Australian Plumbing - Autumn 2023

Here to help you get the job done.

Plumbing Plus has a long history of superior service and helping customers get the job done. Now, in our post pandemic ‘covid-normal’ reality, good old fashioned customer service is more important than ever.

As Australia powers forward, here at Plumbing Plus we’re committed to our customers more than ever.

‘Above-and-beyond’ customer service has always been in our blood. It’s a key pillar to our reason for being. The pandemic has only reaffirmed and strengthened our duty to our trade customers.

We’ll always prioritise coming together and finding the best solution. Turning our customers into mates isn’t just a nice tagline, it’s what we aspire to do every day.

Expert advice is part of our DNA.

Plumbing Plus was established to service the trade community. We do that with our $2 billion buying power – giving you the best brands at competitive prices. What’s more important, however, is the expert advice that comes along with it.

Plumbing Plus is a network of knowledge and expertise as much as it is a network of members. It’s a group of independents that are united in their unwavering dedication to the trade community.

If

plumbingplus.com.au Dedicated to the trade.

SAVE SPACE IN YOUR BATHROOM

Self-Closing Space Saver Waste Valve

NO MORE OF THIS

Abey’s new Space Saver with Self Closing Waste Valve has been designed for bathroom basins to give you back your valuable vanity space. Bulky ugly waste traps are a thing of the past. Low profile in design the Space Saver Waste valve brings the pipe plumbing straight to the back of your vanity giving you more storage space below the basin cabinet.

Unlike traditional traps that uses a water trap within a bulky ‘U’ bend pipe, Abey’s Space Save has an internal membrane which opens under water pressure to allow discharge to flow freely and then closes to form a seal to prevent foul odour or sewer gas entering the building.

WV-1-A Horizontal Waterless Trap

The clock is ticking down on new lead-content restrictions. See page 16

Australian Plumbing Industry magazine 15/306 Albert Street Brunswick VIC 3056 australianplumbingindustry.com.au

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Contacts

Master Plumbers General enquiries (03) 9329 9622

Publisher The Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia (MPMSAA) australianplumbing@plumber.com.au

Advertising (03) 9329 9622 advertising@plumber.com.au

Suppliers saltcreative.com.au southerncolour.com.au ddmail.com.au

REHAU EDGE. REALLY FAST.

Compress 40% faster than traditional compression systems with new REHAU EDGE.

Its revolutionary new technology works without expansion, removing a whole step from the installation process. The other benefit is that it

requires less tooling, so you’ll get more done in less time. When you want to complete high-quality work faster, REHAU EDGE really does give you the edge.

Find out more at reece.com.au/rehau-edge

Caroma Easy-Switch for flexibility

Caroma Easy-Switch lets you interchange the trim kit, colour finish and design pre- or post-installation, so you can eliminate costly holds-ups, maximise installation flexibility, and make quick design, colour and style updates without expensive rectification work.

How Caroma Easy-Switch works

Caroma’s universal in-wall body system fits a range of Caroma tapware, including Urbane II, Liano II and Opal ranges, with trim kits availalble in multiple colour finishes and 2 wall flange options: rectangular and round.

Step 1

Select your universal in-wall body

Step 2

Select your trim kit and colour finish

Watch Easy-Switch demo video

Welcome

from the President and CEO

We take this message into every conversation we have with governments and decision makers, to ensure that the challenges facing the future of our industry are taken seriously and that the impacts are clearly understood.

In 2022, Master Plumbers released ‘Plumbing Industry Priorities’, a comprehensive report prepared after extensive consultation with members and stakeholders in the plumbing industry. It seeks to give stakeholders, policy makers and legislators an insight into the critical role the plumbing industry plays in the key areas of economic, health, community and environmental policy. It shines a light on the key issues facing our industry, challenges current approaches and identifies workable solutions.

With recent and upcoming elections across the country, the Association is working diligently with stakeholders nationally to pursue action on a number of the issues that our industry has waited too long for, including complex plumbing, regulatory reforms and Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Increasingly, the issues that impact plumbing regulation and practice in states and territories are being decided in Canberra and it’s critical to work with the other associations in our industry to influence outcomes for the better.

In Victoria, we expect to see the government progress the implementation of mandatory CPD for our industry, with the long-awaited release of a Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) mid-year. In the meantime, Master Plumbers’ voluntary CPD program is open to all practitioners with an ever-growing library of the latest in courses, learning resources and webinars.

Late last year, we welcomed long-needed reforms to gas appliance servicing requirements in Victoria. However, the implementation failed our industry on a number of

Meet the President

fronts, and we have called for simplification of the onerous reporting requirements, development of a fair and effective compliance regime and a consumer awareness campaign. Any movement on these issues stalled during the election caretaker period and we have now approached the new Minister directly for resolution of the substantive issue which remains.

We will continue to keep the industry engaged and informed on progress of these longstanding issues and always welcome your input at info@plumber.com.au in shaping our ongoing advocacy.

Across the country, we know that businesses are operating in unknown economic territory, with inflation hitting highs not seen for decades. As the May State and Federal Budgets loom, we are calling on all levels of government to play a stronger leadership role in recognising the cost pressures and structuring public contracts to enable a more equitable share of these risks.

Late last year, we announced that after 10 years as President, Scott Dowsett stepped back from office. Scott has overseen an unheralded period of transformation for Master Plumbers and the broader industry, and we would like to pay tribute to the enormous contribution and influence he has made to date and continues make as our Immediate Past President.

On behalf of the Master Plumbers National Council and Board, we look forward to working closely with you to support a successful, safe and sustainable plumbing industry.

Norm Anderson President, Master Plumbers

Peter Daly Chief Executive Officer, Master Plumbers

Norm has more than 40 years’ experience in the commercial plumbing industry and is the Director of NSG Plumbing Pty Ltd, a Melbourne-based company offering contract, maintenance, design and construct services. NSG Plumbing currently employs 70 full-time employees. Norm is an active member of the Major Contractors’ Division and is a representative of the National Council, as well as a Member of the Victorian Government’s Plumbing Advisory Committee.

March 11 marks World Plumbing Day. As our industry gears up for another busy year, this date is a timely reminder of the vital role that plumbing plays on a global scale in developing and maintaining public health and ensuring the environmental sustainability of our communities.

Close the gap Industry feature

When Ethan Corpus (pictured top right) and his mates finished school, he didn’t get the choice of a gap year or taking time to think about his future.

“We had the oldies on our case about getting a job,” Ethan relays with his infectious laugh. Luckily for Ethan, he had a mate who, through Nirrumbuk Aboriginal Corporation (NAC), had heard about a program offering plumbing apprenticeships in Melbourne.

NAC, established in Broome in 1993, is a for-purpose organisation driven by Aboriginal membership to offer career advice and support, and apprenticeships with

their supported businesses in electrical services, building and plumbing, and through partners.

Ethan says it was through a partnership between Dowsett (now Cooke & Dowsett), NAC and the Victorian Plumbers Union that had Ethan and his mate on their first flight from Broome, leaving all their friends and family, to travel to Melbourne and take up apprenticeships.

That was the mid-2000s. At that time, Melbourne was in full flight, building accommodation, sports centres, and services for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

There are plenty of good intentions about working alongside First Nations people to reduce the gap in access to sanitation, health, and employment. There are some great programs and great success stories. Ultimately, though, much more must be done.

“Dowsett Plumbing were involved with the early stages of this program and got us into the Commonwealth Games Village project. We then worked on other projects – Spencer Street Station, Rialto Tower – the whole commercial aspect was mind blowing.”

“We were straight out of school. We had done our work experience but that was it. Going to Melbourne and seeing how the real world operates, and the construction industry was phenomenal. It was such a good experience and something I will always be so grateful for.”

It was also a shock. “Victoria took us by surprise. It was cold and I was really homesick. I did three years of my apprenticeship, one year short of qualifying.”

Ethan returned to WA and picked up his apprenticeship with a local plumber in the Kimberley. He then returned to Broome and one day, while having breakfast with his partner and two young babies, Joe from Nirrumbuk (NAC) approached him to work for NUDJ Plumbing.

