B2B in Canberra October 2009 (Issue 41)

OCTOBER 2009 Issue 41 $5.95 PP 255003/09169

SECOMCOMPLETE PEACE OF MIND Read MORE ON PAGES 28-29

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Construction Snapshot highlights investment IN CANBERRA

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B2B in canberra business and government magazine

OCTOBER 2009 issue 41

COVER SECOM

Complete peace of mind Full story pages

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14

28–29 Contacts

Contents

PUBLISHER Tim Benson 02 6161 2751

upfront Read about local business success

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Feature ACT Health & Safety Show '09

22

Women need weights

04

24

Attention boards: it's time to start planning

FEature Chief Minister's Export Awards

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Graduate Cooks Awards – 23 years in the making

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06

Cover Story The strength of SECOM in Canberra

New Commander Centre for the Canberra region

FEature ACT Training Excellence Awards

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06

Grace Business Services

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34

Indulge your taste buds at corporate functions

ADVICE Advice from the business experts

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39

Canberra Construction Snapshot

09

opinion Binding child support agreements – a pathway to peace?

10

G2b Chief Minister Opposition Leader OH&S Commissioner Commissioner of Taxation

editor Liz Lang editorial@b2bincanberra.com 02 6161 2751 DESIGN VOODOO

www.voodoocreative.com.au

photography Andrew Sikorski, Art Atelier ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES advertising@b2bincanberra.com 02 6161 2751 0402 900 402 published by 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 www.b2bincanberra.com DISTRIBUTED BY Australia Post PRINTED BY Blue Star Print Group

Kerry White, Farrar Gesini & Dunn

opinion Why don't businesses plan?

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Andrew Sykes, RSM Bird Cameron

FEATURE Monaro Screens

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feature 16 InsitecFlight Centre Business Travel feature XTEK

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A2B ACT & Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry Canberra Business Council ACT Exporters' Network

39 42 43 44 44 46 47

U2b The Australian National University

48

C2B Canberra Southern Cross Club

50

Networking See who's out and about in Canberra

52

We do the work.

You take the credit

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LEGAL NOTICE RELATING TO COPYRIGHT, WARRANTIES AND LIABILITIES 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.

B2B in Canberra | October 2009

3

"The three great essentials to achieve anything worthwhile are, first, hard work; second, stick-to-itiveness; third, common sense."

Thomas Edison

upfront

Women need weights!

P

ersonal trainer and Slimplicity coach at Fernwood Belconnen, Kim Wilmshurst is passionate about the importance of weight training for women. She says unlike many other gyms, where you’ll find sweaty men huffing and puffing while they lift weights infront of mirrors, this is not the case at Fernwood.

“We place great importance on women undertaking weights training because it’s great for the prevention for osteoporosis, builds muscle, and increases the body’s metabolic rate so women can burn fat faster,” Kim says.

As part of a Diamond or Emerald membership, members receive a one-on-one personal training session each week. The session focuses solely on weight training and clients are encouraged to undertake another two sessions by themselves.

“We find that women are happy to come in and do cardio training but they’re a little more cautious when it comes to lifting weights,” she says.

“My clients are typically time-poor. They tell me that having an ‘appointment’ with their personal trainer enables them to take time out from their busy schedules and they certainly see the benefits from having a regular intensive work-out.”

Kim is also a Slimplicity coach. Slimplicity is the Fernwood weight management program designed by dieticians. The program shows participants how to enjoy five delicious meals each day, kick-starting the metabolism, and preventing hunger while achieving weight loss.

“Slimplicity is not expensive and you don’t have to buy particular food products. It is healthy guide to the foods you should be incorporating into your daily meals and is really easy for busy ladies. Slimplicity sessions are weekly one-on-one sessions where I review my client’s program, weigh them, discuss their eating challenges ahead and give them strategies for healthy eating habits.

Located in Westfield Belconnen for ten years the Fernwood Belconnen Club offers a great range of group fitness classes, personal training, Slimplicity, child minding, spa and sauna, change room facilities, complimentary breakfast, tea and coffee, beautician and undercover parking.

Level 3, Shop 125A Westfield Shopping Mall, Belconnen T: 6251 5299 belconnen@fernwoodfitness.com.au Front: club manager, Stacey Kuster with Kim Wilmshurst.

Attention boards: it’s time to start planning

O

ctober is the time for boards to begin their yearly planning, according to Harry Telfer from Yellow Edge and Dr Neil Primrose of Primrose Solutions.

“With October being the end of the board year and annual general meetings concluded, it’s a good time for boards to consider their planning needs for the year ahead including directors’ responsibilities, board charters and work plans, strategic planning, financial and risk management, and evaluation of the board's and individual board member's performance,” Harry said.

“Yellow Edge and Primrose Solutions have put together what we believe is the most comprehensive corporate governance package available to companies and organisations in Canberra,” Neil said.

Yellow Edge is a performance management company that seeks to improve the workforce performance of individuals, groups, and organisations including, at the highest level, the Board. Primrose Solutions is known for its corporate governance expertise and developmental work with board chairs, directors, chief executives and senior executives.

“Our tailored package of services is relevant for companies and all organisations that need to

work in a board-like way including government and adherence to best practice. statutory authorities and agencies and not-for“The Yellow Edge and Primrose Solutions profits,” Neil said. package of corporate governance services is Yellow Edge is licensed to use a rigorous customised to meet the needs of companies methodology developed by BoardWorks and organisations,” Neil said. “People can enter International, a specialist governance consulting at any point of the package - and there is no company, that assesses and evaluates board time like the month of October to make that performance. The methodology is based on fresh start.” a detailed survey which is specifically tailored to the situation and needs of the client and Contact: Harry Telfer, Yellow Edge developed following in-depth consultation with 02-6273 0168 or Neil Primrose, Primrose the chair, chief executive and the board. The Solutions 02 6295 0980 survey results are enhanced by the insights of the specialist consultant who spends time with the Board at work and with each of the participants.

“One of the strengths of the BoardWorks International methodology is that it provides a 360 degree review of the board and its individual members’ performance,” Harry said. “The final report produced using the methodology is peer reviewed by BoardWorks International itself to ensure the highest standard of service to clients Left: Dr. Neil Primrose and Harry Telfer

FACT: M ultiple job holders were more likely to work long hours; 18% said they usually worked more than 55 hours per week (compared with 8% of single job holders) and 56% of them said they were often or always pressed for time. (ABS October 2009).

4

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

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upfront

"Whenever you see a successful business, someone once made a courageous decision."

Peter Drucker

Graduate Cooks Awards – 23 years in the making

T

he cream of Canberra’s graduating chefs who have completed Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, vied for four major awards at the 2009 Canberra Southern Club Graduate Cooks Awards held recently.

Now in its 23rd year, the awards sponsored continuously by the Canberra Southern Cross Club and Peter Lehmann Wines, not only recognise the achievement of final year chefs but provide them with an opportunity to work alongside pre-eminent chefs both in Australia and overseas.

This year’s eleven finalists represented businesses such as the National Press Club, Hyatt Hotel Canberra, Pulp Kitchen, and Café @ CIT. The awards included the ActewAGL Hong Kong Study Tour which enables an outstanding graduate to broaden their skills in leading five-star establishments in Hong Kong, the Bidvest 'South Australian Experience' Award which includes a study tour within South Australia, the A C & R – Serge Dansereau Work Experience Awards where the winning graduate works with Serge Dansereau in his Sydney venue, The Bathers’ Pavilion, and the inaugural Bush Goddess Regional Food Award where a graduate spends a fully funded week with business owner, and Bush Goddess, Pennie

Scott meeting her suppliers of organically and ecologically grown foods.

Thomas Mitchell from the Hyatt Hotel Canberra won the ActewAGL Hong Kong Study Tour. In accepting the award, he said: “I feel very lucky to win this award. I would like to thank my mum for her constructive criticism – if it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t have pursued a career in commercial cooking.”

Ian McNeil from Grazing at Gundaroo won the Bidvest 'South Australian Experience' Award, Wayne Alger from Belluci’s Dickson won the Serge Dansereau Award, and Monica Welsh from Café @ CIT was awarded the Bush Goddess Regional Food Award.

The awards also recognised the achievements of the Canberra Southern Cross Club first year management trainees and CIT Food and Beverage Certificate III students.

The Graduate Cooks Awards have gone from strength to strength starting out in the Southern Cross Restaurant in 1987 with 90 guests to a gathering of 300 in the new and stylish surrounds of the Canberra Southern Cross Events Centre.

Thomas Mitchell accepting the ActewAGL Hong Kong Study Tour Award

New Commander Centre for the Canberra region

T

he M2 Telecommunications Group Ltd recently acquired the Commander SME business and this means great things for Commander's customers in Canberra.

Established in 1999, M2 is Australia’s largest network independent provider of retail and wholesale fixed-line, mobile and data telecommunications services, providing services in both Australia and New Zealand.

“Part of the new Commander philosophy is to establish local face-to-face service centres in key locations around Australia including the new Commander Centre (ACT) in Mitchell,” general manager, Commander Centre (ACT), Graham Lowbridge AIMM, said.

The new locally owned Commander Centre (ACT) in Mitchell will continue to provide trusted advice plus reliable service and support for business telecommunication needs, such as tailoring computer networks, getting businesses up and running on the internet or providing the latest phone systems, 3G mobiles and fixed line network.

“Our customers will still recognise a couple of familiar faces as Ray and Peter Shelley and myself are still with Commander in the new Centre,”

Graham said, “Other members of our team in Please feel free to call Ashleigh or Jaime on Canberra include Ashleigh Maloney in the office 6123 8900 or drop into the office or speak with and Jaime Tuckwell as sales manager.” any of our service staff.

The new Canberra Commander Centre dealership is owned by locals, so customers Commander Centre (ACT) are now dealing with people that can make Unit 4, 26 Sandford St, Mitchell decisions in a timely manner. info.act@commandercentre.com “We welcome customers and clients to www.ccact.com.au drop in and explore a new phone system, business mobile, fixed line or data plan with our friendly staff, who will endeavor to solve any telecommunications issue they have,” Graham said.

Commander Centre (ACT) will continue to offer tailored business communication solutions from world class partners including Siemens, Lake Communications, Nortel, Nokia and of course Commander.

“Our Centre will be continuing Commander ’business‘ as usual supporting our valued customers, with the personal level of service and support they have always enjoyed.”

Graham said.

The Commander Centre (ACT) team: Ray Shelley, Peter Shelley, Ashleigh Maloney and Jaime Tuckwell

FACT: Western Australia continued to record the fastest population growth at 3.1%, followed by Queensland (2.6%), the Northern Territory

(2.2%), Victoria (2.1%), the Australian Capital Territory (1.8%), New South Wales (1.6%), South Australia (1.2%) and Tasmania (1.0%) (ABS September 2009).

6

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

Tim has always been passionate about cycling, right from his first three-speed dragster as a kid.

He’s taken his passion and put it into his business.

Tim’s success is due to the kind of commitment that saw him finish an ironman triathlon in less than 10 hours.

MBD 31 1108

Tim knows how to set goals and achieve what he wants. That’s why he chooses RSM Bird Cameron to be his trusted financial adviser.

RSM Bird Cameron Ph: (02) 6247 5988

Growing my business takes effort and passion. So I take RSM Bird Cameron’s advice.

Tim Palmer Owner and operator Ride Shop Pty Limited

www.rsmi.com.au

"Drive thy business or it will drive thee."

Benjamin Franklin

upfront

Thinking of moving your business?

T

he new head of Grace Business Services in Canberra, a specialised division of Grace Removals Group, is keen to let businesses know how he can assist with their next business move.

While new to Grace Removals Group, branch manager, Craig Barnes is well-known in the removals industry in Canberra notching up 30 years of industry experience. Starting out his career in removals as a fifteen year old with his dad who owned a truck, Craig has progressed through the industry ranks.

With their distinctive white trucks and red Grace branding, Grace Business Services is dedicated solely to commercial and office relocation. Grace Business Services has the capacity to move people in small offices through to large government departments.

“Businesses can rely on Grace Business Services as we are an integral part of the Grace Removals which has in operation for nearly a hundred years and is still an Australian-owned company,” Craig said.

“We use the latest mobile file crates and removal systems to make business moves as easy and seamless as possible for owners and staff.”

Grace Removals holds ISO 9001/2000 certification for domestic operations and FAIM/ISO for international operations. Being a five star quality

endorsed company, Grace Removals staff undergo induction and regular training modules to meet the quality assurance requirements.

The Canberra branch of Grace Removals is home to staff with a wealth of experience. Craig explains: “Our operations manager Graham has been with the company for more than 20 years, Neville our removals supervisor, 17 years, Venetia, our office manager, a dozen years, and many of the permanent guys on the road have been with the company for 10 to 12 years.”

Grace Business Services can assist businesses with services such as packing and unpacking of crates and trolleys, sequential packing, relocation and unpacking of files, logistical planning of new office space to accommodate existing furniture and effects, dismantling shelving and reassembly, and offsite storage of excess items.

For more information, contact Grace Business Services on 6260 1344 or www.grace.com.au

L-R: John Wray, Kevin Swift and Craig Barnes

Indulge your tastebuds at corporate functions

R

olls Choice has been indulging the tastebuds of Canberra residents for the past 20 years with its gourmet sandwiches, rolls and wraps.

With two stores located in Fyshwick and the City Centre, Rolls Choice makes every sandwich fresh, with lean meats, unique sauces and gourmet breads.

“Not only do we provide clean and comfortable surroundings to enjoy your meal in, we also offer

catering options to suit any need,” says Rolls Choice general manager, Helen Evans-Turner.

“Customers can order from our delicious menu which includes fresh rolls, wraps and sandwiches brimming with innovative fillings and distinctive Mediterranean flavours," she says. "With fresh bread baked daily, and meats, condiments and salads all prepared in-house using special recipes, Rolls Choice is certain to be a pleaser at your next corporate lunch or event. We also offer a convenient Canberrawide delivery service that operates seven days per week."

Rolls Choice can cater for any event and has plentiful platters and packages to suit any price range, from basic baby-sandwich platters to gourmet sandwich/ roll/wrap platters.

Rolls Choice also caters for different dietary requirements.

For gluten-free options, try their salad plates or filled baked potatoes.

Vegetarians are also catered for, with a healthy range of meat-free options available, such as Rolls Choice own baked ricotta and fetta terrine.

Rolls Choice suppliers are also certified halal and kosher providers.

Helen says “At Rolls Choice we take pride in providing high quality, fresh and tasty meal options that don’t expand the waist-line and are value for money.”

Breakfast, morning and afternoon teas are also catered for with fresh fruit or cake platters.

