Australian Plumbing - Winter 2024

SELF-CLOSING, ONE-WAY, WATERLESS TRAP

When small space is a big issue

When installation space is an issue and traditional traps just don’t fit, Abey’s McAlpine Self-Closing, One-Way, Waterless Waste Valve is the answer. A simple solution that eliminates awkward and time consuming fabrication work.

| Compact design can be fitted in horizontal or vertical position

| Membrane opens under water pressure to allow discharge to flow freely, then closes to seal out odours and gases.

| Macvalves offer a solution to working in confined spaces where traditional traps just won’t fit.

Example below of MacValve-2 installed in pedestal vanity.

Abey’s range of MacValves include:

1 ½" BSP Inlet and Compression Outlet Self Sealing Trap

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• Designed using over 80 years’ Australian manufacturing experience.

• Mains pressure ensures full pressure to multiple outlets at the same time. For more information, visit www.rheem.com.au/products

see page 16

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to the Winter edition of Australian Plumbing Welcome

The topic of energy continues to dominate our headlines. From supply, to cost, to security, to the green transition, it can be incredibly difficult to navigate the barrage of data, political announcements, media articles and rhetoric. For those of us whose livelihoods depend on it, a clear, practical, and well-supported pathway is critically needed.

Last month, the Federal Government released its Future Gas Strategy, mapping its plan for “how gas will support our economy’s transition to net zero in partnership with the world”. The strategy (www.industry.gov.au) adopts six principles listed below. These should provide a practical and forwardlooking policy framework for the energy industry, but unfortunately if you live in some jurisdictions like Victoria, ACT and NSW, you could be forgiven for thinking some governments are blind to real world transition issues.

1 Australia is committed to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

2 Gas must remain affordable for Australian users throughout the transition to net zero.

3 New sources of gas supply are needed to meet demand during the transition.

4 Reliable gas supply will gradually and inevitably support a shift towards higher-value and non-substitutable gas uses. Households will continue to have a choice over how their energy needs are met.

5 Gas and electricity markets must adapt to remain fit for purpose throughout the energy transformation.

6 Australia is, and will remain, a reliable trading partner for energy, including Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and low emission gases.

The Federal Budget, also released in May, brought with it some relief for businesses and our industry. The extension of energy bill relief is welcome, and the extension of the instant asset write-off will help some businesses. However, the budget contains limited measures to address the surging impact of red tape on small business.

Measures to address skills shortages included a shortterm extension to some apprenticeship incentives over the next 12 months and support for apprentice training in the clean energy, manufacturing and construction

industries. However, more is needed. Master Plumbers has put our concerns on the agenda, through our national body Master Plumbers Australia and New Zealand, in response to the Strategic Review of the Australian Apprentice Incentive System being conducted by the Federal Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. The work our members do is mission critical in terms of supporting our infrastructure targets, the energy transition and climate change adaptation more broadly. Establishing, growing, and filling that skills pipeline is critically important and under the current training and industry frameworks, the pipeline relies on apprenticeships. Experience has taught us that incentives work. In our submission, we have called for the Federal Government to create a five-year Job Creation Incentive program that includes standard base-level payments to all employers of apprentices, targeted incentives for those areas that have been deemed in shortage, completion payments, additional amounts payable to employers of adult aged apprentices and payments directly to the apprentice.

In other national advocacy MPANZ is also involved in Jobs and Skills Australia consultation on proposed changes to the Core Skills Occupations List. At this stage, plumbing and several other critical building and construction occupations are not definitively on what will become the new list of core skills. This oversight defies logic on many levels, not least of which are the 1.2 million homes yet to build under the national Housing Accord.

More and more, the decisions that impact our industry on everything from the National Construction Code and Australian Standards to business incentives are made at a national level. Members can be assured that Master Plumbers associations across the country are working collectively and individually to look after members’ interests.

Norm Anderson President, Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia

Understand CPD reforms

Mandatory. The very word brings with it a sense of doom but the proposed Continuing Professional Development reforms in Victoria offer plumbers, the industry and consumers a new level of safety, assurance and professionalism.

In 2024, there are so many pressures on the Plumbing Industry. Whether you are a plumber, a sole trader or a business owner; the cost of living and trading, the expectations of customers and regulators, and the rate of change are hard pills to swallow.

So, when the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) announces a new Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Plumbing (and building) Practitioners, it is hard not to choke.

But Master Plumbers’ CEO, Peter Daly, is quick with a digestive. He reminds the industry that many, many plumbers have been proactively and voluntarily involved in professional development for decades. After all, you can’t keep up without it.

“In an industry as dynamic as plumbing, where new innovations, technologies, systems, techniques, and materials are being developed, refined, combined, and incorporated into the built environment every day, keeping abreast of changes and reinforcing knowledge is not a nice to have. It is vital to ensure currency,” Peter says. Since 2019, Master Plumbers has been running a highly successful, voluntary CPD program for the plumbing industry. More than 4,000 plumbers are actively participating in the program.

“This will not be a big leap for many Master Plumbers’ members to whom CPD is second nature to ensure currency of skills,” Peter says. However, he adds, introducing a mandatory scheme will not be easy for everyone. “It remains a significant change for the broader plumbing industry,” Peter says. “The Victorian Government needs to recognise this and support the industry as it transitions to a new level of professionalism.”

How did the new reforms come about?

Master Plumbers has been lobbying for mandatory and well-recognised CPD for decades as it seeks to protect plumbers to keep up with changing regulations, technology and products. The peak industry association wants to protect plumbers seeking to do the right thing: updating their training and compliance knowledge, and ensuring their overall professionalism. Why? Because the plumbing industry provides is the first line of defence against disease and hazards in our homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.

“Every day the public relies on the skills and knowledge of plumbing professionals to ensure our water is clean, our sanitation systems work to prevent disease, and that the heating, cooling and fire protection systems

in our built environment are properly installed and safely maintained,” Peter says.

In 2020 the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) released a Consultation Paper and public survey seeking feedback on high-level options for a CPD framework for building and plumbing practitioners. Since then, DTP has sought feedback on key CPD elements including delivery of courses, formats, and volumes of learning for each category. DTP heard from a wide range of perspectives from regulatory bodies, including Master Plumbers, registered training organisations, trade unions, water authorities, and individual practitioners across the sector. CPD is not about formal classroom training, like TAFE, Peter says. “Modern learning comprises a range of self-paced activities, including online videos and webinars, as well as face-to-face sessions. Any single activity might range from 15 minutes to an hour or so, and can be done at work, at home and sometimes as an organised activity like the Master Plumbers’ Pub Nights, which combine real learning with a chance to catch up with colleagues in person.

But how would any mandatory CPD be monitored? Amendments made to the Building Act 1993 in 2016 and 2018 allow the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) to consider whether a person has complied with any prescribed CPD requirements when deciding to renew a building practitioner registration or plumbing registration or licence.

What does the proposed CPD reform mean for you?

Every day the public relies on the skills and knowledge of plumbing professionals

There are three options, all which cite: “The Regulations would prescribe the amount of CPD that must be completed in a practitioner’s registration/licence period”. The differences are:

Option 1 - Practitioner-led approach:

Would not mandate certain CPD topics or types of activities.

Option 2 - Government-directed approach:

All topics and types of activities to be prescribed in the Regulations or set each year by the VBA.

Option 3 - Combination approach

The Regulations mandate a minimum amount to be completed in broadly defined topics and types of learning (such as technical knowledge). The remaining balance of points could be gained through self-directed learning activities. Option 3 also includes two pathways for practitioners to meet CPD requirements: enrol in an approved industry run CPD program or through individual accumulation of points.

What is your industry body saying?