NUDJ, formed in 2009 though an amalgamation of NAC, Cooke & Dowsett, the Victorian Plumbers Union and the Jarlmadangah Burru Aboriginal Corporation, provides plumbing services alongside delivering training and employment opportunities for Indigenous people. NUDJ aims to differentiate itself from being considered as “just another plumber” by having a clear vision to positively impact on Indigenous Australians through training, mentoring and personal development.

“I was qualified by then and part of me wanted to work with younger guys to give them the opportunity I had,” Ethan says of his decision to start with NUDJ in 2012.

By 2014, several people had pinned him as the next manager. Among them was Scott Dowsett, the former Master Plumbers’ President who has been instrumental in fostering

partnerships in the Indigenous communities including NUDJ and the Indigenous Plumbing and Sanitation Foundation (IPSF).

“It was daunting and nervous at times, Ethan said. I had never even thrown off an email until then.

“This really was a huge credit to NUDJ, Scotty Dowsett and the union,” Ethan says humbly. “They really built up that confidence within myself.

Ethan says he could not have imagined starting his own business back in 1990 or even in 2012. Now, 11 years on, with strong mentoring from Scott Dowsett and those at Cooke & Dowsett and NUDJ, he is setting sail to build his own business.

The shareholders of NUDJ late last month announced that after 14 years, Ethan would take over the local operations of NUDJ and continue trading as Garlooroo.

In the announcement Scott wrote: “The shareholders’ vision of providing opportunities for young Indigenous people to become qualified plumbing practitioners, empowered to mentor others in their communities by creating business opportunities and then handing over operations, has come true.”

Ethan will now rebrand and remarket NUDJ to trade as GARLOOROO.

So, what advice would he give other young Indigenous people?

“You must trust in yourself, seek out other people to support you and take the opportunity.

“I still have lots of phone calls between myself and Scott and he just keeps encouraging me to keep on going. Now I get the chance to support others.”

And what else can be done to ensure more First Nations students can get access to the skills and work?

“It’s important for those young people in community to see local Indigenous men doing their trade.

“It is not easy for an Indigenous kid to go out and ask a non-Indigenous plumbing company for a job; there is a shame factor in that,” Ethan explains. “Many Indigenous kids know us, and they feel comfortable, Indigenous person to another Indigenous person.”

There are so many barriers facing Indigenous kids living in community. Language and culture barriers are just some. And yet there is a need to work hard to ensure there are Indigenous plumbers in communities, not just to encourage the next generation of plumbers but to walk through those barriers to provide better basic sanitation and access to clean running water.

“It is important for me to help to improve the lives of people and sanitation is a big part of that. Assisting people to live in healthier conditions, providing good sanitation and reducing sickness; it is a big part of the reward you get if you do a good job.”

Scott Dowsett agrees. Scott has used his leadership in the plumbing industry to work alongside Indigenous organisations and individuals to develop programs, support businesses like NUDJ and develop the Indigenous Plumbing and Sanitation Foundation. Why?

I still have lots of phone calls between myself and Scott and he just keeps encouraging me to keep on going

Now I get the chance to support others

“There is a multitude of Federal and State Government projects and initiatives that aim to improve the lives of Aboriginal people,” Scott explains. “There are websites and downloadable reports galore. Strategies, roadmaps, employment targets, procurement policies and reconciliation action plans with artistic front covers. The good intentions are genuine. There’s been success in some areas, but not enough.”

The facts are stark. Preventable and unnecessary water-borne diseases, those, like Trachoma, eradicated from some third-world countries, are prevalent in some remote Aboriginal communities due to a lack of access to clean water and sanitation.

“Too often, the sheer size of Australia and the vast distances that separate Aboriginal communities from each other (and from regional towns) mean they lack the immediate plumbing services urban Australians take for granted,” Scott says.

“Essential plumbing repairs may be left unattended, not because of deliberate neglect but because of the time it takes to get a plumber out to do the work. This applies whether the problem is a simple one, such as a dripping tap, or an emergency like a broken water pipe or blocked toilet.

“Inevitably, there are public health consequences. Water-borne diseases

fast facts

and poor hygiene result in health issues that affect educational outcomes, life choices and the quality of life from childhood to old age.

One of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals is for access to water and sanitation to be available to all – but when it comes to the health and wellbeing of remote Indigenous communities, that ambition is falling short.

That’s where the Indigenous Plumbing and Sanitation Foundation (IPSF) comes in.

By providing apprenticeship opportunities to Indigenous people from rural and remote communities, the IPSF empowers people by teaching them skills which can provide a lifelong career and earning capacity. These skills can be translated back into their local communities, with qualified plumbers able to serve as mentors and affect generational change through education.

Scott, a Board member of the IPSF, says the Foundation lives the creed that “prevention is better than the cure.”

“We know that plumbing is at the forefront of the protection of public health, and we know that quality plumbing and sanitation has always been and remains one of the key drivers of economic and social advancement,” he says.

For more information or to donate, visit

“IPSF works with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia who are living with dangerously poor sanitation. We help directly by providing clean, reliable, and sustainable drinking water and plumbing services. We support projects that provide apprenticeship opportunities for Indigenous people, and we work to empower individuals through community-led training and plumbing projects.”

The IPSF was established in 2014, to build on the success of and further enhance the Indigenous Apprenticeship Program, run by the Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union (PPTEU) in partnership with the Victorian, Western Australian and Northern Territory Indigenous communities. Since 2009, more than 80 young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women have completed apprenticeships through the program. Cooke & Dowsett have seen 45 more and helped create more than 150 jobs for Indigenous people. Many graduates have returned to their communities as fully qualified plumbers to improve access to safe water and sanitation and ultimately enrich their regions.

www.ipsf.org.au

The inequities between health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and non-Indigenous Australians are stark 2.3 x The Department of Health reports that the burden of disease for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is 2.3 times that of non-Indigenous Australians 10 years

Life expectancy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders is 10 years less than other Australians and they are at greater risk of disability due to chronic disease and infectious diseases

Know the requirements

Sam Welsh, Master Plumbers Technical Adviser, debunks the requirements around inspection openings.

Some in the plumbing fraternity have suffered from misconceptions over the correct placement of test and inspection openings in sanitary plumbing and drainage systems.

What is a test opening?

Test openings are defined as an opening with a removable cover in the body of a fitting and of sufficient size to permit the installation of a plug for use in the test procedure. Note: be aware that when a test opening is being installed it must be installed with the correct clear diameter. See table below.

What is an inspection opening?

Inspection openings are defined as access openings in a pipe or pipe fitting, arranged to facilitate inspection testing or the cleaning of obstructions, and are fitted with a threaded cap, plug or access cover drain. They are a vital and very useful part of any sanitary plumbing and drainage system because when installed in the correct locations, they allow access to the drain for servicing and maintenance.

Where are they required?

(see Figure 1). One of the biggest misunderstandings comes from Clause 4.7.1 of the AS/3500.2 -2021 where it discusses changes in direction greater than 45°. Many believe this applies in Australia however, this clause applies in New Zealand only: Clause 4.7.1.

g at every change in horizontal direction of greater than 45° (New Zealand only)

h at every change in gradient greater than 45°

(New Zealand only)

Other locations where inspection openings are required according to AS/NZS 3500.2-2021 clause 4.7.1 include:

a Outside of a building, not further than 2.5 meters along each branch drain connecting one or more water closets or slop hoppers;

b At intervals of no more than 30 meters apart, with a minimum of one inspection opening on each main drain;

c At the connection to the network utility operator’s sewer if one has not been provided by the network utility operator;

d On the downstream end of the drain where any drain passes under a building except where waste fixtures only are concerned;

e Where any new section of drain is connected to an existing drain; and

f Immediately at or upstream of the upper bend of a jump up. (The standard defines a jump up as a section of a drain joining two sections of a horizontal drain at different levels. The locations listed require inspection openings unless inspection chambers are provided.)

Note definitions:

Waste fixture

A fixture other than a soil fixture

Soil fixture

A fixture used to discharge excrement and similar waste

Further to the below ground requirements, sanitary drainage systems require test and inspection openings in various locations also (see Figure 2). All common discharge pipes and stacks shall be provided with openings for inspection and testing in the following locations:

a In any common discharge pipe where necessary for inspection and testing;

b At the base of every stack;

c At any level of a stack where necessary for inspection and testing;

d At intervals not greater than 30 meters in every common discharge pipe; and

e At every junction fitting that connects a common discharge pipe to a stack or in the upstream section of the common discharge pipe.

