK: The 2011 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards

shows you how to take control of your retirement planning

33 CANBERRA BUSINESS COUNCIL: Adapting to Change

23 ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS 24 ACCOUNTING Think BIG on superannuation By RSM Bird Cameron

28 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE Collaboration in Public Sector By Australian Institute of Company Directors ESTATE PLANNING Women and their nest eggs By Certus Law

14 Westpac and their work with the social sector with

BUSINESS SERVICES The ATO’s old weaponry is just as good By Kazar Slaven

34 ACT & REGION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY: Celebrating Youth Mentoring Week

BUSINESS LAW Court leaps to the defence of Auction Contracts By Elringtons Lawyers

BUSINESS NETWORKING 36 B2B @ Business Leaders Breakfast at Canberra Business Centre, Regatta Point 38 B2B @ Canberra Business Council Executive SAP Luncheon

26 BUSINESS RELOCATIONS Confidence in us gives you piece of mind By Allied Pickfords Business Relocations

38 B2B @ Canberra International Film Festival Launch

14 PUBLISHER I EDITOR

tim benson editorial@b2bincanberra.com.au 02 6161 2751

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES tim benson 0402 900 402 advertising@b2bincanberra.com.au

PUBLISHED BY

DESIGN

man bites Dog Public relations abn 30 932 483 322 Po box 4106 ainslie aCt 2602 t 02 6161 2751 f 02 6262 7721 b2b@b2bincanberra.com.au b2bincanberra.com.au

pixeltopaper.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY art-atelier.com.au

PRINTED BY blue star Print group ISSN 1833-8232

LEGAL NOTICE Man Bites Dog Public Relations (‘MBD’) owns the copyright in this publication. Except for any fair dealing as permitted by the Copyright Act 1968 (Cwth), no part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written permission of MBD. MBD has been careful in preparing this publication, however: it is not able to, and does not warrant that the publication is free from errors and omissions; and it is not able to verify, and has not verified the accuracy of the information and opinions contained or expressed in, or which may be conveyed to readers by any advertisement or other publication content. MBD advises that it accepts all contributed material and advertisements contained in this publication in good faith, and relies on various warranties and permissions provided to it by the persons who contribute material and/or place advertisements. Those warranties and permissions include that neither the material and/or advertisements are misleading, deceptive or defamatory, and that their use, adaptation or publication does not infringe the rights of any third party, or any relevant laws. Further, MBD notifies readers that it does not, nor should it be understood to endorse, adopt, approve or otherwise associate MBD with any representations made in contributions and/or advertisements contained in the publication. MBD makes no representation or warranty as to the qualifications of any contributor or advertiser or persons associated with them, and advises readers that they must rely solely on their own enquiries in relation to such qualifications, and be satisfied from those enquiries that persons with whom they deal as a result of reading any material or advertisement have the necessary licences and professional qualifications relating to the goods and services offered. To the maximum extent permitted by law, MBD excludes all liabilities in contract, tort (including negligence) and/or statute for loss, damage, costs and expenses of any kind to any person arising directly or indirectly from any material or advertisement contained in this publication, whether arising from an error, omission, misrepresentation or any other cause.

SETTLE FAMILY DISPUTES OUT OF COURT It’s hard enough when a relationship ends. So the last thing you need is soaring legal costs, protracted, public court proceedings, and your personal affairs being determined by a judge. Consensus provides a better alternative to the Courts. We use collaboration, arbitration and negotiation between the couple to find open-minded solutions that work. It’s discrete. It’s fair. And everybody leaves in agreement. For a new style of dispute resolution which puts you back in control, turn to Consensus. Canberra ACT 2601 T 02 6290 9898 F 02 6257 4382 info@cflaw.com.au www.cflaw.com.au

UPFRONT

GJK Facility Services – Creating a bright future in the ACT recent winners of a 2011 australian business award for Community Contribution, gJK has established a strong reputation for building and maintaining positive and enduring relationships with staff, clients, industry and the greater community. GJK Facility Services (GJK) is thrilled to be established in the ACT. One of the largest privately owned providers of cleaning and related property services in Australia, GJK brings over 25 years’ experience to its new Canberra clients. GJK provides an extensive range of soft services to clients across all industry sectors, including Government, industrial & manufacturing, hospitality & entertainment services, education, food/retail, commercial and public/private facilities. Its commitment to outstanding service delivery has resulted in the company’s continued growth since it began operating - it now employs in excess of 800 staff with an annual turnover of $40m. Recent winners of a 2011 Australian Business Award for Community Contribution, GJK has established a strong reputation for building and maintaining positive and enduring relationships with staff, clients, industry and the greater community. The family atmosphere found at any GJK office is something they warmly extend to clients, who appreciate the openness and integrity

with which the company handles service delivery and contract management. Always looking to improve on service delivery, GJK was the first company in the industry to implement an externally audited Integrated Management System (IMS). This means all internal systems are integrated to comply with Quality Assurance, OH & S and Environmental Accreditations, which are then audited by SAI Global. GJK’s integrated plan of ensuring its processes are as strong as its people has proved an outstanding success with clients. GJK Director George Stamas is passionate about continuing his company’s track record for successful service delivery in Canberra. “All of us at GJK feel privileged to now be expanding our services into the ACT region. As an organisation we are excited about what we do and dedicated to the industry we work in. We are looking forward to working with our new clients and with local industry representatives to ensure we can address the specific needs of our Canberra contracts.” Another way GJK continues to meet the

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

changing needs of clients is through active involvement with various association and industry bodies, including the Service Alliance Group (SAG), Building Service Contractors Association of Australia (BSCAA), Facilities Management Association of Australia Ltd (FMA Australia), and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). GJK has enjoyed a longstanding relationship with FMA Australia, and recently exhibited at the successful FM Expo, hosted by the FMA Australia ACT Branch at The Marque Canberra in June. For additional information or an obligation free quotation please contact us on; P 1300 735 022 M 0430 907 457, E info@gjkfacilityservices.com.au

GET ON “BORD”! Be part of the Business & Office Recycling Directory (BORD) – it’s FREE! Do you have a business that helps promote the service of re-use or recycling in the ACT? The ACTSmart Business and Office recycling programs help organisations in the ACT reduce their waste to landfill and BORD will help businesses and offices find you! To get on BORD, please forward your business contact details along with a brief description of what your business does to ACTSmart@act.gov.au For further information call 6207 4970

Qantas and British Airways enhance Joint Service Agreement. Qantas and British Airways will enhance their long-standing Joint Services Agreement (JSA) partnership to strengthen their Singapore hub and provide better connections, product and service for customers on flights between Australia and London Heathrow. The move is part of the Qantas Group’s five-year plan to build a truly modern, customer-focused and competitive global airline business. Qantas will continue Airbus A380 services from Melbourne and Sydney to London via Singapore, as well as constructing a new premium lounge at Changi International Airport. British Airways will upgrade its London- Singapore-Sydney service from a Boeing 777 to a larger Boeing 747. These changes will consolidate Singapore’s position as the primary hub for the JSA relationship, bolstering the two carriers’ competitive position in the Asia-Pacific region. They will result in a market-leading customer offer both north and south of Singapore, as well as

greater operational efficiencies. Under the restructured JSA, from early 2012 Qantas will fly Australia-Bangkok and Australia-Hong Kong, while British Airways will operate Bangkok-London and Hong Kong-London, maximising the airlines’ respective network strengths. British Airways will increase the frequency of London-Hong Kong services from 14 per week to 17 per week. Qantas will no longer operate the Bangkok-London and Hong Kong-London sectors and British Airways will no longer operate the Bangkok-Sydney sector. However, customers will still be able to connect swiftly and efficiently through both cities. For Qantas, the restructured JSA will improve profitability on London routes and allow the early retirement of four Boeing 747 aircraft. Valuable landing rights at Heathrow will be retained for future requirements. Qantas CEO Alan Joyce said it was the right time to restructure the JSA. “Strengthening our relationship with

British Airways is an important element of our new strategy for Qantas International,” Mr Joyce said. “Singapore will become the focal point of the JSA relationship, with daily Qantas A380 services from Melbourne and Sydney and onward to London, increased British Airways capacity and a new premium lounge. The Qantas-British Airways JSA was established in 1995 and gives the airlines regulatory approval to work together on strategic planning, schedules, pricing frequent flyer programs and sales and marketing, as well as permitting revenue sharing.

B 2 b I n C a n b e r r A N o v e m b e r 2 0 11

UPFRONT

Mia Wasikowska opens Canberra International Film Festival mia shines in the australian Premiere of gus van sant’s restless, a delicate, tender and quirky story of two people ﬁnding love. Internationally acclaimed Canberra actor, Mia Wasikowska, headlines the opening film at the 15th Canberra International Film Festival (CIFF). Mia shines in the Australian Premiere of Gus Van Sant’s Restless, a delicate, tender and quirky story of two people finding love. The 2011 program consists of 58 extraordinary films (17 Australian premieres) that include family films, comedy, drama, mayhem and breathtaking beauties about love and desire. New this year at the Arc Cinema is a celebration of song, dance and classic musicals, presented in collaboration with the National Film & Sound Archive. Artistic Director Simon Weaving said “I see

some wonderful and interesting characters as I sit back and ponder this year’s festival program– from French tomboys and Japanese chefs, to Norwegian troll hunters and unlikely heroes from the back blocks of London. It is, of course, always the characters that draw us into storytelling – and whether they are real, like Australia’s Chad Morgan, or totally and deliciously fictitious (and there are plenty of those!) there’s nothing quite like seeing and feeling another view of the world through their eyes and their actions.” ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher says the Festival plays a major role in the arts and festival calendar of the ACT. “CIFF has become one of Canberra’s signature events in the heart of the city,” she said. The Festival provides an opportunity for all Canberrans to engage with international and national filmmakers, emerging filmmakers, industry guests and film lovers.” “I’m proud that TransACT is the principal sponsor of the Canberra International Film Festival, for the fourth year running,” TransACT Chief Executive Officer Ivan Slavich

said. “We’re passionate about supporting the Canberra community and are looking forward to seeing the incredible range of films on offer throughout the 2011 Festival.” Become a member of CIFF online or at the Dendy. Come and save 40% on tickets and see some of the 2011 stars including Kirsten Dunst, Ewan McGregor, Tilda Swinton, John Cleese, Ryan Reynolds and Australia’s very own Olivia Newton John.

