OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL AND COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION September 2022 THE EV REVOLUTION IS HERE WHAT IS THE HYPE ABOUT? PAGE 28 SUBMITTING DESIGNS FOR TENDER PAGE 74
We are independent and not tied to suppliers or competitors We do not have a sales team but rather rely on contractor referrals We understand project management (unlike most ACPs/APs) and will help reduce risk in your projects We will teach you about the VEU and ESS areschemescertificatesothatyoufullyinformed We will give you a personalised service and can take on project management tasks so you can focus on what you do best We are transparent in our transactions “Reduction Before Production” Scan the QR code for a callback from one of our representatives or call 1300 CO2 FREE (1300 262 373) ®
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Launch of the Continuous p rofessional Development program 55 NATIONAL OFFICE Hume Highway, Chullora NSW 2190 1300 361 099 memberservices@neca.asn.au
NECA WA BRANCH 18/199 b alcatta r oad, b alcatta WA 6021 (08) 6241 6100 necawa@necawa.asn.au
NSW BRANCH b ranch update 32
SA/NT BRANCH b ranch update 44
TAS BRANCH b ranch update 48 N e CA tas delivers future project managers to boost the electrical sector 50
Domain name changes 08
QLD BRANCH b ranch update 40
AN EYE ON THE FUTURE 14
NH p joins AI Group as founding member 08
Sydney m etro industry night update 35
p O b ox 47, Fullarton SA 5063 (08) 8272 2966 neca@necasa.asn.au
Celebrating excellence in high quality apprentice training 36
Demand for N e CA post-trade training is on the rise 38
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A front row seat to the future 15
What is cyber insurance? –and why you should have it 25
Standards Australia update 08
NECA SA/NT BRANCH
Dial b efore You Dig changes name 08
IN tHIS ISSUe September 2022
At O reveals most dobbed-in industries 08
VIC BRANCH b ranch update 52
Labour hire arrangements –do you know the ins and outs? 54
t he A b C of b I m 20
ACT BRANCH b ranch update 30
www.neca.asn.au
Home automation –James m axwell, e lectric One SA 22
122
POLICY AND ADVOCACY
New technology – an opportunity or a risk? 16
Change – the only constant? 18
NEWS IN BRIEF
Government relations and policy 10
Augmented reality is revolutionising construction 23
Night shift vs afternoon shifts –what is the difference in pay rates? 34
Australian solutions for Australian conditions 26
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r oadshow Seminar Series wrap up 46 Crucial Women in Construction 47
72 N e CA News is the official publication of the National e lectrical and Communications Association NECA
213 Greenhill r oad, e astwood SA 5063
r apid climb in online crime 24
t he e V revolution is here –what is the hype about? 28
WORKPLACE
HEALTH AND SAFETY Optimising workplace conditions for people to thrive 80 m anaging the risks of crystalline silica 82 ACRS NEWS 66 TECHNICAL Save yourself the trouble, do your due diligence with cabling 68 National technical update 69 OPINION Where are the workers? 72 24 80 NECA QLD BRANCH Suite 1.5 Ian b arclay b uilding, 460-492 b eaudesert r oad, Salisbury QLD 4107 1300 361 099 memberservices@neca.asn.au NECA NSW BRANCH 122 Hume Highway, Chullora NSW 2190 1300 361 099 memberservices@neca.asn.au NECA ACT BRANCH 49 tennant Street, Fyshwick AC t 2609 p O b ox 298, Fyshwick AC t 2609 1300 361 099 memberservices@neca.asn.au AUSTRALIAN CABLER REGISTRATION SERVICE 1300 667 771 enquiries@acrs.com.au www.acrs.com.au NeCA News is published four times per year for NeCA members, industry providers, wholesalers and manufacturers. Your input is important. to contribute article suggestions or to advertise, contact necanews@neca.asn.au DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed by contributors in articles, in reproduced articles and advertisements are the individual opinions of such contributors or the authors of such reproduced articles or advertisements and not necessarily those of N e CA, which does not hold itself responsible for correctness of any statement contained herein.