Further information can be found under clause 10.5.2 of AS/NZS 3500.2-2021.

Outside a building, not further than 2.5 meters along each branch drain connecting one or more water closets

Upstream of the upper bend of a jump-up

At intervals no more than 30 meters

Where any drain passes under a building

At intervals of no greater than 30 meters in every common discharge pipe

At every junction fitting that connects a common discharge pipe to a stack or in the upstream section of the common discharge pipe

At the base of a stack

Connection to the network utility operator’s sewer

New drain connected to an existing drain

Figure 1

Figure 2

C’mon get your hi-vis on

As part of our #PAWS4 campaign we are giving members a hi-vis vest for their furry friends.

The campaign highlights the benefits that our four-legged friends have on our lives.

#PAWS4 is an Incolink campaign to promote the benefits that dogs bring to our health and well-being. A dog can encourage us to get out and about, stay active, and be connected to our community.

Claim your hi-vis dog vest now.

To claim your hi-vis dog, email us at marketing@incolink.org.au with your Incolink member number and we’ll send you a vest.

We’re looking forward to seeing your dog in a new safety vest. You can send photos and videos to marketing@incolink.org.au to be featured on social media.

Owning a dog has health benefits; they can make us more social and generally happier. Find out more about the campaign at incolink.org.au/paws4

Know the hot topics

Gas safety check

There have been some enquiries on specific appliance clearances. This is largely due to clearances forming a part of the gas safety check. It is important to consider guidance provided within the installation manual for the appliance, which could provide important information specifically for the install of that unit. For example, Rinnai state in their installation manual:

“Multiple Appliance Installations In reference to Horizontal Terminal Clearances (Extract from AS/NZS 5601) dimension ‘h’ on page 18 does not apply when multiple Rinnai external water heaters of the same model are installed on the same vertical face with flue terminals at the same height. Under these

conditions, appliances can abut each other as shown above. The total gas consumption of all appliances applies when determining other clearances.” (see Figure 2).

So please note, it may not always require what the standard states.

VBA audits

We have been asked on a few occasions “what will the VBA be looking at for this audit”? While sometimes this can be very job specific, there are audit checklists available online that can provide some insight for our industry. If you have any concerns about what will be looked at, you can locate the checklists online at www.vba.vic. gov.au/plumbing/plumbingresource-hub/audit-andinspection-checklists

Caravan and boat BBQ’s

Something that has recently seen a lot of attention, inside and outside of our industry is, gas appliances in caravans and boats. But what is it that’s catching people out? You guessed it, it’s the trusty external BBQ (see Figure 1).

It’s not new that appliances in caravans or boats require a flamesafeguard system but what many have been unaware of is that any appliance connected to the gas supply of the vehicle requires a flame-failure device. This includes anything connected by the means of a quick-connect device (bayonet fitting).

This can be confirmed in clause 6.4 of AS/NZS 5601.2-2020 – LPG Gas installations in caravans and boats.

A friendly reminder –use your bonding strap

There have been some videos circulating recently and some incidents where plumbers have received an electric shock when disconnecting pipework. Please remember to use your bonding strap when disconnecting pipework and stay safe (see Figure 3).

In this Master Plumbers’ Series our technical advisor, Aaron Bridger, takes on the questions that you have asked. And, better still, gives the answers that you need.

Figure 1

Figure 3

Figure 2

Advocating for

clarity

Master Plumbers and members are advocating for greater clarity, certification and information as the clock ticks down on the new lead-content restrictions.

In November 2021, the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) announced new limits on the allowable lead content in plumbing products. From September 2025, all copper alloy plumbing products that come into contact with drinking water must have a weighted lead content of no more than 0.25%, bringing Australia into line with countries including the USA and Canada.

The new restrictions – preceded by a three-year transition period that began in September 2022 –followed a study by Macquarie University, which found Australia’s drinking water is high quality but there is potential for lead to leach from copper alloy products that come into contact with drinking water. Research conducted by the University discovered that more than half of tap water samples taken from households in NSW contained lead.

Scott Michaels, Group President of the Plumbing Products Industry Group (PPIG), describes the new requirements as the biggest regulatory changes in the Australian plumbing industry.

“Australia is a really complicated market, because things are regulated at state levels but there’s also a lot of products on the market. PPIG was one of the key stakeholders advocating for this change, which is absolutely in line with changing community expectations,” he says.

A high-profile incident where lead was detected in drinking water at the site of the Perth Children’s Hospital in 2016, prior to the building opening, was one of the catalysts for the new national requirements. Children are at particularly high risk of health problems – including damage to the central

and peripheral nervous system, learning disabilities and impaired hearing - due to lead exposure.

PPIG is the association of Australian and New Zealand manufacturers and importers of all plumbing product. It has represented the views of manufacturers and importers at an industry roundtable to help everybody in the industry to successfully make the transition.

Support for the change is broad across the sector –with Master Plumbers a strong advocate according to Chief Technical Adviser Gary Bath.

“We’re all about the health and safety of consumers, and if there’s a perception or an ability for lead to leak into the potable water supply, it’s definitely something we want to reduce,” he says.

“America led the charge with reducing the lead content, Europe’s followed and now it’s our turn.”

But with the deadline now less than three years away, Gary says the processes and systems that will result in plumbing products becoming certified and how information will be distributed to plumbers remains unclear.

“Now that the clock is ticking on the timeline, we have seen that the real issue is knowing how a plumber or consumer can walk along at a plumbing-goods supplier and determine what has made the grade and what hasn’t?” he says.

Paul Bonsak, Managing Director of certification body IAPMO Oceana, says the business is working with clients and manufacturers to assess affected products (as determined by the ABCB) to the new requirements as outlined in the Plumbing Code of Australia.

“IAPMO Product Certification Engineers in Australia are very familiar with assessing ongoing compliance to NSF/ANSI/CAN 372 as we have been undertaking Continuous Compliance Lead Free factory inspections on behalf of IAPMO R&T for several years,” he says.

“IAPMO is currently able to assess product data such as technical drawings, bill of materials (BoMs), test reports and factory inspections to ensure that products meet the new ABCB NCC Lead Free requirements.”

Master Plumbers believes the current WaterMark system, which allows plumbers to check if their plumbing and drainage materials and products are WaterMark certified via a comprehensive online database, is a template that could play a role.

“Any product that is going into a drinking water supply has to have a WaterMark, a universal stamp to say this has met the approval process. But when you’re looking at a major change, like tapware reducing the amount of lead in there, that might not be automatically picked up by identifying a WaterMark,” says Gary.

“We have advocated for something a little bit heavier than a WaterMark stamp, something like a lead-free stamp or a stamp that meets the certification. At least

in the interim, we’d like to see some additional stamp on the box that this now meets the new lead content requirements, to make it easier for us.”

Gary says that more understanding is also required about imported products.

“Because of our geographical position, we import a lot of products. So, it’s keeping a watching brief over what comes in and if they have to have WaterMark or something similar. It’s not clear whether they passed the same sort of rigor that we would - so currently there wouldn’t be the same sort of restrictions overseas as what we would have. In a perfect scenario, they have to jump over the same sort of hurdles that a local manufacturer would.”

Scott Michaels says that while the transition period has been challenging – in part due to COVID-related restrictions around international travel, manufacturing and access to supply chains – a new certification system similar to what Master Plumbers has called for will help plumbers.

“There will be a lead-free WaterMark rolled out to show which products are certified. Once the decision was made to introduce the new requirements, the decision was made to have mandatory markings. The industry is in regular communication through the roundtable that has been established, which has been really effective, to make the transition smooth for everybody.”

IAPMO is also supportive the mandatory marking of products, with Paul Bonsak promising “this will form part of the certification process undertaken by IAPMO.”

Gary says Master Plumbers’ focus remains on ensuring there is a seamless transition process over the next two and a half years.

“How we can do that is to make sure the manufacturers are happy and make sure we have a certification process that’s going to be able to be followed,” he says.

“We want clear identification of the products for consumers and plumbers, and a long enough transition for manufacturers and everyone else to get their houses in order.”