Breakfast options include freshly cooked bacon and egg rolls or ham and cheese croissants, yoghurt with home-made muesli and berries, or mini Danish platters. Fresh seasonal and exotic fruit is used on the fruit platters, and the cake platters consist of a selection of biscuits, slices, cakes and danishes.

If it’s punctual, efficient and reliable catering services that you are looking for look no further than Canberra’s very own gourmet sandwich provider – Rolls Choice.

To book catering for your next event contact Rolls Choice on 6280 7058 or download an order form at www.rollschoice.com.au.

FACT: N on-profit institutions contributed close to $43 billion (or 4.1%) to Australia's economy in 2006/07, as measured by gross domestic product (ABS September 2009).

8

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

“Success seems to be largely a matter of hanging on after others have let go.”

William Feather

UPFRONT

Snapshot shows billions of dollars in construction investment Chief Minister Jon Stanhope recently launched the Canberra Construction Snapshot – the first of a biannual newsletter on construction works and capital projects in the ACT.

David Dawes, Chief Minister's Department, John Miller, Master Builders Association (MBA) ACT, Chief Minister Jon Stanhope and Ross Barrett President of the ACT MBA at the launch of the Canberra Construction Snapshot

S

peaking at the launch of the Canberra Construction Snapshot, the chief minister said that the launch of the document was needed because people inside and outside the territory – including venture capitalists, banks and investors – had not had access to a single, consolidated picture of the volume and value of construction activity in the ACT. “The Construction Snapshot draws together in one place information about all of the major Government and private-sector infrastructure, capital works and development projects either in progress or expected to proceed in the ACT and the region,” Mr Stanhope said.

The picture presented by this first Canberra Construction Snapshot reveals a sector that is robust, confident and getting on with the business of building the capital.

“The message it sends is loud and powerful: the ACT is open for business. The ACT is anticipating the future with confidence — and with bricks and mortar,” Mr Stanhope said.

The document also outlined a number of initiatives the ACT Government has taken to support the local economy, particularly the construction sector, such as temporarily reducing the change-of-use charge and waiving the charge for the redevelopment of former service station sites for one year, and overhauling procurement

processes and planning approvals processes.

In addition to this the ACT Government has allocated more than $685 million to infrastructure and capital works over the course of this financial year.

So what sort of dollars are we talking about is terms of construction in the pipeline in the ACT? According to the Construction Snapshot: • $287 million worth of construction work relating to the rebuild of the ACT public health system (First part of a billion-dollar package).

• $250 million worth of projects in the education sector.

• $330 million worth of projects in municipal services.

• $330 million worth of work at the ANU. • $1.8 billion worth of construction work currently being rolled out in the private sector right now.

• $2.5 billion worth of work in the pipeline from the private sector.

• $750 million in the pipeline from the ACT Government.

• PLUS $500 million in work to secure the ACT’s water supply.

With the release of the Canberra Construction Snapshot detailing existing and planned capital works, Mr Stanhope said it will help promote the ACT and region as an ideal location for investment.

“It will help distinguish us as a destination of genuine choice and unparalleled opportunity and reduce the chances of us being considered as simply a sub-set of the broader New South Wales region, when it comes to decisions about finance and investment,” Mr Stanhope said.

"The snapshot also lets the world know that the ACT is one of the most competitive places in the nation to do business and invest."

The document also rates the ACT as the second state or territory for overall business costs.

The Canberra Construction Snapshot will be published each May and November.

It is a welcome addition to the array of tools available to promote the investment opportunities existing in the nation's capital and can be viewed at http://www.business.act.gov.au/.

B2B in Canberra | October 2009

9

OPINION: FARRAR GESINI & DUNN Binding child support agreements ­– a pathway to peace?

Reforms to Australia's Child Support Scheme have been implemented over the past three years and have included an overhaul of the formula that is used in calculating child support liabilities. The formula now calculates child support liabilities based on both parents’ incomes, the time that parents spend with their children and the age of children (over or under 12 years of age).

By Kerry White

T

he formula does not operate to address the needs or specific circumstances of individual families. Expenses such as private school fees, extra curricular activities and orthodontic treatment are not taken into account under the assessment. Parents with such expenses must apply to the Child Support Agency (CSA) for a change to the assessment based on ‘special circumstances’.

early intervention and mediation. Disputes often relate to the actual time children spend with their parents and the amount of child support paid by one parent to the other.

If independent research referred to by the Child Support Agency is accurate, it would appear that family dispute resolution mediation, is resulting in a discernable shift in the child support sphere with an increase in the number of parents iden-

A Binding Child Support Agreement is an agreement that is intended to provide certainty for parents in the long term. It can be changed by further agreement but it cannot be changed unilaterally by one parent.

That process can take several months from the date of the application to the date of decision. An objection process is then available from which one or both parents may appeal may to the Social Security Appeals Tribunal. There is the possibility of a further appeal to the Federal Magistrates Court on a question of law.

It would not be surprising to find that for many parents involved in the child support scheme, they either give up on the way through, or become embittered or disillusioned about the process or the other parent.

As a part of the reforms to the family law system, Family Relationship Centres were introduced throughout Australia to provide a resource to assist separating parties resolve disputes. Such disputes primarily deal with child related matters.

The Child Support Agency is now operating a pilot scheme to see whether the role of the Family Relationships Centres can be extended to parents who have child support issues, for

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October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

tifying themselves as working ‘co-operatively’ with their ex-partners.

Build upon co-operative parenting – a binding child support agreement?

If the amount of time parents spend with their children is more certain, it can lead to greater confidence between parents that they can arrange financial matters relating to their children’s present and future support between themselves.

How do we pay for our kids?

Some parents pay child support according to: 1. An informal arrangement – which either parent can change at any time.

2. The child support formula – which may not be accurate, particularly if one parent is self employed or there are extra child expenses such as private school fees.

3. A Limited Child Support Agreement – has limitations particularly if parents want to agree upon lump sum arrangements or include

other benefits provided to the children, operative for a limited time only and can be changed by one parent in some circumstances.

Choice As a consequence of the reforms to the Child Support System, there is now another alternative available to parents, a binding child support agreement.

Binding child support agreement.

A Binding Child Support Agreement is an agreement that is intended to provide certainty for parents in the long term. It can be changed by further agreement but it cannot be changed unilaterally by one parent.

A Binding Child Support Agreement allows a lump sum to be paid to one parent that can be offset against an ongoing obligation to pay child support. It could also provide for the parents to share specific expenses such as private school fees.

To ensure fairness, both parents are required to obtain independent legal advice. A certificate confirming the independent legal advice has been provided to the party must be attached to the Binding Child Support Agreement.

Parents do not need to be involved with the Child Support Agency if they do not want to be, they can decide for themselves the best way for them both to support their children.

As in other areas of Family Law, the best outcomes are often those outcomes that parties decide for themselves rather than outcomes that are imposed by either a Court or Government Agency.

One size does not fit all, so it is often worthwhile to obtain initial advice from a family law specialist about whether a Binding Child Support Agreement could suit your circumstances.

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OPINION: RSM BIRD CAMERON Why don’t businesses plan?

Only one in two SME owners with an exit plan are aware of tax concessions available for small businesses upon sale.

By Andrew Sykes

O

nly one in two SME owners with an exit plan are aware of tax concessions available for small businesses upon sale.

Successful business is built on a good business plan. To understand this and how to succeed at business you need to understand why so many people fail. Statistics indicate that four out of five businesses fail within their first five years. Out of those that make it only one in five will survive another four years. This means that if 100,000 new businesses start this year only 4,000 will be around in nine years time. 96,000 will have either closed down, been liquidated, sold out, changed direction or become a new business. These statistics come from Brian Sher, one of Australia’s top business coaches and marketers and the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

To those who have been in business 10 years

The skill required to run a business is obtained from experience and the best way to obtain this experience is by planning your business activities.

How do we know this?

We look at the planning practices of successful enterprises. or longer – congratulations.

In his book The E Myth, Michael Gerber discusses people starting businesses and what he calls the onset of the ‘entrepreneurial seizure’.

Most people are trained in a technical skill and are usually very good at what they do. They may be a good salesperson, lawyer, printer, builder or tradesperson. But being technically skilled does

12

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

not qualify them to be a successful business person. There is an art to running a business and being good at what you do does not guarantee that your business will be successful.

The skill required to run a business is obtained from experience and the best way to obtain this experience is by planning your business activities. How do we know this? We look at the planning practices of successful enterprises.

Businesses that plan report higher growth – almost twice as many businesses that plan have grown in excess of 50% per annum over the past two years.

RSM Bird Cameron has undertaken extensive research on business planning and what makes a successful business. We can see that only about one third of businesses complete a formal business plan. Further insight is gained by looking at the age of the businesses completing a business

Business planning practices:

for nine years you should reflect on the adage that 'you don’t plan to fail, you fail to plan'.

Business planning correlates with higher rates of growth. The discipline of examining the market, the organisation’s competitive positioning, its products and services and opportunities for growth is an essential prerequisite to systematically pursuing and capturing the opportunities that present themselves.

Businesses that do not undertake planning because they don’t have the time, or think that they know the market so well that it is not necessary, are achieving lower rates of growth than those that do adopt and adhere to business plans.

If it is so important why don’t businesses plan?

Age of business completing plans.

» Two thirds of SMEs surveyed undertook some form of planning » One third undertook no planning at all » Of those that planned, only 50% had a formal business plan plan – 72% of those completing business plans have been in business for at least five years.

It is very easy to draw the inference that business planning helps businesses to survive and it helps their owners gain the experience and vital technical skills required to run it. When you consider that only 1 in 25 business start-ups survive

Five to ten years

Three to four years One to two years

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Phone: (02) 6241 1451

www.ambiusindoorplants.com.au

upfront feature

The glass business that David &Deirdre built...

David and Deirdre Byatt have built a successful business based on hard work and good old fashioned values. Armed with little more than the tools from their garden shed, a leased van, and modest premises in Queanbeyan, this is how the success story of Monaro Screens began sixteen years ago. Liz Lang reports;

Above: L-R Deirdre 14andOctober 2009 | B2B in Canberra David Byatt.

D

avid and Deirdre are proud of their country origins. They moved here from Albury/ Wodonga in 1988 and living with friends enabled them to save for their first house in Gilmore. “It was massive – nine squares” David exclaims (obviously the comedian in the family). “I worked two jobs, nights and weekends and Dee worked while heavily pregnant just to keep the mortgage under control.

At the time we locked our loan in at 16.5%. It went up to 18.5% but quickly dropped after that. Times were tough,” he says.

David’s second job entailed assembling glass doors for a friend. This went on for a number of years and gave him the grounding for the manufacturing industry. Their dream to run their own small business

David says that people often say to him that he is ‘lucky’ to own his own business.

He answers them saying that there’s not a lot of luck involved – only hard work, late nights, and solid business planning and a good accountant.

Photos: Andrew Sikorski

began in January 1994 with David taking long service leave from the Public Service. He remembers the day he gave notice. “My boss grabbed the Yellow Pages and plonked them on my desk. He said, ‘Do you realise how many shower screen manufacturers there are in Canberra?’ This put serious doubt in my mind."

It was a tough start as they started as a one man show with David being the receptionist, measurer, maker and installer while Deirdre looked after their growing family. David clearly remembers the first shower screen he installed “It took four hours to install” he recounts.

“At that time I just couldn’t see the business succeeding. It took me eighteen months to build it up to a point where I was confident enough to cut ties with the Public Service.”

After 13 years based in Queanbeyan, the business grew rapidly. “We were busting at the seams,” Deirdre recalls. Following some good advice from their accountant they purchased a custom-built factory in busy Fyshwick to accommodate a large and inviting showroom, offices and workshop where all products are manufactured to customer specifications. They currently employ nine staff. As well as building a business with a high reputation David and Deirdre have raised three sons, all of whom have worked in the business during school holidays and on weekends.

David and Deirdre are clearly proud of their business achievements. They believe that much of their success is due to the values that were ingrained into them when they were growing up in the country such as rewards for hard work, honesty, quality products, personalised service and customer focus.

David explains, “We come from the background of wanting to please people and this means putting a good product in their house. I try to instil in all our staff that when they finish a job, they should be able to stand back and say ‘wow, that looks great’ and feel really proud of what they have done.”

Monaro Screens extensive range of made-to-measure products include shower screens, mirrors, sliding wardrobe doors, security screens, and glass splashbacks. David and Deirdre have recently upgraded two bathrooms at home and, of course, have the best in

shower screens. David adds that he still loves looking at the shower screens and takes enormous pride in their products. “I am still passionate about what we do – even after 16 years of being in business.”

This pride also extends to Monaro Screens’ factory which is clean and well organised The factory is geared to hold more stock and staff with expansion plans on the horizon including the appointment of a manager.

David and Deirdre Byatt contribute part of their business success, including the move to their Fyshwick factory, to the on-going business relationship with their accountant, Andrew Sykes from RSM Bird Cameron, but mostly to the hard work and sacrifices their family has made along the way.

“When I look back on the last 16 years, probably the biggest misconception I held was that I thought I had to be the person that did everything; that’s what people want. That’s how it went for some years but you obviously get to a point where you just can’t keep up. The mental and physical stress kicks in and the business suffers, so then you must grow or your business dies.”

David says that people often say to him and Deirdre that they are ‘lucky’ to own their own business. He answers them saying that there’s not a lot of luck involved – only hard work, late nights, solid business planning and a good accountant.

MONARO SCREENS

Unit 4/75 Wollongong Street, Fyshwick T: 6239 2664 E: screens@monaroscreens.com.au or www.monaroscreens.com.au

B2B in Canberra | October 2009

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upfront feature

big plans for growth For the last eight years, insitec, a professional services firm has been quietly working away developing and refining their business model and internal processes while at the same time delivering high quality IT services to government and business clients.

"Canberra is a fantastic place from which to build a national capability. We have the highest educated workplace in the nation and an economy that relies on knowledge capital. If you’re going to look at a silicon valley or a technology hub for Australia, then Canberra is the place for it."

N From left: Michael Branch, Brett Anderson, John Mann and Warren Buttriss.

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October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

ow with expansion plans square in his sights, chief executive officer, Michael Branch is keen to shine the spotlight on what he calls a ‘goldmine for businesses in Canberra’ that few in the Canberra community know about.

Michael, an IT systems architect and self professed ‘propeller head’ has an easy turn of phrase and the ability to speak about business without the overuse of technical jargon that one would expect from a technologist. It is the company’s strategic focus on understanding business need before determining which IT services and products are required is what Michael claims is the key to insitec’s success. “insitec is a professional services company first and foremost. We work in partnership with our clients to enable them to reach their business outcomes through providing strategic IT solutions,” Michael says. “Unlike many other companies, we see IT as an enabler for business rather than the driver of the business.”

insitec’s company vision was developed in the mid to late nineties by Michael Branch and John Mann, now ex managing partner of Deakin-based accounting business, Everalls DFK. They wanted the company to be able to provide a range of IT services equivalent to what is found in large corporate or government agencies and then offer these diverse capabilities to the business market in the ACT and region.

