Master Plumber Magazine - 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.

2023 is set to be a year of growth for the trade industry and trade businesses need partners they can rely on. Plumbing Plus members are here to help you get the job done.

Editor’s Note

Welcome to the Autumn edition of the Master Plumber Magazine!

We are excited to present the first edition of our magazine for 2023. This year promises to be an exciting and busy one, and we are thrilled to be here to bring you the latest news and insights from our industry.

In this edition, we are excited to feature a member spotlight. We believe that it is essential to showcase the incredible work being done by our members, who are at the forefront of our industry. This edition’s spotlight focuses on 2Brothers Plumbing & Gas, which is a family-owned business based in Brisbane. Check out their feature on pages 22-23. If you would like to share your business’s story or a project you’ve worked on, please email advertising@mpaq.com.au.

In addition to our member feature, we are pleased to announce the launch of MPAQ Safety, our latest initiative aimed at promoting safety and best practices in the workplace. We recognise that safety is of utmost importance in our industry, and we are committed to providing our members with the resources they need to ensure a safe and healthy workplace. Find out more on pages 12-15.

As always, this edition also includes updates on important industry news and the latest developments in regulations and policies that impact your

business. Go to pages 7-10 to read about the Plumbing and Drainage and Other Legislation Amendment Regulation 2022, Form 4 plumbing certifications, and the responsibilities of being a nominee supervisor. Meanwhile, pages 18-19 cover some of the recent and upcoming employment legislation amendments and page 20 summarises phase two of the single touch payroll roll out.

I hope that this edition will inform and inspire you as we move forward into this year. We are committed to bringing you the latest news and insights from our industry and providing you with the resources you need to succeed.

Congratulations to all members reaching milestones in this edition, and a warm welcome to our newest members. Happy Reading!

Ashleigh

MPAQ COUNCIL

PRESIDENT

Kent Vickers P : 0418 883 999 E: kvickers@qigs.com.au

VICE PRE SIDENTS

Patrick Robertson P: 07 3276 8833 E: info@rpgs.com.au

Michael Ryan P: 07 3630 4744 E: mryan@beavisbartels.com.au

PAST PRESIDENT

Kelvin Slade P: 0417 787 284 E: sales@sladebrosplumbing.com.au

TREAS UR ER

John Salmon P: 07 3862 2777 E: john@salmonplumbing.com.au

COUNCILL ORS

Dennis Yarrow P: 07 3277 5742 E: admin@yarrowplumbing.com.au

Harle Gall P: 0437 768 409 E: h.gall@laserplumbing.com.au

EXTERNAL C OUNCILLORS

Melissa Millar P: 07 3822 2422 E: info@millarsplumbing.com

Mark Denning P: 0400 305 361 E: mark.denning@fallonservices.com

Bill Watson AM P: 07 3273 2333 E: bill@connectorsgroup.com.au

Bob Kimlin M: 0419 744 383 E: bobbailey6@outlook.com

LIFE MEMBERS

G Cottee, F Huysing, MJ Moor, T Morris, J Porter, NF Sharman, BD Wallace, WB Watson AM, R Kimlin, R Weaver

MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEMBERS

A Chapman, T Morris, D Powell, B Wallace, R Weaver, M Wilshere, D Nunn, J Ritchie, K Slade, R Walker, A Jackson, R Roser

DISCLAIMER

Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the MPAQ, nor does the MPAQ guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers or accepts responsibility for statements they may express in this publication. The MPAQ does not accept liability to advertisers, which may be held contrary to the Trade Practices Act 1974. The MPAQ reserves the right to refuse, cancel, amend or suspend any advertisements or inserts without reason.

Welcome to the first issue for 2023, I hope the year has started well for you and your business.

As an association, we are always looking for ways to make things better for our members and, in turn, the industry more broadly. Last month we sent out a survey to request your feedback as we prepare to set our strategic plan for the next three years.

Thank you so much to everyone who completed the survey we really value the feedback we received.

Strategic planning is a process of defining our Association’s direction and making decisions on allocating its resources to pursue this direction. It is a critical activity for any organisation, regardless of its size or industry, as it helps to create a roadmap for achieving longterm goals and objectives.

It helps to clarify an Association’s purpose, values, and mission. By aligning organisational goals and resources, strategic planning increases an organisation’s overall effectiveness and efficiency, allowing it to better utilise resources and achieve its objectives.

Strategic planning helps organisations to anticipate and prepare for changes in the market, competition, and other external factors, enabling them to take a proactive approach to adapt to changes. It also involves collaboration and coordination across different departments and stakeholders, which enhances communication and coordination.

We look forward to sharing the results and outcomes from our strategic planning session.

MPAQ is thrilled to announce the launch of MPAQ Safety, a cloud based workplace health and safety management system designed to provide members with a clear, quick, compliant system to manage WHS in their business.

MPAQ understands the complexity of managing WHS obligations, which is an ongoing frustration for small businesses, especially in hazardous industries like plumbing and construction where risks are more pronounced and there are greater safety obligations on employers.

MPAQ Safety is included in the cost of your MPAQ Contracting membership, meaning there are no additional costs for you to create an account! To register for the system please visit our website www.mpaq.com.au/services/mpaq-safety

To contact me please call 07 3273 0800 or email penny.cornah@mpaq.com.au.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

It seems a little redundant to welcome you back to a new year in March, but here we are. With Christmas a distant memory and everyone well entrenched into the new year, most of us would have our goals set and strategies in place for the next 12 months.

The last 48 months have been some of the most prosperous for our trades in Queensland history. It would be naive to think this golden run can never end. The boom experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic is close to the end and the economic squeeze through the cost-of-living raises is certain to have an effect on the disposable income in the family budget. The status quo is set to be here for a while until the market steadies.

The experts are indicating a significant slowing of the new domestic construction, and the approvals for large developments are also anticipated to drop. The result of this downturn is less new work for our trades.

History would indicate that when the volume of work drops, the tendency is to start reducing the price in an attempt to keep busy. This strategy is not sustainable and will quickly turn a profitable and successful business into a floundering, unsustainable entity. It is an unfortunate fact of life that the fixed costs and outgoings of a business rarely ever decrease, and it is essential to maintain your markup and margin even when the volume of work has relaxed.

Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland has developed a Charge Out Rate Calculator to document the fixed expenses and outgoing costs that a plumbing business experiences in a 12-month period. It is an especially useful tool to check if your business is covering its costs and making the desired margin on its trading expectations. The charge out rate calculator is a musthave tool for all trade businesses that are starting out and are unsure what they need to be charging to make their business profitable. To receive a copy of the Charge Out Rate Calculator, contact the MPAQ office at info@mpaq.com.au or visit www.mpaq.com.au.

As the construction industry settles down and returns to some sort of normalcy, the ugly reality of mental health is sure to rear its head. Suicide in the construction industry continues to be at an unacceptable level. In order to make a change, it is something we all need to understand and embrace. Plumbers are a major player in the Queensland construction industry, and we need to stand together with the other industry associations and advocate for a better outcome than we are achieving at the moment. One death from suicide in our industry is one too many. The MPAQ events team has another busy calendar this year and I will attend as many events as possible. If you see me out and about, please feel free to say hello.

Penny Cornah, Executive Director

Life’s good!

Kent Vickers, President

COURT ORDERS $2 MILLION FINE UNDER WATER EFFICIENCY LABELLING AND STANDARDS SCHEME

On 9 December 2022, the Federal Court of Australia handed down the judgment in the first civil penalty case under the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards Act 2005.

The Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme (WELS) regulates water efficiency standards for products such as taps, showers, toilets, dishwashers, and washing machines. Registration and labelling, including star ratings, enable consumers to make informed choices about the water efficiency of the products they are buying.

The Court ordered Perth-based companies Renaissance Bathrooms, Traditional Taps, Castironbaths, and Belfast Sinks, along with the sole director of all four companies, Mr Andrew Shaw, to pay a total of $2.195 million for supplying tap, shower, and lavatory products that were not registered or labelled as required by the WELS Act.

Of that total, a sum of $200,000 was awarded against Mr Shaw personally for being “knowingly concerned” in the contraventions of two of his companies.