A high-profile incident where lead was detected in drinking water at the site of the Perth Children’s Hospital in 2016, prior to the building opening, was one of the catalysts for the new national requirements

President’s report

Welcome

The first order of business for 2023 was the official opening of our Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Water, Energy and Trades (WET Centre). MPAT’s Education Committee first commenced work on this project in 2016. It has taken seven years to complete the CoE, but we are thrilled that a new era of plumbing training for Tasmanians commences. We will provide a closer look at the new CoE in the next edition of APM.

To kick the year off, MPAT has been working closely with CBOS and Gas Standards and Safety to deliver six plumbing and gas seminars throughout Tas during February. These sessions covered:

The new NCC 2022 – what plumbers need to know, including:

• Status of primary referenced documents

• FWG’s over sole occupancy units

• Static water pressure

• Temperature control

• Backflow

• ‘As-Constructed’ plans –when are they needed, and the standard required

• Bath and Shower connections – issues and clarification

• Forms and Categories of Work – what to use and specified timeframes

• Ongoing Installation awareness and common non compliances

• Complex & Prescribed Gas Installation

• Class of Building overview

• Notifications of Unsafe installations

• Common Installation issues

• Notification requirements for inspections

• AS/NZS 5601.1 –New Revision changes

• Open Flued Space Heaters

– Testing & Prohibition

• LCC27 Update –Installation requirements

Special thanks go to Katrina Neilson, Owen Smith, Adam Johnson, Chris Philpott and Andrew Ayton from CBOS for their informative presentations. Please note that Owen is now working with CBOS, and we thank him for his work with TasTAFE over the past few decades. Owen’s contribution to teaching our people has been invaluable and he will be sorely missed in that role.

MPAT continues to work very closely with Keystone Tasmania, and we are extremely grateful for their support to industry and subsidisation of our online CPD courses. We now have 48 online CPD courses that are heavily or fully subsidised for Tasmanian plumbing practitioners.

President Anthony Balik

Tasmanian members to the autumn edition.

Plumbing to politics

A career on the tools can provide the foundation for political life. Felix Ellis tells Kathryn Kernohan how this transition came about.

The last five years of Felix Ellis’ life have taken him from working as a successful plumber to being the youngest member of Tasmania’s Parliament – and now the state’s Minister for Skills, Training and Workforce Growth.

From the outside it seems like a huge career pivot, but the Minister says his plumbing career was an ideal foundation for life in politics.

“As a tradesperson, you learn a lot about the need for customer service, to treat everyone fairly, to be humble, to be a problem solver and to make decisions on a regular basis and see things through,” he says.

“I’ve found that the hard work and ethos of being a tradesperson has been a pretty amazing foundation and I actually think we’re going to

start seeing more tradespeople coming through into politics as well – we’ve got a few in the Tassie parliament already.”

Minister Ellis grew up in Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region, where his mum worked as a remote area nurse in Aboriginal communities and his dad was a civil and residential construction plumber.

“One of my earliest ever memories was hanging out with dad on the backhoe when he was putting in the deep sewer and doing a lot of plumbing in Aboriginal communities on the Dampier Peninsula.

“He always ran his own small business, worked in a lot of the remote communities and employed quite a few locals. He was effectively putting in a service that meant the people up there would have better health outcomes because their sewage would work, so there was a real sense of being able to do good for the community while being on the tools.”

While those formative experiences helped shape Minister Ellis’ views on the value a trade can provide, he initially looked at pursuing a different career pathway.

“At first, I thought the university path would be the one I would go down. I finished Year 12, took a gap year overseas and then the Global Financial Crisis hit. I thought, there’s really a lot to being able to have a trade and skills behind you, because some of the people mixed up in the corporate world at the time, I was in the States were going through some terrible things.”

“I’d seen my mum and my dad have so many opportunities in life because they could effectively go

almost anywhere and find work. It was really appealing for me to have those skills I could fall back on.”

So, when returned home, Minister Ellis undertook an apprenticeship with his dad “and the rest was history.”

By 2014, he was ready for a new challenge.

“The mining boom was coming off in WA, I’d finished my apprenticeship and was looking for a bit of an adventure. Dad and I work really well together but you also want to spread your wings particularly as a young person. I was always quite inspired by mum and dad’s journey into remote areas, so I started working on the tools in Tassie.

“I was down the West Coast which is a very remote rainforest type area with a lot of mining in agriculture. It was a really good mix of adventure, building my skills because I’d spent a lot of time effectively working in the suburbs and doing renovation and maintenance and this was a pretty amazing opportunities to work on some bigger jobs on bigger sites.

Along the way, he never lost sight of what he’d observed from his father: the importance of stepping up and making a difference for people. He maintained a keen interest in politics and volunteered in the field while he was still on the tools.

In 2018 he stood as a Liberal candidate for Braddon in the Tasmanian state election, while still working as a plumber.

“I was definitely a bit of a different candidate; you don’t see too many people at a young age and on the tools running in politics. I wasn’t initially successful but with a few resignations I ended up coming in

Find your local association

Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia (Victoria)

T (03) 9329 9622

Master Plumbers Association of Tasmania

T (03) 6272 2199

Master Plumbers Association of Queensland

T (07) 3273 0800

Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association of Western Australia

T (08) 9471 6661

Master Plumbers Association ACT Inc

T (02) 6112 8630

Master Plumbers Association of South Australia

T (08) 8292 4000

Master Plumbers & Mechanical Contractors Association of New South Wales

T (02) 8789 7000

National news

off a count back. From there my career has really blossomed, now being in the Ministry and making big decisions as part of the Cabinet.”

Last July, Ellis was sworn in as the Minister for Skills, Training and Workforce Growth, Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management and Minister for Resources.

Now playing a key role in helping Tasmania’s construction industry thrive through his Ministerial responsibilities, he says his experiences on the tools help inform his knowledge of what people in the industry need to thrive.

“Because I have walked the journey, I understand the barriers people are coming up against with the system as it currently stands and where some of the opportunities for improvement are. Doing an apprenticeship or getting a traineeship can really be a life-changing opportunity and it’s a responsibility of all of us who are trying to manage that system to make that lifechanging opportunity the best we possibly can.

facts from around the nation

“You can provide so much hope and opportunity when someone’s got a trade background behind them.”

He is particularly proud of a recent joint announcement by the Federal and Tasmanian Governments to inject $23 million into a skills agreement boost to address the state’s skills shortage and deliver more fee-free TAFE places.

“Tasmania and Australia are facing probably the biggest skills and labour shortage we’ve ever seen, so to be putting practical skills at the forefront of the future of our economy is so important. Gone are the days when people thought the answer to improving the life changes of ordinary people and making the economy stronger was just to build on university –we’re seeing a commitment from the Federal Government and the states to make sure practical and vocational skills are front and centre.

“More money into our training system is really important and acknowledges the need for flexibility, so that the skills and training match the needs of our apprentices and trainees too.”

Know the trends

The pace of technology is quickening, the housing market is slowing, and consumers are becoming more aware, so what does that all mean for plumbers?

Skills shortages continue

A healthy re-calibration of the pluming industry to address the skill shortage is still required in 2023 and beyond.

Home plumbing issues

As homeowners become more concerned about maintenance, plumbers have a space to promote their trade.

Environment a priority

Communities and homeowners are increasingly aware of their consumption and seeking ways to lessen their carbon footprint while creating healthier homes.

Smart products on the rise

Smart plumbing products intended to make life more convenient for households.

98,000 People employed in plumbing industry $1,419 Average weekly earnings

8.6% Projected future growth in plumbing industry

labourmarketinsights.gov.au

Victorian news

How to make homes safe

Plumbers can help clients understand ways to reduce water damage and the risk of mould in their homes, which new research has highlighted.

The research, commissioned by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) in partnership with the Victorian Managed Insurance Agency (VMIA) and Victoria University, was undertaken to identify problematic building or plumbing work that could result in water damage and indoor mould.

Led by Dr Tim Law, the research was based on VMIA accepted domestic building insurance claims data between July 2018 and November 2020 overlaid with VBA data about building surveyors, builders and building permits.

“The VBA is using these research insights to inform its Proactive Inspections Program (PIP) and its continuing focus on areas of compliance risk that could cause water ingress and moisture damage,” Mr Cialini said.

“Waterproofing and drainage have been among the top risks highlighted in our quarterly PIP reports – we are sharing these findings with practitioners to better educate the wider industry on how to improve the quality of building and plumbing work in high-risk areas.”