John’s other driving need at the time was to have an IT company based within his office premises that could service his expanding accounting practice and its clients. insitec opened for trading in 2001 with four founding leaders, Michael Branch, Brett Anderson, John Mann, and John Timermanis and was located within the Everalls office.

Within two and a half years, the company grew to such a point where they needed their own office space and moved across the road. Eighteen months on, insitec moved to their current premise in Colbee Court Phillip, where by all accounts, their office space is starting to become a little cosy as the company is set to expand again. insitec has a dedicated business division, that is separate from its government services team, with the primary target market being businesses that have between twenty and two hundred PCs. According to Michael, insitec is particularly interested in companies which see themselves in a growth phase and see IT as providing a component of the expansion plan.

Services provided by insitec include IT architecture and IT strategic planning, IT service desk and onsite support, infrastructure management and maintenance, IT hardware and software integration. Enterprise content management and information management and online services are specialties of the company.

Every member of the insitec team has a technical IT background including their two salespeople. The company is committed to providing quality services and applications to their clients at a competitive price.

“We are providing quality IT services to the Canberra SME community similar to those in government departments and large corporates but without the excessive price tag. We do this by providing our solutions as common building blocks and then making them available as shared services

to our clients. While many government departments would pay up to $7000 a month for a gateway product, we can offer SMEs access to our gateway, for approximately $500 month.

Our gateway is specifically built for business. We have made the investment in the development of the product rather than the SMEs having to do it themselves.”

Michael says that over the last eight years, insitec has concentrated on developing and refining its business model to ensure that it is robust. Looking forward, Michael says that insitec wants to be a national provider of IT professional services.

“Canberra is a fantastic place from which to build a national capability. We have the highest educated workplace in the nation and an economy that relies on knowledge capital.

If you’re going to look at a silicon valley or a technology hub for Australia, then Canberra is the place for it,” he says.

“We have a business model that clearly works and major growth is our next step. In Canberra, we have identified 700 businesses in our target market. Currently we have only a small percentage of that market so we’ll be out to change that.”

Michael is keen to separate his company from other organisations working in the SME space.

“Many of our competitors are primarily moving boxes of IT product and as a secondary function, they wrap some IT services around that. At insitec, our focus is on delivering IT services to businesses and making sure their systems work.

As part of that service delivery, we may supply some hardware along the way.” insitec's overriding aim is to enable businesses to grow their business through the provision of strategic and high quality IT professional services. With their sights set on expanding within Canberra and across the nation, insitec will be a company to watch.

For more information contact Warren Buttriss 2/10-12 Colbee Court, Phillip.

T: 6232 4541 | www.insitec.com.au

Photos: Andrew Sikorski

B2B in Canberra | October 2009

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upfront feature

XTEK: SUPPLYING AND

SERVICING THE HOMELAND SECURITY MARKET

X

TEK Ltd is a Canberra-based publicly listed company, with offices in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, that operates in the lucrative homeland security market. If you don’t know about them, read on.

As the then XTEK Ltd Chairman, Brigadier James (Jim) Wallace AM (Rtd), said in the company’s 2005 prospectus ‘The Homeland Security Industry concerns products and services related to the protection of national borders and citizens from the threat of terrorism and politically motivated violence. You can be involved in this growing market, both in Australia and overseas, by investing in XTEK.’ Worldwide growth in homeland security markets is forecast to double between 2009 and 2018 to US $286 billion.

So what is XTEK’s company history and plans for the future?

According to XTEK Chief Executive Officer, David Jarvis, XTEK was founded in 1976 by Nigel French, an ex Commonwealth policeman who had extensive counter XTEK was established to fill a gap in the terrorism experience.

“XTEK was established to fill marketplace to assist in the protection a gap in the marketplace to assist in the protection of borders, of borders, citizens and assets from the citizens and assets from the threat of terrorism and other threat of terrorism and other unlawful acts unlawful acts,” David said.

The company has come a long way since its inception in 1976, when a one-man operation in Fyshwick, close to the current location, began supplying law enforcement and the aviation market with a variety of search and screening equipment for their bomb technicians and search teams.

“In 2009 XTEK is a company with 30 staff concentrating on its core business as an agent for more than 50 international and Australian original equipment manufacturers and growing strengths in the commercialisation of its intellectual property,” David said.

XTEK CEO David Jarvis says that the company is also evaluating a number of clean energy technologies More information about XTEK Ltd can be found such as electric vehicle power systems and power reat www.xtek.net or by duction systems for large lighting arrays.

“We are looking at hybrid engines for military calling 02 6280 6321 vehicles which will have the ability to use multiple sources of fuel and increase operational duration and 1. David Jarvis, CEO XTEK Ltd. also technology that can reduce strip lighting costs by 2 & 4. Raven RQ-11B, small between 25 and 35 per cent,” David said.

Unmanned Air System “We are also making good progress in the commer3. tEODor Bomb Disposal Robot.

5. SigSauer’s Blaser Tactical 2 cialisation of intellectual property, particularly in the desniper rifle velopment of a new armour manufacturing technique.”

This technology will enable XTEK to produce large Photos1,3 & 5: Andrew Sikorski 18

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

1

2

panels of armour in complex geometric shapes in a single process with reduced levels of wastage as opposed to traditional armour making methods. Applications for this technology include body armour and armour for vehicles, aircraft and ships.

“We are currently in discussion with an Australian manufacturer and a very large international manufacturer of armour systems to commercialise our new armour manufacturing process,” David said.

According to David, XTEK’s future direction includes seeking out opportunities in markets adjacent to Homeland Security, commercialising intellectual property and building on export markets in New Zealand and Asia.

XTEK CEO David Jarvis certainly has the background to steer the company to achieve its goals.

David spent 12 years in the Brigade of Gurkhas serving in the 6th Queen Elizabeth’s own Gurkha Rifles Infantry Regiment and specialising in counter terrorism and counter insurgency operations. He held positions in Hong Kong in aviation security, managed illegal immigrant repatriation programs and ran a CHUBB man power business with 2000 security personnel, before being offered a position as Chief Operating Officer with XTEK in 2004 and confirmed as CEO in 2007.

Well known and respected entrepreneur and member of the Canberra business community, Mr Uwe Boettcher, was appointed Chair of XTEK in June 2009.

Mr Boettcher is the principal of the law firm, Boettcher Law, a notary public, chair of GPSports Systems Pty Limited, Kord Defence Pty Limited and KordTech Pty Limited, a founding committee member of Capital Angels, and company secretary of Savine Therapeutics Pty Limited, ANU Connect Ventures Pty Limited and ANU/MTAA Super Venture Capital Pty Limited.

“Canberra is the home of the Federal Government and many of our key customers are based here. We are a Canberra company which values Canberra, the local community and workforce,” David said.

MAJOR PRODUCT AREAS Explosive Ordinance (EO) and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) Disposal Includes everything from search mirrors to bomb disposal robots such as the tEODor (pictured) and the teleMAX (a smaller unit). These robots are used to inspect and render safe suspicious items or improvised explosive devices and bombs. XTEK also provides Hook and Line kits to bomb technicians and search teams. These kits give bomb technicians the ability to pull, push, drag, open, and lift items of any configuration from a great distance.

High-risk response personal protection equipment Includes helmets, riot shields, body armour, and non-lethal weapons such as capsicum spray dispensers.

Forensics XTEK currently supplies all of the government laboratories and most tertiary institutions with examination and analysis systems and document examination systems.

Weapons and ammunition XTEK represents international manufacturer SigSauer, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of weapons. SigSauer manufactures small arms from pistols through to long-range sniper rifles. XTEK currently supplies SigSauer’s Blaser Tactical 2 sniper rifle to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Special Forces and to Law Enforcement Tactical Response groups throughout Australia.

3

XTEK represents the large Swiss ammunitions manufacturer RUAG. RUAG manufactures precision highgrade ammunition for military and law enforcement. XTEK supplies RUAG ammunition to ADF and law enforcement agencies in Australia.

XTEK also represents a product range called Ultimate Training Munitions from the UK. It is a system to provide the capability for realistic man-on-man training where the use of weapons is required such as hostage rescue and military operations in urban terrain.

Remote sensing Remote sensing encompasses a variety of systems from small audio and video monitoring systems focused on surveillance to a range of small unmanned air systems (UAS). XTEK represents US company AeroVironment which supplies a collection of hand launched and recovered UASs including the Wasp (a micro UAS), which is currently on trial with the ADF, and the Raven RQ-11B (AeroVironment has supplied over 13,000 of the Raven RQ11B to the US Department of Defense).

4

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B2B in Canberra | October 2009

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Business In Focus Month – an exchange of ideas and possibilities The ANU Exchange, a partnership between Alba Capital Partners and The Australian National University, congratulates the ACT Government on its inaugural Business In Focus Month, September 2009.

T

he ANU Exchange was pleased to be a sponsor of this forward thinking initiative for the Territory. It enabled business owners, government, industry, academia, and the community to share ideas, learn from Canberra’s successful business owners and entrepreneurs, build innovation capacity in their firms and act on new opportunities.

The month was jam-packed with more than 70 events catering to a diverse range of interests.

Through the Business In Focus Month, the ACT Government demonstrated its commitment to facilitating better communication between businesses and between government and business. The month provided a wonderful opportunity for all those with an interest in business in the ACT to be able to connect, meet, and exchange ideas.

It is a similar partnership approach which is at the heart of the ANU Exchange. It is a precinct where public and private organisations will be able to co-locate, collaborate,

and develop partnerships with The Australian National University. The precinct will be the nexus between education, research, and commerce.

Professor Ian Chubb AC, Vice-Chancellor of The Australian National University has outlined that the vision for the ANU Exchange is to create a vibrant mix of university, arts, scientific, educational, residential, and community facilities that will be unique. The ANU Exchange is set to significantly enhance Canberra’s attractiveness as a city and as a seat of learning. It will operate as a valuable generator of new economic, cultural and community development for the Australian Capital Territory in an environmentally sustainable manner.

The whole concept of integrating the university and the city has been supported by the ACT Government through the ANU Exchange Master Plan. The Government has spent $6 million on the upgrade of Childers Street, $1.2 million revamping Alinga Street, and made significant investment in

ANUEXCHANGE university&city

the Latin American Plaza.

121 Marcus Clarke is the first commercial building to be built in the ANU Exchange precinct. This iconic 12 floor building is environmentally designed to be industry best practice in energy and green performance, with a target to achieve no less than 4.5 NABERS Energy, is registered for Green Star accreditation and designed to achieve Australian excellence. The ground floor area is designed to create a hub of activity, with cafés and restaurants and alfresco dining planned for an outdoor promenade area, which will also incorporate an Arts Lane.

Just as the ACT Government’s Business In Focus Month brought together diverse groups interested in business in Canberra, ANU Exchange will be a meeting place for The Australian National University, government, private enterprise, and the community to incubate ideas, enjoy the environs, and lead the nation in terms of innovation and commercialisation of ideas.

Below: 121 Marcus Clarke

visiting www.business.act.gov.au and follow Focus Month September 2009 link or call 180

MAN BITES DOG PUBLIC RELATIONS 0809

Be sure to book early to avoid disappointme

The Business and Industry Development Branch of the ACT Chief Minister’s Department would like to thank everyone involved in the success of Business In Focus Month 2009.

Find time to build your business

In its first year Business In Focus Month delivered over 70 events, a diverse program that put the spotlight on Canberra’s dynamic and proactive private sector. We thank our Event Partners for conceiving and hosting such a high quality range of events during September.

Business In Focusthan Month50 was only made possible with the assistance With more events designed to help and vision of our generous Sponsors. We thank our Sponsors for strengthen your business supporting the local business community.

THANK YOU

Business In Focus Month will be held for the first time in September 2009.

Major Sponsor

Through a month-long program of events, local businesses will have the opportunity to access information and service providers while creating linkages that will assist them on the journey to Distinguished Sponsors building better businesses.

The online event calendar will be updated regularly.

Find events that will support your business this September by visiting www.business.act.gov.au and follow the Business In Focus Month September 2009 link or call 1800 244 650.

Be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.

Associate Sponsors

ACT Health & Safety Show ’09 Thursday 22 October 2009 National Convention Centre – 31 Constitution Avenue

Made in Canberra – promoting safety Australia wide

M

any local businesses that look after the occupational health and safety of their staff are acutely aware of the benefits of not climbing into a vehicle to access their equipment.

Cargo Drawers Australia (est. 1987) is proudly locally owned and operated. It manufactures exciting and innovative range of roll-out Cargo

Drawers for all styles of vehicles. This unique system (custom built to specifications) helps reduce the risk of back injuries while providing immediate, complete and easy access to cargo.

Cargo Drawers Australia sell Australia wide.

They have earned a reputation for strength, versatility, reliability and safety and are used by many government departments, the corporate sector, trades and for recreational use. All Cargo Drawers have a safety spring loaded brake mechanism, which allow staged stops on the drawer when extending – just one of the safety features of a quality product.

The Drawer systems are based on two models, the ‘Fairway’ (carries up to 400kgs) and the ‘Hideaway Security’ (carries up to 200kgs).

The Fairway model is availabe

as either an open topped drawer, a shelf above, one drawer above the other (dual level) or a twin system.

The Hideaway Security model can be full width, dual level or side by side (twin system). This style helps to protect valuable equipment and gear from theft, whilst providing a shelf/lid to carry even more goods.

ActewAGL has supported the application of Cargo Drawers in many of their fleet vehicles since 1988. Data Voice has its ACT and Interstate vehicles also fitted out.

Make sure you see the display at the ACT Safety Show on Stand No.4.

Cargo Drawers Aust, Ph: 6241 3214 Email: lynn@cargodrawers.com.au or visit them at 11 Tooth Street, Mitchell ACT 2911

FERST in Fire Emergency Response Safety Training

I

t is an innovative name for a Canberra family business with traditional values about service and customer care support in this challenging industry. They are members and great supporters of Family Business Australia and members of the FPA (Fire Protection Australia).

FERST Training Solutions was established in May 2007 and is operated by Emergency Response Trainers Leon Cornish and Martin Price who are fully trained in current emergency procedures including regulatory changes.

The team of Leon and Martin have more than 60 years experience in the fire and emergency training industry, and with this wealth of knowledge provides experience and support to both large and small business by delivery of site specific solutions to the training of their emergency warden teams.

Leon said “We are in the business of training people to be emergency wardens. There is a

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October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

requirement that occupied buildings must have trained wardens. These wardens should be competent to operate the installed fire systems, including Emergency Warning Systems (EWS) that are designed to assist in evacuation of occupants safely from the building”.