Master Plumbers and the broader plumbing industry agrees with a mandatory scheme covering all of Victoria’s 31,000 registered and licensed plumbers, irrespective of location and available at times that are flexible.

However, Peter Daly warns against the mandatory scheme being a “compliance driven tick-a-box exercise”.

“The key to a successful scheme is to be industry led and industry driven. The design and operation of CPD needs to be relevant and valuable to practitioners and have the right mix of technical and professional development activity. It must be available irrespective of location and flexible enough to do at any time. Critically, it must get and maintain practitioner buy-in,” Peter says.

In preparing Master Plumbers comprehensive formal response to the RIS, he noted that industry associations are critical to successfully designing and executing CPD programs, including the phasing in of the mandatory scheme.

Option 3 is also the preferred option also of Master Plumbers. Peter says: “It takes a sensible and balanced approach to prescribing minimum CPD requirements for all practitioners.

“It balances choice and flexibility for practitioners and provides an adequate level of assurance to government and the community that practitioners are undertaking valuable and relevant activities to continue to remain current, competent, and, most importantly safe.”

Master Plumbers also supports the proposed pathways proposed for practitioners:

• Pathway A for those who wish to identify and complete individual activities that will satisfy the minimum requirements.

• Pathway B for those who wish to enrol in and complete the requirements of an approved industry based CPD program.

Master Plumbers is seeking clarification on how Pathway B would work and takes a strong view that the ‘program’ pathway should be a broad-based scheme covering the CPD needs of potential participants across the vast majority (if not all) the license classes and types of plumbing works.

“We recognise that we already offer this style of CPD and we see it has worked well for our members,” Mr Daly said. “We will look to ensure that our system will focus on delivery that will allow members to participate no matter where they live and work, and delivered in a way that ensures maximum flexibility.”

Master Plumbers is also seeking clarity on how:

• The two Pathways (A and B) work together.

• The Department will ensure the integrity and of the learning content.

• CPD program providers’ accreditation would work to ensure for-profit entities do not exploit the scheme.

• The scheme rollout.

• We ensure consistency in the CPD framework and points system nationally.

“We believe there is a strong need for the Department to undertake further detailed discussion of how this might work in practice with Master Plumbers, especially in the context of Master Plumbers’ custodianship of a very significant industry CPD scheme, which is already in place and operating efficiently and effectively.”

Master Plumbers will continue to advocate for members and will continue to provide details as the discussion progress.

Strong in-principle support

A Mandatory CPD scheme in Victoria has support among the industry but there are still big questions to resolve to ensure full support.

From the proposal, the Department, has nominated Option 3 as preferred. This option reads: The Regulations would prescribe the amount of CPD that must be completed in a practitioner’s registration/licence period. The Regulations mandate a minimum amount to be completed in broadly defined topics and types of learning (such as technical knowledge). The remaining balance of points could be gained through self-directed learning activities. Option 3 also includes two pathways for practitioners to meet CPD requirements: enrol in an approved industry run CPD program or through individual accumulation of points.

This is also the preferred option of Master Plumbers and our valued industry partners PICAC, the Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union, National Fire Industry Association of Australia and the Air Conditioning and Mechanical Contractors Association, which together with Master Plumbers collectively comprise the representative bodies for the plumbing and fire industry in Victoria.

Tech’s most wanted Know the answers

Master Plumbers technical-advice team share their answers to frequently asked questions, which, in this edition are a mixed bag.

Q Do I need to supply a compliance certificate when I complete metal wall cladding?

A No, although it needs to be installed in accordance with the National Construction Code (NCC) and the relevant Australian Standards. Metal wall cladding does not fall in the scope of prescribed plumbing works. Therefore, you don’t need to issue a certificate of compliance, because it is not considered plumbing work.

Q How much overhang do roof tiles need to have into an eves gutter?

A This information has been sought a few times recently by plumbers who were replacing gutters. The installing practitioners were concerned they did not have enough overhang for the water to adequately drain into the gutter.

The ABCB Housing Provisions (clause 7.3.6) stipulates that roof tiles only need to overhang the fascia by not less than 35mm. Whilst the tile overhang doesn’t fall under the plumbing scope, if the overhang is less than this, you should notify the client to have it rectified.

Q Can a cook top regulator be installed behind the oven?

A The Gas Standard 5601.1:2022 (Clause 6.6.5(c)) states: “Where the gas pressure regulator for an appliance is supplied as a separate component, it shall be installed as close as practicable to the appliance and accessible for servicing and adjustment”.

Accessible is the key here. In the standard accessible is defined as: “Access can be gained without hazard or undue difficulty for inspection, repair, testing, renewal, or operational purposes.”

On the other hand, readily accessible is where: “Access can be gained without hazard, undue difficulty, or use of a tool.”

So, if you can remove the screws from the front of the oven and slide it out to gain access, technically it is accessible. Although is it without hazard or undue difficulty? This is the debate.

Having said that, we have previously discussed this topic with ESV and they have said it would only be accepted in an installation, if there was physically nowhere else to have the regulator installed.

Q Can my apprentice perform a Gas Safety Check?

AThere is no straight-forward answer. So, we will unpack it to try to highlight the nuances.

Gas safety Check incorporates servicing of the appliance. In order to service or repair a Type A gas Appliance you must hold a min Registration or Licence in that specialised class.

The training for servicing a Type A appliance is set at Certificate IV level and apprentice training is at Certificate III level so an apprentice gasfitter cannot carry out servicing of a Type A Appliance.

QWhat are the required clearances around an RPZD?

AThe only set clearance in AS/NZS 3500.1 is to “have the relief drain outlet located not less than 300mm above the finished surface level”. That being said, there are two other factors that should always be considered:

1 Some manufacturers specify

Tech talk

No more mix ups

Have you ever wondered how to correctly locate and install a Thermostatic Mixing Valve? You’re not alone. To assist, Master Plumbers technical advisor Sam Welsh presents what you need to know from the AS/NZS 3500.4:2021 and the NCC warm-water handbook.

Let’s start with the associated valves, which are required to correctly install a thermostatic mixing valve (TMV). Each TMV has an isolating stop tap, line strainer and crossflow prevention device (non-return) valve fitted to both the hot and cold water-supply lines. Having these valves will make it easy to perform TMV maintenance. Also, there is to be no branch line offtake between the non-integral isolating valve and the inlet to the TMV. (Figure 1)

Multiple TMVs

When multiple TMV’s are installed in the same location, a stop tap, line strainer and non-return valve may control each of the hot and cold supplies to more than one TMV, provided each of the individual TMV is controlled by an isolating stop tap/ valve and installed with a crossflow non-return valve. All TMVs must be supported independently of the piping. (Figure 3)

Accessibility

AS/NZS 3500.4:2021 states that each TMV and each associated valve, pressure control or temperature control shall be readily accessible, which it defines as: “accessible without hazard, undue difficulty, or use of a tool”. (And, in this case, a ladder is a tool.) To add to this it states, it needs to be suitably accessible within its box/surrounding area, unlike figure 2. For those who hold the specialised class of Thermostatic mixing valve servicing, you can find the information you need to know about servicing in AS 4032.3:2022 the field testing and maintenance standard.

TMV positioning

You must have the recommended, minimum pipe length of 1m from the TMV to the first outlet. This distance will reduce the possibility of a heat spike and will assist in minimising any temperature increase, should

the failsafe function of the TMV be initiated. The 1m length of pipe will also assist in dissipating the heat of the hotter water. Finally, how far away can I install a TMV? The distance is limited by the pipe branch. The rationale is a pipe branch from a TMV should contain no more than 2L of water or exceed 10-lineal meters. As an example, 20-lineal meters of 15mm copper pipe would hold a volume of 2L. Adhering to this volume will ensure heat loss and microbial growth is minimised, unless a heat-trace system is used to maintain system temperature. A pipe material’s heat-loss properties, the volume of water and valve specifications should also be considered when determining branch lengths.