Water damage is one of the most common problems encountered in buildings and complaints to the VBA and claims to VMIA.

Mould in buildings can be an indicator of the presence of an underlying moisture problem in a building.

A key cause of water damage is due to a lack of understanding of roofing and waterproofing requirements among designers, building surveyors and builders. Poor storage of materials can also contribute to water damage during construction that may create ongoing building issues.

Mr Cialini said that the VBA would take enforcement action against any practitioner found to be demonstrating poor practices that may cause water damage to homes.

“Practitioners are expected to follow building processes that result in buildings that are durable and resilient to the elements in accordance with the building regulations. To protect consumers the VBA will not hesitate to discipline and penalise poor performers accordingly,” he said.

Consumers wanting to prevent mould in their home are advised to look out for early warning signs of water ingress or moisture damage.

Know the law

Sexual harassment in Australian workplaces is everyone’s business. Master Plumbers Senior Workplace Relations Adviser Phil Eberhard unpacks the reality for the plumbing industry.

The Respect@Work Report found that workplace sexual harassment is “prevalent and pervasive: it occurs in every industry, in every location and at every level, in Australian workplaces”.

The report followed a lengthy Inquiry by the Australian Human Rights Sex Discrimination Commissioner into sexual harassment in Australian workplaces. The Respect@Work Report contained 55 recommendations.

The Sex Discrimination and Fair Work (Respect at Work) Amendment Act 2021 (SD Act) adopted a number of the recommendations to “enhance the effectiveness of Australia’s legal and regulatory frameworks in preventing and responding to sexual harassment”.

The Anti-Discrimination and Human Rights Legislation Amendment Act (Respect at Work) Act 2022 adopted the remaining recommendations.

Schedule 1 of the 2022 Amendment Act amended the SD Act.

The SD Act now includes an express requirement to protect people from a hostile workplace environment on the grounds of sex

The 2022 Amendment Act inserted a reasonable person test into the SD Act. The reasonable person test requires that consideration needs to be given to whether the person

fast facts

from around the nation

“would have anticipated the possibility of the conduct resulting in the workplace environment being offensive, intimidating or humiliating to a person of the sex of the second person by reason of:

(i) the sex of the person; or

(ii) a characteristic that appertains generally to persons of the sex of the person; or (iii) a characteristic

that is generally imputed to persons of the sex of the person.” With respect to the reasonable person test, the 2022 Amendment Act Explanatory Memorandum notes that:

“The ‘reasonableness’ should be considered by reference to the conduct of the first person, rather than their intention or the way the conduct was received by the second person. However, the requirement to consider what was reasonable ‘having regard to all the circumstances can provide a mechanism to allow for particular subjective considerations or factors”. Circumstances that are considered include “(a) the seriousness of the conduct; (b) whether the conduct was continuous or repetitive; (c) the role, influence or authority of the person engaging in the conduct … (and) … (d) any other relevant circumstance.”

The conduct does not have to be directed at one particular person, rather, if the conduct resulted in an offensive, intimidating and / or humiliating environment for people of one sex, it has breached the SD Act.

Plumbing services in Australia

Market size: $19 billion

Number of businesses: 29,147

Industry employment: 70,533

… ‘reasonableness’ should be considered by reference to the conduct of the first person

… requirement to protect people from a hostile workplace environment on the grounds of sex

Victorian news

Schedule 2 of the 2022 Amendment Act amends the SD Act.

The SD Act now includes a duty for employers to take reasonable measures to eliminate sex discrimination, sexual harassment and victimisation

The positive duty obligation means that an employer needs to proactively take steps to prevent or eliminate this type of behaviour.

One commentator has advised that it is “unlikely that the steps historically taken, and relied on, by employers to date, such as annual training for all staff and workplace policies, are going to be sufficient to meet the” changes contained in the 2021 Amendment Act and the 2022 Amendment Act.

Apply for a grant now

Ten worthy apprentice plumbers from around the country will be rewarded with a grant of $3,000 to support the progression of their studies and help launch their plumbing careers.

“Since first launching the program over a decade ago, we’re proud to have awarded more than $330,000 to apprentice plumbers around Australia,” says Chris Taylor, Managing Director ANZ, at Rheem Australia.

“Rheem is dedicated to the Australian plumbing community, and our contribution doesn’t stop with products and innovation. One of the most valuable ways we can support the future of our industry is by championing the education and training of Australia’s next generation of plumbers,” adds Taylor.

Last year’s Grant recipient,

It is critical that employers take action to implement robust measures. At the very least, the new positive duty will likely require employers to:

• Have clear policies in place, which make it clear that sex discrimination (including sexual harassment) is against the law and that employees may face disciplinary action up to, and including, the termination of employment, for breaches of such policies;

• Ensure that employees are aware of the policies and receive appropriate training; and

• Ensure that any complaints about unlawful sexual

Michael Macdonald (pictured) from Victoria, believes getting into the plumbing trade was one of the best things he’s ever done.

“The pandemic had a huge impact on my ability to work. As someone who was self-employed and struggling financially, I decided to jump in the deep end and started an apprenticeship, “Michael explains.

“I was so happy to be chosen for a Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant. It’s been really helpful in dealing with the cost of living, and I’ve been able to put it towards course fees and buying the tools that I need to do my job. It was a good surprise.”

Applicants must submit the completed form via the website at www.rheem.com.au/apprentice by 11:59pm AEST on 21 April.

discrimination are dealt with quickly and appropriately.

The AHRC have set up a Respect@Work website (www.respectatwork.gov.au) to assist all parties. The website has a range of resources to support individuals and organisations to better understand, prevent and address discrimination on the grounds of sex, sexual harassment and/or sexual victimisation in the workplace.

For more information, contact Phil Eberhard, Senior Workplace Relations Adviser, Master Plumbers, on 0425 790 722 or email phil.eberhard@plumber.com.au

Take steps to protect

Malicious cyber-attacks, accidental privacy breaches and data dissemination from disgruntled employees; there are just so many ways for plumbing businesses and plumbers to come undone. And then there are your personal devices.

You don’t have to be a big bank, telecommunication or insurance provider, or a big-brand charity to face a cyber-security incident that can have a devastating impact.

Unfortunately, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) sees the impact of cyber security incidents every day, on individuals, small businesses, and large companies.

The ACSC recognises that many owners and operators of small businesses don’t have the time or resources to dedicate to cyber

security, and that owners and operators don’t have much time to spend on understanding the complexities of the internet or establishing complicated responses to potential risks. But we also know that cyber security will underpin Australia’s economic prosperity, and will allow small businesses to grow, innovate, and find new ways of creating value for their customers. Luckily, cyber security doesn’t have to be difficult. There are simple measures that, if understood and

So, what about me personally?

implemented, can significantly avoid, or reduce the impact of the most common cyber security incidents.

The ACSC’s Small Business Cyber Security Guide has been specifically designed for small businesses to understand, act, and increase their cyber security resilience against ever-evolving cyber security threats. The language is clear, the actions are simple, and the guidance is tailored for small businesses.

But firstly, let’s go to you as an individual.

In an increasingly tech-driven world we use devices and accounts every day that are vulnerable to cyber threats.

• Your devices may include computers, mobile phones, tablets, and other internet connected devices.

• You also may use online accounts for email, banking, shopping, social media, gaming and more.

Personal cyber security is the continuing steps you can take to protect your accounts and devices from cyber threats.

What are cyber threats?

The main cyber threats affecting everyday Australians are scams and malware.

• Malware is a blanket term used to describe malicious software designed to cause harm. This can include viruses, worms, spyware, trojans and ransomware.

Cybercriminals use malware to steal your information and money and control your devices and accounts.

• Scams are messages sent by cybercriminals designed to manipulate you into giving

up sensitive information, or to activate malware on your device. These attacks can have significant personal and financial impact on victims. They are also growing in sophistication and frequency.

What can I do?

In simple terms, you can:

• Turn on automatic updates and check that they have worked.

And what about my business?

For ease of reference, we are publishing The Centre’s Small Business Cyber Security Guide’s Summary Checklist. But we recommend you go further into detail.