“We train people to the Australia Standard 3745 (2002 Emergency Control Organisation and Procedures for Building Structures and Workplaces).

We train emergency wardens in a wide range of industries in both the public and private sectors from hospitals to abattoirs,” Martin said.

Australia Standard 3745 also requires FERST Training Solutions to cover in their training things such as: how to carry out correct search procedures; the movement of staff from a building to an external assembly point area; bomb threat procedures and white powder incidences.

FERST Training Solutions put much of their success down to providing quality service to their clients along with their business philosophy.

“We have old fashioned family business principals – its not just about money it is about service and value, and ensuring people are confident in taking on these important roles” Contact FERST Training Solutions on 6162 1584 or info@ferst.com.au www.ferst.com.au

If you're interested in health and safety, either as practitioners or business owners seeking support to meet your obligations in providing a safe workplace, you need to attend the ACT Health and Safety Show ’09 to see what is on offer from local and interstate suppliers.

October is Safe Work ACT Month. A time for

everyone to focus on health and safety in the workplace. To see the full list of events go to www.worksafety.act.gov.au and click on Safe Work ACT Month.

Here we showcase four of the exhibitors at the ACT Health and Safety Show ’09 – to find out more visit their exhibits.

www.actsafetyshow.com.au – Attendance is FREE.

ActewAGL offers training for your employees

A

ctewAGL provides a training and assessment service for apprentices and employees working in the construction, distribution and telecommunications and maintenance industries. As a registered training organisation (RTO), ActewAGL’s Safety Systems and Training branch offers courses in safety working at heights and in confined spaces, along with traffic management.

Through this training both ActewAGL employees and

external companies have the opportunity to practise safety procedures in a simulated work environment. All courses are nationally accredited and are delivered by qualified trainers with current industry experience, using state-of–the-art equipment. To meet the needs of local industry, the courses can also be run at workplaces.

Acting ActewAGL general manager Networks Stephen Devlin said, “ActewAGL has a wealth of experience operating in highrisk work environments. Through our training programs we can share this knowledge with our participants and ensure they have an enjoyable and rewarding learning experience.”

The heights training courses teach participants safety skills to apply when working where there is a risk of injury from a fall. Learning to operate safely in this work environment is a strong element of this course. Participants

have the opportunity to perform procedures at heights to develop competency in the required safety protocol.

Confined space training provides participants with a knowledge and understanding of the dangers faced by people working in confined spaces. Confined space workers must follow stringent safety guidelines relating to legislation to minimise the danger associated with this field of work.

The traffic management courses provide participants with the knowledge and skills to control traffic safely on work sites to ensure the protection of their co-workers and the public.

For more information on any of the courses, please call 6293 5735.The training team will also be at the 2009 ACT Health and Safety Show on at the National Convention Centre Canberra on 22 October 2009.

Consultancy advises on how to control workplace hazards

Robson

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

R

obson Environmental is a specialist consultancy offering a comprehensive range of environmental solutions to clients in Canberra and overseas who are seeking to control workplace hazards. The company provides advice and services across areas including occupational hygiene, environmental, occupational health and safety, training and food safety expertise and services to commercial, industry, government and residential clients.

Robson Environmental provides its clients E N V I R approach O N M offering E N TA L with a one-stop-shop a range of comprehensive services including OH&S development, advice, management and training

Robson

activities, building/facility audits and surveys, contaminated site and underground storage tank assessments. They also provide analytical, consultancy, training and expert practitioner services to facility owners, managers and occupiers to identify, measure and control the quality of the environments in which people work.

Managing director, John Robson, takes pride in the qualifications and professionalism of his staff, saying “Robson Environmental employs a number of occupational hygienists, environmental scientists, geologists and technicians across all areas of operation whose skills and qualifications are regularly upgraded and enhanced to keep abreast with rapidly changing and improving environmental and safety laws, regulations and world’s best practice.

Continuous professional development is a priority for our staff.”

“Robson Environmental is able to carry out

site audits to verify compliance with relevant regulations. We also offer remedial action advice and services. We hold certification relevant to all areas of operations including accreditation with NATA (National Association of Testing Authorities), ACTPLA (ACT Planning and Land Authority) and JASANZ (Joint Accreditation System Australia and New Zealand),” John says.

With its headquarters in Canberra, Robson Environmental operates as a multi-disciplinary consultancy that is able to advise on and develop tailored solutions to ensure clients’ requirements and environmental and safety obligations are met on time and in a cost-effective manner.

9 Lyell Street Fyshwick, T: 6239 5656 or admin@robsonenviro.com.au

B2B in Canberra | October 2009

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upfront feature

2009 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards

Sentinel Pty Ltd took out the ACT’s top award as the Chief Minister’s Exporter of the Year at the 2009 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards presentation ceremony held recently at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra.

S

Chief Minister's Export Awards winners 2009.

Chief Minister Jon Stanhope and 2009 ACT Exporter of the Year, Sentinel, director Rod Sandison.

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October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

entinel Pty Ltd provides specialised services to clients in the mining and government sectors, including design, implementation and operation of remote environmental monitoring solutions.

Sentinel also won the Small to Medium Services Award at this year’s Export Awards.

"These are the Territory's most prestigious business awards and received a record number of entries this year, highlighting the depth and breadth of the ACT exporting business community," Chief Minister Jon Stanhope said in announcing the export award winners.

"The ACT has an excellent record in exporting and we can be justifiably proud of the quality of businesses engaged in exporting goods and services to many parts of the world.

"I am continually impressed with the quality of the businesses that enter the awards, the range of countries they are exporting to and the growing export revenue being generated for the ACT. "The value of our exports continue to grow and ACT businesses now export more than $1billion worth of goods and services to 48 countries including Israel, Tanzania and Taiwan.

"These Awards acknowledge the innovation, hard work and success of businesses, large and small, in reaching new markets. The Awards also recognise the

important contribution that ACT businesses make to the local economy," Mr Stanhope said.

Rod Sandison accepted the Award on behalf of Sentinel’s employees, “The Sentinel team has been integral to the success of the company. The team consists of individuals with varied skill sets, who come from diverse cultural backgrounds yet, together, they maintain a strong work ethic and a dedication to excellence”.

“The ACT Export Awards have rightly earned the reputation as one of the most prestigious and significant industry awards on the Territory’s business calendar.

This in large part due to the evident ACT Government support for the Awards themselves and, more generally, to the growing level of commitment to exporting within our small to medium businesses” Chris Faulks, CEO,

Centre for Customs & Excise Studies Knowledge Beyond Borders • • • •

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feature Canberra Business Council said.

“For nine years Sentinel has been exporting its products and services to some of the harshest and most security-challenged locations in the world, with clients spread across the globe from Africa to Asia Pacific and the Dominican Republic,” said Chris Faulks.

The ACT’s Emerging Exporter Award was given to Windlab Systems, a global wind energy development company. Their track record in progressing commercially viable sites is reflected in a growing portfolio spanning Canada, USA, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

Other notable category winners include Aspen Medical, a provider of healthcare services to remote areas or regions of high demand and recent recipient of BWR’s most Successful Private Business (under $100 million) of the Year Award; Lucy Media Pty Ltd, a Canberra based media and entertainment company; Dysol, a world leader in the development and commercialisation of third generation photovoltaics and CIT Solutions who were praised for their work in recruiting over 1000 international students from over 75 countries annually.

Recruitment Systems Pty Ltd and Stratsec, both category winners at last year’s ACT Export Awards continued to demonstrate strong export performance taking out the Small Business and Information & Communication Technology Awards respectively in 2009.

“Motivating competitive ACT companies to become exporters and growing an export culture in the ACT through raising awareness of export opportunities is an important factor in ensuring sustained export growth, employment and economic activity in the ACT,” said Kevin Reilly, Chairperson of Canberra Business Council’s International Business Taskforce.

Mr Stanhope praised the work of the ACT exporting community, the ACT Exporters Network and the positive working relationship the ACT Government has with ACT Exporter of the Year trophy designed by local artist Matthew Curtis.

Austrade and the Canberra Business Council.

"Through the Government's support of the ACT Exporters Network, our work with Austrade and the ACT Government TradeConnect grant program, the Government continues to foster a positive climate for businesses to build their export knowledge and capability," Mr Stanhope said.

The winners of the 2009 ACT Chief Minister's Export Awards will automatically progress as national finalists to the 47th Australian Export Awards where one winner will receive the Prime Minister’s Exporter of the Year Award.

For more information on the ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards please contact Brooke Anderson at brooke.anderson@canberrabusinesscouncil.com.au or 0400 090 452.

The Canberra Business Council manages the ACT Exporters' Network on behalf of the ACT Government.

2009 ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards category winners:

• ACT Exporter of the Year: Sentinel Pty Ltd • Arts and Entertainment Award: Lucy Media Pty Ltd • Education and Training Award: CIT Solutions • Emerging Exporter Award: Windlab Systems • ICT Award: Stratsec • Large Services Award: Aspen Medical • Small Medium Services Award: Sentinel Pty Ltd • Small Medium Manufacturer Award: Dyesol Limited • Small Business Award: Recruitment Systems Pty Ltd

26

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

Crafted solutions. Stunning visuals.

Web Design Marketing Material Logos & Branding Annual Reports Publications Stationery Design Strategy Television Commercials Print Management

We think differently 6282 0888 // voodoocreative.com.au

Photos: Andrew Sikorski

cover story upfront

The strength of SE Two established Canberra companies have joined forces with the global SECOM Corporation. With the backing of this global company, these local business owners believe they will be able to deliver a full suite of security services which is unsurpassed in Canberra. Liz Lang reports.

W

hile many people will know home and business security company, Centurion due to its clever radio and TV advertising, featuring Kevin the German Shepherd, Jewell & Buckley is not a name with which many outside of the security industry would be familiar.

Ray Jewell and Steve Buckley ran a very successful business providing electrical services, air conditioning controls and electronic security to government and commercial clients for more than 20 years. Two years ago, SECOM Corporation acquired Jewell & Buckley which resulted in the establishment of SECOM Technical Services, a national company based in Canberra. Ray Jewell and Steve Buckley are joint directors of this company which employs 50 staff.

Ray Jewell explains:”SECOM Technical Services is

28

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

an independent company within the SECOM Group which was created to provide specialist security services to government and commercial users of high-end security products as well as complex integrated electronic security systems.”

SECOM Technical Services provides the Cardax FT Access Control and Type 1 intruder alarm systems, closed circuit television, both analogue and IP based systems, intercom systems, emergency and uninterruptible power systems and general electrical services.

“Our strength lies in complex security system integration. Typically, a client might have a need for a range of security systems such as closed circuit TV, access control and intruder alarms in larger buildings. Our expertise is to integrate these components into one system that views and controls all aspects of the building.”

This year, SECOM Technical Services won an MBA Building award in the category of technical innovation for their work at the Bimberi Youth Justice Centre in Mitchell.

They also won a National Electrical and Communications Association Award in the category of Voice/Data-Large Project for their work at the Bimberi Youth Centre and were recognised for providing ‘most modern security system in an Australian Correctional Centre.’

Troy Cassell is a newcomer to the SECOM Group with the acquisition of the majority share of his company only been completed in July this year. Centurion will now transition to SECOM Australia (ACT) with Troy as the company’s managing director.

“I believe we have the strongest mobile patrol teams in Canberra with more than 100 full time staff. This means we can now deliver more comprehensive security solutions to our residential, small to medium business, and government and commercial clients.”

from SECOM Australia’s Grade A1 monitoring centre in Sydney, the first of its kind in Australia.

With established business centres in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra, offices are planned for South Australia and Western Australia in the near future.

In Canberra, both Ray and Troy are keen to ensure that government, business, and the community know who the SECOM Group is and what their capabilities are both on a local and national basis.

“My vision has always been to grow my business into a national company. Joining the SECOM Group, I now have the capability to provide manpower services such as mobile patrols, 24 hour guarding services, and security consulting such as performing security risk audits and assessments for clients not only in Canberra but across Australia,” Troy said.

“Steve, Troy and I understand what makes Canberra tick and have been operating successfully here for a long time.

We believe that through the SECOM Group, we can deliver our clients with an even better level of service and products than when we were individual businesses,” Ray said.

ECOM in Canberra “Our driving business objective is to provide clients with quality service which solves their problems in a way that the rest of the marketplace isn’t able to deliver,” Ray said.

SECOM Technical Services Tel: 02 62974670 Email: admin@secomts.com Website: www.secomts.com

SECOM Australia (ACT) Tel: 1300 138 769 Email: admin@secomact.com.au Website: www.secomact.com.au

Photo: 52Photos.com

“For our customers, nothing will change in terms of the day-to-day running of our business. We will still have a strong local identity but the difference is now we are backed by the strength of a global company which gives us great additional capabilities,” Troy said.

Troy and Ray both believe that with combined offerings of the two SECOM companies that they will provide a level of service to the Canberra market which exceeds their competitors.

“I believe we have the strongest mobile patrol teams in Canberra with more than 100 full time staff. This means we can now deliver more comprehensive security solutions to our residential, small to medium business, and government and commercial clients,” Troy said.

Founded in Japan in 1962, SECOM Corporation Ltd is a pioneer in Japan’s security services industry. It is a publicly listed company on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, has 45,000 employees worldwide, and a research and development organisation outside of Tokyo which employs more than 300 people with PhDs to develop new products.

SECOM’s vision for the future is to provide ‘whole of life’ security products and services to make life ‘more secure, convenient and comfortable’ for its customers. The company’s extended range of services includes fire protection, medical, and insurance.

The SECOM Group has operated in Australia for the past 15 years, primarily providing national guarding and monitoring services to government departments and large corporates. Electronic security monitoring is conducted

B2B in Canberra | October 2009

29

upfront feature

ACT Training Excellence Awards It was a gala night to remember. A night where the achievements of the ACT’s best apprentices and trainees, employers, and training providers were celebrated.

D

ressed in their finest wear, five hundred people attended the 2009 ACT Training Excellence Awards held in The Auditorium at Erindale last month. The cameras flashed all night as proud families, schools, and employers watched their son, daughter, student or employee walk across the stage to accept their awards or certificates. The applause was loud but the smiles were larger.

Minister for Education and Training, Andrew Barr officiated at the awards ceremony. He said: “The ACT Government is committed to supporting an innovative education and training system that is participative, inclusive and values life-long learning. These awards applaud the support and encouragement provided by employers, schools and training providers to students of the vocational education and training system.”

30

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

ST EDMUND’S COLLEGE

CANBERRA

Excellent Programs Produce Excellent Students

TRAINING AWARDS AD

                     

        

     

2009 Winner of the ACT VET in Schools Award

FUTURES PROGRAM CANBERRA COLLEGE ‘Creating pathways for students from college to post college destinations.’