WA BRANCH b ranch update 56 Industry training –a satisfying career 58 Key changes to WA’s state employment laws 60 A WA guide for installing electric vehicle chargers 62 No more SW m S confusion with N e CA Safe Digital 63 Western p ower rural supply allocation review underway 64 Including consumers in the electrical safety conversation 65 LEGAL Submitting designs for tender 74 Are you correctly hiring your independent contractor? 76
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AN EYE ON THE FUTURE
At every stage of human development, technology has played a critical role, whether it’s the tools that moved humans forward in the stone age, building and manufacturing techniques that have led to progress throughout the ages, or the information and digital revolution we are experiencing now.
While looking forward is important, we also recognise the need to manage the
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We’re looking to showcase N e CA member stories in each issue. r each out to your N e CA b ranch or email necanews@neca.asn.au
The NECA News team
With technology increasing our collective demand for power, at a time when climate change is making us think about how we can generate and use it more efficiently, it is an exciting time to be an electrician. In our articles, we’ve heard from stakeholders across the country including members, industry suppliers and technical experts who’ve shared their insights on where technology is headed, the new skill sets we need to consider and how we can make the most of the opportunities that are coming our way.
ARE YOU A NECA MEMBER?
realities of business today. Our editorial team has provided a range of practical information to make managing your business easier. In both our national and state sections, you’ll find the latest in staffing, insurance, legal, safety and technical developments.
In this edition of NeCA News we explore new directions in technology and importantly, how those developments could impact on our industry and your businesses. Advancements in technology have affected every aspect of our lives, and the pace is not slowing down.
YOU THINK
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1800 620 816 bradyid.com.au 1800 620 816 bradyid.com.au
BEST PRACTICE GUIDE Preventing Damage to Underground Services
In August, Standards Australia announced a new Chairperson of eL-001, the peak committee for the Wiring rules, and it is with great pride that we announce NeCA National policy and technical Director, paul brownlee, as the person to lead AS/NZS 3000 into the next phase. Find out more in our technical Update on page 68.
ATO REVEALS MOST DOBBED-IN INDUSTRIES
the european technical Information model (etIm) is an international classification model that provides construction industry participants with a muchneeded structure for standardised (technical) product data exchange.
topping the list of industries that earned tip-offs in the past year were: building and construction, hairdressing and beauty services, cafés and restaurants, road freight transport, and management advice and related consulting services. tip-offs from New South Wales topped the AtO’s list with over 13,400, followed closely by Victoria (over 11,500) and Queensland (over 9,200).
DIAL BEFORE YOU DIG CHANGES NAME
Implementing it for Australian and New Zealand businesses in the construction sector will have a number of benefits, which include cost savings in design and construction delivery times and processes. It will also support more sophisticated supply chain management practices.
S EPTEMBER 202208 |
STANDARDS AUSTRALIA UPDATE – NEW CHAIRPERSON OF EL-001
In march this year, the governing body of Australia’s domain names announced the launch of the new .au direct domain option. Domain name owners are now able to register a domain name directly followed by .au, for example, neca.au
Demanding cash from customers, paying workers ‘cash in hand’, or not declaring all sales are the most common examples of the 43,000 tip-offs received by the Australian taxation Office (AtO) in the 2021/22 financial year. the AtO is using intelligence from tip-offs as part of its approach to dealing with the shadow economy.
NHP JOINS AI GROUP AS A FOUNDING MEMBER OF NEW TECHNOLOGY MODEL FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
the etIm technical information model started as a european model but has rapidly become a worldwide standard. It has already been adopted in over 20 countries and has been translated into many different languages across global markets. Specifically, it defines in a consistent way the technical attributes that businessto-business buyers need in order to match a product to a particular need.
NEWS IN BRIEF
etIm will initially be implemented for the electrotechnology sector followed by the plumbing, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning sectors, then general building products.
NHp was instrumental in engaging with etIm International and Ai Group to make this local chapter a reality, and since then, some of the leading organisations within the electrical industry have joined as founding members.
