Hotel SA June 2024

Response To Coalition Immigration Stance

From the President

The Federal Coalition’s budget reply speech had a disturbing policy contained within it.

The proposal to slash net migration to 160,000 would have an immediate negative impact on our ability to bring in much-needed skills to cover our labour shortages.

The AHA has lobbied the Federal Opposition to reconsider its pledge, which includes cutting overseas arrivals by 25%.

Meetings have taken place with their leader Peter Dutton and the Shadow Immigration Minister Dan Tehan. The first took place inside 12 hours of the Leader’s announcement.

We have requested clarification regarding the specific visa category targeted by the proposed measures. This move comes amid concerns regarding the Opposition Leader’s pledge to prioritise skilled visas within the construction sector, potentially affecting the position of hospitality workers in the queue.

We pointed out that our industry is currently facing a prolonged shortage of chefs for kitchen staffing. Employers are actively engaged in recruiting trained cooks from various countries, with a notable sponsorship of 2841.

From those meetings, it was agreed any migration skills list needs to have a clear focus on where the real shortages are, and that the Coalition would work with the AHA and Accommodation Australia in the finalisation of its migration and workforce policies.

The hospitality sector has 12,000 chef and cook positions vacant right now. We are also in desperate need of restaurant and hotel managers, where migration has played an important role in assisting employers’ needs.

There are also concerns around the current Federal Government’s policy to relegate chefs, cooks, restaurant and hotel managers from the Tier One migration priority list, making it even harder for our members to fill those positions.

The AHA has articulated a clear view to the Federal Government that those roles need to remain on the skilled occupation list, both permanent and temporary.

STATE BUDGET

The recent State Government budget was largely well received by the AHA.

Coming off the excitement of our events season, where national data revealed South Australia as the country’s number one tourist destination for April, we again head into tourism’s Achilles heel - winter visitation numbers.

The AHA presented a detailed submission to Government to provide more funding to reverse our ‘Valley of Death’.

The Treasurer has listened and allocated $14m over four years to expand the business events fund to focus on conferences and events during winter.

It is money perfectly targeted.

Data from Business Events

Adelaide reveals that a conference delegate will spend $650 a day, compared to $200 per day from the leisure tourist.

Beyond a conference, delegates extend their stay to explore the regions and become advocates for the State - returning with their families.

We also welcome the announcement of $20.8 million provided to increase marketing of our state both interstate and overseas.

overseas chefs to come to Australia in 2022-23.

DAVID BASHEER

Beyond tourism, there is energy relief for small business. The Economic Recovery Fund will provide small business energy grants of $20 million in 2024-25 for Round 2 of the Economic Recovery Fund.

This will support up to 8,000 eligible small businesses and not-forprofit organisations with grants between $2,500 - $50,000 to invest in energy efficient equipment or other improvements to reduce and manage their energy usage and costs.

Members should keep an eye out via the Office for Small and Family Business website, with applications expected to open in August this year.

Importantly, again there are no new taxes, while tax increases have been restricted to CPI.

Our only disappointment was a lack of funding targeting the chronic labour and skills shortages in our sector. We continue to remind Government not every young kid wants to work on nuclear subs or other new world industries.

NEW SATC CHAIR

It has been announced David Koch will become the new Chair of SATC in July.

David brings a wealth of business and strategic experience to this critical role.

A man familiar with success, no doubt David will build on the impressive work done by SATC in recent times.

I would like to acknowledge the outstanding contribution made by the outgoing Chair Andrew Bullock.

Andrew became Chair in 2019, unaware that tourism would be on the brink of its greatest challenge in a lifetime. Andrew steered SATC though those seemingly impossible Covid years and the recent announcement of record occupancy levels in South Australia

is a testament to Andrew’s drive and direction.

Andrew will not be lost to the industry, as he remains Chair of the South Australian division of Accommodation Australia.

VALE MALCOLM HILL

It was with sadness we were advised of the death of AHA|SA Life member Malcolm Hill.

Malcolm was the long time manager of the Berri Hotel and served on the AHA|SA State Council for 17 years.

Malcolm was a revered figure in the Riverland in both the business and sporting community. His life was remembered at a moving service at the Berri Football Club.

Immediate AHA|SA Past President Peter Hurley was one of several speakers who superbly eulogised Malcolm’s wonderful life.

In honour of Malcom’s remarkable commitment and influence at the Berri Hotel, it was announced at the funeral the Sports Bar would be renamed the Malcolm Hill SportsBar.

The AHA|SA’s deepest sympathies are expressed to his loving wife of 62 years Ann and children Peter, Amanda and Julia.

Watch Video

David Basheer, AHA|SA President

Photo © We Are SA

Digital Content Manager A Timely Appointment

From the CEO

When I was appointed as CEO of the AHA|SA, I promised “evolution not revolution”.

We are conscious of the need to move with the times in all areas of operations, including our communications. This is why in recent years we have experimented with podcasts and social media platforms to tell our stories.

And now, we have appointed an experienced communications professional, Josh Bevan, to be our first Digital Content Manager.

This is a strategic move to respond to the growing influence of social media and the consumption of digital content.

NEW MEMBER SERVICE

Josh will drive our communication with members, partners and other target audiences and stakeholders –but he will also be available to assist members and Corporate Partners.

He has hit the ground running and has already provided advice to member hotels on how to implement strategies, especially those who don't have a comms or marketing person on their team.

We are keen to ensure that our regional members have equal access to this service.

Josh will attend all of the regional meetings and be out and about across the state. Please seek him out and have a chat with him to see how he can assist you.

In addition to his strong social media skills, Josh has years of experience with video production – a medium that is of increasing importance in the marketing of venues and messaging on behalf of industry.

His experience includes being employed as a producer for ABC radio for five years, sound engineering and working as a communications professional for both employee associations and private enterprise.