Figure 2 shows a poor installation. The TMV is not installed in a way that will make it easily accessible to service the valve.

Heated water supply Recessed wall box (optional)

Thermostatic mixing valve

Cold water supply

Cold water isolator to sanitary fixtures (optional)

Isolation valve line strainer captive non-return valve

Figure 1 Figure 2

Figure 3

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Future energy

Many Victorian homes and businesses are still powered by gas and require an affordable option as we create a roadmap to net zero

How to fuel our future

The Federal Government has further highlighted Australia’s transition to net zero, now it’s time for the states to align and for industry associations to be consulted.

Master Plumbers welcomes the Federal Government’s support for natural and renewable gas as a key energy source for Australian business and industry while still pushing for a transition to net zero by 2050.

It also supports the vision for Australia’s hydrogen industry outlined in the Federal Budget last month.

The Federal Government’s new Future Gas Strategy recognises the crucial role gas will play as we transition to net zero. In announcing the strategy, Federal Minister for Resources Madeleine King says a transition to net zero without gas is just not possible.

Master Plumbers’ CEO Peter Daly says many Victorian homes and businesses are still powered by gas and require an affordable option as we create a roadmap to net zero.

The Victorian Government announced earlier in the year no new homes will have gas connection. It stopped short of setting a date for the removal of gas for existing houses and businesses.

“It is crucial the Federal and State Governments align on the future role of gas in this state and the roadmap to net zero,” Peter says.

“Part of that roadmap must include scaling low emission gases such as biogas and hydrogen, which Master Plumbers has strongly advocated for. Hydrogen delivers comparative advantage to Australia not only to power our homes and businesses, but as a pathway to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors. Biogas can be similarly sustainably produced and has very little impact greenhouse gas wide as an alternative to natural gas.”

The Federal Government hydrogen budget measures include:

• $6.7 billion a Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive for renewable hydrogen produced from 2027 to 2037.

• $2 billion expansion to the Hydrogen Headstart program

• $1.9 billion to develop, commercialise, manufacture and deploy new renewable energy technologies.

• $1.7 billion to support innovation, commercialisation, pilot and demonstration projects, and early-stage development in priority sectors, including renewable hydrogen, green metals, low carbon liquid fuels and clean energy technology manufacturing.

“While we support the investment in hydrogen, we are very aware that our industry will need strong support to ensure we are skilled up in the use of hydrogen and the installation of hydrogen products.

“We have already seen some big leaps forward in demonstration homes and businesses using hydrogen and we look forward to being part of the discussions as Australia’s use increases.”

Mr Daly concludes saying, with the Federal Government strategy and the budget announcements last month, it is vital that industry associations, like Master Plumbers, are genuinely consulted on the development and implementation of roadmaps to net zero. The Victorian Government, in particular, needs to work with and listen to the industries on which the success of the energy transition depends.

“Victorian homes, businesses and industries need affordable and reliable energy, which will not push up the cost of living, will not send perfectly working gas and new energy products to landfill and will ensure our continued economic prosperity.”

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Safety for plumbers

Safety without the stress

Daryn Trembath, Labour Manager with Brudenell Plumbing, takes workplace health and safety seriously. It is something that was drilled into him when he joined his grandfather’s business, Brudenell Plumbing.

Plumbing is not a cruisy profession. Even when a job appears simple, when plumbers get in and investigate there can be complexities that require health and safety management. Whether it is gasfitting, welding, working from heights or exposure to hazardous materials, dangers can come in at any time. To complicate a job, you are often dealing with the lives of others, particularly, if like with Brudenell, your clients are major hospitals and nursing homes.

But keeping up with the safety acts and regulations can be difficult and time consuming for businesses.

“There are always changes and it can be hard for us to keep up,”

Daryn says. “That’s where Master Plumbers Work Health Safety Management System is good. They keep the forms updated and when we need them, we can easily find them, they are customised for us with our name on them, and the staff onsite can simply fill them out.”

Master Plumbers Work Health Safety Management System has more than 35 SWMS online in one place including emergency procedures, hazard registers, and incident and injury registers. There is also training and telephone support.

“We would probably use them every day for something or another,” Daryn says. “And we can get them to our plumbers digitally and not delay the work.”

It’s these sorts of professional services that Daryn and Brudenell Plumbing find vital to assist them in running the business efficiently, compliantly, and professionally.

Brudenell plumbing, started in 1947 and for more than 50 years they have been a member of the Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia.

“Our Grandfather, Les Brudenell, started the business from his house in Footscray just after World War II. We operated out of his house for many years before moving into our factory in Maidstone just around the corner.

“Being a member of Master Plumbers has been important since those early days. It offers great guidance and support when you need it.

“We don’t have much need for the industrial relations advice as our family business still runs like we are all family, but we do use many other services.”

Another key service Daryn uses is Master Plumbers’ Plumbing

Apprentices Victoria, where he is a host employer.

“We have had some great apprentices through this and some of them have continued on with us after their apprenticeships,” Daryn explains.

“Getting apprentices this way… removes so much of the paperwork and the management of training etc, which is great for our business.”

The majority of Brudenell’s work is plumbing maintenance for major hospitals and nursing homes. The business specialises in the servicing and installation of Thermostatic Mixing valves, providing service schedule reports and creating preventative maintenance programs. They also service, repair and test RPZ Backflow Preventative devices and provide a 24 hour on-call service to our major clients.

Daryn and another grandchild of Les, Debbie Hunter still work in the business. Daryn’s brother Graeme has just retired after about 50 years. Daryn, 61 last month, is hopeful he will see the business reach 80 years.

For more information, contact Master Plumbers WHS team at ohs@plumber.com.au

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Victorian news

Know the new IR rules

It is tough to keep up with the multitude of changes to the Fair Work Legislation. It is even worse not to. Master Plumbers’ Senior Workplace Relations Advisor Phil Eberhard shines a light on two specific components – Superannuation and Wage Deductions.

In the past few years, you would have heard that the Fair Work Act 2009 (C’th) (FW Act) has been amended. These changes are listed below:

• the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022 (C’th) (SJBP Act).

• the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Protecting Worker Entitlements) Act 2023 (C’th) (PWE Act).

• the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Act 2023 (C’th) (CL1 Act).

• the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Act 2024 (C’th) (CL2).

The changes have all had different start dates from 6 December 2022 through to 26 February 2025.

The following are two examples of issues that would have the capacity to directly affect Master Plumbers members.

Right to Superannuation in the National Employment Standards

Under the Superannuation Guarantee (Administration) Act 1992, the Superannuation Guarantee Charge Act 1992, the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 and the Superannuation (Resolution of Complaints) Act 1993 (Superannuation Legislation), an employer must make superannuation contributions to a superannuation fund for the

benefit of an employee as will avoid the employer being required to pay the superannuation guarantee charge (SGC) with respect to that employee.

The National Employment Standard (NES) entitlement to super aligns with the Superannuation Legislation, so if an employer complies with the SGC they will also meet their obligations under the NES.

Australian building approvals rose in the March Quarter

Increase in private dwellings 8.7% Increase in value of new residential dwellings, to $6.35b

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

The main change for employers and employees to note is that the inclusion of superannuation in the NES allows an employee to take court action under the Fair Work Act 2009 to recover unpaid superannuation entitlements. This was previously the domain of the Australian Tax Office and the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Employee Authorised Deductions

Section 324 of the Fair Work Act permits the employer to deduct money from an amount payable to an employee provided that the deduction is “authorised in writing by the employee and is principally for the employee’s benefit”.