If your business has an existing eligible .au domain name (such as .com. au and .net.au), you have until 20 September 2022 to indicate whether you intend to apply for the exact match of your name in .au direct via the priority Allocation process. Visit auda.org.au to find out more.
AtO Assistant Commissioner peter Holt said, “the AtO will take firm action against business owners who deliberately avoid paying their fair share of tax. We know that honest businesses and the community expect us to do this. It’s all about keeping the playing field as level as possible.”
the well-known Dial before You Dig service has changed its name to before You Dig Australia (bYDA). this service is designed to protect Australia’s network of underground pipes and cables, and ensure the safety of people working around this infrastructure. It still provides the same referral service for information on the location of underground infrastructure.
bYDA acts as a single point of contact between underground asset owners and excavators. their new website is at www.byda.com.au
DOMAIN NAME CHANGES
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NeCA is advocating strongly to the Federal Government to improve the Security of payments environment for all subcontractors, by ensuring consistent national laws that provide for statutory trusts in favour of subcontractors.
NeCA also welcomed the passage of Labor’s emissions reduction targets legislation through the House of representatives. this legislation represents the commencement of the powering Australia plan.
A eith17ht, r 0 IT-XD_NECA2021_Optima_Aus.qxd S EPTEMBER 202210 |
the government’s commitment to creating jobs, cutting power bills and reducing emissions by boosting renewable energy initiatives, are at the centre of its powering Australia plan. the government’s plan aims to reduce Australia’s emissions by 43% by 2030. the objective of the plan is to bring cheaper renewable energy to Australian homes and businesses. the electrotechnology industry will be at the forefront of implementing the government’s ambitious targets and infrastructure delivery. It will require a huge expansion of our workforce, and necessitate upskilling and training.
WItH A Ne W FeDer AL LAbOr GOVerNmeNt, prIme mINISter AND CAbINet, NeCA HAS beeN WOrKING HArD tO eNSUre tHe VIe WS AND prIOrItIeS OF OUr memberS Are At tHe FOreFrONt OF tHe NAtIONAL CONVerSAtION. WItH A Ne W GOVerNmeNt COmeS Ne W prIOrItIeS AND perSpeCtIVeS, WHICH preSeNt Ne W OppOrt UNItIeS tO HAVe A StrONG VOICe IN GOVerNmeNt AND eNSUre tHe StAbILIt Y OF tHe eL eCtrOteCHNOLOGY INDUStrY.
½ making electric vehicles cheaper;
Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC)
Powering Australia plan
Further, NeCA is highlighting members’ strong concerns about unfair contracts and imbalances of power on large projects. With rising material costs, labour shortages and disruptions, and supply chain delays, the risks associated with construction projects are increasing. robust legislation is required to protect subcontractors from having to accept works under unfair and inequitable terms imposed on them by head contractors using unfair contracts. the changes we are recommending, such as reasonable rise and fall pricing clauses along with sensible extension of time provisions, aim to address these concerns. NeCA will continue to advocate on behalf of its members for meaningful and effective change.
the government has indicated it will roll out 85 solar banks around Australia to ensure increased take-up of rooftop solar, and install 400 community batteries across the country. It is envisaged this program will create 604,000 jobs, and release $76 billion of investment.
½ an upgrade of the electricity grid to fix energy transmission;
minister burke has confirmed the government will follow through on these proposals later this year. However, as a statutory body, the abolition of the AbCC
Strong economic recovery and the growth of local economies hinge on essential sectors like building and construction. recent collapses of large builders across the country have placed the industry at risk of financial stress, insolvencies, job losses, and reputational damage. Such pressures often go beyond material impacts, and affect the wellbeing of business owners, their employees, and their families.
RELATIONSGOVERNMENT AND POLICY
½ providing direct financial support for measures that improve energy efficiency within existing industries; and ½ developing new industries in regional Australia through a new p owering the r egions Fund.