Josh will help shape the AHA|SA’s narrative and provide a voice for our members. He will give the community a better understanding of “pub land” and address some of the long-standing myths about the industry.

SKILLS SHORTAGE LINK

We are particularly keen to use social media and video to address the ongoing skills crisis that members confront on a daily basis. The association will use Josh’s skills to promote our sector

ANNA MOELLER

“We are particularly keen to use social media and video to address the ongoing skills crisis that members confront on a daily basis.”

offering exciting, progressive and long term career pathways. Not just jobs to get you someone through university or a gap year, but a career that offers lifetime opportunities, opens the door to travel, provides jobs for all age groups and embraces diversity.

By tapping the power of social media to tell our stories, we can make a difference to how people perceive our industry.

WHY SOCIAL MEDIA?

Many hotels already use social media to promote themselves and their offerings. It is now the ‘Go To’

tool across society to communicate immediately and effectively across a broad audience.

It is vital that our association masters this space.

Social media particularly targets younger demographics. More than half of Gen Z say that social media is their main source of news. This would have been unthinkable in years gone by - but the world is changing rapidly and we need to keep pace with that change if we are to remain relevant.

Our ability to be a communication leader on social platforms and with our digital content will be increasingly important into the future.

I would urge you to watch the video on this page. In it, I turn the tables and ‘interview the interviewer’, allowing Josh to explain his focus in his own words.

Anna Moeller, AHA|SA CEO

What Makes The New Deputy CEO Tick?

In hindsight, Covid-19 provided the perfect ‘trial by fire’ for Owen Webb to take on the burdens of being Deputy CEO of the AHA|SA.

By his own admission, the 24/7 demands of the pandemic took him “right to the edge and almost broke me”.

“Now that I look back, it felt as though if we could get through that period as an industry, we could just about get through anything,” he said,

“I personally had never been busier than during the pandemic. It was unrelenting, amendments were being made to IR legislation on a regular basis and at a state level the goalposts were constantly changing through changes to the emergency management directions. Trying to decipher the changes and how they applied in practical terms to members and their employees was a huge challenge.

“It wasn’t just me. The whole AHA|SA team were magnificent the way they worked so cohesively together and thought of ideas “outside of the box”. The team carried a huge workload for the industry, and in the end

we were able to provide really succinct, timely advice and support to our members.

“That was greatly appreciated by the members and that appreciation made it all worthwhile.

“We were nimble and adaptable as an association, and in the end we came out of the Covid period with higher levels of membership than we’d ever had before, because more than ever hotels could see the benefits of being a member of the AHA.

“What I took from our members during that period was their positive outlook. I was earning a salary and still had a job, but for the hoteliers they were riding the wave of emotions having to deal with constant change and not only having to think about how they were going to keep their business afloat but also how they were going to try and keep their staff employed. They didn’t mope around; instead, they asked ‘How can we make this work?’ They had to come up with innovative ideas to maintain trade – who would have thought we would have served so many meals through the drive thru bottleshops ! They were incredible”.

PERSONAL

Looking at his lean, clean-cut appearance, you might not be surprised to learn that Owen has run a staggering 11 marathons (42.2km) and assures me that this year’s Adelaide Marathon will be number 12. But few would suspect that he has cleaned hotel rooms and worked alongside farmers and roo shooters to earn a living.

That was many years ago in more carefree times after leaving school. However, he has retained the skills learned from working with people from all walks of life, especially when it comes to understanding employee and IR matters.

Adelaide born and bred - “my parents were 10-pound Poms” – he spent an impromptu gap year after school, working around Australia in a winery, in hospitality and travelling overseas.

He went on to complete a Bachelor of Management in Labour Relations at the University of South Australia in 1999.

Married to Vesna, he has a daughter Amelia aged 19 and a son Aleksander aged 14.

Owen has been at the AHA|SA for a total of 14 years. However, this is his second stint, his first being between 2001 and 2003. He has also worked in hotels in HR roles, for both the RD Jones Group in Adelaide for five years and Mantra Accommodation Group for four years.

“At this stage I'm more behind-the-scenes. I'm there to assist to work across our projects, services and advocacy, and to get a strong handle on the issues affecting our industry.”

Throughout his career he has forged a formidable reputation for being a cool head under pressure, with more than five years as Workplace Relations Manager and six years as an IR advocate.

“I love the idea of helping people with problems, which is part of the appeal of IR,” he said.

“If there is a problem, I enjoy the idea of trying to work through it and seeing if there is a solution.

“That’s why I like the membership association work. We can work through a member’s problem, assist them (hopefully), and enjoy the feeling of satisfaction when the member is happy with the outcome.”

Owen clearly has the rare ability to cut through complexity and provide clear and simplified advice.

He is also adept at dealing with pressure and multiple inputs, two traits he will need as the Deputy CEO.

NEW POSITION

Describing how he sees his role, Owen said: “David (Basheer) and Anna (Moeller) are the spokespeople for the industry.

“At this stage I'm more behind-the-scenes. I'm there to assist to work across our projects, services and advocacy, and to get a strong handle on the issues affecting our industry.”

In addition to IR work, Owen assists with regional meetings, and meets with the likes of Liquor and Gaming, and ministerial advisors to gain an understanding of proposed legislation and changes to guidelines, and to provide input.

He also sits on the Industrial Relations Consultative Council, which mainly comprises employers and unions, who provide input and feedback to the Minister for Industrial Relations on any proposed changes the state government is seeking to make in IR and Work Health and Safety.

In his words, he’s “adding depth” to the association.

“There remains a real challenge to promote our industry to younger generations and to promote the industry as providing an exciting and fulfilling career.”