An employer may also deduct money where the deduction is authorised by the employee in accordance with an enterprise agreement; or the deduction is authorised by, or under, for example, the Plumbing and Fire Sprinklers Award 2020; or the deduction is authorised by, or under a law of the Commonwealth, a State or a Territory, or an order of a court.

For regular deductions –

• Whether the deductions are for one or more specific amounts or for amounts that could change over time.

• The reason for the deductions.

An employee can provide their employer with a written authorisation that gives their employer permission to deduct money from their pay, even where the amount can change from year to year. The written agreement must include:

For a one-off deduction –

• The amount of the deduction.

• The reason for the deduction.

• The date the deduction will be made.

• The name of the person who will receive the deducted amount.

• If the deductions are for specific amounts.

• What those amounts are.

• The date and frequency of the deductions.

• The name of the person who will receive the deductions.

Further to the above employers must record deductions in an employee’s records, specify on the payslip the amount of any deduction and the name, or name and number, of the fund or account the deduction was paid into.

It should be noted that an employer has the right to recoup monies that have been accidently overpaid to an employee. However, this doesn’t mean that an employer has the right to just deduct the whole amount of the over payment from the employees next pay, rather, the employer should discuss the situation with the employee and come up with an agreed plan as to how the money will be re-paid (even if this means that the employee will repay the overpaid monies at $10.00 per week for the next two years.

For more information, Master Plumbers (Victoria) can contact Phil Eberhard, Senior Workplace Advisor, on phil.eberhard@plumber.com.au or by phone on 0425 790 722

Restoring trust in regulator

Master Plumbers welcomes the Victorian Government’s crackdown on the Victorian Building Authority, which included the recent removal of the board.

“It is no secret that Master Plumbers has strongly advocated for improvements to the way in which our industry is regulated,” Master Plumbers CEO Peter Daly said.

“For our members and our industry, we are particularly interested in the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) having a stronger and more visible focus on those parts of the industry that are operating unprofessionally.

“It is the unregistered and unprofessional element of the industry that operates to the detriment of the vast majority who are doing the right thing.”

Master Plumbers is looking forward to working with the Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny and the newly appointed sole commissioner, who was the CEO, Anna Cronin on VBA’s reform agenda.

“Together, we can ensure the next-generation VBA is a regulator that the community and plumbing industry can rely on to safeguard the health and well-being of the community.

The state’s construction watchdog has been under investigation since 2022 when allegations first emerged about its operation. The VBA has had two independent inquiries into allegation of it being a toxic workplace.

Under the changes, Ms Cronin will be supported by new advisory committees made up of plumbing, building and consumer experts with the aim of improving the regulator’s performance and thereby restoring trust.

A review of the Domestic Building Contracts Act and the work of the Building System Review Expert Panel will also take place.

Lifeline:131 114

Incolink: 1300 000 129

Australian building approvals rose in the March Quarter 1.9%

Increase in the total number of dwellings (12,947) 28.7%

Increase in value of non-residential buildings, to $5.2b

Access our 2024 events calendar visit: member.plumber.com.au email: membership@plumber.com.au call: (03) 9329 9622

Who is TIACS?

Driving for change

In the demanding world of plumbing, we can often neglect our mental health. Shockingly, research shows that trades people are twice as likely to die by suicide compared to those in other professions.

Master Plumbers, in partnership with This is a Conversation Starter (TIACS), is taking a stand to change this narrative. This year, 100-plus plumbing industry professionals joined forces with Master Plumbers to help raise awareness for TIACS, a free counselling service offering mental health support to Australia’s blue-collar community. The Charity Golf Day – held at Kooringal Golf Club, raised $10,000 for TIACS and provided a stunning backdrop for some friendly competition across 18 holes of Ambrose. Thanks to major sponsors, Benton’s Plumbing Supplies and Holman Plumbing, as well as our other sponsors.

For more information on TIACS or to donate, visit www.tiacs.org

Plumbers Pub Night

May hosted the latest Master Plumbers Pub Night, which gathered plumbers from all over Geelong at Cremorne Hotel for a night of networking and informative talks. Thanks to Master Plumbers

President, Norm Anderson, Chief Technical Advisor Gary Bath and to Barwon Water for their industry updates on the night. These evenings continue to offer plumbers the opportunity to connect and stay up-to-date on industry changes.

Special thanks to Master Plumbers Board member Greg Tink for leading the event.

• TIACS is short for…This is a Conversation Starter.

• It is a free mental health counselling service for tradies, truckies, rural and blue-collar workers.

• It was created alongside a social enterprise; a workwear company called TradeMutt.

• The main goal of TIACS is to remove the financial barriers of accessing help for blue collar workers, who in many cases are at the highest risk of mental distress and suicide.

• Visit tiacs.org

Left top: Master Plumbers teeing up for a positive change at the 2024 Charity Golf Day. Left bottom: Special thanks to former AFL player Adam Cooney for supporting the Charity Golf Day and entertaining all with his interesting stories during the post-lunch Q&A.

Study Plumbing

Whether you want to help in commercial projects or be the one homeowners turn to in an emergency, TAFE NSW has the plumbing course you need to turn your pipe dreams into a reality. Taught by industry-experienced teachers, our nationally recognised plumbing courses will give you the hands-on skills you need for a fulfilling career. Enrol now for Semester 2, 2024 with TAFE NSW.

+ Certificate III in Plumbing CPC32420

+ Certificate III in Roof Plumbing CPC32620

+ Certificate IV in Plumbing & Services CPC40920

Tasmanian news

President’s report

Kicking off the Winter season has seen Master Plumbers Association Tasmania (MPAT) successfully join the High Vis Army Project - an initiative of the Tasmanian State Government.

What is the High Vis Army? In June 2020, the Tasmanian Government announced a $3.1 billion ‘Construction Blitz’ with a focus on building capacity within the state’s building and construction industry. The Government has entered a partnership with industry to ‘Build the Workforce to Build Tasmania’. MPAT is delighted to be a part of this project and will be working with other industry partners and stakeholders to meet the demands of the Tasmanian economy now and into the future.

from the Tasmanian Government

MPAT will be announcing specific project outcomes in the next half of 2024 and there will be many opportunities for members to get involved in shaping our industry’s future.

Meanwhile, the MPAT Board has regretfully accept the resignation from Paul Bottomley. Paul has given his time freely to our MC and represents MPAT on the Tasmania Small Business Council.

Paul, of Professional Plumbing, has retired from our Board and is also

business. Paul and his partner Pip have sold Professional Plumbing, but they are not leaving just yet. Paul and Pip will be doing some consultancy work with the new owners.

Paul has owned and directed an extremely successful plumbing company for over 35 years. During that time, he has trained more than 80 apprentices into our industry. While Paul has seen many changes and challenges in our industry, he has always maintained a high level of professionalism and a friendly nature. We wish Paul, and his wonderful partner Pip, a fabulous, new relaxing lifestyle.

Anthony Balik

The Tasmanian Government’s $3.1 billion injection into construction and plumbing plans to deliver projects in the Housing, Roads and Irrigation, Essential Services and Community Infrastructure, including:

15,000 jobs as the construction blitz matures over two years and beyond

$7 million to develop the $14m Trade and Water Centre of Excellence

2295 new dwellings, including social and affordable housing

$20,000 offered to any owner occupiers building a house plus the Federal Government’s $25,000, means there is $45,000 of funding available, regardless of if its your first or 10th home

$40 million in state road safety upgrades

$10 million to upgrade regional health centres and ambulance facilities

$15 million for the Don Irrigation scheme to meet increased demand for Tasmania’s next five irrigation schemes

$68.5 million to upgrade the Derwent Entertainment Centre

Plumbing with purpose

Kiely Plumbing is not about buzzwords it is about building a values-driven business that is inclusive and community minded. Kathryn Kernahan reports.