CIFF Facts:

• Wednesday October 26 – Sunday November 6 • 58 films [95 screenings from 26 countries] • Find the CIFF program and view film trailers at www.canberrafilmfestival.com.au B2B is proud to be a media sponsor for the 15th Canberra International Film Festival (CIFF)

Top business award for woman behind healthy troops a medical practitioner and specialist in underwater and submarine medicine, she has also overseen the delivery of vital health and medical support to troops in Iraq, east timor and the solomon Islands. The Navy officer responsible for the health of many of the nation’s defence personnel has been named the 2011 Telstra ACT Business Woman of the Year. Dr Robyn Walker, Director-General of Health for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and of Health Capability for the Australian Defence Force (ADF), has been recognised for her service and widespread reforms to improve the health of our armed forces. A medical practitioner and specialist in 8

underwater and submarine medicine, she has also overseen the delivery of vital health and medical support to troops in Iraq, East Timor and the Solomon Islands. In 2005, she led a post-tsunami humanitarian mission to Banda Acheh. The crisis was compounded further when a helicopter carrying health personnel crashed. Dr Walker held the Defence team together while it provided first aid and morgue facilities for colleagues involved in the crash and continued to help tsunami victims. Dr Walker leads an organisation that delivers Defence health materiel to more than 100 facilities with an annual budget of up to $40 million. The first woman to achieve the rank of Commodore, she was awarded an Order of Australia in 2010 for her exceptional service as a medical officer to the ADF. In December, she will take on the role of Surgeon-General and become the Navy’s first female Rear Admiral. Dr Walker also won the White Pages Community and Government Award

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

at the Telstra Business Women’s Awards presentation in Canberra today. The ACT winners proceed to the national finals of the Telstra Business Women’s Awards which will be announced in Melbourne on 18 November.

What will you be doing when you retire? Take control of your future today and access our full range of superannuation, retirement planning, taxation and business advisory services.

Connecting you to your future

Assurance l Business Advisory l Corporate Finance l Financial Services Risk Advisory l Tax l Turnaround and Insolvency

www.rsmi.com.au

OPINION

Family Law Litigation – is it all its cracked up to be? By Juliette Ford, Director, Consensus Family Lawyers

ecent events in a Parramatta barristers chambers, where a man assaulted staff and threatened to detonate a bomb in the presence of his daughter, is a reminder of how intensely stressful the court process is for all parties. It is believed that the man was due in Court that day at either the nearby Local Court or Family Court and ‘snapped’ after he was unable to locate the person who he thought was to represent him. Although the man may have had some pre-existing mental health problems, it seems likely that his overall experience with the court system had an impact on his mental state. Legal proceedings in the context of relationship breakdowns often leads to emotions which are highly fraught and parties who are extremely vulnerable, not unlike the man in Parramatta. Unfortunately, this means that the temptation to resort to threats and “black and white thinking” is much greater. Some people believe that going to Court is the best way to resolve a family law dispute, in which they will be vindicated, their former partner exposed and a powerful Judge will make orders that will end all their problems with the other party. Sadly, the majority of these people soon find that a protracted court case does not fulfil their expectations. Lengthy delays, high costs and confusing and arcane processes are almost always a feature of litigation. All of these factors add to the stress felt by the parties as they progress through the court system. For example, the court system moves much more slowly than is generally realised. In Canberra, it can take up to 18 months to two years for a family law matter to proceed

Sadly, the majority of these people soon find that a protracted court case does not fulfil their expectations. Lengthy delays, high costs and confusing and arcane processes are almost always a feature of litigation. to a final hearing. Throughout this time all of the parties involved remain in limbo, unable to achieve finality and unable to move on with their lives. In addition they will continue to incur legal fees whilst feeling as if they have not achieved anything. Perhaps most significantly, standing before a judicial officer involves ceding control to a degree that many people will find unnerving and disconcerting. For example the Court will create deadlines and timetables in relation to a matter with little or no input from the parties, essentially announcing that a party must attend on this date, at this time, in spite of any of their other commitments. When it comes time to make a final decision, the Judge will base his or her decision on a number of factors that they think are important. These factors may or may not accord with what the parties themselves consider important. The Judge will then make a decision that is accordance with the law and that they

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

believe will best serve the parties, rather than what the parties might think would work best for them. For a competent adult who is used to making their own decisions, this loss of control can be extremely upsetting and stressful. What if there had been a way for the man in Parramatta to resolve his legal issues without going to Court? What if there had been a way for him to be supported in the dispute resolution process, rather than allowing a vulnerable person to participate in a lengthy and confusing process? There is another alternative that is often not fully explored by before rushing off to Court. As well as representing people at Court, some lawyers also specialise in helping people resolve their dispute away from the court system. One such way this can be achieved is through the process of Collaboration. In the Collaborative Law process the parties and lawyers sign a contract where they agree not to go to court. A lawyer’s job is then to empower and support their client during negotiations, to enable them to make decisions for themselves. This is very different from the Court process, which can result in the parties feeling as if their decision-making capabilities have been entirely removed and placed in the hands of a stranger. Perhaps if the man in Parramatta had been able to engage in such a process, the traumatic events in the barristers’ chambers might have been avoided. For an Out of Court Solution contact Consensus Family Lawyers, 17-21 University Avenue, Canberra T: 02 6290 9898 or www.cflaw.com.au

Certainty, security and stability for your future.

Estate planning | Superannuation | Wills | Trusts | Collaborative solutions Are you going overseas? If so see us for a will

Are you helping your kids financially? See us to protect your money and progeny

Left out of the will? Then see us

Level 5, 28 University Avenue, Canberra ACT 2601 p 02 6268 9090 certuslaw.com.au

PROFILE

Monisha Lazarus Lawyer Business services Property & leasing Wills & estate planning

words and photos by Bonnie Elvin

onisha Lazarus is making a personable and professional mark as a business and commercial solicitor at Elringtons, one of the oldest law firms in Canberra. Finishing her degree at Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Science and Law, her interests in business and commercial legalities developed from her first job working in property and environmental law. Monisha then traveled to Europe for 18 months where she worked in Edinburgh as a legal officer for the local council. As a budding solicitor, Monisha found this an interesting insight into how organisations work on the other side of the world. Monisha’s passion for law came from an interest in human rights and justice. Becoming a solicitor wasn’t something Monisha had set in her sights, but saw law as the perfect opportunity to explore these interests. As a result, Monisha couldn’t be happier with her dynamic job at Elringtons. “Law is such an open field to explore other opportunities. We do so many different things, from family law, litigation, wills, trusts and estates,” said Monisha.Growing up with an interest in the arts, Monisha originally aimed at pursuing a career in interior design, architecture or painting but says her creativity still comes through in her legal work. 12

“You can be creative as a lawyer. You have to think your way around things and work out different options that best suit your client. It’s like piecing together a puzzle - difficult but interesting,” Monisha mused.Arriving back to Australia in early 2010 she started working for Elringtons as a solicitor in the commercial and business services area. Monisha works on a wide range of legal areas including: purchase and sale of commercial businesses; advising on commercial structures for people starting their own business; corporate re-structures for existing businesses; conveyancing, and advising on wills and trusts. Working in commercial property and business services has been valuable for Monisha because it’s a good base to branch out into other legal areas. ‘You need to be commercially savvy’ is a phrase that is always in the back of her mind. Working within a broad spectrum of legal areas, Monisha deals with an extensive range of clientele, from mums and dads to CEOs and business owners. “We get to meet a lot of different people within the community. Because Canberra is a smaller community than Sydney, it is easier to be more personable with your clients,” explained Monisha.Monisha thinks Elringtons being a ‘progressive’ company is vital because it means they are open to change.

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

“For example, we have recently re-branded and put a fresh image to the community,” Monisha said proudly. “There are young, as well as senior, people at the firm. We feel very in the middle of things making us accessible for a broad range of clients who come through our door. Elringtons is fresh with new ideas and savvy with new technologies,” said Monisha.Monisha articulates that good communication is the key to her success and she stresses the importance of being flexible and accessible for her existing and future clients. “Breaking down the law for clients is important because legal discourse can be overwhelming. It essential we make sure our clients understand what is happening in practical terms,” Monisha said.Monisha looks forward to building her career at Elringtons and says, “The firm is encouraging in terms of mentoring and developing young solicitors careers”. Acclimatising to Canberra’s crisp weather has taken time for Monisha, but now feels at home with her favourite restaurants and walking up Black Mountain on the weekend. Like anyone new to Canberra she says, “It helps that the weather is warming up”. For more information contact Elringtons T:02 6206 1300 or visit elringtons.com.au

Ph 6239 2391 www.paddywack.com.au Email: info@paddywack.com.au Office and Showroom 15, 41-45 Tennant Street Fyshwick

F E AT U R E

Westpac working with the social sector

centre: Anne Pratt, manager Home in Queanbeyan, Andrea McCann, Westpac Queanbeyan bank manager

s Australia’s First Bank, Westpac has more than five million customers – and some of our closest customer relationships are with the not-for-profit (NFP) sector, or as we like to refer to them – the Social Sector. The NFP and community sector is a very large, diverse and growing field, estimated to include more than 600,000 organisations, which form the heart of communities from across Australia.

We’re lucky - Westpac is focused around community engagement and sustainability, and many of our staff want to be engaged in the community, which is great both for our culture and for these NFP groups. Organisations range in size from Mother’s Clubs or local sporting groups up to national charities who take care of thousands of Australians who need a helping hand. This sector contributes around seven per cent or $70 billion to our GDP and employs about eight per cent of our workforce and has grown strongly over the last 10 years averaging an annual growth rate of 8% (faster than the average of the rest of the economy). The Social Sector could be even larger, however its economic contribution is often difficult to measure given that more than 440,000 of the smaller organisations are unincorporated and don’t always show up in official measures. In addition, unpaid labour from the five million volunteers working in this sector provides the equivalent of $15 billion in unpaid labour each year. The statistics prove it’s an important sector, it’s a vibrant sector, and it’s a big driver of our economy. As a result Westpac felt that it was time to give something back to these organizations which give so much to the community, and became the first bank to set up a dedicated team to manage these customers in a way which benefitted them best.