It is only fair that when subcontractors do a job, they receive payment. I discussed this in the last edition of NeCA News, but with the election of a new federal government, it has become a major NeCA priority nationally. the number of collapses of large head contractors has increased, and according to some forecasts, further collapses will be a significant and ongoing cause of great concern in our industry.
Initiatives in the plan include:
Security of payments
NeCA is working closely with ministers and bureaucrats across Australia. We have also initiated forums with other finishing trades and specialist subcontractor groups to ensure the contracting sector across all affected trades can speak with one voice when it comes to lobbying for and securing an effective Security of payments framework. NeCA has been working with John murray Am, author of the review of Security of payment Laws – building trust and Harmony report commissioned by the Federal Government. NeCA’s proposals are being actively considered at the highest levels, with the new government’s policy platform suggesting strong support for our positions and significant change.
the Federal Government has moved to strip the construction industry watchdog of its substantive powers ahead of plans to abolish the AbCC altogether. Workplace relations minister tony burke flagged the AbCC would be defunded after the Labor party took a policy of abolishing the AbCC to the recent federal election.
Federal legislation has been introduced to establish an interim statutory body, Jobs and Skills Australia. Jobs and Skills
Across Australia, NeCA’s members are required to navigate different (and sometimes divergent) legislative and regulatory frameworks nationally and in each state.
many NeCA members already engage with our technical and legal professionals. Similarly, we are now representing individual members when they navigate political or regulatory issues that impact them. NeCA’s government relations and advocacy professionals are adept at navigating government systems, and handling issues ranging from compliance requirements at small business level up to industry-wide (or even national) scope. We encourage you to contact member services with any issues of concern so we can be of service.
EMONA I D Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth < High Volume RCD Testing System Complete high volume RCD testing & logging solution with bar code scanner input of RCD IDs and logging of RCD push button tests < Site Schematics & Installation Reports Save test results to the Site Schematic or Tree Structure Start with Site Name and Address Test reports output to PDF or Excel < Installation Verification & Compliance Testing Pass/Fail limits and “Auto Sequences” set to AS/NZS3017 and AS/NZS3019 < Single Test Functions Voltage, Mohm & Ohms, RCD, Loop Impedance, Line Impedance, Earth Resistance, Power & Harmonics, Light, Wire Tracing M u l t i - F u n c t i o n I n s t a l l a t i o n Te s t e r < <Touch Screen <AS/NZS3000 IT-XD_NECA2021_Optima_Aus.qxd 24/08/2021 12:18 PM Page 1 EMONA email testinst@emona.com.au web www.instaltest.com.au InstalTest XD Sydne Tel 02 9519 3933 Fax 02 9550 1378 Tel 03 9889 0427 Fax 03 9889 0715 Tel 07 3392 7170 Fax 07 3848 9046 aide Tel 08 8363 5733 Fax 08 83635799 Perth Tel 08 9361 4200 Fax 08 9361 4300 < High Volume RCD Testing System Complete high volume RCD testing & logging solution with bar-code scanner input of RCD IDs and logging of RCD push button tests. < Site Schematics & Installation Reports Save test results to the Site Schematic or Tree Structure. Start with Site Name and Address. Test reports output to PDF or Excel. < Installation Verification & Compliance Testing Pass/Fail limits and “Auto Sequences” set to AS/NZS3017 and AS/NZS3019. < Single Test Functions Voltage, Mohm & Ohms, RCD, Loop Impedance, Line Impedance, Earth Resistance, Power & Harmonics, Light, Wire Tracing. M u l t i - F u n c t i o n I n s t a l l a t i o n Te s t e r <Record Keeping & Repor ting <Touch Screen <AS/NZS3000 EMONA email testinst@emona com au web www instaltest com au InstalTest XD Sydney Tel 02 9519 3933 Fax 02 9550 1378 Melbourne Tel 03 9889 0427 Fax 03 9889 0715 Brisbane Tel 07 3392 7170 Fax 07 3848 9046 Adelaide Tel 08 8363 5733 Fax 08 83635799 Perth Tel 08 9361 4200 Fax 08 9361 4300 < High Volume RCD Testing System Complete high volume RCD testing & logging solution with bar code scanner