When Sam Kiely, General Manager of Kiely Plumbing, talks about ‘plumbing with purpose,’ it’s not a buzzword, it’s a philosophy the team of the family-run business live by.

“Plumbing with purpose encapsulates our vision, goals,

beliefs and values, giving something for our people to attach to and be part of. My grandfather Tony founded the business 55 years ago and I’ve been here for just over 10 years – it’s been great to come in, inject some youth, and implement

policies and procedures to modernise the business,” he says.

From being the first Tasmanian business to partner with Tradeswomen Australia and participate in their Workplace Diversity Project – breaking down barriers for women seeking a career in the trades – through to investing in the health and wellbeing of its staff, Kiely Plumbing is more than your run-of-the-mill business.

Tasmanian news

Sam Kiely says

“plumbing with purpose encapsulates our vision, goals, beliefs and values”

“We’ve really encouraged opportunities for anybody to take part in the plumbing industry,” he says.

“I’ve got two daughters, Mila is two-and-a-half and Maya is 11-months old, so it’s crucial for us to advocate for a future where they, and others like them, can pursue any career without facing gender barriers. So, there’s a personal reason why this is important for me, and it also aligns with the business’ vision and purpose to be an employer of choice, which was recognised by the Tasmanian Government last year for these reasons and our work around mental health and wellbeing.”

As part of the Workplace Diversity Project, Kiely Plumbing has employed a female apprentice, which Sam says has been a win-win.

“Amber is our female apprentice, she’s leading the way, she’ll knock the plumber out of the way, grab the tools and jump into it. She had a career at McDonald’s and came across to us,” he says. “She’s provided new perspectives for the guys around her as well, which has been beneficial for the team as well as our culture and environment.”

With Sam’s father Michael and uncle Nick also part of the business, there was never any doubt he would follow in his family’s footsteps.

“I was always inspired by my family’s dedication to the plumbing industry. I grew up watching them (and then) work every school holidays and any time I was able to. I spent time in the business, jumping on the machines or going out with plumbers for the day to learn about the trade and the industry.”

As part of the Workplace Diversity Project, Kiely Plumbing has employed a female apprentice, which has been a win-win

However, after completing his four-year apprenticeship with the family business, Sam’s career took a bit of a different turn.

“I sort of didn’t have any plans when I first started my apprenticeship. I completed the first few years and then sort of fell into an office-based role and really enjoyed it.

“These days, I’m not on the tools at all. I’m primarily managing our day-to-day operations like marketing, branding, HR, customer relationships, systems and software, and implementing lots of cool programs and initiatives.

“We have a team of around 35 people, about seven in the office, about eight apprentices, and the rest are plumbers. Over our 55-year history, we’ve been lucky enough to provide over 80 apprenticeship opportunities to young people in the plumbing industry,” he says.

Kiely Plumbing has a commercial division, working on major developments including schools, aquatic centres and nursing home redevelopments.

“One of our major projects is the Latrobe Hospital redevelopment, which is a $41m project involving a significant plumbing package. We also do a lot of maintenance work for mums and dads, businesses, real-estate companies and government organisations, we’ve got lots of recurring customers in that space.

“One thing we offer is guaranteed, fixed-price services for our general maintenance items like blocked drains and hot water systems, which puts the customer in charge and gives them upfront certainty with no surprises at the end of the day as

to what their charges might be.”

Sam says 2024 is a big year for the business with several new initiatives underway, including Project Electrify, which will begin to transition its fleet of 20 vehicles to electric vehicles, and Mission Neutral to support Kiely Plumbing’s journey to become carbon neutral.

“We’re also launching a Waterwise initiative about water sustainability, to educate our customers and followers about water sustainability and the different ways they can implement it in their homes and businesses, and we’re involved in a Youth Accommodation project, which provides accommodation for vulnerable youth in Burnie,” he says.

Another topic close to Sam’s heart is mental wellbeing – which is why the business has invested in a life coach available to spend one-on-one time with its staff.

“Work and life aren’t totally separate, what’s going on in someone’s personal life has a huge impact on how they perform at work. We want our people to be the best they can be, not only whilst they’re at work, but in their home lives too.”

Wanting to tell the story of the business’ rich family history and the innovative ways in which they’re supporting the community, Sam recently published a book called Plumbing with Purpose, which is available on Amazon.

“The book follows the journey of Kiely Plumbing and our family-built business for 55 years, and the values that drive us. I’m really proud of putting that out there and getting to capture some history and memories of the business.”

Blame it on the weather

Jon Reed went from a dream of backpacking around Australia in 2007 to landing a job and a sponsorship in Melbourne that would see him start his own business nine years later. Katheryn Kernohan reveals what has kept Jon here for 17 years.

After arriving in Australia from his native UK in 2007, the first thing that struck Jon Reed was that the weather wasn’t exactly what he expected.

“I had watched Home and Away and Neighbours so I thought, it’s always nice over here.”

Initially planning a backpacker holiday to visit a friend, Jon’s visit turned into something much more when he landed a job at Rangedale, providing drainage work for major authorities. It led to sponsorship from Interflow where he worked his way up the ranks to become a manager.

Another stint at Rangedale, this time as operations manager, followed and then in 2016 Jon decided to go it alone.

He founded the business that would become Reed Plumbing and Drainage Solutions, now one of Melbourne’s leading plumbing maintenance businesses.

Initially working with just two others, Jon provided services such as new sewer connections, mains extensions and water tappings to several water authorities, before things expanded by chance.

“Someone asked us to complete a drain blockage, and then from there we started working for other plumbers and real estate firms, and they were really impressed about the level of detail we include in our reports back to them.

“They asked whether we did other plumbing services? And I said, not really. From there we saw an opportunity to get into the maintenance plumbing side of work, and we started growing. We’ve still got a sewer relining and civil side of the business that works for water authorities but now we do a range of general, residential, commercial and preventative plumbing too.”

Reed Plumbing and Drainage Solutions services have in place a lot of long-term contracts with major clients including councils around metropolitan Melbourne, St Vincent’s Hospitals, Melbourne Polytechnic campuses, water authorities,

Reed Plumbing now employs more than 45 people… and more than 30 per cent of our workforce is female

insurance companies and more.

“Our long-term contracts are a large percentage of our business and the rest of the work includes work with real estates and body corporates. We’ve always had extremely high standards in how we deliver the work, from our detailed reports to the fact our vehicles are always immaculate. We’re really customerfocused in everything we do, and we provide a good, honest service.”

From its humble beginnings, Reed Plumbing now employs more than 45 people.

“At first, I employed a couple of lads because we needed three people on the water authorities work – one of them is still with us now. We’ve grown from there and I also have a talented team in the office including an Operations Manager and a Business Manager,” says Jon.

As Director of the business, Jon is involved across all aspects of the Reed Plumbing’s operations, but he still loves being on the tools as part of his day-to-day work.

“It’s what I enjoy doing, the clients enjoy seeing me and I really like seeing our plumbers flourish throughout the business. We’ve had apprentices who started and have worked their way to being supervisors, and that’s not an accident, it’s through guidance and supporting people, and providing them opportunities to grow.

“We have a fully set up training area at our head office that gets used a lot for training on hot water units, gas appliances and for training any office staff on what pipework looks like behind the walls. It gets used a lot by the apprentices too, for welding practice before their journeyman’s.”

Jon is passionate about innovation in the plumbing industry and it is something he explores both through Reed Plumbing and Pipe Core, a business he is involved with which sells, hires, trains and services all the latest drain cleaning, inspection and relining technologies to customers.