“For the AHA|SA team, our key function is to assist members work through the challenges they face from a legislative and compliance perspective, and provide them with the necessary support and tools to help them successfully run their businesses” he said. These challenges include labour shortages, rising cost of business, compliance and red tape… to name a few.

“The labour shortage, particularly post Covid, has been crippling for our industry. We have instances of members not getting a single applicant for a job, and hotels having to reduce trade and services because they simply don’t have the staff to service customers.

“There remains a real challenge to promote our industry to younger generations and to promote the industry as providing an exciting and fulfilling career.

“We have recently put in submissions to the state government for funding that can be used to try and promote and attract individuals into our industry”.

“As an industry association we will also continue to support the government to attract major events and boost tourism, and importantly advocate for an increase to the budget for the tourism commission to attract those visitors from interstate and overseas through appropriate campaigns.”

VISION

Those who know him say he is patient, a good listener and above all, a problem solver.

But that patience can be tested.

“From an industrial relations perspective, there is no doubt in my mind that we are overregulated,” explained the 47-year-old.

“It would be nice if we made life easier and less complex, especially industrial relations for small business, so it’s not overwhelming for them.

He would also like to be part of a societal change where a hospitality career is at the forefront of young peoples’ minds, with a higher level of skills and training.”

New Sustainability Guide To Empower SA Hotels In Setting Nation-Leading Clean And Green Standards

The South Australian hospitality industry made a huge leap forward in its clean and green efforts in June, with the launch of the AHA|SA’s Hospitality Industry’s Guide to Sustainability.

In collaboration with the State Government’s Green Industries SA (GISA) and local sustainability consultants 2XE, this guide will cement a commitment and provide comprehensive resources to empower hotels in adopting and excelling sustainable practices.

AHA|SA CEO, Anna Moeller, said, “We are thrilled to unveil this guide with the State Government and 2XE on behalf of the hotels industry.”

“Environmental sustainability has played a pivotal role in South Australia’s history, driven by a commitment to protecting our pristine natural environment. Our state has been a trailblazer, being the first to ban plastic bags in 2009 and setting Adelaide on course to

become the world’s first carbonneutral city.”

“We have developed this guide so that our hotel members are well supported in their endeavours towards more sustainable options and can realise the real moneysaving opportunities that come along with a more effective use of resources.”

“This sustainability guide aims to tackle waste management by aligning industry thinking to avoid waste in the first place, followed by initiatives that focus on better practices, reusing and recycling, and finally, disposing of waste in more responsible ways.”

“Across our great state, we not only provide excellent venues and service with premium food and wine, but we have shown that we can do it with care for our people and our planet.”

“By looking at sustainable supply chains and sharing the success, our industry can encourage the

extension of green practices and become an industry leader in this space,” Anna said.

GISA’s Chief Executive, Josh Wheeler, said, “Green Industries SA has a long track record of partnering with industry to provide valuable guides and toolkits like this to enable South Australian businesses to unlock the potential of the circular economy to gain a competitive advantage while also demonstrating a commitment to environmental leadership.”

2XE Managing Director, Nick Palousis, said, “This is exactly the leadership that has set South Australia apart from the rest of the nation for so long.”

"In this guide, we have outlined the many opportunities for venues and hotels to reduce their impact on the environment and benefit the business by doing so. 2XE is so happy to be on the ride with the leaders at the AHA-SA, Green

Left to Right: CEO and Founder of 2XE, Nick Palousis; AHA|SA CEO, Anna Moeller; CEO Green Industries SA, Josh Wheeler.

Industries SA, and our hospitality industry,” Nick said.

AHA|SA members have already adopted sustainable practices outlined in this guide:

• Watervale Hotel owners, Nicola and Warren are reducing food waste by turning unused animal parts into items for their “Doggie Degustation” menu for canine companions. With their pub and farm just minutes of each other, food waste from the pub goes to a three-stage compost system - eventually being used to grow fresh produce. It’s circular, regenerative, and impressive!

• The Maylands Hotel analysed their waste composition, revealing that organic food waste comprised approximately 38% of their general waste. By implementing an organic waste management service, the hotel successfully diverted significant amounts of waste from landfill, resulting in a net weekly saving of $50 and annual savings of $2,600!

• Novotel Barossa upgraded most of their lighting to LED fittings. It is expected that this upgrade could result in up to 11,800kWh in savings per year, or $3,540 (at 0.30c/kWh).

• The Feathers Hotel installed incorporated timed heaters so they are only turned on when required.

• The Old Spot Hotel has a large roof space and has invested in a large rooftop solar system – even incorporating panels on their car park shading structure! As a result, they are seeing a significant reduction in electricity costs.

• Case studies that underpinned this new sustainability guide showed that:

• On average, restaurants throw away 23% of food they purchase

• Lighting controls can reduce energy use by 30 to 50%

• Refrigeration in hospitality venues can account for up to 30% of their total energy consumption

• Poorly maintained HVAC systems can consume up to 30% more energy than they should

• Upgrading building insulation can result in up to 40% reduction in heating and cooling costs

• Good operational practices can result in up to 10% savings

• A tap that drips 1 drop per second can waste up to 7,000 litres of water per year

We look forward to working with members to continue adopting sustainable practices and encourage businesses to reach out to our specialists if they have questions, need advice, or sustainability initiatives they would like to promote through us!

A copy of the AHA|SA Hospitality Industry's Guide to Sustainability can be downloaded here 

Launch attendees.

Panel Discussion Members, Left to Right: Watervale Hotel Owner, Warrick Duthy, Mark Condi from Duxton Pubs, and Andrew Kemp from Matthews Hospitality Group.

REGIONAL MEETINGS

There was a record turnout at the Gawler and Barossa regional meeting! Publicans, Andrew and Chris Plush, hosted the massive turnout for lunch at the Tanunda Hotel  for members and corporate partners. It was clear that the big issues we’re all aligned on are tackling our industry’s skills shortage and staff retention with government, and reducing further red tape, taxes, and costs for businesses.