input of RCD IDs and logging of RCD push button tests < Site Schematics & Installation Reports Save test results to the Site Schematic or Tree Structure Start with Site Name and Address Test reports output to PDF or Excel < Installation Verification & Compliance Testing Pass/Fail limits and “Auto Sequences” set to AS/NZS3017 and AS/NZS3019 < Single Test Functions Voltage, Mohm & Ohms, RCD, Loop Impedance, Line Impedance, Earth Resistance, Power & Harmonics, Light, Wire Tracing M u l t i - F u n c t i o n I n s t a l l a t i o n Te s t e r <Record Keeping & Repor ting <Touch Screen <AS/NZS3000 IT-XD_NECA2021_Optima_Aus.qxd 24/08/2021 12:18 PM Page 1 Kent Johns NECA Head of Government Relations and Policy POLICY AND ADVOCACY
Training opportunities
the Federal Government has indicated it will invest in 10,000 New energy Apprenticeships and a New energy Skills program. NeCA is continuing its focus on greater training opportunities to address skills shortages impacting our members’ businesses and the electrotechnology sector. We look forward to the challenge of being part of this program to upskill the sector’s workforce to meet these targets.
must be legislated. Labor does not have a majority in the Senate, and will thus require support from at least one crossbench senator to achieve this. the minister has indicated the Fair Work Ombudsman will enforce the rules of the Fair Work Act over the building and construction industry, and that improving the safety culture of the industry will be overseen by the Federal Safety Commissioner.
Government advocacy
Australia will provide independent advice to the government on Australia’s current and emerging skills and workforce needs. It is designed to guide the skills and training sector so it can provide workers who have the right skills with choices and opportunities for secure employment. NeCA will be providing input into the review of the legislation with regard to its impact in the electrotechnology sector. providing pathways for greater female participation in our industry remains a NeCA priority as a key method of addressing skills shortages. Lifting the number of women in the sector will involve significant policy, regulatory and cultural change, which NeCA continues to promote to government and the wider industry. NeCA will also be continuing its advocacy for greater government focus at all levels on more apprenticeships, more opportunities for adult apprenticeships, and ongoing training.
NeCA will monitor the changes as they progress and keep members informed.
Neville passed on Saturday 11 June aged 77; he is survived by his wife Joan, children and grandchildren. He will be missed by all at NeCA, and those who had the opportunity to work with, befriend and learn from him.
TESTABLESINGLEBONDINGPOINT scan for installation instructions 07 5 6 31 81 5 5 PO B ox 1 5 1 0, Oxen fo rd , QLD 4 21 0 Unit 19, 2 Kohl St, Upper Coomera, QLD 4209 ABN: 70 618 843 Fits316Conductorhub.com.au342S/STestPointSeamlesslyintoany wet area Australian Made Trade Enquiries Welcome VALE NEVILLE PALMER
I t WAS WI t H mUCH SADNeSS t HAt W e m A rK eD
t He pASSING OF FOrmer NeCA NAt IONAL preSIDeN t Ne VILL e pAL mer IN mID-JUNe.
A Director of Victorian electrical contracting business Gordyn & palmer, Neville had a long and distinguished association with NeCA throughout much of his career.
Neville served as a past NeCA National president, NeCA Victoria president, Director of the NeCA Foundation and Director of the Australian Cabler registration Service (ACrS). A true champion of the industry and advocate for our members, Neville is remembered for his tireless dedication to growing and strengthening the electrical trade.
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EXPERIENCE THE HARMONY
they predict that in the future, these spaces will be where we will perform all of our day-to-day interactions.
FEATURE
moore’s Law, an observation made in 1965, is the principle that computing speed and capability can be expected to double every two years. thus far it has held to be relatively true, and is setting the scene for the pace of technological change we can expect to see in the future. It took 36 years from the first personal computer being released until the invention of the iphone. Now, just 15 years later, some of the world’s biggest companies have shifted focus altogether, and are pouring billions into developing immersive virtual worlds.