“I’ve travelled around the world looking at technology from plumbing and trenchless technologies in America and Europe to recently going to a water convention in New Zealand.

“Pipe Core has a training facility and a demo area where you can try things before you purchase them. It’s great because I used to have to fly over to Europe to decide whether I wanted to buy something, and then you’d have to fly the equipment over here, which was really difficult.

“We’re a big client of Pipe Core and are frequent visitors to their masterclasses on drain cleaning, and their open days as well as seeing new technologies they have to offer.”

Jon is a Master Plumbers member and commercial supporter. He is a strong advocate for the training and development opportunities the plumbing member association provides.

“We send as many apprentices as we can to Master Plumbers’ training and all of our vehicles have the Master Plumbers logo on them because we’re a big believer in showing that we’re at a certain standard and can be trusted.”

“We are also a large supporter of Empowered Women in Trades and work with [founder] Hacia Atherton. We have female plumbers and female VCAL students, and more than 30 per cent of our workforce is female.”

While forging a hugely successful career was not one of Jon’s aims when he arrived in Australia for a holiday, does he see himself returning back to the UK?

“I met my wife, who I’ve been with for 17 years, only a couple of months after I arrived and now I’ve got two beautiful daughters. The kids are always at the factory with me on the weekend, I don’t think they particularly want to be plumbers but they love spending time with their Dad. I wouldn’t want to bring them up anywhere else.”

Health & wellbeing

How to set your mind up for

success

Life can be full of surprises, and we all face challenges from time to time, but there are some routines that can help keep your mind healthy.

Incolink shares some key tips.

Move your body after work

You’re active all day everyday but intentional exercise can help release stress. Lifting weights, yoga, boxing or going for a 30-minute walk are just some of the ways to finish your day well, reduce the feeling of stress and manage your wellbeing.

Prioritise what matters

There’s often a long list of things to do that can feel overwhelming. So, break down those jobs into small, manageable tasks. To helpthere are a few questions you can ask yourself:

• Does this all need to be done today?

• What are the steps to get what needs to be done today?

• What is the most important task on my list?

Having a list in the notes app on your phone or on paper can help visualise the daily list and the longer-term list, and you can look forward to the hit of dopamine when you tick something off.

Check in with yourself

Take some time think about how much sleep you’re getting, how much downtime you are carving out, how hydrated you are and what type of content you’re consuming. Prevention over cure is the way to go when it comes to handling stress. The more mentally resilient you are prior to stressful situations occurring the less a stressful event will impact you. So, whether it be on social media, reading books or listening podcasts, maybe you could consider a personal-development or health

and wellbeing feed, podcast or book next time.

You don’t have to go it alone

Incolink offers support including counselling, financial counselling and their award-winning Bluehats suicide-prevention training to help you through.

For more information visit https://incolink.org.au/wellbeingsupport-services

Business insights

Is AI the answer?

Artificial Intelligence is transforming the very foundation of the plumbing industry. While it can’t wield a wrench, it can be a plumber’s keen eye and an advocate for better system design. Master Plumbers Curtis de la Harpe reports.

Imagine a world where leaks are detected before a single drop is released. This isn’t science fiction. This is the reality facilitated by AI-powered leak detection systems.

These intelligent units transcend simple on/off switches. They meticulously monitor water-usage patterns, factoring in time, weather and even your household habits. Even the seemingly insignificant drip during off-hours won’t escape AI’s watchful eye.

The system can then take decisive action, shutting off water flow and alerting you or the customer to the issue, potentially saving you time and the customer from costly repairs from water damage.

While this is still in its infancy in residential use, the government water networks have been using a scaled-up version for some time now and the technology is trickling into smaller systems.

The focus on intelligent monitoring extends beyond leak detection. Smart hot-water systems and HVAC units are increasingly incorporating AI to learn your routines. Gone are the days of constantly adjusting the thermostat or having a system hold litres of water at temperature for an entire day when

you only need it at certain periods. This could translate to significant cost savings while minimising your environmental footprint. Similarly, AI-powered climate control systems can detect room occupancy and adjust temperature based on the presence of people and heat-emitting devices. It can even learn your bedtime habits, preheating the bedroom for a comfortable sleep and automatically adjusting living room temperature once the lights dim. The longer you interact with these systems, the more AI refines its understanding of your needs, creating a truly personalized experience.

AI architects

The construction industry is also witnessing the transformative power of AI. The bustling construction site is seeing increased use of automated machinery, which is streamlining processes and performing repetitive tasks with precision and speed. However, the true marvel lies in AI-assisted design. Complex water, electrical, and gas systems can now be virtually tested and optimised before a single pipe is laid, which allows early identification of issues, saving time, resources, and ensuring a more improved structure.

Streamlining operations

Integrating with existing jobmanagement systems, AI facilitates intelligent planning and booking of specialised tools and vehicles. It can not only predict when a tool will be available but also adjust job schedules to minimise downtime caused by equipment wait times. This translates to maximised productivity on-site, allowing workers to focus on their core tasks instead of scrambling for missing resources.

The road ahead

AI in plumbing and construction has its challenges. Paramount among them is data security. Ensuring the safe storage and use of sensitive information collected by AI systems is crucial. Additionally, the initial investment in AI-powered solutions can be a barrier for smaller businesses. However, as the technology matures and becomes more affordable, these hurdles will likely become less significant. The opportunities presented by AI are vast and it’s not here to replace plumbers or construction workers. Instead, it is here to empower them, acting as a versatile and intelligent assistant. By leveraging AI’s analytical prowess and predictive capabilities, the plumbing and construction industries can usher in an era of unparalleled efficiency, sustainability, and ultimately, a future where a well-lit path leads to a well-built and well-maintained environment.

Utes that work

If you’re shopping for a new workhorse dual-cab ute with four doors, five seats and not too many frills, the good news is that there are several budget options to choose from. And to keep prices down, these cheapies come in two-wheel drive (4x2) rather than four-wheel drive (4x4) configuration and offer a sub-3000kg towing capacity. Byron Mathioudakis reports on the three cheapest.

Australia loves big, brash dual-cab utes like the Ford Ranger Wildtrak, boasting plenty of power, lots of accessories and loads of attitude.

But, all too often, budget constraints mean having to make choices from the head, rather than the heart. So, here’s the low down on the three cheapest new dual-cab 4x2 auto utes in Australia for the savvy buyer.

The Contenders as driven:

GWM Cannon Ute auto from $34,990 before on-road costs: by far the cheapest

Toyota HiLux Workmate Double Cab Pick-up 2.7L auto from $37,730 before ORC: the bestseller

Isuzu D-Max SX Crew Cab Ute 1.9 Hi Ride auto from $42,200 before ORC: the best value

GWM Cannon Ute – what’s next?

The Cannon’s slightly larger and roomier Alpha dual-cab ute provides more space as well as the option of a keenly-priced hybrid version.

Starting from just $34,990 before on-road costs, it’s impossible to ignore the GWM (Great Wall Motors) Cannon Ute out of China.

Released in Australia in 2020, it hit the market running as a valuepacked alternative to the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux dual-cab equivalents.

Costing substantially less than either of our bestsellers, it has garnered a strong following due to modern styling, spacious packaging, an appealing interior presentation, generous equipment levels, advanced technical specification, a five-star ANCAP crash-test rating and long warranty.

Even the base Cannon comes with features that you’ll need to go much further up the ranges of other dual-cab utes to match, including LED headlights, keyless entry/start, blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise control and alloy wheels (the only ute here with them).

Plus, with crowd-pleasing kit like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a reverse camera, easy-clean leather-like seats (vinyl if you’re over a certain age) and autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and bicycle detection, the GWM’s party trick is that –unlike the other utes here –it doesn’t seem as if you’ve shopped in the bargain basement.