Australian Maritime Safety Authority

Promoting the safety of shipping and seafarers, protecting the marine environment, and coordinating maritime and aviation search and rescue.

The Futures Program Canberra College - leader in the provision of educational opportunities for college aged students with a special need.

Winner of the following awards: 2009 ACT VET in Schools Award 2008 ACT Chief Minister’s Inclusion Awards 2007 ACT Department of Education Excellence Awards 2007 ACT VET in Schools Excellence Award 2007 Finalist Australian Training Awards

www.amsa.gov.au

StudenttotoIndustry IndustryProgram: Program: Student brokeringsustainable sustainable brokering partnershipsbetween between partnerships business,education, education, and business, and thethe communitytotocreate create better community better outcomesforforall.all. outcomes

“Through Student Industry “Through thethe Student to to Industry Program we’ve made stronger Program we’ve made stronger linkages with schoolstotogive givestudents students linkages with schools hands-on learning experience,” hands-on learning experience,” Warren Williams, Codarra Advanced Warren Williams, Codarra Advanced Systems Systems

Developthethe Develop skillsand and skills knowledgeof of knowledge your yourfuture future workforce. workforce.

Since1998 1998 Student to Industry Program (SIP) been building strong with ACT Since thethe Student to Industry Program (SIP) has beenhas building strong links with links ACT secondary secondary local businesses from ofa diverse range of industries; community organisations; schools; localschools; businesses from a diverse range industries; community organisations; and peak industry and bodies.and education bodies. andeducation peak industry SIPprovides provides opportunities for businesses to with workschools with schools to mentor youngand people and SIP opportunities for businesses to work to mentor young people showcase opportunities in their industry.

We’reindustry. also in a unique position facilitate programs and activities which and showcase opportunities in their We’re also in atounique position to facilitate programs can be tailored to the needs and capabilities of business and schools involved. activities which can be tailored to the needs and capabilities of business and schools involved.

Promote business, contribute to your exisiting workforce, communicate with education leaders, leaders, Promoteyour your business, contribute to your exisiting workforce, communicate with education and engage in young people now for the workforce you will need for tomorrow.

and engage in young people now for the workforce you will need for tomorrow.

For further information please For further information pleasecontact: contact: Phone: 02 6205 84658465 Phone: 02 6205 Email:Email: student2industry@sip.net.au student2industry@sip.net.au www.sip.net.au www.sip.net.au

B2B in Canberra | October 2009

31

upfront feature

“I congratulate all those being honoured tonight and to all those involved in creating the meaningful and relevant learning experiences that contribute to excellence in VET. By focusing on excellence, we will create a better future for our community," Minister Barr said.

Awards were made across 15 categories recognising outstanding achievement by individuals, organisations, schools, and employers in vocational education and training (VET).

The prestigious Employer of the Year Award was

The ACT Government is committed to supporting an innovative education and training system that is participative, inclusive and values life-long learning. These awards applaud the support and encouragement provided by employers, schools and training providers to students of the VET system.

Top: 2009 ACT Training Excellence Awards winners Right: Minister Barr presenting the Employer of the Year Award to Ray Sweeney of the Vikings Group Next page, left: The gala evening Next page, Right: Rachael Keiley, 2008 ACT and Australian Apprentice of the Year, Ray Sweeney, Vikings Group, Norm Fisher Award winner, Roger Buckley and 2009 ACT Apprentice of the Year, Geoff Hepburn.

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October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

won by the Vikings Group. B2B spoke to Viking Groups, human resource manager, Anthony Hill about the awards and the importance of vocational education and training.

"This award validates and benchmarks our training programs within the ACT business community, while showcasing the pivotal role that clubs play in our community,” Anthony said.

“We believe that the quality of our staff is a pivotal reason for the success of our clubs and that is why we invest so much in training. The club is committed to the community in many ways, having donated over $2 million to community and charity organisations in the past year. This commitment to the community is reflected in our approach to training and development.”

"It is critical in the current climate, that the Vikings Group remains focused on the future” he said. "The training program in place at Vikings has been evolving over the past six years, with each year providing new and exciting initiatives to improve the functionality and enjoyment of the program."

"It is in place to guarantee not only that our members

receive a level of service that exceeds their changing needs and expectations, but also to ensure career paths for our staff.”

Geoff Hepburn was awarded the accolade of ACT Australian Apprentice of the Year. In accepting the award, he said:”Throughout my time at Network Electrical Services, I have been privileged to work with some of the best and most experienced tradesmen in Canberra. Mick O’Malley, Neil Mason, Chris Tarbuck and Trevor Boughty typify the type of tradesman I want to be. Thank you to company director Mick O’Malley for giving me the opportunity when I was first out of school.”

Five of the ACT student category winners will go on to represent the ACT at the Australian Training Awards to be held in Canberra on Thursday 19 November 2009.

Organisation winners from each state and territory will be shortlisted to three.

For more information contact: Cindi Hage, events & community consultation coordinator at the ACT Department of Education and Training.

T: 6205 7037 E: tateconsultation@act.gov.au, www.det.act.gov.au/vhe/awards

And the winners are:

Employer of the Year: Vikings Group

VET in Schools Excellence Award: Canberra College Futures Program

Vocational Student of the Year: David Balfour

Small Registered Training Organisation of the Year: Regional Group Training

Vocational School Student of the Year: Samantha Crane

Norm Fisher Award: Roger Buckley

Large Registered Training Organisation of the Year: Canberra Institute of Technology

ACT Australian School Based Apprentice of the Year – Certificate III: Alex Agostino

ACT Training Initiative Award: St Edmunds College Canberra Business of the Year – Vocational School Placement: Australian Maritime Safety Authority

John Scott Memorial Award: Vince Ball ACT Australian Apprentice (Trainee) of the Year: Peter Jamieson

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student, Trainee or Apprentice of the Year: Allison Hoolihan

ACT Australian Apprentice (Apprentice) of the Year: Geoff Hepburn

Winner 2009 Training Excellence Awards

Congratulations to all our finalists!

2009 Small RTO of the Year Looking For An Apprenticeship Or Traineeship?

School Based - Part Time - Full Time Registered Training Organisation Australian Apprenticeships Centre | Group Training Company Contact Us: 6241 2969 | info@rgt.asn.au | www.rgt.asn.au

ACT Large Registered Training Organisation of the Year 2009!

Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) is the ACT Large Registered Training Organisation for the third year in a row and can tailor training to suit the needs of your business and your employees.

With highly experienced staff CIT offers you first class training for your people in your workplace, online or at one of our campuses.

Call us on (02) 6207 3188 or email infoline@cit.act.edu.au to find out how CIT can help your business today. > Developing a skilled community

> www.cit.act.edu.au

advice

UR FREECIA1L SHEO MINAR

The 80-20 rule - how does it affect you?

FINAN

ess for sale: in s u B r u o Y g n ri a Prep hen buying or w r e id s n o c to t a Wh selling a business

By Andrew Snaidero

M

ost of us have heard of the 80-20 rule. In 1906, Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto created a mathematical formula to describe the unequal distribution of wealth in his country, observing that twenty per cent of the people owned eighty per cent of the wealth.

The 80-20 rule means that in anything a few (20 per cent) are vital and many (80 per cent) are trivial. In Pareto's case 20 % VITAL it meant 20 per cent of TRIVIAL the people owned 80 per cent of the wealth.

This principle has been extended and applied in all fields. Project managers know that 20 per cent of the work (the first 10 per cent and the last 10 per cent) consume 80 per cent of time and resources. You can apply the 80/20 rule to almost anything, from the science of management to the physical world.

You know 20 per cent of your stock takes up 80 per cent of your warehouse space and that 80 per cent of your stock comes from 20 per cent of your suppliers. Also 80 per cent of your sales will come from 20 per cent of your sales staff. 20 per cent of your staff will cause 80 per cent of your problems, but another 20 per cent of your staff will provide 80 per cent of your production. It works both ways.

The value of the Pareto Principle for a business owner is that it reminds you to focus on the 20 per cent that matters. Of the things you do during your day, only 20 per cent really matter – that 20 per cent produces 80 per cent of your results. Identify and focus on those things. When the running of your business begins to sap your time, remind yourself of the 20 per cent you need to focus on. If something in the schedule has to slip, if something isn't going to get done, make sure it's not part of that 20 per cent.

The 20 per cent of your time that you spend working on your business will greatly improve your performance and your bottom line.

RSM Bird Cameron research clearly highlights that owners do not spend enough time working on their business, rather their focus was working in their business. Those that do take the time are the successful ones, who stand the best chance of becoming a big business.



ires advanced a business requ Buying or selling ined you are you have determ planning. Once e many practical xt step, there ar ready for the ne that you’re to do to ensure things you need und footing or ss that’s on a so buying a busine of a business. t out of the sale making the mos warmly invited issues, you are To explore these e session. to this informativ gatta Point.

To be held at Re ctober. on Monday, 26 O Starting at 6:00pm i.com.au or ijana.jurjevic@rsm RSVP: Email mar your place.

22 Oct to reserve call 6247 5988 by

80%

Topics Covered

• What to look for when buying business • Getting the business structure right

(is it a trust, partnership, company or are you the sole trader?)

Reasons for buying the business Due diligence Getting financial records ready to sell business Documenting business systems Tax issues

• • • • •

FREE initial business consultation – Valued at $1000 Let RSM Bird Cameron give a preliminary assessment of:

• The financial state of the business and

For more information on how to use the 80-20 rule in your particular circumstances, please contact our experienced team at RSM Bird Cameron.

103-105 Northbourne Avenue Canberra, T.6247 5988. www.rsmi.com.au

34 October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

opportunities for improvement • The strengths and weaknesses of the current business model • The alignment of the personal goals of the owners and the business goals

BUSINESS

OWNERS IN CANBERRA

ANDREW SYKES

TONY LOPILATO

MICHAEL O’HEHIR

KEN JOHNSTON

Put these 4 experts at RSM Bird Cameron to work for you this financial year and see the results you can achieve Next to your spouse your accountant is the most important person running your business.

If you don’t have an accountant working on the positive side of the ledger for you, it is costing you money!

Your accountant needs to be able to SAVE you MONEY and MAKE you MONEY! In today’s tough economic times, and Government legislation constantly being reviewed and changed, you need an accountant that can help you with areas like management of credit facilities and cash flow.

Imagine having your very own Chief Financial Officer to advise you on key business decisions. The only difference is you don’t have to pay his/her full time wages as he/she works for RSM Bird Cameron. To see if you need this help just answer the questions in the chart below.

Does your accountant do these things to make your business more valuable?

If your answer is ‘No’ to more than four questions, you need to talk to us today on 6247 5988 Take the time to understand the dynamics of your business and our industry rather than just look at the number?

Y/N

Identify opportunities for your business' growth and improvement?

Y/N

Provide ideas on how to make those opportunities work? Help you identify your vision for the future of your business, your personal goals and the steps to get you there?

Y/N

Help you create a regularly updated action plan to achieve those goals?

Y/N

Agree on all fees and payment terms upfront to avoid nasty surprises?

Y/N

Help you understand the probability of each product or service offered by your business?

Y/N

Provide feedback and new ideas on your marketing and advertising to generate a much better return on your investment?

Y/N

Help you address management and human resource issues?

Y/N

Build key performance indicators specific to your business to make it run like clockwork?

Y/N

Help you understand what drives cash in your business and create a plan to maximise cash flow?

Y/N

Proactively monitor your progress on a monthly basis so you can adjust quickly to maximise profits?

Y/N

Help you establish systems to better control your activities and know exactly where you stand at all times?

Y/N

Help you find ways to work ON your business rather than IN it so you can realise a better quality of life?

Y/N

Work to constantly increase your financial rewards and provide for a well funded retirement?

Y/N

Help you implement strategies for the future - to make your business a more valuable and realisable asset by sale or succession?

Y/N

Call the RSM Bird Cameron Business Solutions team today on 02 6247 5988 www.rsmi.com.au

advice

Breathe easy with a little piece of rainforest in your office

Digital forensics: just the facts

By Jon Elphick

By Aaron Wooten

M

T

ost of us love them but few of us realise how important rainforests are and their connection to our offices.

Rainforests are great places to be in. Most people say they feel an instant calm when they walk into the cool environment of an Australian rainforest. They also have a very important role to play in helping to stabilise the world's climate by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Plants in the understory of rainforests have adapted to low light levels. For this reason, some of the best performing indoor plants have their origins in the rainforest. That is, they do well in low light levels.

Ambius values rainforests and has been a corporate supporter of the good work Rainforest Rescue is doing, particularly in helping to protect the Daintree Rainforest in far north Queensland.

We are also conscious of spreading the message about the importance of air quality. Everyone knows about the role rainforests play in improving the air we breathe but few know that indoor plants do the same thing.

To highlight the issue of indoor air quality and to support Rainforest Rescue, Ambius has launched a new Australian rainforest range which includes: Castenospermum asutrale (Blackbean), Licuala ramsayii (Fan Palm), Schefflera actinophylla (Umbrella tree) and Agatha robusta (Kauri Pine). All are Australian rainforest plants that have been selected for their abilities to survive well in an indoor environment.

When customers choose any of these plants as part of their Ambius indoor plant rental, Ambius makes a contribution that will go to Rainforest Rescue to help protect rainforests in Australia’s unique Daintree area in North Queensland. This will help create wildlife corridors for the unique fauna.

With Christmas coming up, I’m encouraging all Canberra managers to buy their staff a special end-of-year gift for a job well done, in what’s been a tough year. It will come as no surprise that I’m recommending giving a rainforest plant.

Personally, I don’t think you can go past the Blackbean Castenospermum asutrale in one of our stunning desktop containers.

The Blackbean is a rainforest plant with special significance and beautiful lush, dark green foliage. By giving your staff this plant, you will be helping to do your bit for Australia’s Daintree rainforest. Your staff will also benefit all year round, by having a piece of rainforest sitting on their desk everyday providing air quality benefits.

Research from around the world and the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) confirms that indoor plants remove volatile organic compounds from the air indoors, among other benefits.

The Canberra office of Ambius is headed by Jon Elphick who has a team of seven staff. The business has been in operation for 20 years and was formerly Rentokil Tropical Plants. www.ambiusindoorplants.com.au Unit 5/67-71 Vicars St Mitchell T: 02 6241 1451

36 October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

hose familiar with popular TV crime shows CSI and NCIS may recognise the term ‘digital forensic investigation’ which conjures up images of lab technicians replete with lab coats solving complex cases with intricate tools and techniques. While maybe not as glamorous as those seen on ‘primetime crime’, digital forensics is a genuine process used by many organisations to support the investigation of information security incidents including: employee internet abuse; unauthorised disclosure of corporate information; Industrial espionage and criminal fraud.