Whilst to many this may still seem like science fiction, technology such as Augmented reality and Digital twins are already having a substantial impact on our industry. In this feature we look at a handful of ways the industry is evolving and some of the technology you may find in your toolbox in the not too distant future.
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I t ’S OF te N bee N SAID t HAt t He WOrLD S tANDS S t ILL FOr NO ONe , bU t IN reCe N t t ImeS, W e ’V e S ee N t HAt t Here ’S NOt ALWAYS A LOt OF WA rNING A bOU t JUS t HOW QUICKLY I t CAN mOV e . I t S eem S t HAt AL mOS t e V erY DAY Ne W teCHNOLOGY IS be ING re L e AS e D AND Ne W prODUC t S A re prOmISING tO re VOLU t IONIS e t He WAY W e WOrK AND LIV e
Within the consumer space, smart homes are now managing energy and resources
A FRONT ROW SEAT TO THE FUTURE
technology in such a scenario. A technician using Google maps or similar to navigate their way to site can also access live traffic data. this allows them to receive recommendations on the fastest available route based on predictions derived from real-time traffic, roadwork, and weather information.
more than 600 cities around the world are already using predictive technology to gain efficiencies in their outdoor and street lighting. Smart lighting systems use data based on time of day, season and weather conditions to allow light to be used more responsibly. this has resulted in reducing these lighting systems’ energy consumption by as much as 30%. progressive cities are now incorporating this technology into their waste management systems and roadways in efforts to drive efficiencies and improve traffic flows even further.
As technology continues to evolve, and we find more and more ways to interact with the machines that make up our environment, we can only wonder what will be around the next corner. One thing is certain though, and that is that those in the electrical and communications industry are destined to have a front row seat.
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FEATURE
pre DIC t IV e teCHNOLOGY IS NOt HING Ne W AND HAS bee N US e D FOr DeCADeS t O FOreCAS t W e At Her e V e N t S AND S t UDY eCONOmIC DAtA, bU t A NUmber OF mODerN teCHNOLOGICAL ADVANCeme N t S HAS S ee N pre DIC t IV e teCHNOLOGIeS FIND S e V er AL Ne W US eS, pA rt ICULA rLY WI t HIN t He CONS trUC t ION AND FACILI t IeS m AIN teNANCe INDUS trIeS.
thanks to the Internet of things (Iot), the sensors are able to trigger a warning should any abnormal activity occur and send details of the event to a service control centre. technicians are then able to assess the alert and despatch a technician if required, or in some instances address the problem remotely, often before the client is even aware that an issue has taken place. In other instances, notes can be written into a technician’s schedule so specific tasks can be performed during the next scheduled maintenance visit to rectify potential problems.
this isn’t the end of the benefits that can be gained through predictive
many companies are already using sensors to monitor metrics including speed, temperature, noise emission and fluid levels. these sensors are able to have parameters set around what is deemed to be an acceptable tolerance for each of the metrics being measured.
and allowing residences to react to their environments. Houses are able to selflearn trends around heating, lighting, ventilation and power management in order to improve performance and energy efficiency. Smart appliances can learn and predict our needs, such as streaming services offering recommendations based on our viewing history, and smart fridges predicting when we will need additional groceries and adding these to a shopping list or placing an online order for us.
t HrOUGHOU t HIS t OrY, teCHNOLOGY HAS p LAY e D AN Imp OrtAN t rOL e IN HUm AN e VOLU t ION, mOVING US FOr WA rD t O WHere W e A re tODAY. m ANY OF tODAY’S NeCeSSI t IeS W ere ONCe t He re AL m OF SCIe NCe FIC t ION S t OrIeS, AND m ANY OF tOmOrrOW’S NeCeSSI t IeS HAV e AL re ADY ADVANCe D W e LL be YOND t He IDe A S tAGe . WI t H m ANY Opp Ort UNI t IeS IN F rON t OF US, I t IS AN e XCI t ING t Ime , bU t W e Nee D t O be re ADY. SO HOW DO W e prepA re OUr S e LV eS AS INDIVIDUALS, bUSINeSS eS AND AS AN INDUS trY?