In fact, for the price of Australia’s next-cheapest high-riding dual-cab ute – the Isuzu D-Max SX –prospective buyers could instead step right up to the Cannon-X 4x4 with heaps more luxury and convenience items. In 2023, over 95 per cent of buyers actually did just that.

So, what’s the catch?

The GWM’s performance is sufficient enough once on the move, but initial acceleration suffers from slow and laggy throttle response. The steering is light but falls short on precision and feel at

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

GWM Cannon Ute from $34,990 Engine

speed. The suspension can become bouncy and jittery. The driver-assist safety features like the blind-spot and lane-keep systems are far too sensitive and intrusive, highlighting insufficient Australian-road tuning. And the touchscreen system can be infuriatingly fiddly to use.

So, while the attractive Cannon Ute’s ultra-low pricing and high specification are huge drawcards, it lacks the performance, refinement, comfort and dynamics of the better competition out there. In other words, you get what you pay for.

2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel Transmission 8-speed automatic Power 120kW@ 3600rpm

Torque 400Nm @ 1500-2500rpm

Kerb weight 1935kg

Power-to-weight ratio 62kW/tonne

Average

Fuel tank

Warranty 7-year/unlimited kilometres

Service interval 12 months/10,000km

Turning circle 13.1 metres

Length/width/height/wheelbase 5410/1934/1886/3230mm

Ground clearance 194mm

Towing capacity braked/unbraked 3000/750kg

Payload 1050kg

Gross Vehicle Mass 2985kg

ANCAP rating (out of 5) HHHHH

GWM Cannon Ute from $34,990

Before on-road costs

GWM Cannon-X model pictured

HiLux –what’s next?

The all-new eighthgen HiLux is due to break cover inside the next 12 months, with all-new hybrid engines to match a completely redesigned body and platform. Look out, world!

Toyota HiLux Workmate Double Cab Pick-up auto from $37,730

Dating back to 2015, the currentgeneration HiLux is now in its twilight years, but still absolutely dominates the 4x2 ute market.

Toyota is alone in offering a low-riding dual-cab body, meaning smaller wheels and a meagre ground clearance, but easier access to the load area. If you want to match the height of the others here, you’ll need to spend $44,820 for the Hi-Rider diesel.

Diesel? That’s right. At nearly $38,000, the base Workmate Double Cab that is currently the secondcheapest ute of its type available in Australia is actually powered by a naturally-aspirated petrol engine, meaning it is limited in torque and towing capacity.

That said, pile on the revs, and the 2.7-litre four-pot heart does come into its own, providing a decent level of speed that’s both smoother and quieter in delivery than many diesels. Those 5am starts won’t bother your neighbours as much. On the flipside, fuel consumption will also be correspondingly higher.

While missing the handling agility and steering feedback of a Ranger, the HiLux is an easy and relaxing ute to manoeuvre around town and in tight places. However, while nicely controlled, the suspension can be too firm.

Where the Thai-made Toyota shows its age most in the cars compared for this review is inside; from the relative narrowness of the cabin, to the old-fashioned look of the dashboard. It’s all nicely put together, the front seats are surprisingly comfy, and (the smallish) central touchscreen includes a rear camera and Apple CarPlay/Android Apple connectivity nowadays, but both the GWM and Isuzu are significantly wider and roomier front and back.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Another downside is its pesky six-monthly service intervals, which are half that of most of its other rivals.

Still, as the thousands of ancient high-mileage examples still in service prove, the HiLux is a sound investment, promising ease, reliability, durability and strong resale.

For many people seeking a 4x2 dual-cab with five seats and a low load area for easy access, there is no other ute quite like it.

4-cylinder petrol

Transmission 6-speed automatic

Power 122kW@ 5200rpm

Torque 245Nm @ 4000rpm

Kerb weight 1755kg

Power-to-weight ratio 70kW/tonne

Average fuel consumption 10.4L/100km

CO2 241g/km

Fuel tank 80L

Warranty 5-year/unlimited kilometres

Service interval 6 months/10,000km

Turning circle 11.8 metres

Length/width/height/wheelbase 5325/1800/1865/3085mm

Ground clearance 174mm

Towing capacity braked/unbraked 2500/750kg

Payload 1035kg

Gross Vehicle Mass

ANCAP rating (out of 5)

D-Max –what’s next?

There’s plenty coming up. The 2024 D-Max facelift brings a minor nose job and interior update, but the big news are the coming hybrid and EV versions, expected to debut in the coming months. Keep an eye out.

Isuzu D-Max SX Crew Cab Ute 1.9L Hi Ride auto from $42,200

It may come as a surprise to some that the Isuzu D-Max is actually the second bestselling 4x2 ute in Australia after the HiLux, meaning it’s ahead of the Ranger.

With good reason too. Big, handsome proportions, a spacious interior, plenty of safety equipment – indeed, the sixth-generation Isuzu ute (along with its popular Mazda BT-50 twin) were leaders in standardising key driver-assist safety systems back in 2020 –and a hard-won reputation for ruggedness make this Thai-made contender an enduring favourite.

The D-Max’s interior packaging and presentation ably walk the fine line between car-like comfort and no-nonsense practicality –from the stylish dash design and layout to supportive seating and thoughtful ergonomics that helps ensure most users will find it all intuitive to operate. All the important stuff is included.

Even the Isuzu’s 1.9-litre four-pot turbo-diesel isn’t the letdown its comparatively small capacity suggests. While some extra throttle is required to produce its best performance, the engine is fairly smooth and quite eager on the move. Except when towing something substantial like a heavy trailer, most drivers will struggle to

pick it apart from the stronger but more-expensive 3.0-litre alternative. And another bonus is relatively low fuel consumption.

In this company, the high-riding Isuzu is also the most pleasant from behind the wheel. The steering is not sharpest, with a somewhat vague on-centre feel, but it is light and direct. Similarly, while nobody would actually call the suspension plush, it is the smoothest of the trio.

Finally, as with the others here, there isn’t much to the load area other

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

than a few tie hooks and a weighty tailgate for an impromptu workout, but there is always the vast accessories catalogue that owners can raid to dress their truck up.

Of course, the D-Max is substantially more expensive than the Cannon, but it does also bring over half-acentury’s experience to the table, in a properly modern, chunky-looking and fine-driving dual-cab ute.

The Isuzu’s popularity is understandable – and welldeserved.

Isuzu D-Max SX Crew Cab Ute 1.9L from $42,200

Engine

1.9-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel

Transmission 6-speed automatic

Power 110kW@ 3600rpm

Torque 350Nm @ 1800-2600rpm

Kerb weight 1865kg

Power-to-weight ratio 59kW/tonne

Average fuel consumption 6.7L/100km

CO2 177g/km

Fuel tank 76L

Warranty 6-year/unlimited kilometres

Service interval 12 months/15,000km

Turning circle 12.5 metres

Length/width/height/wheelbase 5270/1870/1785/3125mm

Ground clearance 253mm

Towing capacity braked/unbraked 3000/750kg

Payload 1135kg

Gross Vehicle Mass 3000kg

ANCAP rating (out of 5)

Towing tips Understand the terms

Towing is a national pastime in Australia and plumbers are no exception when it comes to hitching up the work trailer, caravan, camper or boat. Master Plumbers CEO Peter Daly explains the ins and outs of towing in a two-part series, starting with some helpful definitions.

Modern utes and full-size 4WDs have the power and torque to pull the heaviest loads comfortably compared with their earlier brethren, but this comparative ease of towing can hide some dangerous and costly traps.