Software considerations

Automatically update your operating systems, software, and apps

• If you receive a prompt to update your operating system or other software, you should install the update as soon as possible

• Set a convenient time for automatic updates to avoid disruptions to business as usual

Regularly backup your important data

• Test your backups regularly by attempting to restore data

• Always keep at least one backup disconnected from your device

Enable Multi-factor authentication (MFA) on important accounts wherever possible

• MFA is one of the most effective ways to protect your valuable information and accounts

• Prioritise financial and email accounts for maximum effect

People and procedures

Manage who can access what within your business

• Use the principle of least privilege for access permissions

• Remember to delete accounts and/or change passphrases/ passwords when an employee leaves.

Where MFA is not possible, use passphrases to protect accounts and devices

• Passphrases use four or more random words as your password

• Passphrases are most effective when they are long, unpredictable, and unique

Train your staff in cyber security basics

• This may include updating their devices, securing their accounts, and identifying scam messages

• Provide updated cyber security training on a regular basis

Cyber.gov.au has more tips and tricks for individuals

• Activate Multifactor Authentication (for example –strong PIN/Password plus a physical card/SMS/Email plus your phone fingerprint/facial recognition or pin),

• Secure your mobile device

• Stop, and think before you share on social media

• Don’t click on what you don’t know.

Some frightening facts:

The Australian Cyber Security Centre recorded 76,000 cybercrime reports, representing a 13% increase from the previous financial year.

One cybercrime report is made every seven minutes, it’s clear that the problem is only getting worse.

Queensland (29%) and Victoria (27%) report higher rates of cybercrime relative to their populations.

There is a rise in the average cost per cybercrime to more than $39,000 for small businesses, $88,000 for medium businesses, and over $62,000 for large businesses.

Ransomware attacks have increased by nearly 500% since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The cost of cybercrime is predicted to hit $8 trillion in 2023 and will grow to $10.5 trillion by 2025.

There’s no doubt that a modern business needs to operate in the online space in order to stay competitive and connected. However, it’s also critical to understand the potential for cyber-attacks to hurt your business, whether it’s financial losses or reputational damage. To mitigate those risks, it’s vital to implement security measures and educate your employees on best practices by promoting a strong anti-cyber-crime culture.

Who’d have thought?

Bathing in hot water does more than keep our bodies clean, it has preserved statues who had soaked for more than 2000 years.

2nd Century BC were found at a thermal spa in Tuscany.

Archaeologists are gob smacked by the discovery in the millennia-old natural thermal springs. “It’s a discovery that will rewrite history,” Jacopo Tabolli, an archaeologist at the University for Foreigners of Siena who coordinated the dig, said in a statement.

The statues, include replicas of Hygeia, the goddess of health,

alongside Apollo and other deities, matrons and emperors. The thermal baths at the discovery site were believed to have operated from the 3rd Century BC until the 5th Century AD, when public bathing was forbidden. The ancient basins had not been touched for centuries. The bronzes discovered in the Tuscan hot springs will be the centrepieces of a new museum, to which an archaeological park will eventually be added.

Fast facts about thermal baths

Geothermal energy raises the water temperature here to between 69 and 96 °C. Under pressure, the heated water rises along fissures and faults in the limestone, until it bubbles up from the ground into the baths. According to some, a warm bath makes the blood flow easier, it also makes it more oxygenated by allowing you to breathe deeper and slower, particularly when taking in steam. Taking a hot bath or spa can kill bacteria and improve immunity. It can relieve the symptoms of cold and flu (something we could all use with the change of season!).

Cbus Property leads the way

In its aspiration to create the world’s most sustainable office portfolio, Cbus Property has also added the following achievements this year:

• Certified 6 Star Green Star Performance from the Green Building Council of Australia;

• Achieved Australia’s highest overall NABERS score for a commercial office portfolio, making it the most

environmentally sustainable portfolio in Australia; and

• Secured WELL Health Safety ratings across our managed office investments, delivering healthy and safe spaces for our customers, along with Platinum WELL pre-certification at 83 Pirie Street in Adelaide and Platinum WELL certified at 720 Bourke Street in Melbourne.

Delivering positive outcomes

Cbus Property is also pleased to report that its portfolio of investments and developments has delivered consistent, strong returns for fund members. For the financial year 2021/22, Cbus Property delivered a 13.43 per cent return#

To learn more about Cbus Property’s Sustainability Strategy, visit cbusproperty. com.au/sustainability for the 2022 Cbus Property Sustainability Report.

Cbus Property* is proud to achieve Net Zero Carbon in operation across its core office portfolio, eight years ahead of schedule. Multiple landmark commercial office buildings are now certified carbon neutral, including 447 Collins Street, Melbourne, 140 William Street, Perth and 1 William Street, Brisbane.

Photo:

Pirie, Adelaide

Photo by Corey Roberts

Continuing the profession

John Coghlan swapped the tools for the classroom more than 40 years ago – and never looked back. Kathryn Kernohan seeks to understand why.

“The industry has been my whole life,” John Coghlan explains. “I started plumbing back in 1959… Everything that I’ve done for work has been related to the plumbing industry, including plumbing design drafting, then moving into teaching. I haven’t been on the tools since 1976.”

Inspired by his wife Maureen who was a primary school teacher, John decided to train as a teacher. “In those days, all plumbing teachers worked for the Victorian Education Department. We did teacher training at the Technical Teachers Training College in Hawthorn.”

John’s four decade-plus teaching career has taken him from teaching at Essendon Technical School –where future Essendon champion Tim Watson was a student of his – to Swinburne Institute of Technology, Holmesglen TAFE, RMIT University and for the past decade, Master Plumbers.

“Quite frankly, teaching is a two-way street. The plumbers are the ones doing this training but at the same time they are helping me learn about current industry practice in the field, with all their new skills and so on.”

Since the 1990s, John has specialised in training plumbers in the commissioning and maintenance of backflow prevention devices. This critical work allows plumbers to protect the health and safety of consumers by protecting a property’s drinking water supply from contamination that can be caused by backflow.

John participated in developing the first Australian backflow prevention device training course– but it happened by accident.

“Initially we had some American experts come out to train people in Australia on backflow prevention device testing, at the time little was

known about backflow prevention in Australia. After my training I helped develop a course at Holmesglen TAFE as no other training existed in Australia before 1991.

“I had the opportunity to go to the University of Southern California to learn more, and we had a lot of input from experts from the US into setting up our backflow training program. It has really become something of a passion to be involved in.”

The course John has been delivering through Master Plumbers includes a four-hour external examination by the Victorian Building Authority allowing learners to receive endorsement on their plumbing licence in backflow prevention as a specialised class of plumbing.

“At Master Plumbers, we train about 200 plumbers a year to gain this qualification that is issued by VBA

to plumbers. Before they can practice, they must be accredited.

“I’ve always found it really satisfying to have knowledge and information yourself and share it with plumbers. I enjoy the fact that they learn these new skills and they can then use those skills in the field and earn income from them. I am often contacted by learners seeking information, which I am happy to provide”

“You think you know everything about plumbing until you come into teaching. When you’ve got to stand up and present to students, you need to be as up-to-date as possible with current procedures. You can’t afford to give any wrong information.”

John has seen the training industry change enormously throughout his career and says one of the biggest shifts has been towards specialisation.

“When I started plumbing, you became a general plumber, and you were trained to do everything. These days, most employers are more specialized in what they do. Now most plumbers will specialise in mechanical services, roofing or some other field.

This year, John will take a step back from his regular teaching responsibilities but he’s loathe to call it a retirement.

“I don’t have any scheduled work, but I don’t think you’re ever quite retired. I don’t believe in just cutting off and not doing anything,” he explains.

“I have a small business that tests backflow prevention devices, so I’m not giving that up and it keeps me involved. I still meet with the Backflow Prevention Association of Australia, where I am a life member.

Master Plumbers train about 100 plumbers a year to gain this VBA issued qualification

I will continue with membership of the Institute of Plumbing Australia Inc.

“But now I’ve got time to do more cycling, more travel and pursuing my love of music. My wife and I recently joined the Port Phillip U3A (University of the Third Age), where they have lots of interesting courses and activities. So, while I will stay involved in the industry, it’s great to have some more time to enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle.”

John participated in developing the first Australian backflow prevention device training course

Workhorse family SUVs

The redesigned Ford Everest squares off against two favourites – the suave Isuzu D-Max and affordable Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. Byron Mathioudakis checks out the pros and cons.