The term ‘digital forensics’ in its purest form describes the collection, analysis and presentation of evidence from digital sources including not only computer hard drives, but also mobile phones, PDA devices, digital cameras, media players, network infrastructure and even GPS navigation systems.

Security incidents, while not just counter to the effective running of a business or government enterprise – causing them and their employees’ major harm and embarrassment – also bear a significant cost to organisations.

As cited in an Australian Computer Crime and Security Survey: “The greatest sources of financial loss for 2006 was due to theft or breach of proprietary or confidential information (over $2 million on average); computer facilitated financial fraud (over $100,000 on average); and telecommunications fraud (over $60,000 on average).”

An increased awareness about the impact of information security incidents has compelled many organisations to starting thinking and acting proactively about protecting their information assets. As is often the case with matters subject to intense scrutiny (particularly those matters which progress to a courtroom scenario), it is vital that evidence as part of a digital forensic examination is meticulously collected, controlled and presented by trained digital forensic examiners, in such a way as to not affect its admissibility in a court of law.

So how should your organisation assess a firm’s suitability for providing digital forensic services? Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their previous experience and personnel qualifications. Ask about the latest tools and techniques used, and definitely ask about the company's laboratory competency, experience and accreditation.

While they might not always wear the traditional white lab coats and designer eyewear as you see in your lounge-rooms at night, you can be sure that the outcomes delivered by trained, accredited forensics examiners are indeed quality assured and the integrity of the data and the process overall, is always maintained.

Aaron Wooten is the digital forensics technical manager and consultant at stratsec. For all your information security needs, contact stratsec.

T: 6260 8878 E: info@stratseclab.net www.stratsec.net.

AICD DIRECTOR AND BOARD DEVELOPMENT

Strengthening the backbone

Foundations of Directorship

Guide your company to prosperity

By Phil Butler

S

mall businesses are well recognised as the 'backbone of Australia’s economy', including by the federal treasurer, who described small businesses as such in his budget speech back in May this year. While there is always some debate as to what constitutes a 'small' business, there is no doubt that they are the most common type of business in the ACT and surrounding regions.

The foundation and ongoing existence of our small businesses depends on the dedication and persistence of Australia’s entrepreneurs and managers. In turn, many employees have come to depend on small businesses. It is vital, therefore, that a reasonable portion of small businesses understand how to steadily grow their organisation beyond ‘micro’ size.

The Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) has many small business directors among its membership who are creating jobs and making an important contribution to the economy. Even though some may not perceive themselves as ‘directors’, AICD is focused on enhancing the value of its membership offer for small business owners, founders and managers.

Building on event programs designed specifically for small businesses, AICD is now implementing a national small business project, and has sought to determine the issues and information, products and services, which are of greatest interest to and importance for the directors of small businesses.

The objective in expanding the offer in this area is not only to provide a greater level of value to members, but to assist the small businesses community to survive and indeed flourish. By doing so, AICD seeks to deliver on its mission to make a difference to the quality of governance of these critically important businesses.

An interesting 'early learning' from the project is the need to understand the language and culture of small business. While the term ‘corporate governance’ may be readily used in larger organisations, small businesses are more likely to focus on areas such as growth opportunities, of minimising risk and Directors exit strategies. ustralian Institute Company In implementing this project, a greater amount of small and meis Australia’s membership institute for dium business (SME) content has been incorporated in both our eduors delivering knowledge andpublications continuing cation courses and in AICD such as Company Director.

An online information guide for g in the field of directorship. SME directors is now also available in the member-only section of our website.

Above all, AICD aims to assist small businesses to understand more information, contact Laura when to start thinking seriously about governance issues, including when to establish a board of directors.

I would welcome any feedback ey on 1300 764 633 or visit the from directors of small businesses as to how the AICD can better supite at companydirectors.com.au port you in your quest to grow and develop your business.

How to add value and guide your organisation towards success AICD’s Risk: Issues for New Directors and Introduction to the Strategic Role of the Director offers a practical introduction and overview to the strategic planning and risk oversight management duties and responsibilities of a director and board.

piring small business ake the next step

Course details Risk: Issues for New Directors Tuesday 27 October 2009 Strategic Role of the Director Wednesday 18 November 2009 For more information or to enrol on this course, contact Renee Heins on 1300 764 633 or visit the website at www.companydirectors.com.au

AICD#1485

Phil Butler is state manager of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ ACT Division. For more information about AICD's course programs and events, call 6248 5954.

As a director you need to know your role and perform it well from day one. This course is the start you need.

B2B in Canberra | October 2009

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advice

Keeping the ATO happy with your self managed super

By Stephen Bourke

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he recent case of JNVQ & Commissioner of Taxation [2009] from the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) illustrates the importance of trustees of self-managed superannuation funds (SMSF) of complying with the rules under the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993. The case, in particular, looked at loans and investments in related parties of funds.

A related party is defined under the SIS Regulations as any of the following: 1.Another member of the fund; 2.An employer sponsor of the fund; or 3.A associate of an entity referred to in 1 or 2.

The associates include relatives of members, other members of the fund, other directors of a corporate trustee, a partner of a member including spouse and any children, a trustee controlled by a member and their associates, or a company controlled by a member and their associates. This is obviously a far reaching definition and people who are members and trustees of an SMSF should ensure that they keep this in mind when dealing with their funds.

Those of us who have self-managed superannuation funds must remember that we are trustees of the fund and therefore have the responsibility to ensure that the fund is complying. This means complying with all of the standards that the ATO imposes. Some of the rules include the sole purpose test – this means that a fund must operate for the sole purpose of providing benefits for members at retirement or death. The fund should not be used as a resource in the event that members may need a loan or, as the AAT stated in JNVQ, the funds must not themselves run business as part of an investment strategy because of the risks that this may present to retirement savings.

In the case in JNVQ, the trustees of the fund made loans to one of the member’s company. The company was a related party because the husband, a trustee of the fund, was also the sole director and general manager of the company. This was a contravention of the in-house assets test because the trustees had made a loan to a related party of the one of the members of the fund. The AAT found that the fund was non-complying and there were serious tax consequences for the trustees (and, of course, the member’s entitlements) of the SMSF, including tax at the highest marginal rate.

This case serves to remind us that being a trustee of an SMSF is a position of trust – what lawyers call a fiduciary obligation. There are serious consequences for your retirement savings if the rules are not observed.

For advice in relation to compliance or issues or any SMSF issues, please contact Stephen Bourke at Certus Law.

Stephen Bourke is a director in the boutique firm, Certus Law, specialising in superannuation, trusts and estate planning.

He also consults to other practitioners through the consulting practice, SuperSplitting.

Level 5, 28 University Avenue T: 6268 9090 www.certuslaw.com.au

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October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

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Act government

Jon Stanhope

Zed Seselja

ACT Chief Minister

ACT Opposition Leader

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he ACT Government is involved in a major push to position Canberra as a centre of excellence for e-government research and technology, contributing $350,000 to a brand-new Australian e-Government Technology Cluster, based at the Canberra node of NICTA. The launch of the cluster sends a message to the rest of the country — and the world — that the ACT is the home of some of the latest research into e-government. Significantly, the Government and NICTA will be partnered in the venture by a number of major, global IT companies, as well as by local entrepreneurs and researchers.

The ACT Government has contributed $150,000 towards the establishment of the Cluster in 2009-10, and has committed another $100,000 a year through to 2011-12.

Right around the world governments are embracing technology as a means to conduct the business of government more efficiently and effectively, and to communicate better with the communities they serve.

We’re all familiar with the sorts of benefits delivered by the first generation of e-government reforms.

These range from online payment of rates notices to the electronic lodgement of tax returns, from the online registering of dogs, to streaming video of parliamentary proceedings.

These days, we are accustomed to viewing real-time satellite images of thunder storms moving over our region, courtesy of the Bureau of Meteorology, and locally, Canberrans can even make online submissions to the ACT Budget process.

The purpose of the e-Government Cluster is to develop new technologies that will help governments take this evolution — perhaps even revolution — to the next level, delivering better services than ever and reducing costs.

The launch of the Australian e-Government Technology Cluster took place at NICTA's Canberra Research Laboratory's Showcase event, held as part of the ACT Government's Business in Focus Month.

NICTA is perfectly placed to host the Cluster, boasting a strong track record in e-Government research. It enjoys a close and productive relationship with many government agencies, helping them to improve the performance of their IT systems and processes.

The hope is that other partners will come on board as momentum grows within the Cluster and news of its specialty research spreads.

While the ACT is no longer the ‘one-company’ town it once was, there is no question that the presence in the city of the Commonwealth Government — the country’s largest buyer and user of ICT goods and services — creates fantastic opportunities for Canberra businesses and Canberra researchers. And that’s before one even begins to factor in the export possibilities.

The creation of this Cluster is a perfect example of the ACT private sector — in partnership with the ACT Government and the local research sector — leveraging its strengths and broadening the territory’s economic base.

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eing an MLA is pleasure and a privilege that allows members to participate in a whole variety of activities. In this column, we often speak of our business in the Assembly, legislative and policy proposals, the state of the budget or the politics of the day.

There is, however, a great deal more to the work of an MLA, and a great deal more to life in our city.

This month, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on just some of those factors that I have been involved in recent weeks.

ART EXHIBITION – CULTURAL PARALLELS Recent paintings and drawings by Ante Sardelić Ante Sardelić has been an active and vibrant artist since his formal training in Croatia in the late '60s and early '70s. He has created a body of work amounting to 76 one man exhibitions and more than 150 group exhibitions. I was very pleased to have helped this exhibition come to the ACT Legislative Assembly.

The title of this exhibition is ‘cultural parallels’ and at its core is the exploration of cross cultural understanding and exchange. I think it is very fitting that his work was exhibited in the Legislative Assembly.

Like Ante, I believe that we all share goals for a positive future for our communities and our families, regardless of our cultural backgrounds. I believe we can all be inspired by, and offer inspiration to, peoples from all countries and all cultures.

RUNNING FOR FUN. I have been a keen runner for some years and this year I took part in the City to Surf and undertook my first half marathon. There is always a special place for the Canberra Times Fun Run. It does an excellent job of bringing Canberrans from all walks of life together to enjoy our great city. This year I competed for the third time, and I was impressed by the community spirit the event brings out. Even if you don’t run, I encourage everyone to get outside and enjoy the day.

CONSTITUTIONAL DEBATE. Each year, Canberra hosts a schools constitutional debate, looking at the history of the our federation and discussing possibilities for the future. I am a life member of the Australian Republic Movement and this year, I was very pleased to address a large, active and engaged group of students on the merits of a republic for Australia. On the other side of the debate was my colleague, Mr Alistair Coe, who is committed to the continuation of a constitutional monarchy. It was a great opportunity to not only discuss the merits of the case, but to demonstrate that even colleagues on the same side of politics can have different views and still work constructively together. I am pleased to note, however, that the students voted for a republic at the end of the day.

As well as the legislative work, debates, motions and parliamentary duties, the committees, reports and policy development, and speaking with and responding to the community and constituency, these extra things make public life in Canberra politics a more rounded, enjoyable and educational experience. It is for these reasons that I consider the position of MLA an honour and privilege.

B2B in Canberra | October 2009

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Act Government

Information and communication technology in the ACT Alison Abernethy Manager of CollabIT Wider development of the information and communication technology (ICT) industries in Canberra is one of the keys to the broadening of the ACT economy. CollabIT is a new program to help deliver a supportive environment for the sector.

How was CollabIT established?

For the past three years the ACT Government and Microsoft partnered to support a program called Canberra.NET, designed to connect small ICT companies in the ACT based around the Microsoft platform. The Canberra.NET program has been actively supported in the ACT and has worked well, but it was always restricted in scope to a particular set of SMEs. The Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) more recently developed a broader ICT industry cluster model for state or regional application and the ACT Government has now decided to partner with the AIIA to deliver the program in the Territory.

The new program—CollabIT—now has three year joint funding support from the ACT Government and the AIIA. After some months of initial development it was officially launched by the Chief Minister Jon Stanhope MLA, on 24 September 2009.

What are the general benefits expected from CollabIT? Our primary goal is to assist the Canberra ICT community work together to create a supportive environment which will accelerate the growth of local ICT SMEs by delivering to broader markets their innovative and competitive solutions across all platforms.

That is to be achieved in a number of ways: setting pathways to business growth for companies involved; lobbying to build confidence among larger national or multinational companies in using ACT companies as part of their business in tenders; and improving access to government business in the ACT and federally.

The benefits provided to the SMEs are, first and foremost, the prospect of further development, hence a more profitable business.

This means ensuring they have access, beyond their enterprise, to opportunities in innovation, employment, investment and education. The 40

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

ultimate goal of course is to accelerate the ICT sector’s contribution to the territory economy In practical terms how does CollabIT operate?

We seek to attract ICT SMEs working across a wide range of technology platforms to be-

and relationships and enhanced networking among the various scale of businesses to expose ACT SMEs capabilities to nationals and multinationals, we will see more useful partnerships develop to take our companies beyond their local boundaries.

By helping build relationships among the various companies, and through networking and lobbying, CollabIT helps stakeholders such as the larger companies and government purchasers gain a better understanding of the capabilities of local suppliers. come members of the cluster. Then we can connect them through peer and networking functions to larger ICT companies so that they can participate in larger procurement projects, joint product solutions and contracts from the larger firms.

The large multinational and national ICT companies have an advantage through their longevity and established proprietary product.

But they also need continuing access to innovation, local expertise, new relationships and opportunities, and speed to market, to build a future skills base, and provide some return to local industry.

By helping build relationships among the various companies, and through networking and lobbying, CollabIT helps stakeholders such as the larger companies and government purchasers gain a better understanding of the capabilities of local suppliers.

Already one local IT company has become a joint partner in software with a national and a multinational company, another has been offered a contract where a larger company could not service the need in the ACT, and another has being asked to undertake web development.

So through CollabIT, by building reputations

How vital is government procurement?

It is very important but not all our focus should be on it. We have many ICT companies in the ACT developing Innovative products which are selling locally, nationally and internationally.

Many of them are not dependent on government for business. CollabIT can help open doors for local SMEs to a wider world and growth.

Institutional, or large organisation procurement, is very important for SMEs operating in an environment of government such as Canberra. So CollabIT also recognises the ACT Government and educational institutions are large buyers of ICT. We have good support in breaking down barriers to ICT purchases from ACT SMEs. We are also working with the Australian Government to get recognition of the capability of our ICT SMEs to provide innovative solutions that offer value for money.

We also need to convince government of the contribution they can make to education, employment, exports, reputation, a stronger economy and our balance of payments.