Renaissance Bathrooms advertised, and Belfast Sinks sold, unregistered products, or registered products without labelling.

Mr Shaw admitted to permitting this conduct by his companies even though he knew that products were required to be labelled, in accordance with the WELS Act prior to advertising or sale.

NEW STANDARDS

The National Construction Code (NCC) is a performancebased code that sets out the requirements for the construction of buildings, including plumbing and drainage.

The new NCC 2022 will come into force on 1 May 2023, this includes the PCA 2022 (Plumbing Code of Australia).

The new PCA will also activate the use of various new plumbing standard versions, including AS/NZS 3500:2021, which also calls up AS/NZS 2845.3:2020 (Water supply – Backflow prevention devices Part 3: Field testing and maintenance of testable devices).

All work approved or performed from 1 May will fall under the new requirements.

For the NCC webinar series visit: https://ncc.abcb.gov.au/news/2023/ registration-open-ncc-2022-webinar-series

To access the NCC visit: https://ncc.abcb.gov.au.

The Court issued injunctions against Mr Shaw and the two companies to prevent them from supplying non-compliant products for five years.

The Court also found that Mr Shaw’s two other companies, which are now insolvent, had contravened requirements of the WELS Act.

Over the last 17 years, the WELS scheme has helped consumers choose water efficient products while also driving innovation.

PLUMBING AND DRAINAGE AND OTHER LEGISLATION AMENDMENT REGULATION 2022

The Building and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2022 (the Act) commenced on 10 June 2022.

The Act reflects a commitment to the Queensland Building Plan, which seeks to modernise Queensland’s building and construction legislation and ensures the regulatory framework continues to meet consumer and industry expectations.

To support the amendments in the Act, the Regulation makes a range of consequential amendments to the Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2019 and State Penalties Enforcement Regulation 2014.

Key amendments in the Regulation include:

• allowing a new use and standard for greywater for use in air-conditioning cooling towers;

• enabling local governments to issue permits for recycled greywater in air-conditioning cooling tower treatment plants, and for a holding tank to be installed for a temporary period;

• requiring an application for a cooling tower treatment plant to include a greywater management plan;

• re-introducing penalty infringement notices for contravening enforcement notices offences under section 147(1) of the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018; and

• refining terminology in the Regulation to reflect current uses.

The amendments commenced on 2 December 2022.

For more information, visit www.legislation.qld.gov.au/view/html/asmade/sl-2022-0171.

Article Source: Business Queensland – Building and Plumbing Newsflash 611

Sky Deck to Take CBD and Economy to New Heights

February’s first look from the jewel of Queen’s Wharf Brisbane is set to send interest soaring in the $3.6 billion precinct that will unlock a wealth of economic opportunities for Queensland.

The Sky Deck is poised to become a tourist magnet as the centrepiece of the world-class Queen’s Wharf Brisbane development taking shape in the heart of the Brisbane CBD.

The massive Queen’s Wharf Brisbane project is delivering 2,000 jobs during peak construction and 8,000 jobs in total including through the supply chain and hospitality once open.

The Sky Deck will include a restaurant, bar, and events space. There will also be a glass floor viewing platform at the mid-way mark.

Work is powering ahead on site, with the Sky Deck’s second bridge soon to be lifted into place.

Once open, it will offer a vantage point 100 metres above the Brisbane River for up to 1,500 people to enjoy stunning views of the city year-round.

The Queen’s Wharf Brisbane redevelopment area is state-owned land located between the Brisbane River and George Street and between Alice and Queen streets.

Covering more than 12 hectares of CBD land, the area will feature about 50 new bars, cafes and restaurants, a casino, four world-class hotels, luxury retailers, about 1,500 residential apartments, repurposed heritage buildings, green spaces, and the Neville Bonner Bridge.

The development is expected to open in late 2023.

In February, the Palaszczuk Government unveiled plans to expand the Woolloongabba Priority Development Area (PDA) connecting the new Stadium, Cross River Rail, and the Brisbane Metro with a walkable connection to South Bank and Brisbane CBD via Brisbane City Council’s new green bridge.

& GAS

Artist’s impression. View from Sky Deck looking west

COURSE IN ISSUING DEVELOPMENT PERMITS FOR BUILDING WORKS

The Queensland Private Building Certifier Course (PBC Course) will replace the course in Issuing Development Permits for Building Works, prescribed under section 163(2) of the Building Act 1975 and section 84(4) of the Building Regulation 2021.

Background

To become a private building certifier (class A) an individual must receive development approval endorsement by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) on their certifier licence.

Under section 163(2) of the Building Act 1975 and section 84(4) of the Building Regulation 2021, a development approval endorsement application may be made only if the applicant has satisfactorily completed the course in Issuing Development Permits for Building works conducted by Mackee and Associates Pty Ltd, trading as AssentTECS.

AssentTECS no longer delivers the course. In 2022, the department undertook a review of the course and a tender process to select a new delivery provider.

CPD Training Pty Ltd, trading as the College of Professional Development was selected as the successful new delivery provider following a competitive tender process.

The department is currently working with the College of Professional Development to update the course, which is expected to be available from June 2023.

The department is also progressing with amendments to the Building Regulation 2021 to replace the name of the course with the Queensland Private Building Certifier Course and the name of the provider to the College of Professional Development.

The New Course

The PBC Course is expected to be delivered using a blended learning model, which involves a combination of:

• online learning, which is completed at the participant’s own pace

• real time facilitated learning, through either a one-day faceto-face training session in a classroom or two three-hour webinar training sessions held on separate days.

Participants will be required to complete various assessment tasks before being issued a certificate of completion.

As the course is still in development, the course material is not yet available. The online component of the course is expected to be available from June 2023, with the first of the face-to-face and webinar sessions offered soon after.

For more information about the course, please contact the College of Professional Development on 02 9570 5141 or email info@cpdtraining.com.au.

Article Source: Business Queensland – Building and Plumbing Newsflash 613

CHEMICAL DISPENSERS

One of the most common questions posed to the Backflow Prevention Association of Australia (BPAA) is with appliances that have WaterMark approval as a low hazard and still require a high or medium hazard backflow preventor installed upstream.

Unfortunately, the plumbing laws, standards, and codes do not discriminate between manufacturers or products but are universal and apply to all. Litigation is just one of the issues with appliances having to mix chemicals with the drinking water supply but of more importance to the community is the potential to contaminate the water supply and the impact on humans and the community from the contamination whether in the short or long term. Whilst most appliances must obtain WaterMark approval, this does not allow appliances to be installed without further protection to comply with the deemed to satisfy provisions of the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA). The installation of chemical proportioning dispensers, dishwashers, and glass washers are one of the most common appliances questioned regarding the correct backflow protection.

For example, these types of appliances require WaterMark Certification to WaterMark Technical Standard (WMTS) WMTS-101:2021 Appliances (low hazard rating), this WMTS sets out minimum product requirements for the connection of appliances to the water service, the WMTS is a WaterMark Scheme and not an installation compliance scheme.

Section 8.2 of this WMTS-101:2021

8.2 Backflow prevention Appliances shall—

a. comply with the backflow prevention requirements of IEC 61770; or

b. comply with the back siphonage test of AS 2845.2:1996; or

NOTE: 8.2(b) can only be used for testing where the appliance incorporates an air gap or a break tank incorporating an air-gap.

c. be supplied with a backflow prevention device complying with AS/NZS 2845.1 and of a type required in AS/NZS 3500.1.

Where backflow prevention devices are required to be installed external to the appliance or apparatus, the devices shall be supplied with the appliance and include appropriate installation instructions.

Once an appliance has been certified by a Certification Assessment Body (CAB), the CAB will need to nominate on the WaterMark Approval how the appliance was assessed as per section 8.2 of the WMTS. This can be found on the Australian Building Codes Board website: watermark.abcb.gov.au.

The BPAA is committed to maintaining a safe drinking water supply through effective management strategies and education which include prevention of contaminants entering the drinking water supply.