The Contenders as driven: Ford Everest Sport V6 4x4 from $69,090: Sophisticated and dynamic; Isuzu MU-X LS-T 4x4 from $67,400: An impressive all-rounder; and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport GSR 4x4 from $61,440: Oldie but a goodie.

Sometimes seats are just as important as space. That’s why tough ute-based wagons are strong sellers in Australia, especially for tradies who need a do-anything/go-anywhere workhorse that also doubles as a dependable family truckster. And that is what the Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport have in common.

Each is derived from a midsized pick-up, each is a three-row SUV, each is on a body-on-frame chassis with available – and surprisingly off-road-capable – four-wheel drive, and each is made in Thailand. Here, then, are the details of our trio, with varying strengths (and weaknesses) to help you make up your mind.

Like the Ranger it’s derived from, the Everest is the world’s only (and likely last) all-Australian engineered vehicle of its type.

It’s been this way since 2015, while the 2022 redesign brought substantial upgrades. Everything from the windscreen forward is new, along with most body panels, to give it a wider and tougher road stance.

To accommodate the new V6 turbo-diesel option, the wheelbase has been stretched and almost every mechanical component updated.

The standard engine is a revised, 154kW/500Nm 2.0-litre fourcylinder twin-turbo diesel, driving either the rear or all-four wheels via a 10-speed auto transmission.

If you’re familiar with the Bi-Turbo in the previous Everest, it’s now noticeably smoother in acceleration and gearbox shifts, losing the old jerkiness. A quiet and refined performer, with eager acceleration and rapid responses, this is the most civilised engine of the trio here.

Yet the new V6 turbo-diesel in the Sport (our favourite grade) and Platinum is in a league of its own, with way more muscle in all conditions, making the Ford an effortless cruiser and towing machine alike.

The Everest also lords it for steering feel and handling ability, providing outstanding agility and a cushy ride.

If you enjoy driving, look no further. With a trick electronic on-the-fly 4x4 system, this is fun off-road, too.

The Everest’s restyled cabin is much better than before, but trails the MU-X for third-row accessibility. Completely redesigned, the dashboard is dominated by a massive portrait touchscreen and electronic instrumentation. Further changes include body-hugging front seats, user-friendly multimedia and handy surround-view cameras. A fine driving position and storagegalore top off a great cabin.

Everest –what’s next?

Still fresh on the market, the UB Everest will hang around a while, but sportier grades are expected, along with hybrid powertrains in the not-too-distant future. Watch this space.

However, while the Everest’s middle row is sufficiently spacious for three adults, third-row access is tight due to the middle bench’s limited sliding ability, while taller passengers might find knee and head room tight. Shorter folk should be fine, though, with roof-mounted air vents and cupholders present (as per all the vehicles here), as well as a reading light and 12V outlet.

Finally, safety is another feather in the Ford’s cap, with class-leading driver-assist tech, to match a world-class off-road-capable seven-seater SUV.

Ford Everest from $52,990 – $76,880

Before on-road costs

Did you know that, some 25 years ago, the MU-X’s distant granddad was sold in Australia as the Holden Frontera? Or that MU-X stands for Mysterious Utility-Crossover (though Isuzu now insists M’s for Multi)?

Fun facts aside, the Japanese brand is very serious about dominating this segment, and nowhere is that more obvious in the design, packaging and safety specification of the latest, second-gen model launched locally in mid-2021.

Based on the hot D-Max ute, the latest MU-X’s transformation has been dramatic, with an all-new and larger platform and suave new body addressing previous issues – namely, a jittery ride, nervous steering and excessive mechanical noise.

Nowadays, the Isuzu feels much more composed and in control, especially at speed, though the light steering is numb and the suspension still seems too unsettled, lacking the Everest’s signature finesse.

Likewise, though powerful, punchy and comparatively economical, the big 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel can sound gruff and even truck-like, especially under moderate acceleration. Again, the Ford is way out in front.

Where the handsome MU-X does shine is in its smart packaging, with easy entry to all three rows, including

the rearmost duo, thanks to an effective tumble-and-slide second row. It’s the best of this trio for third-row space and comfort, and even includes reclining backrests, though no 12V outlet, oddly. And cargo space is second-to-none.

As with the others, the reclining and sliding second row is also fine for accommodating three abreast, and the good news continues up front too, thanks to big comfy seats, a good driving position and a stylish and contemporary

MU-X –what’s next?

A major facelift is still a few years away, but a hybrid powertrain is in the pipeline, as the MU-X’s diesel engine has been around for many years now.

car-like dashboard. The latter offers a pleasing combination of analogue/digital instrument dials, a large centre touchscreen, lovely toggle switchgear underneath and heaps of storage.

Finally, the MU-X is big on standard safety, prioritising impressive driver-assist tech. These, along with family-friendly space, cohesive design and keen pricing, elevate the Isuzu considerably. Just don’t expect a sparkling or sumptuous driving experience.

Isuzu MU-X from $48,900 - $67,400

As with many things in life, dismissing something because it’s been around a while can be short-sighted. Case in point:

Mitsubishi’s Pajero Sport.

A debutante from the class of 2015, the Triton ute-based SUV has nonetheless been regularly improved, with 2020’s facelift ushering in updated multimedia, digital instruments and driver-assist safety tech.

Though small in this company, the 2.4-litre four-pot turbo-diesel is a slogger, pulling hard and feeling sprightly, particularly as the revs rise, all while working away relatively unobtrusively. Note the 3100kg towing capacity is less than the others here.

Mitsubishi tunes the Pajero Sport for comfort, not athleticism, to keep all occupants happy. So, the suspension is soft, not hard and jolty, and actually smoother than the Isuzu’s.

The flipside is feel-free steering and cumbersome handling, with plenty of body lean, meaning the Mitsubishi feels tippy-toed if hurried along through tight turns. But that’s not what family seven-seaters are designed for, right?

There’s no escaping the Pajero Sport’s advancing years inside,

with the cabin feeling narrower than the others here, while the dashboard design – though neat –is from a bygone era. Instead, it’s best to enjoy the squishy seats, light controls, good storage and roomy first two rows.

Where the Mitsubishi stumbles is in its fixed middle seats, as the bench doesn’t slide forward, so accessing the third row means squeezing past a folded backrest. Kid’s only, then.

Now in its twilight years, the next-gen Pajero Sport could be here by 2024, bringing an all-new body and platform, as well as hybrid tech; much will be shared with partner Nissan.

And once sat back there, the cushion feels thin, it’s noisy on the go and cargo capacity is pretty tight.

So, yes, the Pajero Sport’s age and more-compact packaging might put you off. But it’s usefully cheaper than most, has most modern features included, is comfortable and relatively refined.

For smaller families needing seven seats on a budget, the ageing Mitsubishi’s still a worthy contender.

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 7-seater from $50,140 - $62,440

Pajero Sport –what’s next?

Reaching out to Bluehats

More can be done on-site to reverse the unacceptable rate of construction worker suicides.

Despite countless public awareness campaigns, the perceived stigma around mental illness still prevents many people from seeking the support they need.

In recent years significant research has gone into the various causes of mental ill health and triggers of suicide. In many ways, the nature of the construction industry –where work can be stressful but also unpredictable and transient –compounds the problem.

And despite public awareness campaigns, perceived stigma around mental illness still prevents many people from seeking the support they need.

That’s why Incolink launched its innovative Bluehats Suicide Prevention Program in 2018. Designed with the construction industry in mind, Bluehats trains

ordinary workers to understand and identify the early signs of mental distress that could, if left unchecked, lead to suicide.

In addition to general awareness education for all employees, nominated workers are trained to become on-site ‘Bluehats’ who are able to support colleagues with their mental health, either by being a trusted and non-judgemental person to talk to or by directing those in need to free, confidential in-house counselling or other professional support.

The program was revamped in 2021 to enable training to be delivered either on-site or online in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. So far, Bluehats has trained hundreds of workers to support their peers and will continue to train more this you this year. The program won the

People’s Choice Award in the 2022 Australian Men’s Health Forum Awards.

Incolink CEO Erik Locke said both employers and employees had a shared responsibility when it comes to supporting mental health.