Nine years ago a small number of Westpac bankers started focusing on looking after the NFP sector – today we have more than 500 relationship managers across our commercial and Local Business Banker segment managing these Social Sector clients. Westpac’s Social Sector team is dedicated 100% to servicing NFP organisations via product innovation, increased capacity building and accredited bankers trained to understand the sector, and has also accredited 150 bankers. We’re lucky - Westpac is focused around community engagement and sustainability, and many of our staff want to be engaged in the community, which is great both for our culture and for these NFP groups. In Canberra, Westpac has dedicated Commercial Banking Relationship Manager Rose Stellino, works on a daily basis within the Social Sector. She is passionate and enthusiastic about all aspects of her work. Banking solutions are an important part of this work, but it goes further than this. For example, Rose and other members of our Local Business Banking and Small Business Personal Banking teams in the ACT and Queanbeyan get involved with volunteering and workshops, including managing the gate for the RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk to raise awareness to cruelty to animals, to driving in OzHarvest truck to pick up ‘unused’ food and deliver to the community, dressing up as a teenager to raise awareness for Galilee Foster Care program or standing working the Eftpos machines for Lifeline to help with raising funds for the prevention of suicide. Westpac runs regular dedicated workshops and training across Canberra for the NFP sector. They range from Financial Education and Management, Budgeting, Banking Success to Fraud Prevention, and Retaining and Recruiting Employees. Other scheduled presentations include Social Media, Strategy Planning Tool and Sponsorship Delivery. At Westpac, we are looking forward to further networking and adding value with this sector. Please contact your local Bank Manager or Rose on 0428651763.

Greg Castle Regional General Manager Westpac Banking Corporation

Boutique Brokerage of the Year Award winning Canberra based mortgage broking firm Tiffen & Co, has been named Australia’s Boutique Brokerage of the Year for 2011. The Adviser’s Australian Broking Awards, partnered by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, has recognised leading mortgage industry groups and individuals for their outstanding achievements. These are the only industry awards focussing solely on the leading brokers and brokerages in the Australian mortgage industry. Since opening their doors in 1995, Tiffen & Co has found the right mortgage solution for over 19,000 Canberran’s. We’ll find the home loan solution that’s just right for you!

“This award reaffirms our commitment to our clients, staff and business partners“

we’re with you

T 02 6260 7880 23 Jardine Street Kingston A.C.T Australia 2604

www.tiffenandco.com www.facebook.com/pages/Tiffen-Co/360494989510

http://twitter.com/#!/tiffenandco

www.youtube.com/user TiffenCo

VOX POLI

Katy Gallagher

aCt Chief minister

Do our politicians really understand the importance of the arts and creative industries to the ACT economy? You decide.

Zed Seselja

aCt opposition Leader

How does the arts industry contribute to the economy of the ACT? Meredith Hunter

Parliamentary Convenor, aCt greens 16

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 â&#x20AC;&#x192; B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

VOX POLI The arts industry makes a highly visible and essential contribution to the cultural, social and economic life of the ACT, helping to make Canberra the vibrant city that it is. The arts encourage diversity and individual expression, while at the same time bringing us together as a community. Some critics focus solely on public art as a measure of the contribution of the arts sector to Canberra. Public art is but one small part of a broader cultural and artistic industry that is thriving in Canberra. In fact, the arts play an integral role in the majority of Canberrans’ lives, with statistics showing that ACT residents attend, participate in and volunteer in arts and cultural activities more frequently than their interstate counterparts. These high rates of participation bring economic benefits to the Territory. Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show that over the past few years, ACT households spent more than $330 million on arts and culture or an average of $49.52 a week. These statistics also reveal that more than 90 percent of people in the ACT aged over 15 attended cultural venues and events; 30 percent of all people aged over 15 undertook paid or unpaid work in culture and leisure activities; and more than 7,000 people in the ACT had a cultural occupation as their main job. In addition to paid work, some 6,500 people in the ACT volunteered

in an arts or heritage organisation and more than 80 percent of Canberra children aged between 5 and 14 attended a public library, gallery, museum or performing arts event at least once outside school hours. The number of people participating in cultural activities as a hobby is equally impressive, including 46,600 in art and craft, 5,600 in writing, and 6,900 in music. A recent example is the National Gallery of Australia’s Masterpieces from Paris exhibition. The ACT Government’s $500,000 investment in the blockbuster resulted in a $90 million boost to the economy through increased visitation. As we look to the future, the Creative Industries – including film and television production, broadcasting, electronic games, architecture, design, fashion, publishing, media and advertising – will become increasingly important to the ACT’s economy, generating significant direct and indirect employment opportunities. The ACT Government will continue to support the arts in Canberra and is committed to ensuring that every member of society is able to participate in and enjoy the arts. At a time when communities around the world are experiencing significant new challenges, the ACT Government believes even more in the importance of enabling the community to fully experience the arts in their lives.

You can make a very good case that art enriches the culture of Canberra. Making the case for an economic basis is not as straightforward. Unfortunately, under ACT Labor, the arts industry has become increasingly distant and disconnected from the community, and from economic benefit. The most basic step in improving the art industry’s contribution to our economy is by commissioning local artists for local work. For example, most of the hugely expensive artworks along the Gungahlin Drive Extension are rarely commissioned by local artists. This is taxpayer money that could be rewarding local talent, and our own economy. Canberra’s national institutions are one of our biggest economic drawcards, and time and time again they have shown that major art events can be powerful magnets for interstate tourism. The National Gallery’s Masterpieces exhibition for example, injected a significant amount into our economy. Unfortunately, ACT Labor aren’t effectively leveraging our National Institutions, and have no clear strategy to ensure the success of these blockbuster events. This was backed up by an independent review into the government’s events and festivals, which found that ‘current funding and scheduling arrangements lack vision, policy direction, strategy and coordination. This has led to inconsistent, uneven funding and

support from a variety of agencies based largely on ad hoc or historic arrangements.’ (Loxton report, p3). The Canberra Liberals have repeatedly called on ACT Labor to develop an events strategy which provides better accommodation, transport and restaurant planning during blockbuster exhibitions. This would provide the support required during blockbuster events to maximise returns to our economy. Indeed, the blockbuster fund that was announced in 2011/12 ACT Budget is a direct result of pressure from the Canberra Liberals. This will lose its effect, however, if there is no events strategy to underpin the planning for and the utilisation of these funds. There also needs to be more strategic selection of governmentdriven art events. Recently, we saw the government’s poor establishment and management of the Enlighten festival, which actually lost money. For the arts industry to contribute to the local economy, there needs to be a focus on local artists, we need to leverage our national institutions, have a strategic and targeted spend of taxpayers’ money and have a clear plan to maximise the industry’s returns to our economy. This way we can ensure that there is an economic as well as cultural enrichment as a result of the arts sector.

Canberra has a thriving arts scene, from the National Gallery in Barton to the Front in Lyneham, the arts inject colour into our lives and dollars into our economy. Whether it’s a play, a pianist or a painting, it is the arts that get us out of our houses and into the galleries, theatres and cafes of our city. We believe that the ACT Government does have a role in supporting the arts and facilitating their continued growth. The ACT benefits greatly from being home to national draw cards such as the NGA, the National Library and Parliament House. World class art exhibitions attract hundreds of thousands of visitors and tens of millions of dollars. The blockbuster Masters from Paris exhibition last year attracted 476,000 visitors and contributed $94 million to the ACT economy, while Floriade attracts hundreds of thousands of people and tens of millions of dollars every year. The recently released APRA report into the economic contribution of live music in Australia estimates that live music contributes $15.5 million dollars annually to the ACT economy. Big ticket items such as

the National Folk Festival attract many music lovers to the territory for a world class event, but it’s the Friday night venues which are open all year round and keep the local scene going. Unfortunately the same APRA report listed the current regulatory environment for venues as the greatest issue facing the industry. If we want to maximise the social and economic benefits of live music in the ACT we need to fix the policy settings around the lack of appropriate venues, noise control issues and liquor licensing. The arts already contribute a great deal to our economy, but with strong business partnerships they could contribute more. Canberra has an office vacancy rate of around 15%. A program like Renew Newcastle which matches empty spaces together with artists for short term creative use can help rejuvenate the underutilised parts of our city. Just such a program is starting to receive strong interest from key Canberra businesses and could be a great opportunity to revitalise our town centres. B 2 b I n C a n b e r r A N o v e m b e r 2 0 11

We want to help guide your creative decisions. Not make them for you.

Are you ready to consider a fresh approach to creative design + web services for your business?

KID

Our St ores

LOO

N D Mh T S ASwedis

Linute m

assage

edish M

A K GU

RAN

PM 9AM – 6 PM 6 – 9AM PM 7 – 9AM PM 8 – 9AM PM 6 – 9AM visit bffm PM 4 .com.au – 9eAM n , MES A rt O G a , P CTS DE! N FA NSI LA

WAY

ITHL

OTT

BEL

IBB

AIN

WEDN ESDAY TO SU NDAY 8 AM 6 PM

Select ed Sto res Open 7 Days (02) 625 1 1680 Lathlain Street, Belconn en ACT

STREET

C Y BA ONE

EE*

6253 0444 Belconnen Deli 02 6251 Food Lovers 6192 02 6253 5079 Ben’s All Meats 02 6251 2523 Janey Fashio n 02 6251 Beppe’s Tuscan 0010 Kitchen 02 Knead Patisse 6253 0033 Book Passio rie 02 6162 n 02 6251 3200 Li’s Hotbak 0116 e 02 6251 Bunches@Be 3437 lconnen 02 Market Gourm 6251 Chona’s Souven et 02 6251 6636 9002 irs and Gifts Market Meats 02 6253 0253 Cooking Co-Ord at Belcon nen 02 6251 inates 02 Mike’s Meats 1527 6253 5132 Deli Cravin 02 6251 3006 gs 02 6251 Natural Living 4056 Don’s Café 02 6251 1557 & Caterin Petbarn 02 g 02 6251 6251 5329 Eco Meats 4848 02 6251 9018 Tee’s Trading Fins Seafoo House 02 6251 7740 d Café 02 The Chicke 6253 1157 n Coop 02 1st Choice 6251 1510 Liquor 02 Tom’s Superf 6217 8100 ruits 02 6253 Fishco Downu 4162 nder 02 6251 Wiffens Premiu 2552 m Green 02 6251 2864 Ziggy’s 02 6251 3568

MARKET

nd 30

y Monda y a Tuesd sday e Wedn ay d Thurs Friday y Saturda

I ACT S 4 OOP S Y H ENT LTH RES HEA Y P P & U D LAs Nature PRO Intended 02

BENJAMIN

WAY

FU EI PS, MOR Y TI ND LTH SA HEA ITE V I ACT

real food, real value , real fas t.