Written by Stephen Jennison, Secretary of the Backflow Prevention Association of Australia

RESPONSIBILITIES OF BEING A NOMINEE SUPERVISOR

In Queensland, businesses and companies appoint a nominee supervisor to serve as a supervisor within the organisation. Usually, in a small business, the nominee is also the owner of the business, but in larger companies, there can be multiple nominees overseeing various departments of the organisation. Some examples of this are:

• A nominee for a different licence variant of the trade not held by the contractor (i.e. nominee for gasfitting when the contractor holds plumbing and drainage only).

• The business owner does not hold a trade occupational licence. They must assign a nominee for the work the business is contracting in.

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act (QBCCA) S30A states:

30 A Nominee supervisor’s licence

(1) A licence (a nominee supervisor’s licence) may be issued authorising an individual—

(a) if the individual is the nominee for a licensed contractor that is a company, to—

(i) provide supervisory services for building work carried out under the company’s licence; and

(ii) perform the functions required of a nominee under this Act; or

(b) if the individual is an officer or employee of a company, other than the company’s nominee—to personally supervise building work carried out under the company’s licence.

(2) An individual who holds a nominee supervisor’s licence and who is the employee of a licensed contractor that is an individual may personally supervise building work carried out under the contractor’s licence.

(3) Nominee supervisors’ licences are to be divided into classes by regulation—

(a) according to whether the licence relates to all classes of building work or is limited to a specified class or specified classes of building work; and

(b) if the licence is limited to a specified class, or specified classes, of building work—according to the class or classes of building work to which it relates.

(4) A nominee supervisor’s licence may be issued for any class of licence.

Licensees may also be asked to become a nominee for companies they do not work in every day. The nominee for a company is directly responsible for “providing supervisory services for building work carried out under the company’s licence”; however, how is this possible if you are not present to direct and supervise the people performing the works?

As the nominated supervisor, you are responsible for the supervision and oversight of the plumbing work that takes place within the business and any breach of the relevant laws and regulations. This means that should any breach

occur, you could be personally liable and be held accountable for the breach. Furthermore, there is a risk that the work carried out is not compliant with relevant laws and regulations.

Some Risks Associated with Being a Nominee Supervisor

1. Legal Liability

If a licensed plumber is found to be in violation of any laws or regulations, you, as the nominee supervisor, could be held liable for any damages or penalties. This could include fines, legal fees, and even criminal charges. If you’re working with multiple companies, this risk is compounded, as you’ll have to ensure that each company is following all relevant laws and regulations.

To mitigate this risk, it’s essential to stay up to date on all laws and regulations that apply to the business. You should also ensure that each licensed plumber you work with is following all relevant laws and regulations and take immediate action if you discover any violations. This could include stopping work on the project.

2.

Reputational Damage

This is particularly a risk if you’re working with multiple companies. If a licensee’s work is of poor quality or if they engage in unethical or illegal practices, it could reflect poorly on you as the nominee supervisor. This could damage your professional reputation and make it difficult for you to secure future work in the building industry.

To mitigate this risk, it’s essential to ensure that each licensed plumber is producing high-quality work and following ethical and legal practices. You should conduct regular site visits to inspect the quality of the work being done and address any issues immediately.

3. Personal Safety

This is a significant risk if you’re working with multiple companies. Building sites can be dangerous places and accidents can happen at any time. As the nominee supervisor, you’re responsible for ensuring that each site is safe for all workers and visitors.

To mitigate this risk, it’s essential to conduct regular safety inspections and ensure that all workers are trained in proper safety protocols. You should also have a written agreement in place with each licensed builder that outlines the safety responsibilities and liabilities of each party involved in the project.

If you’re an MPAQ member and have more questions about the role and responsibilities of a nominee supervisor, you can call our technical team on 07 3273 0800.

WHAT CAN AN APPRENTICE DO ON SITE?

We all know that under Queensland legislation, plumbing and drainage apprentices require direct supervision, provided by a tradesperson, writes

Ernie Kretschmer, MPAQ Technical Services Manager.

The industry is currently experiencing an increase in employers sending out an apprentice on their own to perform regulated work without supervision, usually because they are seen as being cheaper than a qualified tradesperson.

Unfortunately, what employers and apprentices do not realise is that this practice is not just something that shouldn’t be done, not fair on the paying customer, and potentially dangerous to health and safety of the apprentice and the community; it is also illegal with the potential to attract large fines or jail time for employers/supervisors.

As an example, a third-year apprentice is provided with a work vehicle and mobile phone and told they are on call during the weekend. Over the course of the weekend, they might unblock four drains and replace a water heater and two kitchen mixer taps, all without the required supervision of a licensed tradesperson. In this hypothetical example, the employer and/or supervisor is guilty of contravening the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018 and can potentially be fined for seven offences as listed in the clauses below.

Apprentices require direct supervision—this means a licensed person is there on site with them, directly supervising them. This does not mean you have to stand over the apprentice 24/7 but you must be with them to provide guidance and support. For example, an apprentice could be performing work in the bathroom while the tradesperson works in the kitchen. It would not mean the apprentice works on floor one whilst the tradesperson works on floor seven.

It’s a far cry from the entire plumbing fraternity but certain businesses in our industry need to realise that apprentices are not cheap labour but the future of the industry who require mentoring, guidance, instruction, and supervision from their peers.

The Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018 states:

56 Carrying out work without appropriate licence

1. Subject to section 58, a person must not carry out plumbing or drainage work unless the person holds a licence for the work.

Maximum penalty—

a. for a first offence—250 penalty units; or

b. for a second offence—300 penalty units; or

c. for a third or later offence, or if the plumbing or drainage work is grossly defective work—350 penalty units or 1 year’s imprisonment.

Note— A person may be required to hold a contractor’s licence under the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 in addition to a licence under this Act to lawfully carry out particular plumbing or drainage work. See section 42 of the Act.

2. An individual who contravenes subsection (1) and is liable to a maximum penalty of 350 penalty units or one year’s imprisonment commits a crime. That’s a maximum penalty of 300 penalty units. One penalty unit = $137.85. 300 penalty units = $41,355.00 maximum per offence for the employer directing an apprentice to perform work for which a licence is required (or one year in jail).

57 Supervising or directing work without appropriate licence

1. Subject to section 58, a person (a supervisor) must not supervise another person carrying out plumbing or drainage work unless the supervisor holds a licence for the work.

Maximum penalty—

a. for a first offence—250 penalty units; or

b. for a second offence—300 penalty units; or

c. for a third or later offence, or if the plumbing or drainage work is grossly defective work—350 penalty units or one year’s imprisonment.

2. Subject to section 58, a licensee must not supervise another person carrying out plumbing or drainage work unless the other person holds a licence for the work.

Maximum penalty—

a. for a first offence—250 penalty units; or

b. for a second offence—300 penalty units; or

c. for a third or later offence, or if the plumbing or drainage work is grossly defective work—350 penalty units or one year’s imprisonment.

3. Subject to section 58, a licensee must not direct another person to carry out plumbing or drainage work unless the other person holds a licence for the work.

Maximum penalty—

a. for a first offence—250 penalty units; or

b. for a second offence—300 penalty units; or

c. for a third or later offence, or if the plumbing or drainage work is grossly defective work—350 penalty units or one year’s imprisonment.

4. For subsections (1) and (2), a person (a consumer) is taken not to supervise another person carrying out plumbing or drainage work only because the consumer entered into a contract for carrying out the plumbing or drainage work, other than a contract of employment.

5. An individual who contravenes subsection (1), (2) or (3) and is liable to a maximum penalty of 350 penalty units or one year’s imprisonment commits a crime.

If you have any questions, please contact the MPAQ Technical team on 07 3273 0800.

Article written by Ernie Kretschmer, MPAQ Deputy Executive Director. This is a reprint from the Spring 2021 edition of Master Plumber.

health and safety (WHS) management system designed to provide MPAQ members with a clear, quick and compliant system to manage WHS in their businesses.

health and safety (WHS) management system designed to provide a clear, quick, and compliant system to manage WHS in their businesses.

Why MPAQ Safety?

Why MPAQ Safety?

The complexity of managing health and safety obligations is an ongoing frustration for small businesses, especially in hazardous industries like plumbing, drainage and gas fitting where risks are more pronounced and there are greater safety obligations on employers. Complying with Australia’s strict WHS laws is a must – failing to do so could mean huge penalties and in extreme cases, jail.

drainage, and gas fitting where risks are more pronounced and

To cut through this complexity, MPAQ is offering members a simple system to manage their health and safety obligations, particularly in relation to the creation of Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), which can be created in less than five minutes through the MPAQ Safety platform.