“Everyone has a role to play in preventing mental illness and suicide, and no one is immune,” he said. “We’re proud of the important role that Bluehats is playing across the construction industry in Victoria and the way in which employers and employees have embraced the initiative.”

Find out more about Bluehats at incolink.org.au/bluehats

For immediate help, call Lifeline on 131114 or visit lifeline.org.au or Beyond Blue on 1300 244 636 or visit beyondblue.org.au

Why choose Master Plumbers’ WHSMS?

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• Easy to integrate into your existing operations and designed specifically for plumbing businesses.

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Choosing

A nice tool

Peter Jensen looks through Master Plumbers’ Heritage Collection to find a handsome piece, but does it work well? Read on.

“One of the nicest tools in Master Plumbers’ collection is the Phillips No3 Spring Hammer, manufactured by J. H. Phillips of Oklahoma USA,” collection curator, Peter Jensen says.

“I quite enjoyed pulling the tool down, cleaning it up and making it operational again,” he says. The Phillips Spring Hammer Drill features in the glass cabinet in the foyer of Master Plumbers’ Brunswick headquarters. The tool (500mm

long) is a cordless, battery-less, 100-year-old, hand-operated masonry hammer drill, operated by turning the two handles and applying pressure to the shoulder plate. The teeth (26) on the Cam (25) turns and lifts the plunger (13) compressing the Spring (18) and releases driving the drill attachment (4) into the mortar surface.

“The only thing missing is the drill attachment, which was not found

during the cataloging of the collection,” Peter says. “It is also not known how well the tool worked. I would have some doubts the tool was very effective, and it would have been hard work, especially operating the tool overhead.”

Peter Jensen can be contacted via email at jensenpeterk@gmail.com or phone on 0451 744 336

Patent excerpt for the looka-like tool. The patent on the Phillips No3 Spring Hammer tool has been pending since October 24, 1911.

Know your insurance renewal options

As Master Plumbers appointed broker for over 20 years, Marsh has a team of dedicated experts who understand your plumbing insurance needs. Joshua Boyd from Marsh provides a breakdown of what to consider when renewing your insurance.

With many plumbing businesses due to renew their public liability insurance in the coming months, it’s important to know what’s happening in the market to ensure you are getting the best policy for the most competitive price.

Insurers continue to increase premiums in response to rising claims

Public liability cover for plumbers continues to be a challenging market as insurers increase premiums while reducing capacity and risk appetite. This is a direct result of the high frequency and cost of claims hitting underwriters. Claims costs are largely driven by faulty workmanship, product defects, and worker-to-worker claims. The challenging market is further demonstrated by the complete withdrawal of one the most prevalent plumbers’ insurers in the market in late-2022.

What does this mean for you?

While the market remains challenging, we are starting to see signs of stabilisation. Those insured with clean claims histories should not expect significant rate increases. While those who have poor claims

histories in the last five years should expect to be ‘claims rated’, meaning premium and excess increases will be applied relative to the claims history. The more your broker knows about your business and insurance history, the more they can help deliver a positive outcome in a tough market.

How can Marsh help?

We understand the plumbing industry and can arrange cover for a ‘man in a van’ through to the largest plumbing businesses in the country. As the experts in the field, Marsh has arranged an exclusive plumber’s public liability solution, backed by leading international insurer, Chubb Insurance. With a broad risk appetite including but not limited to domestic, commercial & industrial plumbing activities, type B works, works above three stories and selected high-risk locations. Furthermore, a portion of every premium paid to Marsh is paid back to Master Plumbers to support their initiatives and advocacy.

Get in touch

Scan the QR code for a quote or email trades.australia@marshadvantage.com

Four simple steps to help you get the best result at renewal

1 Approach your broker early. This allows time for detailed negotiations with the insurance market on your behalf.

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Provide as much detail as possible about your business and its activities to your broker. This will allow the insurer to understand your business and not simply apply a worst-case scenario claims rating.

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Make sure important details such as turnover, number of staff and subcontractor payments are accurate. Overstating this information can mean you pay a higher premium as a result, while understating can lead to issues at claims time.

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Provide detail on any claims you need to declare. Insurers will review premium loadings based on the circumstances of the claim. If you can demonstrate improved risk management processes or that claims costs are likely to be reduced, this can have an impact.

Marsh Advantage Insurance Pty Ltd (ABN 31 081 358 303, AFSL 238 369) (Marsh) arrange this insurance and are not an insurer. When arranging Public Liability Insurance, Marsh act under binding authority on behalf of Pacific Underwriting Corporation Pty Ltd (ABN 77 091 225 535, AFSL 237 270), who act as agent of the insurer, Chubb Insurance Australia Limited (ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL 239 687). This brochure contains general information, does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs and may not suit your personal circumstances. For full details of the terms, conditions and limitations of the covers and before making any decision about whether to acquire the product, refer to the specific policy wordings available from Marsh. The Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia receives a financial benefit when an insurance policy is arranged by Marsh. Marsh makes no representation or warranty concerning the application of policy wordings or the financial condition or solvency of insurers or re-insurers. Marsh makes no assurances regarding the availability, cost, or terms of insurance coverage. LCPA 23/032

Australia

T30 PTO Jetting Truck

Based on the HINO 616, the T30 is an outstanding allrounder with huge amounts of space, ample payload and a PTO powered jetting system. It offers an impressive performance of 35 L/min @ 5000 PSI, without the need of an auxiliary petrol engine, resulting in lowered maintenance and running cost. The industrial remote-control system and the powerful 24v hose reels making the T30 a breeze to operate. 100% designed and manufactured in Australia means that you get a product that is built for our conditions.

If you are a plumbing contractor looking for a cost-effective, efficient, and ergonomic Plumbing truck, then get in touch with the team at Enviroline by visiting enviroline.net.au or call 1800 816 830

Galvin CliniMix® Lead Safe™ CMV2

These handsfree, point of use, thermostatic mixers are putting safety and water control at the forefront. Designed to deliver safe water temperatures for handwashing, the high-performance valve is AS 4032.4 approved and compliant with modern healthcare requirements. Its innovative design, including its hygiene flush feature, thermal disinfection and smooth tubular spout, makes it easy to clean and minimises bacteria growth both internally and externally. Whether it be with glass or chrome faceplate finish, CliniMix® Lead Safe™ CMV2 can be delivered with a wave on/off or proximity sensor activation. The inclusion of our temperature monitoring system provides exceptionally accurate 24/7 monitoring of water flow and temperature with high-speed wireless communications managed through a personalised cloud-based dashboard. For more information, visit galvinengineering.com.au or call 1300 514 074

100% designed and manufactured in

Rehau Edge is the fastest compression piping system for our market

Rehau Edge, really fast

For the first time in 30 years, Rehau launches a new product in Australia. Rehau Edge is the fastest compression piping system that’s been specifically designed for our market. Rehau Edge compresses 40% faster than traditional compression systems. Its revolutionary new technology works without expansion, removing a whole step from the installation process. Edge requires less tooling, and its speed means you’ll complete high-quality work in less time...giving you a true edge. Rehau Edge is stocked exclusively in Reece nationally. For more information, visit reece.com.au/rehau-edge

Leading edge hot water system

Using industry leading technology, Reclaim Energy have developed a heat-pump, hot-water system to meet Australia’s variable conditions and save up to 80% on annual bills. “Through our commitment to product innovation and next-generation technology, we believe our team has designed a system that is one of the most energy efficient and flexible solutions available in Australia today,” Chris Taylor, Managing Director, says. Reclaim Energy’s controller has been designed to be complimentary to a households PV solar system, allowing householders to take advantage of any surplus energy created before it gets exported back to the grid. For more information, visit reclaimenergy.com.au

Free safety training

As Australia’s leading designer/manufacturer of drain cleaning equipment, Australian Pumps is on a mission to share knowledge on the safe use of Jetters. Aussie’s range of Cobra Jetters incorporates both Class A and Class B machines that are fast and effective. Plumbers, keen to understand the safety aspects of using these high-pressure units, can access Aussie Pumps free, online training course. “It offers a great opportunity to train operators in line with the Australian Standards AS/NZS:4233 for Class A machines,” Operations Manager, Hamish Lorenz, says. The course is available free of charge at aussiepumps.com.au or scan below. For more information, call 02 8865 3500