So Fresh !

a.com.

anberr allurec

2604 n ACT to s g in K yre St 1 61 4 / 28 E 6162 4

Creative graphic design, print & web solutions.

affordable, creative, professional & effective solutions; whilst providing

6285 55 02

you with the highest in design, web & customer service standards.

pixeltopaper.com.au

From concept inception to final delivery of your project - we offer

A u g u s t 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

feature RSM Bird Cameron liftout

Self-Managed Super Funds Take control over your retirement planning FREE SMSF SET-UP Simply contact RSM Bird Cameron on 6247 5988 and mention this feature to be in the running to receive a free SMSF set-up. *Conditions Apply

photos by Andrew Sikorski written by Michael O’Hehir, Principal RSM Bird Cameron

More people are coming to the realisation that the “she will be right” attitude when it comes to their retirement and savings no longer applies.

he roller coaster ride the Australian and International markets have had in the past few years has had a telling effect on when an individual can retire and what they should be investing in to minimise risk. If you are craving to take control over your personal finances and future in these uncertain economic times then an Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is the answer you are looking for. Managing your super using an SMSF allows you to have complete control over which assets the SMSF will invest in, whether that be property, equities, a Managed Fund or term deposit. An SMSF has one of the lowest rates of tax of any entity in Australia at 15%. In effect letting you use the “onshore tax haven” of superannuation to minimise the tax payable on your investment and over time build wealth. There are options

which allow you to pool together up to four family member’s superannuation in one SMSF and commit to an investment option. The funds you hold within your superannuation fund are an individual’s second largest asset to the family home. This value is increasing as astute workers recognise the benefits of holding their wealth in the superannuation environment. There are currently over 430,000 SMSFs already operating in Australia. This level is expected to increase by 15% over the next few years. With an ageing population succession planning is becoming a vital strategy for business owners nearing retirement. While there are ongoing management costs, RSM Bird Cameron are offering to set up one SMSF for a B2B reader. Simply contact RSM Bird Cameron on 6247 5988 and mention this article to be in the running to win this highly beneficial service. B 2 b I n C a n b e r r A N o v e m b e r 2 0 11

b2bincanberra.com.au

Ron and Coral Pedley, Michael O’Hehir Principal RSM Bird Cameron

Benefits & strategies for SMSFs and borrowing Benefits of a Self Managed Superannuation Fund Choice and flexibility With the advancement in technology and available investment information, members are now able to decide on the investments of the fund. As a member of a large industry or retail fund you have little say in the strategy and investments made on your behalf.

Portability It does not matter if you are self-employed or an employee, your fund can move with you to different employment situations. A SMSF means different employers can contribute to the one fund and if you have benefits elsewhere, these can be consolidated into your own fund.

Tax savings Assets you may have originally thought of holding in your own name or a family trust such as term deposits, publicly listed shares and property can be invested in by your fund. Earnings are taxed at 15% and 10% for some capital gains.

Running costs Public funds charge ongoing fees based on the funds under management. The larger the funds or member balance the higher the costs. A SMSF is required to prepare financial statements, lodge a taxation return and have the accounts of the fund audited each year. These costs are not determined by a member’s fund balance.

Investment in business property Recent changes to laws governing SMSF mean that trustees are allowed to borrow to acquire a large asset. Previously, if a small business wanted to acquire commercial property for their business it was out of reach for some because the fund did not have enough cash available. • A business can now pay commercial rent to their fund instead of a non related party. The business has security in the fact that they will not be asked to vacate the property. • The rent received by the fund is taxed only at a rate of 15% while if the business operates through a company, the company is receiving a tax deduction for the rent at a rate of 30%. Also when the trustees sell the property the maximum rate of capital gains tax is 10%. If the members have retired and are receiving pensions,

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

b2bincanberra.com.au

there may be no tax to pay. • This structure also provides protection for the property against creditors if the business goes through poor economic times.

Borrowing within an SMSF In 2007, the government changed the rules to allow Self Managed Superannuation Funds to borrow to acquire an asset. The type of properties that can be acquired include rural, residential and commercial. • If you have approximately $200,000 in your superannuation fund then it may be worth considering the pros and cons of transferring your superannuation funds into a self-managed fund and using it to invest in property. • You can use the money in your fund as a deposit on a property with your self-managed super fund borrowing the rest. • Your regular super contribution then pays off the mortgage on the investment property while the rent from your tenant also helps pay if off. • In fact with a large enough deposit your tenant may be paying off your investment for you. To increase your tax savings you can also salary sacrifice superannuation into your fund up to the aged based limits.

Tax savings • An SMSF attracts a maximum tax rate of 15%. • Hold on to your property for more than 12 months and you’ll pay 10% capital gains tax on it. This reduces to zero capital gains tax when you reach age 60 and receiving a pension. • When you have paid off the loan and are taking a full pension from your fund, the rental income the fund receives from the property is tax free. If you are over 60 years of age, your pension is also tax free. All the more reason to invest!

Self-managed superannuation funds come with strict responsibilities and compliance rules that must be rigorously followed. They’re certainly not for everyone but they might just be the perfect way for you to invest in some of the excellent urban development’s we enjoy here in the ACT.

Borrowing in an SMSF versus Borrowing in your Own Name Traditionally negative gearing has been done in an Individuals name. The reason for this is that the loss incurred can be offset against other income such as salaries, thereby resulting in a refund of tax. Not many investors consider the tax consequences on disposal. It is interesting to note that the tax savings that say a husband and wife whose salaries are around $110,000 with no extra contributions to super is about the same as those two individuals borrowing within an SMSF to acquire the property and salary sacrifice into super to assist with the payments on the loan. Their after tax take home pay is about the same. If those same individuals waited until they were 60 years of age to sell the property and were taking pensions from their fund, then there is no capital gains tax payable by the fund. This saving can be significant and will increase greatly the overall rate of return on that investment.

Properties on multiple titles An issue with the July 2010 amendments was that it was necessary for a single asset to be acquired under the borrowing. A group of assets was allowed provided they were identical, which allowed for 1,000 shares in a listed company to be purchased as a part of a borrowing. Many inner city apartments have up to 3 separate titles attached to them which can include a car park and storage space. It is also common for commercial properties to be constructed on land that is in several different titles.

The ATO have taken a practical approach to this draft ruling in that provided the titles are bundled For example, the car park cannot be sold separately to the apartment; the asset will be able to be acquired by a SMSF with one borrowing. In contrast, farming land that is held over multiple titles will need to have separate loans for each title.

Improvement to a property It is not possible for a SMSF to borrow for the purpose of

improvement of a property. The ATO have noted that it is possible for improvements to a property to be undertaken, provided the SMSF is able to pay for the improvements from cash reserves rather than the borrowing. • SMSF’s still need to take care in improving their properties to ensure the improvement does not create a new asset. • It is not possible for a SMSF to enter into a borrowing to purchase vacant land and then to use cash reserves to construct a building on that land. The construction of the building is considered a significant enough change to be a new asset.

Repairs to a property A SMSF is able to utilise borrowed funds for the purposes of undertaking a repair to a property acquired with borrowings. • In undertaking repairs to the property, SMSF trustees will need to ensure that the expenditure does not amount to an improvement. • Before undertaking any repairs with borrowed funds SMSF trustees should consider whether the expenses incurred may be an improvement.

“Our one-ﬁrm structure enables us to provide strong connections and a focus on client relationships. Clients can readily connect to our national and international expertise and networks, our extensive understanding of Australian business and to our partners and senior advisors.With RSM Bird Cameron you really are ... Connected for Success” At RSM Bird Cameron we think of money or capital as energy waiting to happen. If your money is harnessed and put in the right place at the right time, it has the capacity to grow and multiply  Michael O’Hehir Superannuation has consistently provided the most tax effective vehicle for investments. If you are interested in coming and talking to one of our experts please call us today.

Michael O’Hehir Michael is a Principal with RSM Bird Cameron who has over 20 years experience managing a diverse range of small to medium sized businesses and high net wealth clients. He specialises in Self Managed Superannuation planning and compliance. RSM Bird Cameron, 103-105 Northbourne Ave T:6247 5988 E:Canberra@rsmi.com.au W:www.rsmi.com.au

b2bincanberra.com.au

Facts and ﬁgures 2011/2012 “At RSM Bird Cameron we think of money or capital as energy waiting to happen. If your money is harnessed and put in the right place at the right time, it has the capacity to grow and multiply.” Michael O’Hehir Concessional Contributions Age at 30/12/2012

Annual Cap

Under 50

$25,000 $50,000

50 – 75

The limit from 1 July 2012 for member 50+ will reduce to $25,000 for super balances over $500,000

Non Concessional Contributions Age at 30/12/2012

Annual Cap

Under 65

$150,000 orlimita 3ofyear $450,000 $150,000

65 – 75

Note Any member over 65 years of age must pass a work test to contribute

Minimum Income Streams (Pensions) Age on 1 July

Under 65 65-74 75-79 80-84 85-89 90-94

% of member % of member balance balance 2011/2012 2012/2013

3% 3.75% 4.5% 5.25% 6.75% 8.25%

4% 5% 6% 7% 9% 11% Ron and Coral Pedley

Ron and Coral Pedley Ron and Coral Pedley have been clients of RSM Bird Cameron since its Canberra beginnings during the early 1980’s. Over the years they have made regular contributions to their Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) which has allowed them to comfortably enjoy their retirement. Ron established an Orthodontic Practice in Belconnen in 1982, for which RSM Bird Cameron provided a full suite of services including advice on the establishment of the business, best structuring and tax planning each year and the eventual sale of the practice and building. They provided a full range of business services. According to Ron, RSM Bird Cameron provided invaluable advice on the structuring of their Orthodontic Practice and this allowed them to take control over their assets through the SMSF and ensure 22

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

b2bincanberra.com.au

a comfortable and secure retirement. Recently returning from walking the Camino Frances which stretches 780 km starting in St Jean Pied de Port, France and finishing in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, Ron and Coral are now planning their next overseas destination. Although that trip is on hold until the arrival of their first Grandchild, due this month. Ron says, he has ‘recommended many people to RSM Bird Cameron over the years. What I like about them is that they are accessible, reliable and offer me a comprehensive solution.’ RSM Bird Cameron’s business has evolved over the last 20 years where they offer a wider range of services, whether it’s human resource management or business planning, SMSF advice or taxation planning. It’s not just accounting services, they’ve become a onestop-shop for business and personal financial advice.