MPAQ Safety is NOW AVAILABLE

WHAT ARE THE MAIN BENEFITS OF MPAQ SAFETY?

The MPAQ Safety system is a one-stop shop for all your WHS needs:

SWMS builder functionality

Build compliant SWMS for each job at the touch of a button.

Online hazard and incident reporting

All employees can log WHS incidents, hazards, and risks in the MPAQ System.

Online WHS Registers and Repository

The MPAQ System contains a guided risk register, plant and equipment register, and hazardous chemicals register.

WHS resources and checklists

Access a range of compliant WHS templates such as policies and procedures inside the platform.

Legislative updates and education

Keep up to date with the ever-changing WHS landscape through MPAQ Safety updates and webinars.

WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO KNOW ABOUT MPAQ SAFETY?

MPAQ Safety – powered by HR Assured’s HRA Cloud – is a powerful cloud-based WHS management platform that uses automation, workflows, and checklists to guide MPAQ members through smart, legally compliant WHS processes.

It’ll save you time, make managing your employees easier, and help you get on with running and growing your business knowing that you’re following bestpractice WHS processes.

Also, inside the platform is a library of resources that include WHS checklists, workflows, templates, guides and fact sheets. These include step-by-step guides on how to handle a range of situations using best-practice and legally compliant processes, such as incident reporting, risk registers, consultation records, etc.

"I have only just started navigating and utilising MPAQ Safety but I am already so impressed with it. It seems to be the best and easiest portal to access WHS documents."

- David Cottrell, Accuplumb

WHS Systems for Plumbers and the Importance of a Compliant SWMS

Australia’s Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) laws and regulations are amongst the most complex and onerous anywhere in the world.

While there is good reason for this – keeping our people safe at work –getting and keeping compliant with your WHS responsibilities is not getting any easier.

WHS laws apply in the same way to employers ranging from the nation’s biggest contractors to plumbing sole traders, so having an underpinning system in place that small businesses can rely on to protect them from WHS penalties is critical.

For any trade business in Australia, the most fundamental component of such a system is the Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS).

Why Are SWMS so Important?

The WHS Act mandates that any person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) carrying out any high-risk work in connection with a construction project must:

• Ensure a SWMS is prepared before the proposed work starts.

• Ensure the high-risk work is carried out in accordance with the SWMS.

• Ensure that a copy of the SWMS is given to the principal contractor before the work begins.

• Ensure that a SWMS is reviewed and revised if necessary.

• Keep a copy of the SWMS until the high-risk construction work is completed.

Where a serious incident occurs onsite, if each of the above has not been complied with, the business is exposed to serious penalties from WorkSafe Queensland (now known officially as WorkSafe.qld.gov.au). ‘Template’ or ‘off-the-shelf’ SWMS are in most cases not compliant, and so do not provide the protection a business needs to demonstrate they should not be liable for incidents under the WHS Act.

It is critical that a business develops a SWMS per the specific high-risk activities it is faced with on a particular job. MPAQ has a brand-new SWMS builder tool perfect for creating compliant SWMS. Visit www.mpaq.com.au/ services/mpaq-safety to find out more.

So, What Goes in a SWMS?

A SWMS must:

• Identify the work as high-risk construction work.

• Specify hazards relating to the high-risk construction work and risks to health and safety associated with those hazards.

• Describe the measures to be implemented to control the risks.

• Describe how the control measures are to be implemented, monitored, and reviewed.

It is for this reason that template documents are often not compliant or are completely impractical – if a process has not been undertaken to identify all the high-risk work activities on the job, and controls are put in place to manage those activities safety, then the SWMS is not compliant.

MPAQ Safety’s SWMS builder tool takes all the headache out of this for you – all you need to do is answer simple yes and no questions about which high-risk construction activities will be performed on a site and the tool will auto populate and develop a compliant SWMS for you.

We will be taking members through other core elements of the WHS systems and how MPAQ Safety can assist you in developing yours in the coming months. Stay tuned. Visit www.mpaq.com.au/services/mpaq-safety to register for MPAQ Safety.

Managing Risks

As a business owner, manager, or employee, it’s important to understand the importance of managing risks in the workplace.

Risks can range from physical hazards to psychological risks and can result in injuries, illnesses, and even fatalities. By understanding the potential risks and taking proactive measures to mitigate them, you can create a safe and healthy work environment for all.

Identify Hazards

The first step in managing risks is to identify any hazards in the workplace. This includes any physical hazards such as machinery, chemicals, or equipment, as well as psychological risks such as stress or bullying. Conducting regular workplace inspections and consultations with employees can help identify any hazards that may have been overlooked.

Assess Risks

Once hazards have been identified, the next step is to assess the potential risks. This involves considering the likelihood of an incident occurring and the potential consequences. By conducting a risk assessment, you can prioritise risks and determine which hazards require immediate attention.

Control Risks

After assessing the risks, it’s important to take proactive measures to control them. This includes implementing control measures to eliminate or minimise potential risks. Control measures can range from physical barriers or personal protective equipment to implementing policies or training programs.

Review and Monitor

Managing risks is an ongoing process, and it’s important to continually review and monitor your risk management strategies. This includes conducting regular inspections, training employees, and seeking feedback from employees on the effectiveness of the control measures.

Benefits of Managing Risks

Managing risks can have numerous benefits for your business. By creating a safe and healthy work environment, you can reduce the likelihood of workplace incidents and injuries, which can result in a reduction in workers’ compensation claims and insurance premiums. Additionally, by promoting a culture of safety, you can improve employee morale and increase productivity.

Managing risks is an essential part of creating a safe and healthy work environment. By identifying hazards, assessing risks, implementing control measures, and reviewing and monitoring your risk management strategies, you can create a safer workplace and reduce the potential for workplace incidents and injuries. So, take the first step towards managing risks in your workplace today and promote a culture of safety and health for all.

For more information, visit www.worksafe.qld.gov.au.

Article reference: https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/safety-and-prevention/ creating-safe-work/managing-risks

MANAGING PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARDS AT WORK

Managing psychosocial hazards and risks at work is just as important as managing physical risks.

Psychosocial hazards can exist in every workplace, in every industry, every day.

The release of the Managing Psychosocial Hazards at Work Code of Practice 2022 (the Code) along with amendments to the Work Health and Safety Regulation, are important steps in keeping Queensland workplaces safe, healthy, and productive.

The new code and regulations will raise awareness of existing duties and provide clarity and certainty for duty holders about their obligations under the Act to ensure psychological health risks are eliminated or minimised.

The harm created by psychosocial hazards and risks varies, and the effects are not always obvious. It can be a single event involving one or more psychosocial risks, such as exposure to a traumatic event by an ambulance officer. It can be a combination of psychosocial risks that accumulate to create frequent, prolonged, or severe stress responses, such as organisational change with poor supervisor support and low role clarity.

Looking for practical resources to support your managers and leaders? Download the Mentally healthy workplaces toolkit for tools and resources that you can use to create and maintain a mentally healthy workplace.

The Code commences 1 April 2023. Visit www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/safety-and-prevention/mentalhealth/Psychosocial-hazards to find out more.

Need insurance?

Austbrokers Comsure – the specialist in trades insurance

As the specialist in trades insurance, Austbrokers Comsure has a suite of products to suit your needs across the broad spectrum of the construction and building repair & maintenance industries.

We’ve been the Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland’s partner for almost 15 years, so well qualified to review your risk and insurance exposures and provide a tailored program to suit your business’s needs.

Austbrokers Comsure’s dedicated team of insurance advisers can provide you with a complete insurance solution, including:

• Public & products liability

• Professional indemnity

• Business interruption

• Contractual liability

• Management liability

• Tools of trade/general property

• Commercial motor vehicles

• Contract works

• Commercial property

• Cyber liability

• Trade credit

• Tax audit

• Domestic

• Business packages

Austbrokers Comsure also provides risk management and superior claims management.

Contact Austbrokers Comsure today.