REGIONAL MEETINGS

There was a lot of positive energy at the Macclesfield Hotel , where Publicans, Jen and Justin Yorke, hosted a large turnout of members and corporate partners for the South Coast and Hills regional meeting. Great food and a perfect way to spend a sunny Autumn day! It was great to catch up with everyone, hearing your stories and relaying the latest in workplace relations, licensing, and advocacy for the hotels industry.

Women

For 30 years, Women in Hotels has brought voices together across our industry. The event in May, hosted at the Arkaba Hotel , once again showed the leadership roles that women are taking in the hospitality industry. It was great to catch up with you all!

Thanks to our guest speaker, Sue Dewing, CEO of Sturt Football Club Inc and AHA|SA member for sharing her story, and our corporate partners for attending.

Women In Hotels

PRIZED ASSET

“Berri Hotel seeks partnerships with local organisations, non-profits and community groups that positively impact both the community and the individuals involved.”

Hotels are the heart of regional communities – and none more so than the Berri Hotel.

The community-owned hotel won the Community Service & Support award at the 2023 AHA|SA Awards for Excellence.

“Overall, it is the local community that shapes the Berri Hotel,” said Jeremy Sweet General Manager

“It provides a sense of belonging, social connections, economic opportunities and a platform for collective action.

“By actively participating in and supporting the local community, we help create a thriving and inclusive environment for everyone involved.”

The list of organisations that benefit from the highlyregarded country pub is too long to list, but includes the likes of:

• Guide Dogs SA

• Leukemia Foundation

• Relay for Life (Cancer Council)

• Royal Flying Doctors Service

• St Vincent De Paul Society SA

• Rotary International

• Lions International.

It supports a range of schools, as well as 15 community events and 16 community sporting clubs.

"The sponsorship and support the Berri Hotel provides is essential for the growth and sustainability of our netball club,” said Lauren Cresp, Treasurer of the Berri Netball Club.

“The hotel contributions play a crucial role in enabling our teams, events and juniors to thrive in an all-inclusive environment."

REVITALISED INSIDE AND OUT

Built in 1918, Berri Hotel has been community-owned since May 1937.

Having undergone a number of major renovations in recent years, it offers 101 rooms and suites, function

In 2020 Berri Hotel announced a 3-year landmark sponsorship partnership with the town's main sporting stadium and complex. This this partnership has been renewed for a further 3 years making a 6 year deal.

spaces, a bistro, sports bar, gaming lounge, and drive through bottle shop. In recent times, the opening of the Berri Hotel Riverview Apartments was a project, with the creation of 30 new short-stay apartments as part of the Hotel.

As a community-owned pub, it invests profits from meals, drinks, accommodation, gaming, events etc back into the local community.

This is in addition to the employment of local staff and use of local suppliers.

Not surprisingly, its tagline “Here for you” talks directly to the community.

FINANCIAL COMMITMENT

The Berri Hotel has a wide focus. It invests broadly, so that it supports the well-being, health, lifestyle and performance of the local community. For 2022/2023, this represented an annual financial contribution in excess of $150,000.

The total over seven years has exceeded $1 million. Youth is an important focus. It has sponsored Glossop High and Rivergum College, as well as supporting the Breakfast Program at Berri Regional Secondary College.

This initiative provides breakfast to students before the start of the school day.

“By ensuring that students have access to a nutritious meal to fuel their bodies and minds, promoting better academic performance and overall well-being,” Jeremy Sweet General Manager

“Our community hotel aims to create a positive impact on the local community, while providing a unique and enriching experience for locals and visitors alike.”

ALL LEVELS CONTRIBUTE

Berri Hotel Group's board is structured to ensure representation of local businesses, government, and community groups.

The staff, management and board actively participate in a range of community groups, initiatives and events, including:

• Berri Barmera CBD Revitalisation Plan

• Destination Riverland Tourism Plan 2030

• Outdoor Cinema loan and set up for community groups and sporting clubs

• Member of a Reference Group for Regional Industry

and Engagement for student pathways and careers with the Department of Education.

• Local Prostate Cancer Push, working with the Prostate Cancer Foundation Australia and Berri Lions Club.

PROMOTING HOSPITALITY

As Australia continues to grapple with a skills shortage in hotels, the Berri Hotel is working hard to be part of the solution.

It actively promotes the hotel industry to the community, highlighting careers in the hospitality industry, encouraging support of local tourism operators, and providing education about the tourism and hospitality industry's contribution to the wider economy.

“We

need to reduce the length of apprenticeships and traineeships because the dropout rate is significant. It is not all about apprenticeships – we would like to see short skills courses to upskill.”

Examples include:

• A Berri Hotel and Berri Regional Secondary College partnership, awarding an annual scholarship to a nominated year 12 student. This initiative features seminars with students regarding careers in the industry.

• People of Berri Hotel' a coordinated social media campaign profiling the team members, suppliers, and customers of the Hotel.

• Local media releases promoting benefits of Hotel operations for the community and economy (jobs, visitor nights, visitor expenditure and events.)

“Berri Hotel seeks partnerships with local organisations, non-profits and community groups that positively impact both the community and the individuals involved,” said Jeremy Sweet General Manager

“These interactions promote a sense of unity and create a stronger social support system within our community.

“Our community hotel aims to create a positive impact on the local community, while providing a unique and enriching experience for locals and visitors alike.”

Annual Wage Review 2023-24

BY OWEN WEBB

On 3 June 2024, the Fair Work Commission Annual Wage Review Panel (Panel) handed down their decision in the 2023-24 Annual Wage Review. In this article we look at the increase that was awarded, the impact for hotels and what preparation is required to ensure that hotels are compliant with the changes.