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g2b

Act occupational health & Safety commissioner

Be part of Safe Work ACT Month

Mark McCabe ACT Occupational Health & Safety Commissioner October is a big month for health and safety here in Canberra. It’s health and safety month – or Safe Work ACT Month as we now call it. This year we have a number of highlights worth noting. Mark these in your diary and take advantage of what's on offer.

Commencement of the new Work Safety Act - 1 October

From 1 October this year we have a new health and safety Act (the Work Safety Act 2008) and new health and safety regulations (the Work Safety Regulation 2009). These replace the existing Act and Regulations, which cease to have effect from midnight on 30 September 2009.

There are some very important changes for both businesses and their workers in the new legislation. If you aren’t across what has changed, get along to one

These are just a few of the highlights for this year’s Safe Work ACT Month. Why not host an event in your organisation and join in the spirit. After all, safety is really everybody’s business. of our free public seminars – The Work Safety Act Explained. Check out our website for further details.

ACT Occupational Health & Safety Commissioner P.O. Box 158 Canberra City ACT 2601 T: 6205 0333 F: 6205 0168 E: worksafety@act.gov.au

For health and safety information and guidance www.worksafety.act.gov.au www.safetyforum.org.au www.safeworkactawards.com.au www.actsafetyshow.com.au

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Safety Seminar on OHS Harmonisation – 6 October

As well as a new health and safety Act for Canberra, there are moves afoot to ‘harmonise’ health and safety laws across the country (currently different health and safety laws apply in Queanbeyan, for example, to those that apply in Canberra).

These moves are well progressed – to the point where October should see the release of an Exposure Draft of the proposed new harmonised laws for public comment.

If you want to make sure you’re across where this is taking us, and what the implications might be for Canberran businesses, come along to the half-day seminar we are

holding at the National Museum on Tuesday 6 October.

Bookings are essential and there is a modest fee for this event ($115).

You will hear a range of prominent speakers, both national and local, presenting some of the differing views about OHS harmonisation and what it means for Australian workplaces.

ACT Health and Safety Show – 22 October

Thursday 22 October is the date for what has now become our annual health and safety show. This event is free to the public and is held at the National Convention Centre in Constitution Avenue.

The show is an excellent opportunity for those interested in health and safety – either as practitioners or simply as business owners seeking support in meeting their obligations to provide a safe workplace – to see what there is to offer from local and interstate suppliers.

Exhibitors still interested in securing a booth at the show should visit our website for further details.

Annual ACT Safe Work Awards – 22 October

Perhaps the most significant event of the month is the presentation of annual health and safety awards. This year we have a record number of entries and the awards ceremony is sure to be an even bigger success than it was last year.

These are just a few of the highlights for this year’s Safe Work ACT Month. Why not host an event in your organisation and join in the spirit. After all, safety is really everybody’s business.

Australian tax office

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Tax fraud costs us all

Michael D’Ascenzo Commissioner of Taxation With millions of tax returns flowing in to the Tax Office, some people unfortunately try to take advantage of this busy tax time lodgement period and make claims for tax refunds they are not entitled to. This sort of behaviour defrauds the community's revenue, which is effectively stealing from each and every honest taxpayer in Australia.

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his year the Tax Office has invested in new technology designed specifically to help identify sophisticated, organised activities through to the most basic of scams. These tools are proving to be extremely efficient at identifying suspect claims for refunds and ensuring that Australia’s revenue is protected.

While the work the Tax Office does to deter, detect and deal with fraud helps protect the community, it is very important that individuals take steps to protect themselves from scammers and fraudsters.

Identity theft is a particular problem. If your identity is stolen it can take years to put things right. Your tax file number (TFN) is a unique identifier and should be kept safe. Only certain people can ask for your TFN including the Tax Office, Centrelink, your super fund, bank or financial institution, and your employer.

There are a few things people can do to protect themselves. First of all, be alert to cold calling by email, phone or suspicious door knockers.

If an email, phone call or suspicious door knocker does not look or sound right don’t offer any information and call the Tax Office on 13 28 61.

From time to time, the Tax Office does send emails or SMS promoting new services or alerting to due dates, for example to let you know tax time is approaching or that your business activity statement is due. However, the Tax Office will never send you an email requesting you to confirm, update or disclose confidential details like your name, date of birth, address, passwords or credit card and bank account details.

You can find more information on online security and how you can protect yourself from

identity crime at www.ato.gov.au/identitycrime.

This will also tell you how you can report scams and examples of the sorts of scams we are seeing.

• provide a report on how your current practices compare to recommended taxrelated practices

Simpler way to get your business tax-ready

• outline what might happen if you’re not complying with your tax obligations

Is your business tax-ready? — a new computer program available free from the Tax Office — can help small businesses check whether their business practices are helping them meet their tax obligations.

The program builds a profile of a business from the answers to a series of questions. It develops a printable evaluation report with information on what the business could do to improve their tax-related business practices to become tax-ready.

You can evaluate business practices at any stage of the business life-cycle — from when you’re thinking about starting a business right through to selling or closing your business down.

The program can also assist tax practitioners, business advisers and bookkeepers to help clients identify where their business can make improvements to become tax-ready.

If you are a business operator, Is your business tax-ready? will:

• provide information on characteristics and practices that are common in the operation of a successful business • identify areas of your business where improvements could be made • identify how you can improve your ability to meet your tax obligations

• advise you when your business practices reach the standard required to help you meet your tax obligations.

If you run more than one business, you can set up multiple business profiles to evaluate the practices of each business.

Is your business tax-ready? is for small businesses, including sole traders, with turnovers of below $2 million. It is not intended for:

• businesses with more than $2 million turnover • consolidated groups; a consolidated group consists of a head company and subsidiary member(s), that are wholly owned by the head company • GST groups; a GST group consists of two or more business entities that operate as a single business for GST purposes.

For more information and to download Is your business tax-ready? go to www.ato.gov.au/TaxReady. You can also request a copy of Is your business tax-ready? on CD (NAT 73082) by phoning 13 72 26.

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Act and region chamber of commerce and industry

Feeling the pinch in the ACT

By Toni Friend, Business Development Manager ACT & Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry

As a lot of Canberra and surrounding regions know, businesses are feeling the pinch in these hard economic times.

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here are many ways to build on your business in good times and bad, getting ‘out and about’ in your business community is a great way to network, build your own profile as well as the profile for the business.

Meeting other business people face to face can be so much more effective than a phone call or an email, which is always easier but never as personal. I have had many conversations with some of our members about our events and why members attend. I get a lot of feed-

Looking after your staff is so important and knowing the best possible way to build that relationship between the employer and employee is not always easy.

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

To become a member of the Chamber please call 6283 5200 or visit www.actchamber.com.au

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back from different companies that tell me that all businesses benefit from a great event.

We pride ourselves in making sure that our members and invited guests are getting as much out of the event as possible. It is always good after a long day at the office to be a part of a relaxed business networking event.

These events also build strong professional relationships between business people as they discuss concerns, issues, achievements that their business may be facing and relate to each other on those issues; it always helps to know what is going on in your business community.

Another ongoing issue that Canberra and surrounding businesses face is Workplace Relations. It is never easy knowing what the laws and legislations are for any business.

Looking after your staff is so important and knowing the best possible way to build that relationship between the employer and employee is not always easy. This needs to be done so the employee is getting looked after but the employee is doing what is best for the business.

Knowing which award to put your staff on is a challenge that a lot of business owners face today and keeping an eye on the updates released for the awards.

Sometimes just knowing if it would be of more benefit to your business putting staff on an individual agreement, pay them as a casual or permanent part-time.

Such small things that businesses are not aware of can

save the business money. Helping our members deal with these matters everyday is very rewarding and beneficial to the Chamber, as well as it boosting and helping the business community as a whole.

Further development is always something you can offer to your staff as an incentive to them as well as an opportunity to provide your staff with more skills which will benefit you in their performance. This will has also help any business keep good people by showing your staff your willing to invest in them they remain loyal, hard working and happy in their roles.

We currently face a massive skill shortage so why not invest in your own business by training your staff.

The Employment, Education and Training team at the Chamber run a wide range of government initiatives to business, schools and students. Programs include school to work transition, career advice, and training for your business, and addressing the current skill shortages.

The Chamber also continues to lobby business views to government on legislation in a wide range of areas including workcover, education, employment, planning, skills shortages, parking, and other policy issues.

The Chamber works closely with political leaders and Government to create positive outcomes for business.

Staff members sit on a variety of committees and advisory bodies such as the Educational Ministerial Round table, ACT OHS Council, Aust Chamber of Commerce & Industry Workplace Policy Committee.

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Canberra business council

A special gathering to celebrate 30 years

By Chris Faulks Chief Executive Officer Upcoming Events 7 October Canberra Times Business Series Guest Speaker: Bill Evans – Global Head of Economics, Westpac Time: 12.30pm – 2.00pm Venue: Hotel Realm National Circuit Barton Cost: $77.00 member $99.00 non-members $700.00 for Table of 10

29 October 2009 Annual Gala Dinner Guest Speaker: Bernard Salt Time: 7.00pm for 7.30 Venue: Hotel Realm National Circuit Barton RSVP: Monday 26 October 2009 COB Cost: $145 members $165 non-members $1350 table of 10 members $1550 table of 10 non-members $1750 corporate table of 10 Members $2000 Corporate Table of 10 Non-members

Principal Members ActewAGL, Actew Corporation, Bank West, Clayton UTZ, Bega, HolisTech, CRE8IVE, Ernst & Young, eWAY Hindmarsh, HSA Group, KPMG, Master Builders, NAB, National Museum of Australia, NEC, Oracle, Staging Connections, The Village Building Co, Thyssen Krupp Marine Systems, Total Concept Projects.

Affiliated with

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In 1979, Canberra was a small and relatively undeveloped town, with an overwhelming focus on the business of government. In this environment, a group of industry associations joined together to more effectively represent the views of the Canberra business community.

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ddly enough, this group of 24 associations was called the 'Committee of 22'. Recognising the confusing nature of the name, particularly in the face of growing membership, the Committee renamed itself the Canberra Association for Regional Development (CARD) in 1980. By 1991 CARD had become the Canberra Business Council (CBC), and has retained that name until the present day.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Canberra Business Council, and we pause to look back on our rich history.

From the outset, the Committee of 22's key imperative was "...the growth of the private sector in the region, to create job opportunities and conditions that encourage the development of private enterprise".

A central element of the Committee's early policy stance was the establishment of a plan for the economic development of Canberra, however the Committee also pursued other issues of local importance such as the upgrading of Canberra Airport to handle international flights and the development of the Belconnen and Tuggeranong town centres in the 1980s. In 1985 it successfully lobbied for the ACT’s first Convention Centre and supported the CSIRO’s Fast train proposal.

In the early 1990s Canberra Business Council's influence grew as it joined the ACT Government's Budget Advisory Committee. The Council worked with government to help reduce red tape and planning restrictions, giving the local economy a much-needed boost during difficult times.

By the late 1990s the Council continued to promote diverse growth-oriented measures such as High Speed Rail, the sale of the Canberra Airport, and the construction of the National Museum.

Opening up opportunities for Canberra to capitalise on the 2000 Sydney Olympics was an equally important concern, not to mention the ongoing push to ensure that major sporting events would continue to be staged in Canberra, for the benefit of the local community and the region's businesses.

2007 was a milestone year as Canberra Business Council entered into an affiliation with the NSW Business Chamber, spreading its network of represented businesses to over 100,000 across Australia.

In 2009 the Council carries on with the same spirit of commitment demonstrated by the original Committee of 22 – namely the desire to provide a strong voice for business and to bring together its members and government to ensure that the future of the Canberra Region is prosperous and secure.

We are currently pursuing a range of initiatives which will be critical to the economic growth of the ACT and surrounding region. I will discuss these with you in more detail in this column in the coming months.

The Council will celebrate its 30th Anniversary at our 2009 Annual Gala Dinner which will be held on 29 October 2009. At the dinner we will highlight some of the achievements of the last 30 years and acknowledge some of those who have contributed to the success of the Council and to the economic growth of the ACT and Capital Region over three decades.

The keynote speaker at the dinner is Bernard Salt, one of Australia’s most compelling and entertaining social and business commentators and a leading adviser to corporate Australia.

The Annual CBC Business Success Award will also be presented to the ACT/Capital Region business which has demonstrated business excellence and made a positive contribution to the ACT and Capital region economy over the past year.

This year the CBC Dinner will definitely be a night to remember. I hope you can join us at Hotel Realm at 7:00pm on 29 October. You can book online at canberrabusinesscouncil.com.au or call 6247 4199 for more details.

Act exporters' network

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Upcoming ACT ministerial trade mission to the UK and UAE

By Brent Juratowitch President, ACT Exporters' Network Congratulations to the ten ACT businesses who have been selected to participate in the ACT Government’s ministerial trade mission to the United Kingdom and United Arab Emirates from 18-30 October 2009.

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he following nine ACT companies, including ACT Exporters’ Network members, Recruitment Systems and the Wise Academy will be joining the Chief Minister for the ten day trade mission.

• • • • • • • • •

CIC Security Technology Canberra Institute of Technology Academy of Interactive Entertainment Invisabeam Quintessence Labs Recruitment Systems John Walker Crime Trends Poacher's Pantry The Wise Academy

The companies have been selected to participate based on their export readiness and the suitability of their service or product offering for the UK and UAE markets.

“The trade mission format is not about achieving immediate sales but rather building and developing new markets and customers," Chief Minister, Jon Stanhope said.

Marita Corra, director, Inland Trading Co (Aust) Pty Ltd has visited the Middle East several times in pursuit of driving the company’s sales growth within the many five star hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Inland Trading exports Australian, New Zealand and South African wines from premium and highly respected vineyards to smaller and more complex international markets.

According to Marita it is a great time for ACT businesses to explore opportunities in the Middle East.

“The business growth particularly in the United Arab Emirates is jaw dropping and there are lots of little business niches just waiting to be filled” says Marita.

Marita’s top five tips for ACT companies considering the UAE as a potential market are outlined below: 1.Do your research It is essential that you read up on or have some knowledge of the local business regulations and protocol.

2.Visit the market It is highly recommended that the business visits to see just what it is like. The opportunities are there waiting for someone to step in and offer products and services.

If you are intending to go over to the UAE to explore and develop business opportunities, consider sending the most senior person i.e. the managing director or CEO. It will give your company more credibility and you get directed to the appropriate people. It will help to avoid unnecessary time wasting.

3.Prepare for the heat Consider your type of clothing, intake of refreshments and the locations of your business meetings.

4.Disposable incomes The average incomes in the Middle East tend to be very high. This translates into strong purchasing power.

5.Global community There are many foreigners living and working in the UAE so bear in mind that you are not just catering for the Emirates but to a very global community.