P 1800 122 194

E info@abcomsure.com.au

W www.abcomsure.com.au

NEW JETTER DELUXE

A new Jetter designed to improve efficiency and capability for plumbers has been released by Australian Pump Industries. Part of a complete new series called the Aussie King Cobra MKIII Deluxe, it features a range of important innovations!

“The MKIII Deluxe design is a result of feedback from plumbers using Jetters in a wide range of drain clearing applications,” said Aussie Pumps Chief Engineer, John Hales. “That information gave us the impetus to start a redesign program that brought our unique Cobra design into a new dimension of ergonomics, safety, and application efficiency.”

The new Deluxe series features a new ‘roll cage’ frame made from 20 mm stainless steel tube with ‘sweeping bends’ that minimises welded joints.

“The frame is stronger, with enhanced stress capabilities and a sculpted look that is stronger and stylish. We designed out any ‘sharps’ that could potentially impact on the operator’s safety,” said Hales.

The new King Cobra MKIII Deluxe Jetters offer not only 5,000 psi performance but optional builds of both Class A (16 lpm) and B (23 lpm) capability. All units are powered by Honda twin cylinder electric start petrol engines.

“We also built in stainless steel hose reels that match the stainless frame and improve the machine’s overall aesthetics. One thing is for sure, this frame and hose reel package will never be subject to corrosion,” he said.

The best news for plumbers is the machine is coming to the market at thousands of dollars below the price of other brands, providing not only the best quality for an Australian designed and built Jetter but also the very best package deals.

Further information is available from leading plumbing supply stores or online at www.aussiepumps.com.au.

Aussie Pump’s Niki Patel with the first big production run of Aussie’s Deluxe Jetters

NEW AMENDMENTS TO EMPLOYMENT LEGISLATION

7 DECEMBER 2022

PAY SECRECY CLAUSES TO BE REMOVED FROM EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS

The Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) now provides employees and future employees a new workplace right to:

a. share or not share information about:

• their pay; or

• their employment terms and conditions that would be required in order to work out their pay, such as their hours of work;

b. ask other employees (with the same or a different employer) about their:

• pay; and

• employment terms and conditions that would be required in order to work out their pay, such as their hours of work. Any contracts entered into prior to 7 December 2022 with existing pay secrecy or confidentiality relating to pay and conditions, will no longer have effect.

NEW PROTECTED ATTRIBUTES UNDER FAIR WORK ACT 2009 (CTH)

The protected attributes will be expanded to include:

• breastfeeding

• gender identity

• intersex status

This means an employee cannot be discriminated against or have adverse action taken against them (i.e. position terminated, not hiring someone), because of the protected attribute.

In December 2022, the new Secure Jobs, Better Pay bill was passed by the Government, which made significant amendments to the employment legislation – the Fair Work Act.

SUNSETTING ‘ZOMBIE AGREEMENT’

A ‘Zombie’ agreement is an Enterprise Agreement that was developed and approved prior to the introduction of the Fair Work Act 2009 (from 1 January 2010). This means any ‘zombie agreements’ have 12 months from this date to negotiate and seek approval through the Fair Work Commission, a new Enterprise Agreement. If this does not occur, the ‘zombie agreement’ will cease to be applicable.

6 FEBRUARY 2023

AUSTRALIAN BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION COMMISSION ABOLISHED

The ABCC will no longer exist and powers will be through Fair Work Ombudsman and Fair Work Commission.

1 FEBRUARY 2023

7 JANUARY 2023

JOB ADS CAN’T ADVERTISE RATES THAT ARE BELOW MINIMUM RATES

An employer who posts a job ad that displays wage rates less than minimum entitlements under the Fair Work Act 2009 or relevant Award or Enterprise Agreement, may face penalties up to $16,500.

If you’re an MPAQ member and have questions about what you need to do now, call the MPAQ HR team on 07 3273 0800.

FAMILY AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LEAVE COMMENCES FOR LARGE BUSINESSES

For employers with 15 or more employees, the new paid family and domestic violence leave type will be applicable. This provides employees with 10 days paid leave per annum.

6 MARCH 2023

PROHIBITION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN THE WORKPLACE

This amendment protects workers, prospective workers, and persons conducting or undertaking a business from sexual harassment. The Fair Work Commission will also be permitted to deal with disputes through conciliation or mediation which may progress through to settlement of disputes and make orders, including compensation (previously this was not within the powers of the Fair Work Commission).

7 DECEMBER 2023

TERMINATION OF ZOMBIE AGREEMENTS

A Zombie agreement that has not yet been terminated through Fair Work Commission, will automatically terminate unless a business has applied for and been granted an extension.

6 DECEMBER 2023

FIXED TERM CONTRACTS

Employers will no longer be able to employ an employee on a fixed term contract that:

• is for 2 or more years (including extensions)

• may be extended more than once, or

• is a new contract:

• that is for the same or a substantially similar role as previous contracts

• with substantial continuity of the employment relationship between the end of the previous contract and the new contract, and either:

• the total period of the contracts is 2 or more years,

• the new contract can be renewed or extended, or

• a previous contract was extended.

1 JULY 2023

MONETARY CAP FOR SMALL CLAIMS INCREASES

The monetary cap for recovering unpaid entitlements via the small claims process will increase from $20,000 to $100,000.

6 JUNE 2023

MULTI-EMPLOYER BARGAINING ACCESS

This means that employers within the same industry may be ‘roped into’ an Enterprise Agreement that they were not a party to during negotiations.

Types of Agreements that may apply:

• Single-Interest Bargaining

• Supported Bargaining

• Cooperative Bargaining

CHANGES TO EXTENDING UNPAID PARENTAL LEAVE

An employee can have 12 months unpaid parental leave and can request to extend for a further 12 months if they remain the primary carer of the child. A business could only refuse this extension on reasonable business grounds. The Fair Work Commission will have the power to hear grievances relating to this matter.

MORE EMPLOYEES ABLE TO ACCESS FLEXIBLE WORK ARRANGEMENTS

The right to request flexible working arrangements will also apply to:

• employees, or a member of their immediate family or household, experiencing family and domestic violence; and

• employees who are pregnant.

FAMILY AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE POLICY AND LEAVE ENTITLEMENT

There have been several amendments to the employment landscape at the start of 2023. One such amendment is the entitlement to paid family and domestic violence leave for all employees (including full-time, part-time, and casual employees).

THIS NEW ENTITLEMENT WILL BE AVAILABLE TO EMPLOYEES FROM:

Non-small business employers (employers with 15 or more employees)

Small business employers (employers with 14 or less employees)

1 February 2023

1 August 2023

An employee will be able to access the family and domestic violence leave type if they:

• experience family and domestic violence;

• need to do something to deal with the impact of that violence; and

• it is impractical to deal with that violence outside their ordinary hours of work.

Such examples may include:

• making arrangements for their safety and the safety of a close relative, such as a dependent child (including relocation);

• attending urgent court hearings; and

• accessing police services.

An employee does not have to use their other leave entitlements (such as personal/carer’s leave or annual leave) prior to accessing the family and domestic violence leave.

What Should Employers Be Doing? Payroll

Now is the time to prepare for this new leave entitlement and be setting up their payroll systems to account for this leave entitlement as the leave type will not be able to state ‘Family and Domestic Violence Leave’ as this could be a trigger for the perpetrator.

Policy

Additionally, businesses will need to develop and implement a family and domestic violence policy to their employees to outline what the entitlement is, what processes are required and what support services are available. MPAQ has developed an example policy for our contracting members who have employees.

MPAQ members who would like further information and access to an example of family and domestic violence policy, please contact our HR team on 07 3273 0800.

STP PHASE

2 IS HERE! ARE YOU READY?

Single Touch Payroll (STP) Phase 2 is up and running – you may find that you are being prompted in your accounting software to update your employees’ data – but what does that mean?

What is Phase 2?

The Australian Tax Office (ATO) has emphasised that the second stage of STP reporting is designed to reduce reporting requirements for different government agencies. The primary agency that STP Phase 2 has been designed for is Services Australia, which collects information regarding child support deductions and other caregiver and family tax benefits.

What’s Different?

Phase 2 doesn’t change the payments you need to report, but it does change how they need to be reported.