MODERN AWARD WAGES

The Panel decided to increase the National Minimum Wage and all modern award minimum wage rates by 3.75% effective from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1 July 2024.

The effect of the 2023-24 Annual Wage Review decision is that for those employees employed pursuant to Modern awards in the hotel and retail sector such as the Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 (HIGA), Restaurant Industry Award 2020 (RIA) and General Retail Industry Award 2020 (GRIA), base rates of pay will increase by 3.75%.

The minimum wage increases from $882.80 per week, calculated based on a week of 38 ordinary hours, or $23.23 per hour, to $915.90 per week or $24.10 per hour, effective from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2024.

To put the increase into context as an example, the rate of pay for any work performed between 7:00am to 7:00pm Monday to Friday for a casual food and beverage attendant wage level 3 classification under the Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 will increase from $31.09 per hr (inclusive of 25% casual loading) to $32.25 per hr.

CONSIDERATIONS

The Panel as part of the Annual Wage Review process received submissions from various interested parties including state and federal governments, unions and employer associations.

The Australian Council of Trade Unions proposed a 5% increase to minimum and award wages, plus at least an additional 4% in award rates for selected occupations, particularly in care and degree-qualified work as part of a gender pay equity measure. The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry supported an increase in minimum and modern award wages of up to 2% (plus the legislated 0.5% Superannuation Guarantee increase in 2024).

In determining the level of the increase, the Panel stated that “… a primary consideration has been the cost-of living pressures that modern-award-reliant

“The Australian Council of Trade Unions proposed a 5% increase to minimum and award wages, plus at least an additional 4% in award rates for selected occupations, particularly in care and degree-qualified work as part of a gender pay equity measure.”

employees, particularly those who are low paid and live in low-income households, continue to experience notwithstanding that inflation is considerably lower than it was at the time of last year’s Review.1 ” The Panel also noted that it was not appropriate to increase awardwages by an amount significantly above the inflation rate because “ … labour productivity is no higher than it was four years ago and productivity growth has only recently returned to positive territory.2 ” In awarding the increase the Panel also took into consideration that labour market conditions and business profit growth was less positive in those industry sectors that were heavily award reliant and that employees would soon receive the benefit of the Stage 3 tax cuts and other Budget cost of living measures3

WAGE SCHEDULES

The AHA|SA has prepared new wage schedules reflecting the Panel’s changes to award rates of pay. The schedules are available to download from the Workplace Relations Tab on the AHA|SA website. Wage

schedules are available for the following Awards:

• Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020

• Restaurant Industry Award 2020

• General Retail Industry Award 2020

• Registered & Licensed Clubs Award 2020

A more detailed Wage Rate and Allowances Guide for the Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 and the General Retail industry Award 2020 has been developed and is also available on the AHA|SA website.

ENTERPRISE AGREEMENTS

Those members who have an Enterprise Agreement in place will be affected if the wages in their agreement are less than the minimum rates in the relevant modern award as at the first full pay period commencing on or after the 1 July 2024.

In accordance with section 206(1) of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) the base rate of pay under an enterprise agreement must not be less than the base rate of

3

pay that would be payable to the employee under the modern award if the modern award applied.

SALARY ARRANGEMENTS

Members will need to review any salary arrangements for Award or Enterprise Agreement covered employees and which have been calculated in accordance with an applicable Award or Enterprise Agreement to ensure the salary is sufficient in line with the relevant Award or Enterprise Agreement provisions.

ANNUALISED WAGE ARRANGEMENTS ( CLAUSE 24 OF HIGA, CLAUSE 20 OF RIA )

Members need to ensure that they review the salary of an employee who is paid pursuant to clause 24 of the HIGA – Annualised Wage Arrangements or clause 20 of the RIA. An employee who is paid under an Annualised Wage Arrangement under either of these Awards must be paid at least 25% more than the minimum wages prescribed in the relevant Award for the work being performed. Accordingly, such employees’ salaries need to be reviewed to ensure that they are at least 25% more than the new minimum wage prescribed the relevant Award for the wage level applicable to the employee’s position effective from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2024.

SALARIES ABSORPTION ( MANAGERIAL STAFF ( HOTELS )) ( CLAUSE 25 OF HIGA )

Members need to ensure that for any managerial employees who are paid a salary in accordance with clause 25 of the HIGA – Salaries Absorption, the salary needs to be at least 125% of the minimum annual salary in clause 18.2 of the HIGA – Managerial staff (Hotels).

SALARIES ABOVE

MINIMUM AWARD OBLIGATIONS

Whilst clause 24 and clause 25 of the HIGA (and clause 20 of the RIA) place obligations on employers to ensure that their employees are paid at least the minimum salary in those respective clauses, some members will be paying salaries that are well above the minimum salary obligations in these clauses.

If an employee is paid a salary well above the employer’s minimum salary obligations under clause 24 and clause 25 of the HIGA or clause 20 of the RIA, the employer does not have to increase the employee’s salary by the percentage increase awarded in the Annual Wage Review, provided the employer is still meeting the minimum salary obligations under these clauses.

INDIVIDUAL FLEXIBILITY ARRANGEMENT ( IFA )

If an Individual Flexibility Arrangement (IFA) is in place between an employee and their employer in accordance with a Modern Award or an Enterprise Agreement, members will need to review the IFA to ascertain whether any increase to the modern award wages

affects the IFA. Remembering that an IFA must result in the employee being better off overall at the time the IFA is made than if the IFA had not been made.

PAYROLL PROVIDERS

Hotels that use an external payroll provider should communicate with their provider to ensure that the new rates effective from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2024 are loaded into the payroll system.