This edition of Australian Plumbing magazine defines the terms. Think of this as a go-to list if you have any concerns about the weight you are about to tow or if you are in the market for a new workhorse.

DEFINITIONS

GVM Gross Vehicle Mass is the total permissible weight of the vehicle fully loaded, including any weight on the tow ball.

GCM Gross Combination Mass is the total permissible combined weight of the vehicle and what it’s towing, both fully loaded.

ATM Aggregate Trailer Mass is the weight of the fully loaded trailer/ caravan and everything in it or on it, measured when uncoupled from the tow vehicle.

GTM Gross Trailer Mass is the weight of the fully loaded trailer/caravan when connected to the tow vehicle.

Tow Ball Mass (load) The vertical weight exerted on the vehicle’s tow ball by the fully loaded trailer/caravan. When connected, this weight counts towards your vehicle’s GVM.

Tare Mass For the towing vehicle is the weight of the empty vehicle with all its fluids (oils, coolant, etc.) plus a nominal amount of fuel (often 10 litres). For the trailer or caravan is the mass as specified by the manufacturer with no payload.

Payload Any mass you add to the vehicle or trailer/caravan’s Tare Mass, including all passengers, luggage, accessories or additional gear

(e.g. bull bar, drawers, toolboxes, gas bottles, etc.)

Towing capacity The maximum allowable weight you can tow with your vehicle. This is 750kg for an unbraked trailer (i.e. one which relies on the brakes of the towing vehicle like a 6b4 trailer) and for trailers/ caravans with their own brakes is set by the vehicle manufacturer (often in the range of 2000-3500kg but can be as high as 4500kg for very large utes).

Kerb weight The weight of the fully-fueled vehicle, without accessories, passengers or luggage.

In part two of our towing series, Peter goes into detail about how weight is measured, providing helpful examples to ensure you are not creating a danger for yourselves or others. Keep Part 1 handy as it will act as a quick, general reminder of what to look out for.

Gadgets to go Keeping warm this winter

As winter sets in, the cold lunches start to lose appeal but never fear, Master Plumbers Curtis de la Harpe is here with a list of gadgets to help.

Makita has recently released a battery powered microwave.

I have not had a chance to review it yet, hopefully will in a future issue.

Coffee

Ditch the cup of instant; upgrade to a top-notch coffee without the fuss. You’ve probably seen someone use an AeroPress (the weird, giant-syringe-looking device that sits on top of a mug). It may look complicated, but after the first use you will see it is easy to use and clean. Taking about 30 seconds to prepare, plus a minute or two for the coffee to brew in it, this portable plunger will turn pre-ground beans into a coffee that rivals your local café.

Warm lunch

Several years ago, every 4wd-er in Australia seemed to add this small silver box to their setup. It is the Travel Buddy, a 12v oven that allows you to cook up meals on the go. They are Australian made and are recommended for those with a dual-battery setup. You can still use them off your starter battery, but I would recommend having the engine running. There are cheaper brands on the market but for the $20-ish difference, Travel Buddy is the best option for the warranty and the customer service.

Boiling water

Toss out that crusty old plastic kettle (and do not look inside it!). Get yourself a JetBoil Flash. Powered by a little butane cylinder, these jet stoves can boil a litre of water in less than a minute, are easy to use, and pack down into itself so they take up no space. Over the years I have used mine for much more than just boiling water. For instance, they are an excellent instant 2-minute noodle cooker when camping. As the JetBoil brand has been around for years, there is a myriad of accessories that can turn this stove into a full cooking system.

Help!

The Suburban by Metters. A Gas oven with top plate burners.

Restoration needed

Master Plumbers Heritage Collection has been a labour of love for Peter Jensen, Curator, for many years. He has lovingly catalogued, captured and cleaned items to ensure the collections providence and future potential.

Right now though, Peter is calling for some help. In this winter edition, Peter has curated a showcase of appliances, some of which he needs your help to restore or if you can

If you can help, please contact him at jensenpeterk@gmail.com or call 0451 744 336

With your help, Peter plans to get all of these pieces on static display.

Instantaneous water heater by Metters: partly restored. This heater was mounted on the wall over a sink or basin. An open-ended system that had to be lit and operated while the water was running through the heat exchange. Temperature was controlled with the flow through the stop tap.

Gas heater by Radiant – Beam Fires, 1935. This item is missing the burner candle/mantels.

Bench top cooker by Metters No 9. This has a griller but is missing parts.

Metropolitan Gas Company handbook, from the Swinburne collection. The handbook features many of these appliances.

Product news

Beyond Plumbing allows plumbers to source all the spare parts they need

Designed for bathroom basins to give you back your vanity space

Abey’s McAlpine Self-Closing Waterless Trap

Since 1902, McAlpine have been innovating. It was the first company to manufacture plastic traps in 1957.

Abey Australia is the proud distributor of McAlpine’s products and launches the new MacValve Self-Closing Waterless Trap. This space saver has been designed for bathroom basins to give you back your 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.

The valve allows air to be drawn into the discharge water pipe when negative pressures occur and eliminate the need of secondary ventilation to the discharge pipework. This allows for greater flexibility in the plumbing design. The internal membrane opens under water pressure to allow discharge to flow freely and then closes to form a seal to prevent foul gasses entering.

Think Aussie Pumps at tax time

Aussie Pumps are alerting Plumbers to the Government’s Instant Asset Write-off, which finishes on 30th June 2024. Aussie Pumps is urging plumbers to consult with their tax agent to determine eligibility. Small businesses with a turnover of less than $10 million can instantly write off assets bought this financial year worth individually up to $20,000.

Now is the time to upgrade your old Jetter or replace your Eel with the

The membrane water seal will never dry out as it is a sealed appliance.

For more information, visit www.abey. com.au or call 03 8696 4000

best Jetters in the world, even better Aussie is having a Jetter sale! Aussie Pumps has been able to double Jetter production since moving to their new facility in Norwest. This has led to increases in efficiency, which enables a cut in price. The Honda powered Jetters are compact, reliable and will clear the average choke in less than 20 minutes. A great investment, these Jetters pay for themselves from a few jobs and last for years. Buy at a great price before the tax year ends. For more information, visit aussiepumps.com.au or call 02 8865 3500

Caroma’s genuine spares delivered to you

Have you ever had issues sourcing Caroma genuine spares locally?

Beyond Plumbing Supplies has partnered with Caroma to offer a nationwide option for plumbers to source all the spare parts they need. We service all over Australia with free delivery for purchases over $200. Melbourne customers enjoy the benefits of same-day delivery.

If you need any Caroma spares, please check out our website listed below. Simply register for pricing. Please note: Caroma genuine spares are not limited to active items on our website.

For more information visit: www.beyondplumbingsupplies. com/caroma-genuine-spares

from around the nation Approvals

6.0% 4.0%

Victoria

3.2% 1.1%

Queensland South Australia

Australian Bureau of Statistics (May 2024)

Rheem’s AmbiPower 280e is the latest heat pump to hit the market

The AmbiPower® 280e is the latest heat pump offering from Rheem. With an ultra-low GWP (Global Warming Potential), R290 refrigerant and 280-litre capacity, the AmbiPower 280e is a great replacement option for an electric water heater. It features:

• A high Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 5.2*.

• Advanced wrap around microchannel heating technology for uniform and faster water heating.

• An operating range from -6°C to +43°C, making it suitable for cold climates.

• Enamel lined water tank and durable coated outer shell, reduces the risk of corrosion.

• Side fan design for maximum airflow and protection from the rain.

• LED touchscreen controller provides optimum visibility, performance information user-friendly operation and with timer function.

• Manufactured in Australia.

Visit www.rheem.com.au/ heat-pumps for more details on the new AmbiPower 280e from Rheem.