A D V I C E 24 24

ACCOUNTING

Think BIG on superannuation By Andrew Sykes, RSM Bird Cameron Chartered Accountants

BUSINESS LAW Court leaps to the defence of Auction Contracts

28 28

BUSINESS SERVICES The ATO’s old weaponry is just as good By Tony Lane, Kazar Slaven

ESTATE PLANNING

Women and their nest eggs By Stephen Bourke, Certus Law

By Gary Green, Allied Pickfords Business Relocations

Collaboration in Public Sector By Phil Butler, Australian Institute of Company Directors

by Cassandra Emmett, Elringtons Lawyers

RELOCATIONS 26 BUSINESS Confidence in us gives you piece of mind

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

MARKETING Make your message last longer By Mary Curran, Brandnet

WEBSITES Take the time to be inspired! By Sam Gupta, Synapse Worldwide

NEW COLUMN 30

marKetIng brandnet asks: 'Does anyone have a Coca-Cola yo-yo they want to sell?'

B 2 b I n C a n b e r r A N o v e m b e r 2 0 11

by Andrew Sykes

ACCOUNTING

BUSINESS LAW

ThinkBIG on superannuation

Court leaps to the defence of Auction Contracts

Each year RSM Bird Cameron’s thinkBIG study surveys Small to Medium size enterprises (SME’s) to gain insights into what drives the success of their business. This study measures the pulse of the Australian SME sector, benchmarks business confidence and identifies the attitudes of SME owners towards wealth creation, retirement and succession planning. This year there was a focus on assessing the impact of recent global financial conditions on SMEs businesses and personal finances. One key finding was that 25% of all SME’s weren’t satisfied with their exit and superannuation strategies. Just 7 per cent of business owners’ are completely satisfied with their superannuation provisions, while 23 per cent are not at all satisfied. 18 per cent of SME owners reported that the economic uncertainty of the last two years has impacted on their superannuation planning, causing them to decrease their superannuation contributions. Inadequate superannuation provisions continue to play on the minds of SME owners, leading them to seek advice, where they have not previously been inclined to. Despite this, thinkBIG 2011 reveals more SME owners indicated they would invest some of their retirement funds into superannuation, indicating a marginally higher level of confidence in the sector.

Each year RSM Bird Cameron’s thinkBIG study surveys Small to Medium size enterprises (SME’s) to gain insights into what drives the success of their business. thinkBIG 2011 fast facts Superannuation planning • 43 per cent of business owners will invest some proportion of their retirement funds into superannuation after leaving the business, up from 34 per cent in 2010. • SME owners continue (compared to thinkBIG 2007 findings) to be less than satisfied that their total superannuation provisions will be adequate in retirement, recording an overall satisfaction rating of only 4.5 on a scale of 1-10, where 10 represents complete satisfaction. • Owners of larger SMEs (with 6 or more employees) reported higher levels of satisfaction with the adequacy of their superannuation provisions, recording average scores of 5.7 (with 6-19 employees), 5.5 (20-49 employees) and 5.8 (50+ employees). • 23 per cent of SME owners are not at all satisfied with the adequacy of their superannuation provisions, a marginally improved result on findings in thinkBIG 2010, in which RSM Bird Cameron reported a figure of 25 per cent. • Consistent with 2010, only 7 per cent are completely satisfied with their superannuation provisions. For a free copy of the full thinkBIG report, please email me.

Andrew Sykes is a partner at RSM Bird Cameron. For more information contact: RSM Bird Cameron, 103-105 Northbourne Ave T:6247 5988 E:Canberra@rsmi.com.au W:www.rsmi.com.au

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

by Cassandra Emmett

Are you a property investor? Do you use auctions to buy and sell your properties? Two homeowners north of Sydney recently had a bad experience selling at auction when the successful bidder handed over a deposit cheque which was not honoured. The auction for the cliff top NSW property returned a successful bid of $2.3m but the deposit cheque of $230,000 bounced! The auction occurred before Christmas in 2009 and after it was found that the cheque was dishonoured, there were some negotiations between the parties’ solicitors to see whether the situation could be salvaged and the purchase could proceed. A path forward suggested by the purchaser’s solicitor was that a reduced deposit of $50,000 be accepted, however this was not agreed by the vendor. The vendors terminated the contract on 30 December 2009.

Buyers, don’t bid at an auction unless you can pay a 10% deposit on the spot and you can afford the property... The property was sold to other buyers in February 2010 for $1.95m, a deficiency of $350,000 from the original auction price. The vendors sued the purchaser for this shortfall and in a judgment handed down in August 2011, the defaulting purchaser was ordered to pay the shortfall to the vendors plus costs. Almost all land sale contracts include clear remedies for vendors who have binding contracts with defaulting purchasers. Firstly, where a purchaser defaults under a Contract, and the Contract is terminated, the Vendor has the right to keep the deposit. In this case, the deposit cheque of $230,000 had bounced, but the purchaser later paid $50,000 to the real estate agent, seemingly in the hope that $50,000 would be accepted as the full deposit. As the vendor never agreed to accept $50,000 in lieu of the $230,000, the $50,000 was deemed to be a part payment of the original deposit and therefore was available to the vendor to keep on termination of the Contract. Secondly, a vendor who validly terminates a contract can sue a purchaser for the deficiency on resale. This deficiency essentially equates to the “damages” a vendor suffers when a purchaser fails to fulfil a binding contract. There is generally a 12 month time limit on the re-sale, and any deposit monies forfeited count towards this deficiency. The lesson? Vendors, if you have a reluctant buyer at auction who defaults under the auction contract, you can hold the buyer to the contract – the courts will support you IF the contract is valid and your hands are clean. Buyers, don’t bid at an auction unless you can pay a 10% deposit on the spot and you can afford the property – an auction contract is binding!

Cassandra Emmett is a senior associate at Elringtons in family law. Contact Elringtons T: (02) 6206 1300, Level 7, 221 London Circuit, Canberra City visit: elringtons.com.au

by Gary Green

BUSINESS RELOCATIONS

BUSINESS SERVICES

Confidence in us gives you piece of mind

The ATO’s old weaponry is just as good

Is your business relocating or downsizing? Do you have excess furniture and equipment? Allied Pickfords has a solution for you- Safe and Secure offsite storage. Storage is an integral part of Allied Pickfords service offering. We are able to store items for your business on a long term, seasonal or short term basis, providing you with a cost effective and efficient service. All manner of items are able to be stored at our new warehouse facility in Hume ACT including general office furniture , IT Equipment, Machinery Items, Workstations and Palletised Stock just to name a few. Goods are stored in our specialist “Business Packs” to ensure the security and integrity of your goods whilst in our custody. “Business Packs” are individual storage modules with a capacity of approximately 7 cubic metres constructed of timber which allows the contents to breathe whilst the goods remain free of dirt and dust. Upon entering our storage facility all items are placed on an inventory and the condition of individual items is detailed. All furniture items are wrapped in furniture pads for the duration of the storage term, another way we provide you with piece of mind.

Last month I wrote about the new recovery provisions that will provide the ATO with additional weapons in its debt recovery arsenal. Whilst a focus on the ‘new’ is appropriate, it is still important to remain cognisant of the ‘old’. Similar to any other accommodation by a creditor, the ATO may agree, upon the provision of suitable supporting information, to allow the payment of an outstanding taxation debt over time. The use of informal ‘payment arrangements’ are common in dealing with unpaid taxation debts.

Whilst a focus on the ‘new’ is appropriate, it is still important to remain cognisant of the ‘old’.

In addition to our standard storage solutions Allied Pickfords Business Relocations is now able to offer clients our Electronic Inventory Management System which enables clients to view their storage online via a designated intranet site complete with photographs, size, colour, style and condition of each item. The system also allows clients to place delivery requests for the return to site or disposal of assets held in storage. As each item is barcoded with its own unique barcode upon entry into storage, the Electronic Inventory Management System is able to track all movements in and out of storage and hence an up to date storage inventory is available at all times. For Furniture, Fittings and Equipment (FF&E) projects Allied Pickfords Business Relocations is able to tailor a solution to cover the inventory/ asset control via our Electronic Inventory Management System, a complete storage solution prior to delivery to site, quality and quantity checks upon arrival at storage to identify any damages and a scheduled delivery service to site as items are required for installation. No matter the nature, either large or small of your commercial storage requirements, Allied Pickfords Business Relocations has a solution for your organisation.

However, where directors of a company chose to enter into a payment arrangement, care should be taken to ensure that the arrangement is robust. Directors and advisers must consider the ability of the company to weather its financial problems, not only with the ATO, but all of its creditors. The outcome of the recent case of Young & Anor v Commissioner of Taxation [2010] NSWSC 288 (Young) is significant for directors hoping to avoid a formal insolvency appointment by striking an arrangement with the ATO. In Young, a former director of a company borrowed funds from a relative in order to repay debts due to the ATO. Those funds were recorded in the company’s records as a loan from the former director to the Company, despite those funds emanating from a relative in the first instance. When a liquidator was appointed to the Company, he commenced proceedings against the ATO for recovery of an unfair preference. Both the director and ATO conceded that the company was insolvent when the payments were made. The Court found in favour of the liquidator and ordered the funds be repaid to the Company by the ATO. However, the decision in Young is only half the story. Section 588FGA(2) of the Corporations Act provides that each director of the company is liable to indemnify the ATO in respect of any loss or damage resulting from such an order. Put simply, if an amount is recovered by a liquidator against the ATO as voidable transaction, the director will be exposed to a further claim by the ATO for the amount repaid to the liquidated Company. In Young, the director became exposed to a ‘repeat’ claim by the ATO upon the successful action by the liquidator - effectively paying the amount to the tax office twice! Directors and advisors are encouraged to seek advice when dealing with the ATO to ensure these risks are minimised.

Gary Green can be contacted at Allied Pickfords Business Relocations on 0423806702. visit: www.alliedpickfords.com.au

Tony Lane is a manager at Kazar Slaven and provides advice to clients in the areas of insolvency, business risk and financial conflict and dispute resolution. For more information, contact Kazar Slaven, Level 3, 11 National Circuit, Barton. T: 6215 8405 F: 6215 8450 E: admin@kazarslaven.com.au W: www.kazarslaven.com.au

We are able to store items for your business on a long term, seasonal or short term basis, providing you with a cost effective and efficient service.

By Tony Lane

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

Sam Gupta from Synapse of Worldwide sells the virtues Facebook for business

Stuart Craig from Waste Away can protect your information

MARCH 2011

b2bincanberra.com.au

MAGAZ INE SS & GOVERN MENT CANBER RA’S BUSINE

BE SEEN

IS YOUR BUSIN ESS ON FACEB OOK?