AWARD OR ENTERPRISE AGREEMENT FREE EMPLOYEES

Members should refer to the Contract of Employment to determine whether the wage or salary of an Award or Enterprise Agreement free employee needs to be reviewed at this time, and if that review needs to be conducted in line with the decision of the Fair Work Commission. If the contract is silent on a wage review, then it will be up to the employer and the employee to determine when (and if) the wage or salary is reviewed and if any increase is awarded.

SUPERANNUATION CHANGES FROM 1 JULY 2024

The Superannuation Guarantee percentage rate payable to employees will also increase by 0.5% on 1 July 2024 to 11.5%. The new rate will be applicable from 1 July 2024, not the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2024.

SUPER FUND OF THE YEAR

Hostplus

It seems like a good idea, but…

GARY COPPOLA, MANAGER – LEGAL AND ADVOCACY

Occasionally we are asked questions here at the AHA|SA that cause us to pause and think. “That seems like a good idea, but why am I uneasy about it?”

One such question was a request as to whether alcohol could be provided from a vending machine inside licensed premises, with patrons required to purchase tokens to operate the machine, in a similar way to cigarette vending machines. The idea was to enable patrons to purchase cans from a machine in a part of the premises that did not have a bar in it.

The token idea would reduce the risk of minors accessing liquor, but the concept still didn’t seem to sit right. So, we discussed it, and decided to advise against it for a few reasons.

First, while the use of tokens which were purchased from bar staff reduced the risk of under-age drinking, it did not do so to an acceptable level. It would be far too easy for a patron to sell or give a token to an under-age person in an area that was not frequented by staff. Such behaviour might not amount to “secondary supply” under the Liquor Licensing Act and might arguably be lawful, at least until the minor actually used the token. We concluded that the risk was too high.

Secondly, unless the supply of tokens was restricted in numbers to (say) one or two at a time, how would the venue monitor responsible service? If a patron purchased several tokens and used them all at the same time to have perhaps 5 or 6 cans in front of them, the venue could be said to be supplying excessive quantities that did not represent the observance of proper service rules.

Thirdly, the obligation when selling liquor for consumption on the premises is to deliver the liquor in an open container. That isn’t possible in a vending machine, and if a patron (probably with no knowledge of the rules) left the premises with a sealed can that had been purchased for consumption on, the venue would be guilty of an offence under the Act. An appropriate sign above or near the machine would reduce the risk of that occurring but it could not eliminate the risk, especially if the area was not frequented by staff.

So, while it seemed like a good idea, we concluded that it created too many problems, and advised against it. Kudos to the licensee for thinking outside the box and for asking us first!

Vale Malcolm Hill, Champion Of Country Pubs

AHA|SA Life Member Malcolm Hill has been remembered as a giant of regional South Australia, following his passing in May this year.

Other Life Members and senior AHA|SA figures joined in a celebration of his life at Berri Memorial Oval.

Former AHA|SA CEO, Ian Horne, who served with Malcolm, recalled how he was elected as State Councillor for the Riverland.

“The membership included a uniquely South Australian creation, the community-owned hotel. Four such enterprises fell within Malcolm’s area of responsibility as an AHA|SA Councillor, including of course the Berri Hotel which he managed.

“Malcolm effectively became the Community Owned Hotel representation on State Council.

“He ensured that on all issues affecting the hotels industry in South Australia, amounting to in excess of 600, the dozen or so community-owned and operated facilities stretching from Ceduna to the Riverland, were considered, had a voice and were listened to.”

Ian recalled: “Malcolm became on many occasions a voice of balance, of common sense and of community.

“His long advocacy for and representation of Community hotels in SA was rewarded with life membership of AHA|SA.”

SPORTING ICON

The Sturt Football Club also paid tribute to their former champion: “Malcolm began his illustrious football career in the VFL with Hawthorn, contributing to their first premiership in 1961.

“After his time with Hawthorn, he joined Sturt and played intermittently during the 1960s, participating in a total of 40 games and securing three premierships in 1966, 1968, and 1969.

“Beyond his time with Sturt, Malcolm was deeply involved with the Berri Football Club and

managed the Berri Hotel for many years, leaving a lasting impact on the community.”

In a fitting tribute, it was announced at the funeral that the Berri Hotel has renamed its sports bar The Malcolm Hill Sports Bar.

EULOGY

Former AHA|SA President, Peter Hurley, gave the eulogy at the service.

“I had known of Malcolm Hill for many years before I met him,” he said.

“My earliest recollection of him was his part in ruining the last Saturday in September for a teenage Footscray supporter in 1961 – which was the Hawks’ first premiership.

“Beyond his time with Sturt, Malcolm was deeply involved with the Berri Football Club and managed the Berri Hotel for many years, leaving a lasting impact on the community.”

“After shifting to Adelaide he came across my radar as the publican parachuted into a Double Blue strip to accrue more flags. It seemed like flags just followed this bloke wherever he went.

“After buying my first pub in Wudinna I became increasingly aware, even envious of the country pub in Berri that was effectively the Vegas of the Riverland, attracting huge crowds with Ernie Sigley, Johnny O’Keefe and other big names.

CONVICTION AND PASSION

“Having joined the Council of the AHA|SA to represent the Whyalla zone in 1978, I first met this bloke that seemed to be a magnet to success.

“His profile at the AHA|SA table was as large as his presence on the MCG or Adelaide Oval.

“People listened to whatever he said and despite my

obvious rookie status we soon became friends.

“Malcolm represented the interests of the hotel industry in the Riverland, and regional SA generally, with conviction and passion.

“He didn’t constrain his commentary to the hotel industry alone.

“We used to hear of all the challenges of life outside the comfort of city living.

“Fire, flood, drought, freight costs, fruit prices, grape prices, staff recruitment, etc.

“As in life generally, over the 17 years of his tenure on AHA|SA Council and Executive there were many changes affecting the hotel industry. These included the introduction of breath testing, which morphed into RBT.