It is common throughout the building and construction sector for allowances to be rolled into a catch-all hourly rate. These amounts were traditionally reported to the ATO as wages, rather than being split between the allowance amounts and the salary and wage amounts.

Under Phase 2, the amounts you report won’t change, but the way in which they’re split will.

Example

Bob is employed by Wet Wet Wet Plumbing Pty Ltd under the Licensed Plumbing Award as a full-time employee. He uses a company vehicle to get to work and is required to use and maintain his own tools. Under his contract, he is paid $42/hr inclusive of all relevant allowances. On top of this, Bob is also paid a $10 weekly allowance for a gym membership.

Under Phase 2, allowances must now be reported separately. Under the Licensed Plumbing Award, Bob is paid the following allowances:

Under Phase 2, Bob’s wages will be reported as follows:

Wet Wet Wet Plumbing Pty Ltd will now need to split out the allowances and gross wages when reporting to the ATO.

For the last payroll week, Bob worked 38 ordinary hours, and 4 hours overtime. Splitting out the relevant allowances, Bob’s ordinary earnings rate is now $37.74/hr.

Your accounting software will have step-by-step instructions on how to separate your allowances and add the new pay items to process payroll under Phase 2.

Note: You’ll need to assess whether super is payable on these allowances when they are split out. Super is ordinarily payable on Ordinary Times Earning (OTE). The ATO has a handy list of what types of allowances are considered OTE:

When Do I Have to Do This By?

The original deadline for Phase 2 reporting was 1 January 2022. However, most software providers were granted a deferral by the ATO.

If you are using Xero Payroll to process your employee payments, you have until 31 March 2023 to comply with the requirements.

Written by Zoe Wainscott, Xact Accounting

2BROTHERS PLUMBING & GAS

A FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS MAKING A DIFFERENCE

In 2016, James Sharvell founded 2Brothers Plumbing & Gas with a mission to make a difference in the plumbing industry. After working for several companies as an apprentice and running multiple big jobs at the age of 22, James knew there was a different way to achieve great results. He decided to start his own business and do things better.

“I knew there was a different way to achieve great results, which inspired me to start my own company and do things better,” James explains.

Based in Brisbane, 2Brothers Plumbing & Gas specialises in commercial and residential maintenance, as well as new homes and renovations. The company has a large client base that still thinks of them for their plumbing needs, even years after the work is completed.

As with any business, 2Brothers Plumbing & Gas has faced challenges over the years. The COVID-19 pandemic was a particular challenge, as the “bros” thrives on client relationships. However, the team made conscious efforts to reach out to their clients and check-in, and they continued to provide their services despite the obstacles.

One of the things that the business takes pride in is its tight-knit, family-like culture. As James is on the tools, he is onsite day in and day out, working alongside his team.

“Our culture is tight-knit and extremely positive. We have a clear mission and values as a company along with a diverse range of employees, each contributing diversity in thought and approaches. Having a culture like this fosters growth and innovation because everyone is here for the same thing, operates on the same working level, has the same values, and can count on each other during any challenging times,” says James.

2Brothers Plumbing & Gas has worked on several key projects in recent years, including Project Casuarina, Reece Enoggera Thermann training centre, and being the resident plumber for the Homemaker Center in Fortitude Valley and Aspley.

“Being a resident plumber of big commercial buildings has contributed to the growth and success of the business by having ongoing jobs as well as building our reputation with high-end clients,” says James.

However, not all projects have been without their challenges. For example, project Casuarina required a lot of innovative thinking and new drainage/hot water techniques, which pushed the team to think outside the box.

“One of the biggest challenges definitely had to be Casuarina. The biggest challenge was the manpower as we only had three people working onsite. We overcame this by working smarter, not harder,” says James.

Despite the challenges, the team at 2Brothers Plumbing & Gas has consistently risen to the occasion, thanks in large part to its positive, can-do attitude.

Our culture is tight-knit and extremely positive. We have a clear mission and values as a company along with a diverse range of employees.

James has been a critical role model, working endless hours for the team and clients, loving being on the tools with the boys, and having a ‘go-getter’ attitude that pushes everyone to do better. The team also includes Johnny, with over 30 years under his belt, who is extremely knowledgeable and always problem-solves; and the apprentices, Ruan and Christiaan, who contribute greatly with their positive attitudes.

“Our team is our main pillar. Without the positivity and teamwork, the company certainly wouldn’t be where it is today,” says James.

As a member of MPAQ, 2Brothers Plumbing & Gas has benefited greatly from its membership. MPAQ has provided ongoing support and a network of like-minded professionals so they can ask questions and get answers.

“MPAQ has been such a great help in the business. Covering all things from drainage plans to employee contracts to having an ongoing support network. Just generally being there to ask questions when there is no one to get answers from,” says James.

All in all, 2Brothers Plumbing & Gas is a plumbing company that is doing things differently, thanks to its positive company culture, impressive client base, and willingness to take on new challenges.

“We’re always looking for ways to innovate and improve. That’s what sets us apart,” says James. “We would like to thank all of our clients, builders, suppliers, and MPAQ for believing in us and for the ongoing support. And to the team, lesss goooo!”

IMPORTANT UPDATE ON PAYMENT SECURITY

The Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) has been leading the charge for payment security reform in the plumbing, draining, and gasfitting industry for many years.

Plumbers, drainers, and gasfitters must be paid for the work you do, and while Queensland now has the best laws in Australia for subbies, we have to keep going to make them better.

Some of the wins we have had so far are:

• The strongest anti-phoenixing laws in the country

• Contractor licence suspension, or cancellation for dodgy book-keeping

• Better processes for payment disputes and monies owed

• New payment withholding requests, charges over property and supporting statement

• A commenced roll out of project trust accounts and retention trust accounts

What needs to happen next:

• Complete the roll out of project trust accounts

• Ban unfair terms in contracts

• Fix contracts and other loopholes that mean fire safety defects are not fixed

• Review the Home Warranty Scheme.

The roll-out of project trust accounts is a crucial component of the government’s approach to payment security and has been progressively introduced since 2018. These accounts are designed to protect progress payments and retention amounts in the event of insolvency.

However, due to challenges with accounting software capability and record-keeping requirements, there have been changes to commencement dates for the two remaining phases of the trust account framework:

• Phase 3 (eligible contracts of $3 million or more) scheduled to commence on 1 April 2023 –changed to 1 March 2025.

• Phase 4 (eligible contracts of $1 million or more) scheduled to commence on 1 October 2023 –changed to 1 October 2025.

• Retention trusts accounts will also apply throughout the contractual chain from this point. Despite these challenges, MPAQ remains committed to fighting for the full roll-out of project trust accounts and will be part of a steering committee to help fix the software problem, and sub-contractors’ voices will be heard in the process.

If you have any concerns about payment security, or if you would like more information about these changes, please call MPAQ at 07 3273 0800 or email info@mpaq.com.au.

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

Every year, 190 Australians who work in the construction industry take their own lives. In fact, tradies and construction workers are six times more likely to die from suicide than an accident at work. The problem is real; but are we doing our part to address it?

Society has made great strides in destigmatising the conversation surrounding mental health in the last two decades. The revised National Mental Health Policy in 2008 renewed the efforts for the continual improvement of Australia’s mental health system, which aims to detect, intervene early, promote recovery, and ensure that all Australians have access to effective and appropriate treatment and community support.

In 2006, Medicare adapted the benefits schedule to prioritise mental health treatment that resulted in over 4.95 million mental health treatment plans being prescribed.

More recently, in 2021, the Morrison Government allocated an additional $2.3 billion in funding dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and workforce applications of mental health.

While many safeguards and policies have been put in place, the fight against mental health stigma continues. And the risks are even more pressing than ever in this post-COVID, fast-paced, and digital world, where more and more people suffer from mental health risks at home and at work.

People who work in construction trades like plumbing are even more at risk. They work in an environment where there can be a lot of pressure and psychosocial risks, but talking about mental health struggles has not been traditionally part of their culture. Long hours, physically demanding tasks, and unforgiving weather conditions—these can add up, and burnout can result in poor work-life balance that can significantly affect their mental health.