If you would like more information on the ACT Exporters’ Network mentorship programs please visit www. actexportersnetwork.com.au or contact Brooke Anderson on 6247 4199.

The ACT Government is supporting participants by providing, in partnership with Austrade’s specialist staff in the UAE & UK, a complete business matching program.

The ACT Exporters’ Network is sponsored by the ACT Government, the Centre for Customs & Excise and AusIndustry.

The ACT Exporters’ Network is proudly sponsored by the ACT Government, Centre for Customs & Excise Studies, St George Bank and AusIndustry.

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U2b

THE australian national university

Catching the bad guys: lifting the lid on forensic accounting in Australia

By ANU College of Business and Economics

The accounting profession has experienced a number of seismic shocks over the past two decades. Significant corporate collapses in the 1990s and early part of this new millennium have now given way to the milieu involved in the autopsy of the most recent credit crisis.

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To find out more about The Australian National University go to www.anu.edu.au

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October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

ore traditional methods of accounting practice have felt the pressure.

Management and financial accounting, and in particular, performance measurement and reporting across the public and private sectors have taken on a more pronounced bias towards careful perception management and clever marketing.

The pressures confronting the traditional ways of accounting have been counteracted by forensic accounting, where the contribution of accountants and accounting-related analysis are instrumental in identifying and responding to illicit activity and corporate failure.

Research conducted at ANU by Dr David Lacey has lifted the lid on forensic accounting within Australia.

Through a national survey of forensic accounting practitioners and the conduct of professional body focus groups, Dr Lacey examined the nature and emerging needs of this largely unassuming sub-discipline of accounting. The rapid growth across both the public and private sectors in their use of forensic accountants was said by Dr Lacey to: “underpin a significant need for the tertiary sector to listen and adapt to the changes and challenges confronting the profession.”

His research found that considerable investment in forensic accounting capabilities by Commonwealth and State Governments, as well as private practice, has not translated to equivalent momentum in course development, delivery and research output. Dr Lacey should know. Prior to joining ANU, he headed the Australian Crime Commission’s financial crime special intelligence operations.

“My time at the ACC and before that in the financial services sector in Sydney highlighted the critical importance of forensic accounting in today’s business.

Forensic accounting is a real option for graduates and practicing accountants who are looking for career change and diversity. The challenge for me and my colleagues within the tertiary sector is to remain abreast of real-world developments to ensure relevance, currency and value,” said Dr Lacey.

In response to the research findings on the growth and importance of forensic accounting, ANU is offering members in practice and other interested parties a graduate course in financial analytics for investigations.

As course coordinator, Dr Lacey believes that the course “offers practitioners and other interested participants with learning outcomes directly informed from practice that are highly unique within the tertiary landscape.”

The course is tailored to the needs of survey and group discussion participants and will be offered in both online and intensive block delivery mediums.

The investment in developing a new course is only the start. In February 2010 ANU will host Australia’s first national symposium on forensic accounting research and teaching. The outcomes of this symposium will go a long way towards defining Australia’s research and teaching priorities of direct relevance to forensic accounting practice. Both practitioners and academic teachers and researchers alike will have the opportunity to shape the direction of priorities through a series of participant-led workshops over a two day period. Dr Lacey hopes that the symposium will grow to being a biennial event with tertiary institutions rotating hosting responsibilities. “It is a small but tangible way the tertiary sector can focus on setting goals that maximise Australia’s contribution to innovation in teaching and researching forensic accounting,” said Dr Lacey.

For further information, please visit: http://infsweb.anu.edu.au

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C2b

Canberra Southern Cross Club

Celebrate Christmas with business class style Carol Sawyer General Manager

It’s no surprise that some of the world’s best event organisers are found in celebrity-rich New York and LA. But you don’t need to be on The Forbes 400 or be Angelina Jolie to host the best function in Canberra this Christmas.

For all bookings telephone the Canberra Southern Cross Club: Woden 6283 7200 Tuggeranong 6293 7200 Yacht Club 6273 1784 Jamison 6251 2677 Turner 6247 7838 Yamba 6283 7200 For information on the latest function packages visit www.cscc.com.au

T

he high-tech Southern Cross Event Centre at Woden created a huge buzz on opening this March. Canberra and regional event organisers have been quick to book early Christmas parties, business functions and conferences well into 2010.

And the buzz is increasing as business event managers discover the full extent of quality affordable party and function packages available at Southern Cross Club venues throughout Canberra.

Now is the time to book your Christmas party. The professionally qualified staff at every Southern Cross Club will deal with the detail and do all the hard work. Your brief is to relax and enjoy.

You can host a gala ball seating 700 for dinner at the stylish new Southern Cross Events Centre at Woden. Or play Pitch n Putt at Yamba. Barefoot bowls and a BBQ around the green at Southern Cross Club Turner is great for groups.

LIVE SHOWS Friday 4 December & Saturday 12 December Las Vegas dance fever Dinner & Show $75 – 6.30pm Show Only $35 – 8.30pm Saturday 5 December Rock & Roll Christmas Dinner & Show $70 – 6.30pm Show Only $30 – 8.30pm Friday 11 December Abbalanche Dinner & Show $75 – 6.30pm Show Only $35 – 8.30pm All tickets are on sale now. BOOK NOW to get priority seating.

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October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

Set the date today and plan your end-of-year celebration to thank your clients, recognise your staff, and reward yourself with an event to rival anything you’ve seen on-screen – with or without the red carpet.

You can host a gala ball seating 700 for dinner at the stylish new Southern Cross Events Centre at Woden. Or play Pitch n Putt at Yamba. Barefoot bowls and a BBQ around the green at Southern Cross Club Turner is great for groups.

A marquee on the lush green grass of the Southern Cross Yacht Club on a balmy summer night is another perfect party position.

Enjoy the dance of lights across the lake when you charter the MV Southern Cross for an exclusive Christmas party cruise.

From the changing view of the lake to the beautiful view of the Brindabellas, Southern Cross Club Tuggeranong is the party location of choice in the Valley. The function menus developed by award-winning Michelin rated Executive Chef Anurag Gautam are, simply, incredible.

With rooms for groups of 15 to 1,000 people there is a Southern Cross Club function venue and package for every occasion and budget.

From stunningly simple cocktail menus, to an elaborate sitdown celebration of food and wine. Our chefs will also happily tailor a menu just for you.

Our function managers have strong networks of industry contacts and suppliers and can arrange everything for you, from themed decorations to live bands and DJ’s.

You get more than a Christmas cracker when you book an event at the Southern Cross Club. Telephone the Function Manager at each Southern Cross Club venue to make your booking.

Live shows - razzle dazzle to rock & roll There’s a great live Christmas show for everyone this festive season at Southern Cross Club Woden!

The option to organising your own function is to simply book your work party into any one of these three great Christmas shows – the perfect party option for small and large groups.

The three-course dinner and show packages are selling fast. Visit www.cscc.com.au for details.

1.Las Vegas dance fever – 2 nights only!

Enjoy all the sparkle of a Las Vegas show complete with that big band sound, Latin style and show girls! A sizzling performance featuring charismatic showman Vince Gelonese!

2.Rock & Roll Christmas – book early

Shake, rattle and roll your Christmas party with dance band Second Movement playing all the tunes you know so well – hit after hit! From the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Neil Diamond to the Monkeys and Everly Brothers

3.Abbalanche – selling fast

Dust off your flares and platforms and get ready to dance to all your favourite ABBA hits from ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Mamma Mia’ and ‘Ring Ring’ to ‘Waterloo’ and ‘Fernando’.

T H E 2 0 0 9 AC T C H I E F M I N I S T E R ’ S

P R I N C I PA L PA R T N E R

P R I N C I PA L PA R T N E R

B U S I N E S S , G O V E R N M E N T & C O M M U N I T Y PA R T N E R S H I P S F O R A N I N C L U S I V E S O C I E T Y

The sixth annual ACT Chief Minister’s Inclusion Awards will once again publicly recognise the outstanding achievements of business, organisations, government and individuals who have demonstrated a clear commitment to encourage, welcome and support people with a disability in their workplace, business and community.

Join us in celebrating the vision that a small change can make a big difference.

WHEN AND WHERE: Thursday 22nd October – 6pm Theatre Style Awards Presentation followed by a Celebration Cocktail Party Great Hall, Parliament House Canberra Bookings Essential - Seats Limited $40 Full Price / $25 for People With Disability (Entry for accompanying carer is free) Download your booking form from the website: www.inclusionawards.com.au

T H E 2 0 0 9 C AT E G O R I E S A R E

INCLUSION IN SMALL BUSINESS – PRIVATE SECTOR INCLUSION IN MEDIUM TO LARGE BUSINESS – PRIVATE SECTOR INCLUSION IN AGENCY OR DEPARTMENT – ACT GOVERNMENT INCLUSION IN AGENCY OR DEPARTMENT – COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT INCLUSION IN EDUCATION & TRAINING INCLUSION IN SPORTS INCLUSION IN THE ARTS INCLUSION IN TOURISM & HOSPITALITY THE MARGARET SPALDING PERPETUAL AWARD - INCLUSION BY AN INDIVIDUAL THE ACT CHIEF MINISTER’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

C AT E G O R Y PA R T N E R S

S U P P O R T I N G PA R T N E R

BDW SPECIAL EVENTS PTY LTD ABN 22 055 774 493 GPO BOX 2495 CANBERRA ACT 2601 T 02 6230 5211 F 02 6248 8122 W www.inclusionawards.com.au

networking

Invite B2B to your next event: b2b@b2bincanberra.com

Mergruen George Palarestra, James Lang, Gerard Barrett, Victoria ia and Bruce Singclair @ ACT launch of Worldskills Austral

Julian Buckmaster, Julie Elliott, Peter Lilley and Rene Zwikielberg @ AICD Twilight Networking

Steve Jamieson, Liz Lang, Robert van Aalst and Paul Stapleton @ Business in Focus Month Sponsors Function

WORK IN THE CITY? WORK OUT WITH US!

Paula Moeller, Pene Butt, Michael Doyle, Angela Tyrrell and Dianne Bradford @ ACT launch of Worldskills Australia

Deborah and Lloyd Meehan @ AICD Twilight Networking

Maureen Cane, Jerome de Rose and Jill Faulkner @ Business in Focus Month Sponsors Function

Colin Statton, Margaret Vile, Natalie Wells, Felicity Bruce and Karl Somers @ ACT launch of Worldskills Australia

Rory, Diana, Ian and Neil Primrose @ AICD Twilight Networking

Clayton Wehner, Stephen Gilfedder and Malcolm Jobs @ Business in Focus Month Sponsors Function

Pro-Fit Health Club includes A boutique and private setting unlike the big gyms Free weights & machine weights Separate cardio room with plasma TVs Outdoor heated pool & sauna Lunchtime classes in Glebe Park Personal training & nutritionist

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Bronze memberships start from only $15 per week Located on the Glebe Park level of the Crowne Plaza Hotel 6230 7893 | club@pfcorporatehealth.com | www.pfcorporatehealth.com

52

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

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networking

Invite B2B to your next event: b2b@b2bincanberra.com

Sam Andrewartha, Chris Males, Toni Friend and Chris @ ACT Chamber of Commerce Golf Day

Peters

Nancy Harrison, Lyn Bruen, Leanne Gundrey and Lee Corrigan @ Business in Focus Month Launch

Beryl Tsao, Rodney Miller, Harphajan Singh and Jenny Prime @ RSM Bird Cameron Seminar

54

October 2009 | B2B in Canberra

Sam and Smiriti Gupta, Chloe Butler, Adeel Mansoor and John Pennay @ ACT Chamber of Commerce Golf Day

Hayley Symons, Michelle Davison, Yvonna Grusska and Alexandra Bryant @ Business in Focus Month Launch

Ross Pritchard, Janine White, Hugh Chalmers and Andrew Tregenza @ RSM Bird Cameron Seminar

John Dowse, Graeme Sellar and Pat O'Callaghan @ ACT Chamber of Commerce Golf Day

Brooke Anderson, Craig Richmond, Lisa Barlin, Cindy Reese and Monica Penders @ Business in Focus Month Launc

Andrew Snaidero, Terry Greaves, Stephen Glowery and Jo Ashley @ RSM Bird Cameron Seminar

WHO’S THE CENTRE OF YOUR UNIVERSE ?

Commander Centre has arrived in Canberra … bringing so much more ! Traditionally known for providing quality small business telephone systems, Commander has established a national network of locally owned and operated Centres to improve its already renowned levels of support with professional, local, face to face service. The new Mitchell based office can not only continue to service your existing Commander phone system, but also propose an expert solution to meet any of your business telephony needs.

Our local staff can assist your business with:  competitive fixed line, 3G mobile and data network plans to meet any requirement.  Undertake any voice and data cabling work required  Supply and service phone equipment ranging from a basic key system up to a multi-site Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) solution for any size business.

NEW COMMANDER BUSINESS RATE PLANS As part of our launch, Commander Centre are pleased to announce details of the brand new Commander Business First—Office Voice call plans.

Key features include:  Call FREE to any other Commander

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up to $3,080.00 +GST)

UP TO 20% OFF Bundle multiple products on the same bill and save up to 20% off each month’s account. Discounts can apply to reducing your phone call costs, 3G mobile plans, system maintenance and labour charges for any additional work you get done.

Call Jaime on the number below to find out more.

Unit 4, 26 Sandford St, Mitchell, 2911 info.act@commandercentre.com www.ccact.com.au

1300 COM CEN 1300 266 236 / 02 6123 8900

Independently owned and operated by Inncom (ACT) Pty Ltd ABN: 28 233 896 242

Local Business Communication Specialists We are very proud of our new Commander Centre sales & service centre and look forward to continuing with the trusted advice, plus reliable service and support for all your business telecommunication needs ... with of course a number of familiar faces !

Come and talk to us about some of the fabulous launch offers we have.

Graham Lowbridge General Manager 00 Free

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Notes: Installation excludes cabling if required. Offer expires Friday 27th November 2009. Orders are subject to our standard terms of credit.

Commander 3G Mobile Commander Mobile gives you access to one of Australia’s largest cellular digital networks, with 97% of the population covered.

Commander First Mobiles have been specifically developed to provide real choice and value for any business, whatever the size and requirements.

All our mobile plans offer:  Wide choice of rates  Data pack add on for real value  Free calls to any number on the same account

With Commander Mobile, you can even experience the convenience of having all your fixed line, data and telephony costs streamlined into the one bill.

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ther got toge k t s r fi e hen w gh thic Lost. ness Banker. W ere for me throu out with i h s My Bus ised you’d be t ll you’re alway en you a c m wh I o you pr w when hear from you erstood o n t u B d . and thin else and I only ou said you un thing.

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