Then there was the introduction of CPI indexation of excise, imposition of sales tax and later wine equalisation tax, introduction of Pub

TAB and Sky Channel, new glass sizes, a Licensing Act Review, and the general explosion in red tape and regulation on business.

“He had a view on them all.

“It would not be unfair in saying Malcolm did not embrace all levels of change.

“He had an eye for the unintended consequences.

“And he made sure we all heard his view. I loved it.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

“His incredible service to the hotel industry through his time on Council was ultimately recognised by awarding him the highest honour the AHA|SA can bestow, that being Life Membership.

“The only two living life members at the time were Peter Whallin and Fred Basheer.

“Fred’s son David, the current SA President, has travelled up today to honour Malcolm’s contribution and status in the industry as well.

“The hotel and tourism industry, regional South Australia, indeed the whole state needs more people with the mind and enthusiasm of Malcolm Hill.

“You are never dead Malcolm while you live on in the hearts and minds of all of us who knew you or knew of you.”

ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

Bentleys SA 8372 7900

Perks Accountants & Wealth Advisers

08 8273 9300

Winnall & Co. 8379 3159

ARCHITECTS & INTERIOR

DESIGNERS

Studio Nine Architects 8132 3999

ART & FRAMING

Art Images Gallery 8363 0806

ATMS

Banktech 0408 462 321

Cashzone 1300 305 600

Next Payments 1300 659 918

AUDIO VISUAL

Big Screen Video 1300 244 727

Novatech Creative Event Technology 8352 0300

BACKGROUND MUSIC

Foxtel Music 1300 148 729

Moov Music 1300 139 913

Zoo Business Media 07 5587 7222

BANKING & FINANCE

Bank SA 0403 603 018

Perks Accountants & Wealth Advisers 08 8273 9300

BEVERAGE GASES

BOC Limited 0424 647 568

Supagas 8252 7472

BEVERAGES

Accolade Wines 8392 2238

Australian Liquor Marketers 8405 7744

Billsons 03 57281304

Campari Group 02 9478 2727

Carlton & United Breweries 13 BEER (13 2337)

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners 8416 9547

Coopers Brewery 8440 1800

CUB Premium Beverages 8416 7819

Diageo Australia 0401 120 872

Empire Liquor 8371 0088

Lion 8354 8888

Liquor Marketing Group 8416 7575

Oatley Fine Wine Merchants 1800 628 539

Options Craft Liquor Merchants 8346 9111

Pernod Ricard Australia 8208 2400

Samuel Smith & Son 8112 4200

Southtrade International 0410 449 720

Treasury Wine Estates 8301 5400

BOOKKEEPING

Perks Accountants & Wealth Advisers 08 8273 9300

Winnall & Co. 8379 3159

CASH HANDLING / TERMINALS

Banktech 0408 462 321

BK Electronics 0431 509 409

Cardtronics 03 9574 4878

Coms Systems 0408 462 321

Consillion 1800 500 994

GBay/Aruze Gaming 0424 700 888

Next Payments 1300 659 918

CLEANING & HYGIENE SUPPLIES

Bunnings Group 0435 630 660

Bunzl 08 8245 6222

CLEANING COMPANIES

A Cleaner World 0426 887 364

COMPUTER & IT SERVICES

Boylen 8233 9433

DEFIBRILLATORS

AED Authority 03 8710 8666

Alsco 8346 1391

St John 1300 78 5646

ENERGY & SOLAR SOLUTIONS

Class A Energy Solutions 8391 4853

Power Maintenance Group 1300 700 500

Trans Tasman Energy 1300 118 834

EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES/HARDWARE

Bunnings Group 0435 630 660

Bunzl 08 8245 6222

Mr Wet Wall 1800 938 925

FACIAL RECOGNITION TECHNOLOGY

COMS Systems 1800 324 918

Vix Vision 0400 310 326

FINANCIAL PLANNING

Perks Accountants & Wealth Advisers

08 8273 9300

Winnall & Co. 8379 3159

FIRST AID

Alsco 8346 1391

St John 1300 360 455

FOOD SAFETY

Think ST Solutions 0422 285 720

FOOD SERVICES

Bidfood 0427 099 558

Cookers 1300 88 22 99

Galipo Foods 8168 2000

PFD Foodservice 8114 2300

Thomas Foods 8162 8400

FURNISHINGS

Concept Collections 1300 269 800

GAMBLING SERVICES

GFR Pro 0408 186 540

SA Lotteries 132 315

UBET 8354 7300

GAMING ANALYSIS

Independant Gaming Analysis 8376 6966

Winnall & Co 8379 3159

GAMING FLOAT RECONCILIATION

GBay/Aruze Gaming 0424 700 888

GFR Pro 0408 186 540

GAMING LOYALTY

Bluize 1300 557 587

GAMING MACHINE SERVICES

Ainsworth Game Technology 0409 171 616

Aristocrat Technologies Australia 8273 9900

Coms Systems 0409 283 066

GBay/Aruze Gaming 0424 700 888

IGT 8231 8430

Independant Gaming Analysis 8376 6966

Konami Australia Pty Ltd 0409 047 899

MAX 8275 9700

Light & Wonder 0400 002 229

Statewide Gaming 0448 076 144

HEALTH INSURANCE

Bupa 1300 662 074 (#2146982)