IDENT ITY THEFT: IS YOUR COMPANY AT RISK?

IN B2B

FEATURING

Yellow Edge.

ideas company Canberra’s people and 10 STE ed success ... PS them an inspir Find out what makes

NEW REAL ESTATE CAn Ber rA’s Bus COLUM Ine ss N& ADVICE gO

THE ACT TELSTR

TO TRIPLING

$4.95 inc. GST

BUS INESS AWARD BEEN YOURHAS SALYOUR S 1833-8232 ES BUSINESS B2B congratula NEW OFFICES FOR RSM Bird Came tes the winnISSN 01 ers ron’sDOCTOR LATELY? TO THE Read more on CANBERRA BUSINESSPOINT Andrew Syke s expla Gomez from Exhale explains page 22 Antoniette

Ver nM ent Can your business benefit from MA gA BusinessPoint? ZIn e

Maria Selleck shares her experience in the Canberra market

in Canberra magazine’. B2B is now on Facebook at ‘B2B

ins

Canberra

how to tune-up your business

b2bincanbe

rra.com.au

See expanded networking photos

9 771833 823005

and articles. AUGUST 2011

THE PROMEN KINGSTON FOADE AT RESHORE YOUR CHANCE TO SH DE FACTO DILE

MMAS

Consensus Fami ly Lawyers’ Juliet te Ford shares her expe rience

APE CANBERRA

HAS YOUR BUS BECOME STAT INESS IC?

ACT MORTGAGE

BRO

KER Tiffen & Co a shining success. David Friend expla ins

Tips from Beam es & Associates on how to break out of the moul d

$4.95 inc. GST ISSN 183

b2bincanberra.com.au T MAGA ZINE ESS & GOVER NMEN CANBE RRA’S BUSIN

3-82

32 MAY 2011 01

9 771833 823005

BEN AUL ICH & ASSO CIAT ES

Canberra’s only law firm dedicated to criminal law

8 PAGE FEATU RE ON CONF EREN CE, TRAIN ING AND MEET ING FACIL ITIES NEW 6 PART SERIE S TO INCR EASE BUSI NESS PERF ORMA NCE

CHOOSING THE : EBO BEST AGENTFAC

WHEN IT COMES TO GRAPHIC DESIGN:

EDIT

ION

CaN BErr

a’S BUS INES S

& GOV ErN MEN

$4.95 inc. GST

OK same? AND FAM ILY LAW

Are real estate agents all the from Maria Selleck

Is the client always right? from Paper Monkey

T MaG aZIN

ISSN 1833-8232

Farrar Ges ini Ann Northco & Dunn’s te shares her experie nces

Andrew Nes bitt from Beames & Associates has this goa l in mind

b2bincanberra

.com.au

JUNE 2011

10 0+ ye ar s of leg al se rv ice s in th e Ca nb er ra re gi on .

MOVING YESTERD AY INTO TODAY

Moving into the modern world with the NLA

BRAIN EXERCIS ETHE NEW CAFFEIN E

Yellow Edge’s Andy Gregory explains the theory

EFFECTIVE DISA STER RECOVERY

Boaz Fischer from CommsNet Group has a plan

HEL PIN G CAN BER RA BUS823005 INE SSE S 9 771833

Contact:

$4.95 inc. GST ISSN 1833

-8232

9 771833 823005

Tim Benson t 02 6161 2751 m 0402 900 402 advertising@b2bincanberra.com.au

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

by Phil Butler

Collaboration in Public Sector

The AICDs’ mission is to improve the quality of governance and the practice of directorship across private, not for profit and public sectors. As part of this mission the Public Sector Governance Conference is being held in Canberra on 19 and 20 October and welcomes a raft of international and local speakers from across Australia. The theme of this year’s conference is based on greater collaboration being critical to achieve real outcomes. In a time of economic uncertainty and with greater pressure on the public sector to perform, this conference is well placed to give attendees much "food for thought” as well as some practical solutions to take away. The program is targeted at all of those involved in, or interacting with, the public sector. It should be equally relevant to those in Federal, State or Territory government. Similarly, it is designed to appeal to those who are in government departments (either as public servants, advisers or members of committees) or in government companies or businesses (whether as directors, senior executives or committee members).

The theme of this year’s conference is based on greater collaboration being critical to achieve real outcomes. The keynote speaker at this year’s conference is Maryantonett Flumian, who has a long and distinguished career in the Canadian public sector. A former deputy minister in the Canadian federal public service she is recognised globally for her leadership in service delivery transformation, technology and change management. Ms Flumian noted that “in Canada – and in other countries like Australia where power is shared between different levels of government – it has been said that the public has no real patience with institutional barriers to resolving problems that are important to them. If citizens can think that way, why can’t governments.” Governments around the globe are extolling the virtues of working horizontally: “whole of government” or “joined-up”. But working that way in practice often means breaking the rules that were established to mandate accountability and protect the responsible official. Also speaking at the conference is Ms Brigitte Birch from New Zealand treasury, who leads up the area focused on collaboration within the New Zealand government. Ms Birch has discovered a number of innovative ideas that agencies and the Not-For-Profit sector have used to achieve better outcomes. Brigitte noted that collaboration is absolutely critical. “The challenge is how we collaborate successfully to achieve vastly improved outcomes when each organisation has vastly different cultures, drivers, capacity and capability. We need to harness these differences to get the best, most innovative and most effective end result.” For more information visit: www.companydirectors.com.au

Phil Butler is state manager of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ ACT Division. For more information about AICD ‘s course programs and events, T: 02 6248 5954.

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

ESTATE PLANNING

by Stephen Bourke

Women and their nest eggs

The average retirement payout for women in 2009 was only $73,000. This is compared to $155,000 for men. We see many couples that typically involve a husband with a large superannuation interest and a wife with very little superannuation. This has particular ramifications if you are the wife. Factors such as maternity leave and raising children mean that on average women are out of the workforce for longer periods of time. Often these are as a result of choices which people make or, in some cases, due to the pressure to comply with societal “norms”. Women also live longer than men and will therefore need more retirement savings to fund their retirement. Women will therefore have less chance of accumulating a healthy nest egg for retirement. So what does this mean for women’s retirement plans? Normally the difference is not particularly concerning if you can rely on your partner’s income, but what if you are a single woman or “the second wife”? Will your partner leave enough of a nest egg for you or will it all go to the kids? When it comes to Estate Planning you need to ask “If my partner dies, how will I support myself?” It is important to discuss with your partner what they plan to do with their estate plan, particularly if you are part of a “blended family”. Does your partner intend (or do the rules of the fund automatically provide) that you receive the death benefit from his superannuation on death or does he intend that instead it goes towards his kids? Often we see clients who provide in their estate plans for the children to receive their estate but provide that their partner has a right of residency for a period of years in their home. This may be small comfort to the surviving partner if they don’t have the income in which they can afford to maintain the home let alone feed and clothe themselves. It is not selfish to ask your partner “what about me?” Divorce can also impact severely on a woman’s finances and, importantly, on their retirement income. The dilemma for the wife often is “Should I keep the former matrimonial home? Or should I receive some super?” There rarely is a simple and quick answer to this question. We often see situations where clients are determined to keep the family home, even if doing so means they have to incur a significant debt. This is understandable as women are often thinking of their children when making this decision, however in the long term it may not necessarily be the best decision to make. If you make the choice to keep the family home you need to carefully consider where you might be when it comes to retire. It will not do you any good to have kept the family home when you retire if you do not have sufficient retirement savings to give you an income to keep that home. It is therefore important if you are divorcing to get expert advice about that takes into account not just your current but also your future needs. Remember it is your savings for your future. Superannuation, retirement and estate planning is a complex mix of law and finance. It calls for an integrated legal and financial plan, involving professionals from both disciplines.

Stephen Bourke is a director of the boutique firm, Certus Law, which specialises in superannuation, trusts and estate planning. Visit Certus Law at Level 5, 28 University Avenue, T: 6268 9090, www.certuslaw.com.au

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO • General Bookkeeping weekly, monthly or quarterly • BAS and GST Services • Payroll and PAYG • MYOB, Xero and Quicken set-up, tailoring and training • Preparation of financial reports and statements • Budgeting and cashflow forecasting • Reliable and on-going support

Personal Service. Professional Results.

Certified Partner of MYOB and Xero Call Tivanant (Mook) Clifford BAS Agent 81285000

ph. 6100 0456

www.pva.com.au

companydirectors.com.au/foundationsofdirectorship

Foundations of Directorship

Finance for Directors Creating awareness of directorship

Finance for Directors explains and assesses company financials through the eyes of the director. As a director, senior executive or manager, you will gain the necessary skills required to interpret and assess the three main types of financial statements – Balance Sheet, Income Statement (profit and loss) and Cash Flow Statement – to identify what information is required to assess an organisations financial health.

For more information or to enrol contact Kylie Folkard t: 1300 764 633 or visit companydirectors.com.au/foundationsofdirectorship

01596_11

Course details Date: Thursday 15 September 2011 Time: 8.45am - 4.45pm Venue: Federal Golf Club, Red Hill

by Mary Curran

MARKETING

WEBSITES

Make your message last longer

Take the time to be inspired!

In today's world of instant media we can control just about every aspect of how we are marketed and advertised to, therefore getting your business noticed is becoming increasingly difficult. Also if you don't capture their attention when they are in 'the buying zone' it can all be a big waste of time. Sure you can repeat the process but this costs more money and can come across as annoying - enter the humble promotional product. Promotional products are one of the few forms of marketing that last beyond initial exposure. A good quality promotional product can make a great long lasting impression. Promotional products are really any product with your brand or message added - so choosing the right one for your next campaign is vital. Promotional products provide a three dimensional experience for your clients, unlike most other forms of marketing they are tactile and as such become quite personal - you would be amazed at the office politics that can surround a good quality pen! Choose the right promotional product and watch it be integrated into a persons daily routine. It can start out being useful and end up indispensible, sending the subtle message that your business is indispensible too.

Promotional products are really any product with your brand or message added - so choosing the right one for your next campaign is vital. When choosing to promote your business use a mixture of media taking care to choose items that best reflect what your brand is all about. All marketing material should offer potential customers a snapshot of what being your client, would be like. If you want to say 'established' choose something with a high perceived value like a wine set and have it engraved or if you want to say 'I care about the future' choose something re-usable like a ceramic coffee mug with a silicone lid and subtle branding so they can take it along to their favourite coffee place. And let's not forget the loyal client. Like I said before promotional products are a great way to make your message last longer and not just with new or potential customers. Remember to reward your existing clients. This can be done through referrals, by inviting them to networking functions, joint marketing ventures or even with a relevant corporate gift, all will value add to their already positive experience with you. Marketing campaigns are most effective when delivered via a number of different media and channels as they all have different shelf lives. By integrating promotional products into your next marketing campaign you will plant the seed within your target market for many years to come. And if you are really lucky your promotional product will become desirable in its own right - so does anyone have a Coca Cola yo-yo they want to sell?