Ignoring the signs of mental health struggles will not make them go away. In fact, the Queensland Government has raised some warning signs that may be indications of anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues that can lead to suicide. Anger, alcoholism, sadness, financial pressure, and separation may be telltale signs that someone—or maybe even you—needs help.

It’s okay to seek help. It’s okay to talk to others about it. It’s okay to prioritise yourself. The first step to ending the culture of stigma around mental health is dealing with your own personal struggles, and accepting that you, too, deserve to be okay.

This article highlights some good habits to form to maintain a stable mental health and things you can do if you feel you or your coworker are struggling.

bluehats-suicide-prevention/

Mates helping Mates

Here at MPAQ, we value your mental health. Last year, MPAQ worked with MATES in Construction, a charity established in 2008 to reduce the high level of suicide among Australian construction workers. MATES provides suicide prevention through community development programs on sites, and by supporting workers in need through case management and a 24/7 help line. Thanks to the support of our members and partners, a total of $16,500 was raised for MATES for the whole of 2022. Even though we’ve ended our fundraising, MPAQ continues to work closely with MATES to promote mental health in our industry.

Refer to the Code.

The Managing the risk of psychosocial hazards at work Code of Practice is a practical guide on how to prevent harm from psychosocial hazards at work. All workplaces are covered by this Code of Practice. If there are psychological health and safety issues that you cannot resolve at the workplace level, you can always escalate this to Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) for help.

Educate yourself.

We are lucky to be living in a time when resources can be abundant online. Read up on mental health conditions, warning signs and symptoms, and support available from private and government agencies. For employers, offering mental health resources to your staff will help lessen the stigma in the workplace. Provide Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services to your workers and run workshops and seminars to let them know that mental health conversations are welcome in your workplace.

Start a conversation.

The conversation can only start when someone has the initiative to do it. It may be challenging at first to open up about what you’re going through, but opening up to someone lets them know that they can open up to you about their own struggles, too. Just like dealing with a clogged pipe that can burst when too much pressure builds up, you have to cut it open to let it all out before you can start mending.

Ask, R U OK?

Conversation is a two-way highway. In the same way that you allow yourself to share your own struggles, you should also create a space for others to do the same. When you are working with someone 40 hours a week, it’s easy enough to spot when something is off. Instead of shrugging it off, let them know that you are a safe space. Getting through the temporary awkwardness at first may be worth it to make an impact on someone and save them from potentially getting worse down the line.

Talk to a professional.

In the same way that you want people to go to a Master Plumber when they need to deal with plumbing issues at home, you should be comfortable in seeking out professional support when it comes to mental health problems. Early intervention is key. The more you put it off and wait until you cannot handle things any longer, the harder it is to bounce back. If you’re unsure where to start, your GP is always the best person to talk to for recommendations on locally accessible services.

Take time off for yourself.

Sometimes, you need to step back and reassess how you are feeling and how you are handling your workload. This may be challenging when your workplace or boss is not as supportive. Rest is the most underrated resource that our body needs, and if that oneday off can make an otherwise terrible week a more tolerable one, talk to your employer.

Want to be featured on the MPAQ Social page? Use our hashtag on Instagram so we can see what you’re up to!

Queensland’s building super

First

Day of Winter

Backflow Course

Sunshine Coast

TMV Course Brisbane

Plumbing & Gas Trade Forum 2023 Cairns

TMV Course

Plumbing and Gas Charity Golf Day - Townsville

In 2023, MPAQ are excited to be supporting Variety - the Children’s Charity as our 2023 Charity Partner.

Plumbing & Gas Trade Forum 2023 Brisbane

Plumbing and Gas Charity Golf Day - Fraser Coast

Plumbing Workshop for non-Plumbers (Virtual)

School Holidays

Sunshine Coast Service Type A Gas Course Brisbane

All kids should be able to follow their dreams and be the best they can be. No matter what life throws at them. No matter what their ability.

Each year, thousands of kids who are sick, disadvantaged or living with a disability, get support from Variety – the Children’s Charity when they need it most. With a vision for all Australian children to attain their full potential, regardless of ability or background, this important charity will be working with MPAQ to ensure no child is left behind.

Find out more at www.variety.org.au

FIND EVENTS & TRAINING

KEY

Backflow - CPCPWT4022 Commission and maintain backflow prevention devices

TMV - CPCPWT4023 Commission and maintain hot and heated water temperature control devices

Service Type A Gas - CPCPGS4022 Service Type A gas appliances

Legionella Management - LMBWS1 Legionella management in building water systems

MPAQ Plumbing Workshop for non-plumbers

Design and Size - CPCPGS4011 Design and size consumer gas installations

Employer Essentials Courses

Protect yourself and your employees.

As a business, you are not just delivering services; you are also managing contracts, finances, and even the well-being of your people.

Employer Essentials courses are designed to help plumbing and gas businesses operate within the national employment standards and protect employers and employees. These online courses cover the essentials of managing your business from complying with employment entitlements and requirements to handling inappropriate behaviour in the workplace.

Employment Contracts

GET YOUR CONTRACTS SORTED. Contracts are your safeguard when it comes to employment. Gain an understanding of probation periods and how they relate to employment contracts, considerations when determining wage rates, and the intricacies of record keeping.

Employment Entitlements

ENSURE COMPLIANCE. Employees within Australia have minimum entitlements they are to receive whilst employed. Know your employees’ entitlements under the Fair Work Act 2009, including leave, enterprise bargaining agreements, and superannuation requirements.

Plumbing Industry-Specific Employment Requirements

PROTECT YOUR EMPLOYEES. The plumbing industry has three main Awards that employers may have coverage of. Learn more about these types of employment, apprentices, overtime and penalties, hours of work, paid and unpaid breaks, and fares and travel.

Performance Management

MAKE APPROPRIATE MANAGEMENT ACTIONS. Performance management is part of employing people to ensure that outcomes for the business and the people are achieved. Understand performance appraisals, redundancy, and navigating complaints and unfair dismissals.

Bullying, Harassment, Discrimination

Everyone has the right to a safe workplace. Prevent and address bullying, harassment, and discrimination; create avenues for employees to raise complaints; and ensure a physically and mentally safe place for yourself, your clients, and your employees.

STANDARDS MINI SESSIONS

Changes are coming to the AS/NZS 3500 series of standards. Are you prepared?

All plumbing installations, alternations, additions, and variations are required to comply with the government’s AS/NZS 3500 Australian Standard. To make sure you are up to date with the coming changes, we have compiled this bundle of four courses that have been developed to provide knowledge of the changes to the new versions.

This is a non-accredited online course that includes the following modules:

AS/NZS 3500.1 2021

J Changes in the new version of the AS/NZS 3500.1:2021

J How is the AS/NZS 3500.1:2021 called up as a “deemed to satisfy” document

J Application of the AS/NZS 3500.1:2021

J WaterMark Certification

J Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme/Flow rates, pipe sizing limitations

J Backflow prevention, water storage tanks, and non-drinking water

J Testing and commissioning

AS/NZS 3500.2:2021

J Changes in the new version of AS/NZS 3500.2:2021

J How is the AS/NZS 3500.2:2021 called up as a “deemed to satisfy” document

J Application of the AS/NZS 3500.2:2021

J Scope of standard

J Selection and use of material and products

J Vents of drains

J Overflow relief gullies, floor waste gullies and air admittance valves

J Drainage principles

J Sanitary Plumbing systems

AS/NZS 3500.3:2021

J Changes in the new version of the AS/NZS3500.3:2021

J How is the AS/NZS 3500.3 called up as “deemed to satisfy” document

J Application of the AS/NZS 3500.3:2021

J Materials and Products

J Roof drainage systems – design and installation

J Surface water drainage systems – design and installation

J Surface and subsoil drainage systems – Installation and ancillaries

AS/NZS 3500.4:2021

J Application & Scope of AS/NZS 3500.4:2021

J Material & Products

J Temperatures

J Valves

J Drain lines

J Energy Efficiency

Vale Brian Mervyn Ball 18 May 1935 – 6 January 2023

Brian Ball, one of our finest members from the Toowoomba Division passed away after a short residency in a nursing home.

Brian attended St Mary’s College where he wasn’t the keenest of students, only excelling in absenteeism. He couldn’t wait to escape the school regime and secured a plumbing apprenticeship with AH Hodge & Co.