HOTEL BROKERS AND PROPERTY VALUATIONS

JLL 8233 8890

Knight Frank Valuations & Advisory 8233 5222

Langfords Hotel Brokers 0410 605 224

McGees Property Hotel Brokers 8414 7800

HOTEL MANAGEMENT

H&L Australia Pty Ltd 1800 778 340

HOTEL MARKETING

Digital Marketing AOK 1300 658 543

INDUSTRY BENCHMARKING DATA

STR 7070 0103

INFORMATION SYSTEMS/SITE PREP

Max Systems 8275 9700

INSURANCE

Aon Risk Solutions 8301 1111

KITCHEN & BAR EQUIPMENT

Bunnings Group 0435 630 660

Bunzl 08 8245 6222

Cookers 1300 88 22 99

Stoddart Food Service Equipment 0468 923 320

LOTTERIES

SA Lotteries 13 18 68

LEGAL SERVICES

Eckermann Lawyers 8235 3990

Piper Alderman Lawyers 8205 3318

Ryan & Co Solicitors 0421 595 815

Wallmans Lawyers 8235 3018

LINEN & UNIFORM SERVICES

Alsco 8346 1391

MEDIA

FIVEaa 8419 1395

Foxtel 1300 138 898

Solstice Media 8224 1600

MIGRATION

Migration Solutions 8210 9800

ONHOLD/MESSAGING

1800 ON HOLD 8125 9370

PAYROLL & HR RESOURCES

Perks Accountants & Wealth Advisers

08 8273 9300

Tanda 1300 859 117

Winnall & Co. 8379 3159

POS SYSTEMS

Bepoz 1300 023 769

Bluize 1300 557 587

H&L Australia Pty Ltd 1800 778 340

RETAIL LIQUOR MARKETING

Australian Liquor Marketers 8405 7744

Liquor Marketing Group 8416 7575

SIGNAGE & PROMOTIONAL ITEMS

The Banner Crew 8240 0242

SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT MEDIA

Foxtel 1300 790 182

STAFF TRAINING & RECRUITMENT

Adelaide Institute of Hospitality 8338 1492

Alliance College 1300 665 065

The Kingsmen 0410 416 655

Maxima 8340 7766

Perks Accountants & Wealth Advisers

08 8273 9300

St John 1300 360 455

SUPERANNUATION

HostPlus 0418 327 607

WEBSITES

Boylen 8233 9433

GAMING CARE

GAMING CARE works with all South Australian Hotels with gaming machines to reduce the harm caused by problem gambling.

 Providing the hotel industry with the capacity to respond to community concerns related to the harm associated with gambling by contributing to early intervention and support for problem gamblers and their families.

 Minimising the harm caused by problem gambling behaviour by fostering a compliant and proactive industry that works with regulators, gambling help services and gaming patrons to minimise harm caused by gambling.

 Assisting licensees and hotel staff with their compliance obligations, and supporting venue staff through education and training regarding the recognition of problem gambling indicators and assisting in accurately documenting patron behaviour.

 Providing licensees and hotel staff with the confidence and skills required to engage directly with patrons who are showing indicators of potential problem gambling, enabling them to intervene early and refer the patron to a gambling help service, or other support options if required.

Contact your local Gaming Care Officer, or our Office, for information on how Gaming Care can assist your venue.

For any assistance or support please contact your local Gaming Care Officer, or our office for information on how Gaming Care can assist your venue.

CORPORATE PARTNERS

GAMING CARE

AED Authority

Ainsworth Game Technology

Australian Liquor Marketers

BankSA

Big Screen Video

Bluize 1800 ON HOLD

Adelaide Institute of Hospitality

Alliance College

Alsco

Banktech

Bentleys Accountants

Billsons

BK Electronics

BOC Limited

Bunnings Group

Boylen

Campari Group

Digital Marketing AOK

Empire Liquor

Foxtel

GFR Pro

Cashzone

Class A Energy Solutions

COMS Systems

Concept Collections

Consillion

Cookers

Eckermann Lawyers

GBay/Aruze Gaming

Independant Gaming Analysis

Konami Australia Pty Ltd

Light & Wonder

Liquor Marketing Group

Novatech Creative Event Technology

Oatley Fine Wine Merchants

Options Craft Liquor Merchants

Samuel Smith & Son

Stoddart Food Equipment

Tanda

Knight Frank Valuations & Advisory SA

Langfords Hotel Brokers

McGees Property Hotel Brokers

Next Payments

Perks Accountants & Wealth Advisers

Piper Alderman Lawyers

Power Maintenance Group

Ryan & Co. Solicitors

Solstice Media

St John

Studio Nine Architects

Supagas

The Banner Crew

The Kingsmen

Trans Tasman Energy Group

Vix Vision

Wallmans Lawyers

T

Bunzl

4TH

60

JLL

Statewide Gaming

Winnall & Co A

Art Images Gallery

Migration Solutions

Southtrade International

Think ST Solutions

OFFICE

Level 4, 60 Hindmarsh Square, Adelaide SA 5000 POSTAL

PO Box 3092, Rundle Mall SA 5000

P (08) 8232 4525

P 1800 814 525 Toll Free

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E information@ahasa.asn.au

W www.ahasa.asn.au

DAVID BASHEER President MATTHEW BINNS Vice President

SAM M c INNES Secretary Treasurer

ANDREW KEMP Executive Council EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

LUKE DONALDSON Deputy Vice President

COUNCIL

ANDREW BULLOCK

DANIEL CASSIN

SIMONE DOUGLAS

JASON FAHEY

TRENT FAHEY

COREY FARMER

MATTHEW BRIEN Executive Council

MATT ROGERS Executive Council

ELISE FASSINA

JAMES FRANZON

TONY FRANZON

JOHN GIANNITTO

TOM HANNAH

PETER JOHNSON

ANNA HURLEY Executive Council

GUY MATTHEWS

KAREN MILESI

ANDREW PLUSH

ROB RANKINE

MARGY RAYMOND

DARREN STEELE

Views expressed in Hotel SA are not necessarily those of the AHA|SA or the publisher and neither can accept, and therefore disclaims any liability, to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. We do not endorse any advertising materials, services offered within advertisements or products, special offers or goods promoted therein.

ADMINISTRATION

STEVENSON Manager - Policy & Industry Affairs

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