Mary Curran is the business & brand manager at Brandnet. P 02 6123 2990 F 02 6280 9966 W www.brandnet.com.au E mary.curran@brandnet.com.au

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

by Sam Gupta

I love Canberra. I moved here about 13 years ago and believe Canberra businesses have a lot of potential. I would love to share something that inspired me recently. As business owners, we all get busy with our day to day running of the business and lose focus from the bigger picture. Last few months, I was thinking deeply about ways to expand the business and get higher satisfaction as an entrepreneur. So, I took nearly the whole week off to attend this highly inspirational National Achievers Congress in Sydney with my wife. It had some eminent speakers such as Donald Trump, Anthony Robbins, Robert Kiyosaki and many others. It was an amazing experience. It is good to step away from your business at times. It gives a new perspective and breaks the routine of reacting to things as they happen, rather than being pro-active.

We all need inspiration in our lives to keep us on track. Find the time to be inspired. Anthony Robbins, the famous performance coach was the first speaker. One of the first things he talked about was that, 80% of success is about the psychology of the leader. A leader should look at a situation and see what it is, not worse than it is, and then see it better than what it is. You need to know where your business is heading, what factors are affecting your business and more importantly, what you are planning to do about it. Ability to look ahead and anticipate is an essential skill. As a leader, you MUST know the road ahead. The next thing I picked up was the importance of taking action. Action is the bridge between your present and your future. To succeed you have to act in spite of fear. I recalled that famous saying; Good ideas come to everyone, but success comes to those who act first. Taking the action makes all the difference. Donald Trump also made a really good point; an entrepreneur must be able to handle pressure. You’ve got to love what you do. Having passion for what you do makes all the difference. Don’t be afraid to think big and never ever give up. You have to be totally focused and be flexible enough to find ways to achieve your goals. We all need inspiration in our lives to keep us on track. Find the time to be inspired. If you are an entrepreneur, I would highly recommend you to spend some time to attend such seminars. Let me know what you think. Give me a call on 1300 785 230 or send an email to admin@ synapseworldwide.com. Have a wonderful day!

Sam Gupta is the managing director of Synapse Worldwide. Sam would love to hear your thoughts on this advice column. Please contact him on 1300 785 230 or admin@synapseworldwide.com

ite

s eb

Rights of the Child Public Lecture 2011

w s ’ ra

e nb

Artistic and cultural expression are part of John Bell’s DNA and they are also every child’s right.

Looking to sell online?

Date:

Thursday 20 October Time: 5:45 for 6pm start Venue: National Library of Australia

Websites eCommerce Web-Applications Mobile Apps SEO

FREE ENTRY

John Bell AO OBE Bell Shakespeare Company

savethechildren.org.au/act

STC00412

Proudly sponsored by

02 6285 1045 Call 6262 3011 for a free 1hr consultation.

Adv_115h x 89w.indd 1

SynapseWorldwide.com

29/09/11 5:00 PM

A2B

A S S O C I AT I O N S T O B U S I N E S S

A broad range of products and services exported from the ACT are represented in this years winners

The 2011 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards BRENT J u r at o W I t C H

PRESIDENT

For more information on the ACT Exporters’ Network visit actexportersnetwork.com, or contact the Network’s manager, Pam Faulks, on 0400 090 452, pam.faulks@ canberrabusinesscouncil.com.au. The ACT Exporters’ Network is proudly sponsored by the ACT Government, Canberra Business Council, the Centre for Customs & Excise Studies, AusIndustry and The Canberra Times. 32

elebrating Export Success The 2011 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards Presentation Lunch was held at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra on Thursday 29 September 2011. This premier business event showcased some of our most innovative and successful exporters at a time when these and other export businesses have been battling the impact of the high Australian dollar for over 12 months. The broad range of products and services that are exported from the ACT is reflected in the companies recognised in the various Award categories, which include: Large Services Award - Aspen Medical. Aspen Medical, which was featured in the July 2011 issue of B2B in Canberra, provides complete healthcare solutions, supplying whatever is required to meet customer and patient needs, including people, facilities, equipment, consumables, pharmacy products, procedures or any combination to deliver the highest quality health services. Aspen Medical was also named the 2011 ACT Exporter of the Year and was inducted into the ACT Export Hall of Fame. Small to Medium Services Award - Noetic Group. Noetic provides professional services to government and to the infrastructure, energy and resources sectors through strategy and knowledge consulting, infrastructure consulting services and delivery of ‘best in class’ solutions to public and private infrastructure organisations, and enterprise risk and regulatory consulting services. Small Business Award – Recruitment Systems Pty Ltd. Recruitment Systems develops and markets advanced systems for data capture and recruitment operations management to the global recruitment industry. They help recruiters effectively manage relationships with their clients and job candidates by better organising key documents and communications. Microbusiness Award – Lipotek. Lipotek commercialises specific technologies developed by the John Curtin School of Medical Research. Lipotek has developed several platform or enabling technologies for use in a range of human medical applications including the Lipovaxin platform that can be applied to treat cancers, infectious diseases like Tuberculosis, Dengue Fever or for the targeted delivery of pharmaceuticals.

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

Minerals and Energy Award - Sentinel Pty Ltd. Sentinel designs, installs and manages environmental and water resource monitoring networks. These networks of monitoring stations continuously record environmental parameters, including air quality, river depths, flow rates and water quality. Arts & Entertainment Award - Benjamin Shine Studio. Benjamin Shine Studio is a creative studio that explores and develops new ways to create unique and desirable works in art and design through sustainable and environmentally-aware methods, such as recycling and upcycling. Information and Communication Technology Award - eWay. eWay is a payment platform that connects online merchants to banking networks to accept credit card payments through their website. Payments are processed securely in real-time, with the transaction result returned to the merchant’s website within seconds. Emerging Exporter Award – Quintessence Labs Pty Ltd. QuintessenceLabs develops link encryption and key management products using quantum key distribution to offer the next generation of information security. Their technology that is invulnerable to a range of cybersecurity threats. I’d like to congratulate each of these category winners and thank the sponsors of the 2011 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards: Principal Sponsors - Centre for Customs and Excise Studies and Commonwealth Bank; Category Sponsors Canberra Business Council, Austrade, Export Finance and Insurance Corporation and the ACT Exporters’ Network; and Supporting Sponsors - Inland Trading, Hyatt Hotel Canberra, Meyer Vandenberg, Sentinel, Staging Connections and WhyWurry Internet Solutions. Winners in the2011 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards go on the Australia Export Awards being held in Brisbane on 8 December 2011, where we wish them every success. The only exception to this is the winner of the Microbusiness Award, Lipotek, as this Award was introduced in a 2011 as a Canberraspecific Award to recognise the importance of microbusinesses amongst Canberra’s export industry but is not part of the National Awards program. The 2011 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards is an initiative of the ACT Government, managed and delivered by Canberra Business Council.

A S S O C I AT I O N S T O B U S I N E S S

A2B

...we are a small city-state with untapped potential to become the innovation and knowledge city of the future.

Adapting to Change

hange can often be a good thing, a sign of progress. However too much change brings with it uncertainty, and uncertainty increases risks and costs. Not long ago the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) painted a promising picture for the global economic outlook: a forecast increase in World real GDP growth from 4.2% in 2011 to 4.6% in 2012. However by the end of August this year the Secretary General of the OECD spoke out about the weakening outlook for global growth. Importantly, his message stressed the need to avoid short-term emergency actions while focussing on sound fiscal consolidation strategies to

How is our island nation faring in these stormy seas of global economic turmoil? Buffeted by the GFC, we recovered well due to sound fundamentals, including a robust banking system. Natural disasters recently reared their ugly head to curb our growth, but the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has just held an Article IV consultation with the Australian Government and has come away confidently predicting real GDP growth of 3.5% for 2012, up from 2% in 2011, along with a steady unemployment rate hovering around 5% over the same period. There again however, it would be generalising to suggest that the whole of Australia is doing well. You’ll no doubt have heard the phrase “Two Speed

Change can often be a good thing, a sign of progress. However too much change brings with it uncertainty, and uncertainty increases risks and costs. reign in public and private debt. Structural reforms are required, not knee-jerk reactions. Without these reforms, there is a very real possibility that we may see another northern hemisphere recession, or at the very least long-term continuation of the turmoil which has plagued markets and caused uncertainty across the board. Of course it’s always odd to refer to the “global economy” as being in trouble, because in reality the economic performance of the different regions varies. Most notable is China, which is running an annual GDP growth rate of more than double the rest of the world, at around 9.7%. It was China’s massive $586 billion economic stimulus package in 2008 that pulled much of the world out of the GFC, and many pin the hopes of another recovery in global growth on China this time around. China has structural issues of its own, both political and economic, which are threatening its continued strong growth. The country has attempted to address these in its latest Five-Year Plan, which aims to encourage more domestic consumption and make investments more efficient. The world looks on with great interest.

Economy” or “Patchwork Economy” being used to refer to the divide between the resource-rich states and industries, and the rest of the nation. In the greatest mining boom probably in Australia’s history and certainly since the gold rush of the 1850s, there have been winners and losers. And what of the ACT, one of the best-performing economies in all of Australia? I am optimistic about the future, not only because of our innovation-based industries, our world-class research and education providers and our major tourist attractions. It is also because our businesses have proven time and again that they can manage risk and adapt to change. It’s because our Government has a firm hand on the tiller. But most importantly, it’s because we are a small city-state with untapped potential to become the innovation and knowledge city of the future. With vision, passion and commitment to such a future, our business, community and government sectors can work together to realise this potential.