He joined our association on 12 December 1967 and by 1976 he was looking after thirteen employees at 5 Large Street, Toowoomba. Over the years he employed thirteen apprentices including his son, Ken, who is currently a member of the association. In 1989, his apprentice Sean Andreas was a Gold Medalist in the Australian Work Skills Competition in Perth, which qualified him to represent Australia in the World Skills Competition in Birmingham, England, where he gained a very credible Bronze Medal. Brian was justifiably proud of Sean who later became an MPAQ member.

In the Toowoomba Division, he served as Chair (1970-71,1988-89, 198990) and Secretary (1984-85—from 6 March 1985, 1985-86,1986-87).

In 1988 he received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Association.

Brian and Corrine attended many State Conferences including the 1989 Conference in Toowoomba where he was Host Division Chair.

Outside his plumbing career he was a long-standing Rotarian then later joined Probus. He loved restoring old gramophones (record players) and had perhaps one of the largest collections in Queensland. One of them was brought to the very well-attended Funeral Service and an old 78” record was played.

He also enjoyed many fishing trips to Fraser Island.

Brian was one of nature’s gentleman who could put a strong opinion in a most diplomatic way.

The Association was represented by our President, Kent Vickers, Trustee, Bill Watson, many MPAQ Toowoomba Stalwarts, and me.

We extend our sincere condolences to Brian’s second wife Lesley, who provided much care to Brian, his son, Ken, his daughters, and extended family.

Written by Bruce Wallace – Honorary Historian, MPAQ

THE HON. MICK DE BRENNI MP VISITS MPAQ MEMBERS AT MARYBOROUGH

Queensland’s Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen, the Hon. Mick de Brenni MP visited Maryborough on Monday 6 February 2023 to discuss the issues facing plumbers and businesses in the region.

MPAQ members Kimber Plumbing and Peart Plumbing were given the opportunity to discuss licensing, job opportunities, and upcoming opportunities for local businesses in the Wide Bay region in relation to the future scope of projects happening in the area.

Minister de Brenni also met with the apprentices in the businesses; one of them, Bella, is the first female third year apprentice in Maryborough. The Minister discussed the initiatives of the elected government to reinvigorate the manufacturing and renewables sector and bring it back to Queensland. Maryborough was highlighted as a key area for manufacturing, which should create further jobs for its locals.

MPAQ would also like to thank Jess, Manager of Reece Maryborough, and the team for accommodating the brief visit by the Minister.

The Hon. Mick de Brenni with Kimber Plumbing, Maryborough

The Hon. Mick de Brenni MP with Peart Plumbing, Maryborough

NARDIA PLUMBING CELEBRATED 25 Year Membership Milestone in 2022

Not long after his return to Brisbane, John started Nardia Plumbing, specialising in commercial fitouts. John’s energy and business acumen saw the company enter a period of rapid expansion and diversification into new fields, including construction, commercial maintenance, roofing, and tank manufacture.

In Nardia Plumbing’s 10th year of business, John contracted a melanoma and died suddenly. This was devasting for everyone, staff included. John left management of the company in the care of his brother, Carl Milford, who still heads the company today.

Nardia Plumbing has maintained a strong focus on maintenance and smaller projects as its core business but completed many large projects including student residential accommodation at South Bank, Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital, and Queensland University of Technology’s Creative Industries building at Kelvin Grove.

Outside of its industry-leading projects, Nardia Plumbing prides itself on its culture. The company culture has always been to create a team-orientated workforce, where all employees are supported by management and their workmates. As recognition of its efforts, Nardia won the 2013 Best Workplace Health & Safety Management System Award at the Plumbing and Gas Industry Awards. Previously two of their apprentices won awards as well: 2003 4th Year Apprentice of the Year Award and 2017 School Based Apprentice of the Year Award.

John Milford established Nardia Plumbing in 1997, after gaining 15 years’ experience working in the industry. John grew up in Dalby where he did his apprenticeship with Goeff Hartland, an old-school plumber. In the 80s, apprentices could expect a clip under the ear if they dared to back-chat a tradesperson.

It was not long after completing his apprenticeship that John caught the travel bug. At first, he worked in London as a maintenance plumber, but his adventurous spirit drew him across the Channel, where he worked on various large plumbing projects, including the Olympic village in Spain.

The past 25 years has seen many changes in the plumbing industry. One of the biggest adjustments has been the advances in IT; however, there has also been a dramatic shift in workplace culture. These cultural changes include an increased focus on workplace safety, a crackdown on bullying, acceptance of diversity, and a greater presence of females on work sites which has resulted in a more inclusive environment.

As an industry leader, Nardia Plumbing has embraced this evolution. MPAQ deserves credit for facilitating many of the positive changes in the industry. Nardia Plumbing recognises that organisations like MPAQ are vital for a progressive and prosperous industry and looks forward to another 25 years of operations with the support of our industry body.

MWF PLUMBING CELEBRATES 40 years AS AN MPAQ MEMBER

The business was founded in 1964 as V & S M Costanzo. Vince Costanzo is Mario and Frank’s Uncle. Mario and his brother Frank then began MWF Plumbing 1982. Michael and Steven, Mario’s sons, continued where Mario and Frank left off in 2014. In 2020 they built a brand-new showroom and shop.

The business has been providing to the Granite Belt and surrounding areas for well over 50 years. They are situated in the coldest place in Queensland. They stock all plumbing, drainage, and gasfitting products and many extra items you would not normally find in a plumbing store. They stock many brands of wood heater, gas heaters, patio heaters, electric heaters, gas and electric ovens and appliances, and gas camping fridges.

To provide for the summer season, they also stock in-built and freestanding barbeques, a brand new range of smokers, and reverse and portable style air conditioning units.

A walkthrough of their new showroom can be found by searching MWF Plumbing on Google.

Carl Milford from Nardia Plumbing with MPAQ’s Ernie Kretschmer

MPAQ’s Leah Govorko with the whole MWF Plumbing staff

PLASTEC AUSTRALIA PTY LTD MARKS 15 years OF SUPPORTING MPAQ MEMBERS

Plastec Australia Pty Ltd was founded in 1992. Since producing their first clip, they have grown to produce over 2,500 products. Specialising in design innovation of injection moulded plumbing products, Plastec proudly manufactures here in Queensland at their Sunshine Coast facility.

The company started with a team of five and now has 105 people in the business. They identified that one of the ways the industry has changed over the years is the over-reliance on offshore manufacturing, leading to supply-chain and quality issues. Plastec’s continuous innovation sees them expanding their range into large bore and civil products along with a plan to enter the irrigation market.

LPW PLUMBING AND GAS SOLUTIONS PTY LTD CELEBRATES 10 years AS AN MPAQ MEMBER

Our membership with MPAQ has been the perfect partnership with our growing company. Over the 10 years, we have relied on MPAQ for assistance with business and technical support for our team. It is reassuring to have the support of MPAQ, and its affiliated companies. Great events, webinars, and training are at your fingertips. Looking forward to the next 10 years.

Distribution warehouse and sales office located in Brisbane +61 3 88 11 219 salesqld@allproof.com.au

EXTERIOR DRAINAGE SYSTEMS

INTERIOR WASTE SYSTEMS

COMMERCIAL DRAINAGE SYSTEMS

Luke Wilkes and Rowena Ablett from LPW Plumbing and Gas Solutions

Chris Ferguson, Plastec Australia, and Tracy Bob, MPAQ

Our world-class drainage systems are designed and manufactured with expert quality control to ensure accurate performance that’s made to last.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR MILESTONE MEMBERS

John & Oliver Lisignoli Watermark Plumbing

Grant Martin Grant Martin Plumbing

Glenn Rosenlund & Brian Gorman Rosenlund Plumbing Pty Ltd

Benjamin Simpson BJ and SB Simpson

Ben Edwards Ben Edwards Plumbing

Clinton Paul CJP Plumbing

Keith Dyer Keith Dyer Plumbing

Nick Jones Nick Jones Plumbing

WELCOME TO MPAQ’S NEW MEMBERS & CORPORATES

KEEP TRAINING AND STAY AHEAD

THE SUPPORTERS OF OUR INDUSTRY

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