CHRIS Fa u L K s

CHEIF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

AFFILIATED WITH

UPCOMING EVENTS 3 November 2011 ANNUAL GALA DINNER GUEST SPEAKER Li Cunxin – Mao’s Last Dancer Dinner will include Business Achievement Awards Presentation TIME: 7.00pm VENUE: Hotel Realm, Barton DRESS: Lounge Suit For registration go to www.canberrabusinesscouncil.com.au

T 6247 4199 E info@canberrabusinesscouncil.com.au www.canberrabusinesscouncil.com.au

Principal Members ACTEW Corporation, ActewAGL, Bank West, Blue Star Printing Group, Canberra International Airport, Cre8ive, Elite Sound & Lighting, Ernst & Young Services Trust, eWAY, Hindmarsh, HolisTech Pty Ltd, ISIS, KPMG (Canberra), Master Builders Association (ACT), Medibank Health Solutions, National Australia Bank Ltd (Turner), National Museum of Australia, NEC Australia Pty Ltd, Staging Connections (ACT), The Village Building Co, Thyssen Krupp Marine Systems Australia, TransACT Communication B 2 b I n C a n b e r r A N o v e m b e r 2 0 11

A2B

A S S O C I AT I O N S T O B U S I N E S S

The First Australians assigned each and every young person to an elder for their education...

Celebrating Youth Mentoring Week

T R E VA R CHILver

DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYMENT, EDUCATION AND TRAINING

s a society, we’ve not been terribly good at recognising the wisdom of the First Australians, and this is nowhere more evident than in our education system. The First Australians assigned each and every young person to an elder for their education. Every skill and principal they would need to live and thrive was delivered through one-on-one mentoring. While there are enormous advantages in the European approach of assigning specialist teachers to groups of young people for detailed instruction

reduced, substance abuse is reduced, and even the volunteers doing the mentoring find positive outcomes for themselves in supporting someone else. This month we will celebrate Youth Mentoring Week with the establishment of MentorsACT!, and we think this is the beginning of something that will prove very valuable to the ACT community. MentorsACT! will act as a peak body for organisations that coordinate mentoring for young people. It will facilitate collaboration between these organisations, advocate on their behalf and support the provision

Mentoring has been shown by many studies to sustain student attendance at school, strengthen their participation in school, build stronger connections to the broader community, develop self awareness and decision-making skills, promote mental health, and promote the development of positive relationships, as well as reducing harmful influences like drugs and alcohol.

Corporate Sponsors ACTEWAGL, 104.7 / Mix 106.3, Prime TV, The Canberra Times, The Good Guys Tuggeranong, Duesburys Nexia, Synapse Worldwide, B2B in Canberra. Associates and Affiliates Retail Traders Association, Australian Industry Defence Network Foundation Member Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry 34

in discrete subjects like science or geography, this system on its own lacks the personal attention afforded by the education system of the First Australians. Young people, all of whom face their own personal challenges on the way to adulthood, benefit enormously from the support of a mentor, who is able to provide guidance from a truly independent standpoint, and develop an awareness of the individual young person’s needs. Mentoring has been shown by many studies to sustain student attendance at school, strengthen their participation in school, build stronger connections to the broader community, develop self awareness and decision-making skills, promote mental health, and promote the development of positive relationships, as well as reducing harmful influences like drugs and alcohol. Mentors are especially good at catching problems in any of these areas earlier than teachers, youth workers, and sometimes even parents. Mentors can also help young people engage with appropriate support services and enjoy the full advantages of employment or entrepreneurship. The advantages of mentoring flow on to the entire community. Businesses find better candidates for employment, completion rates for apprenticeships, university and vocational courses are improved, the cohesiveness of communities is increased, young people are better able to access services, crime is

n o v e m b e r 2 0 11 B 2 b I n C a n b e r r a

of training and standards for mentors. But more importantly than any of that, it will promote the value of being involved in mentoring for mentors and mentees as well as for business and the community at large. Even as MentorsACT! is being established, the benefits are becoming clear. Martin Fisk, from Menslink, and who also chairs the MentorsACT! committee, was giving some information on Menslink for a community organisation recently, and had this to say: “At my presentation, the benefits of belonging to Mentors ACT! became readily apparent. I was not only able to promote Menslink, but was also able to lead a discussion about other mentoring programs. No one program fits all and I was able to meet the needs of the audience far better through my knowledge of these other programs.” As the Chamber of Commerce, we are supporting the development of mentoring programs for very practical reasons. We want to see improved educational attainment rates for young people because that’s a key factor in addressing skill shortages. If you would like any more information about the Chamber’s initiatives in the area of mentoring, or would like a copy of the report into mentoring in the ACT, please contact Trevar Chilver: trevar.chilver@actchamber.com.au.

graphy

photo art atelier

tography

nal pho - professio

nce 1996

services si

You can now follow B2B on Facebook: ‘B2B in Canberra Magazine’

IDE NTI TY THE IS YO UR COM FT: PAN Y AT RIS K? CAN BERR

A’S BUS INES

S & GO VERN

MEN T MAG AZIN

IS YO UR BU ON FAC EBO SIN ESS OK ?

Stuart Crai Away can g from Waste informatio protect your n

b2binca

Sam Gup ta Worldwid from Synapse e Facebook sells the virtues of for busin ess

nberra.co

www.art-atelier.com.au I info@art-atelier.com.au I t. 6288 3626 corporate I events I editorial I portrait I product I architecture I fashion

m.au

MARCH

2011

FEATURIN G

Yellow E dge. C anberra’ s people

CA NB

NEW REAL ESTATE ADVICE COL UMN

B2B is now

on Facebook

. See expanded

IM PR OV E BO TT OM YO UR BU SIN LIN E: ES SE RI ES S PL AN NI NG PA RT 6 Have

Busines s less and should talk listen more.

NM EN

T MA GA ZIN

nberra.

com.au

FEBRUA

RY 201 1

$4.95 inc. GST

LATELY? Antoniette Gome z from Exhal e explains how to tune-u p your busine ss

networking

you busines linked pric ing s growth & pro to fitability

E b2binca

HAS YOUR BUSINESS BEEN TO THE DOC TOR

business benefi t from Canbe BusinessPoint? rra

erra magazine’

ESS & GO VER

s ...

NEW OFFICES FOR CANBERRA BUSINESSPO Can your INT

at ‘B2B in Canb

BU SIN

and idea s compa succes ny

Find out what ma kes them an inspir ed

Maria Sellec k shares her experience in the Canberra market

ERR A’S

ISSN 1833

-8232

photos and articles.

9 7718 33

823005

ON A M CHSOLVE ISS BUSIN ION TO SAV ESS M FLU VACC ONEY. E INATIONS Get your 1000% RO : PAID PARENT AL I MAY

2011

ncan

b2bi

Rights of the Child Public Lecture 2011

N ES

GO S&

VE RN

M EN

AG TM

AZ IN

Donate to

What does

the Queen

sland Pre

LEAVE it mean for : you?

mier’s Dis

aster Relief

DEFEAT YO Five easy UR BAD DEBTOR S steps inside 1800 21 9 028

$4.95

Appeal -

ISSN

R IE S RT SE U SI N ES S 6 PA N EW CR EA SE B TO IN R M A N CE P ER FO

MES TO IT CO : WHEN C DESIGN HI ht? GRAP nt always rig

FREE ENTRY

. GS

5 inc

$4.9

THE SING CHOO ENT: the same? AG all BEST l estate agents k Are rea Sellec Maria from

ISSN

18 9 77

-823

1833

STC00412

Facebook

02 6285 1045

29/09/11 5:00 PM

8230

clie ey Is the Monk Paper from

Find us on

Proudly sponsored by

1833-8

inc. GST

232 01

9 771 833

E AT U R , CE G E FE 8 PA N FE R EN O N CO IN G A N D TI ES LI TR A IN N G FA CI M EE TI

Thursday 20 October Time: 5:45 for 6pm start Venue: National Library of Australia

Adv_115h x 89w.indd 1

BU SI

b dic Can firm de w la law iminal to cr

Date:

savethechildren.org.au/act

A’ S

H A U L IC B E N O C IAT E S S & A S erra’s onlyated

Artistic and cultural expression are part of John Bell’s DNA and they are also every child’s right.

John Bell AO OBE Bell Shakespeare Company

RR N BE

m. rra.co

823005

B2B @ BUSINESS LEADERS BREAKFAST AT CANBERRA BUSINESS CENTRE, REGATTA POINT As part of the ACT Government’s Business in Focus month, ACT Minister for Ageing, Joy Burch MLA officially launched two business guides that have been produced for the ACT business community. The ACT Business Guide to Older Customers has been produced to provide ACT businesses with practical advice and information on how to attract and respond to the needs of older customers. The ACT Business Guide to Mature Workers has been produced to provide the business sector, particularly employers, with a better understanding and appreciation of the value and importance of mature workers in the workplace, and the contribution they make to our community.

Find us on

Facebook

‘B2B in Canberra magazine’

It’s not too late...

to support the Anglicare Winter Appeal Have you ever been camping during winter in a tent? When the temperatures are below freezing, the wind rips around the canvas and the rain seeps in through the seams? Why would you? Well, some people in Canberra have no choice. The tent is their home. Some people aren’t even lucky enough to have a tent. The days might be getting longer but it is still cold and there are still people who need your help.

It’s not too late! Phone 6245 7100 and give your tax deductible donation now

B2B @ CANBERRA BUSINESS COUNCIL EXECUTIVE SAP LUNCHEON This Canberra Business Council Executive luncheon was sponsored by SAP, Canberra Business Council, AFFIRM (The Australian Foundation for Mental Health Research), and the ANU with Craig Hamilton as Guest Speaker. Craig Hamilton is a broadcaster with ABC Radio who has worked on National Rugby League games for the last eight seasons. On the eve of the biggest undertaking of his career - the Sydney Olympics - Craig suffered a mental breakdown which almost ruined his career and turned his role as devoted husband and father into a living hell.

B2B @ CANBERRA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL LAUNCH The 2011 Canberra International Film Festival (26 October - 6 November) presents 58 extraordinary films across 95 screenings with 17 Australian premieres that include comedy, drama, family films and breathtaking beauties about love and desire. New this year at the Arc Cinema is a celebration of song, dance and classic musicals, presented in collaboration with the National Film & Sound Archive. Go to www.canberrafilmfestival.com.au to find out more.

TransACT proudly presents the …

15th C A N B E R R A I N T E R N A T I O N A L

FILM FESTIVAL Wednesday 26 October – Sunday 7 November 2011

DENDY & Arc cINEMAS www.canberrafilmfestival.com.au

www.peugeot.com.au

INTRODUCING

THE CAR YOU NEVER KNEW

YOU ALWAYS WANTED

SportS luxury haS never been So affordable.

from only

199

1 per

week

for approved buSIneSS applICantS only

NEW PEugEot

62,412

drIve away

RCZ