AN OPPORTUNITY OR A RISK?
We need to consider what the future opportunities may look like. I believe a key driver across all sectors will be the increasing demand for power, and the need to use and manage it effectively, while working to reduce emissions.
When we look at the mining sector, technology already plays a huge role. With connected sites, companies now control their mines remotely from the city. eventually pLCs and processors will be in the cloud, supported by input/ output (IO) modules on site. In this environment, systems are likely to have
open protocols, replacing the closed protocol systems mainly in use now. this is a totally different mind shift.
Of all the possible developments, I believe eV chargers present the most important one for all contractors to watch, as they bring so many opportunities and challenges.
In the commercial space, facility managers will have a key role, managing building power and facilitating the
In the domestic/residential market we’re likely to see a greater focus on green energy and improved efficiencies, with the goal of reducing energy consumption. better use of technology will shape the way we control, analyse and manage our home environments. With the potential offered by electric vehicle (eV) chargers, and residential battery storage systems becoming cheaper, we’ll see more households going off-grid.
Looking at eVs in a commercial scenario, you pull up at a carpark (or live in an apartment) in the city. the building has 50 eV chargers connected by load monitoring
Although virtual reality (Vr), or augmented reality, is already here, it will be significantly improved going forward. At Schneider electric we have working demonstrations enabling clients to put on Vr headsets and look at sites. they can virtually deep-dive into specific assets and inspect the status. In future, technicians will have avatars on site, while they fault-find from their city office.
move to hybrid options. In addition to grid power, the options will include solar, battery back-up and generators that could be green hydrogen or windpowered. this is known in the industry as a microGrid solution. building assets will be connected, with technology directing facility managers’ dashboards. they’ll monitor building energy usage and efficiency across all levels, using software that monitors predictive and preventative maintenance.
Imagine a scenario where you come home with a fully charged car. You plug your car into your house, which uses the charge to power your house overnight. From the car’s algorithms, it knows you need 20% of your battery to get to your first destination the next morning. It will either save enough battery power, or may turn on the solar when the sun rises, knowing you leave home at 7.30 am.
NEW TECHNOLOGY
S EPTEMBER 202216 |
renewables are becoming increasingly viable and reliable. mining companies are already off-grid with diesel (mostly) and gas power stations. they will shift to renewables, with the main candidates being green hydrogen, battery energy storage systems and solar. Companies won’t just rely on one renewable source; they’ll harness them all using hybrid models.
Steve Reinholdtsen Clipsal and Schneider Electric
will get left behind, creating potential for emerging technologies to shift to another sector. We have already seen this overseas where, in some parts of the US, there is a split between the electrical industry and what they call an integrated industry, that runs in parallel. In my view, this is a big risk for our industry; we don’t want that happening here in Australia.
We can collectively increase the size of our markets, enabling everyone to enjoy positive profitable and sustained growth and be part of an exciting future.
every day I see many technological opportunities for our industry, but to make the most of them, and prevent them from becoming a risk, we need to think differently. by ensuring we keep skills, training and technology inside the electrical industry, everyone will win.
We’ll also see eVs play a bigger role in infrastructure, such as the eV highway between esperance and broome in WA. the chargers are 150-kilowatt, highcharge, direct current (DC) chargers with a similar appearance to a big petrol bowser. Unlike the alternating current (AC) versions, which could take up to five hours to charge your car, the DC chargers are done in just 15 to 20 minutes. then you’re on your way. this is just a small glimpse of what may lie ahead. With all that potential, it brings us back to the question: what can we do to prepare?
FEATURE | 17WWW.NECA.ASN.AU
that control our homes, solar and battery systems, building control systems etc will be important. We either need to learn these skills or employ people that have them, thus allowing in-house capability around design, install, program and commission with a connected asset to allow for efficient maintenance;
½ diversify the workforce. We need to throw the net wider to bring more creative people into industry, e.g. solutions architects, software programmers, change management specialists and creative designers. We need to review how we write job descriptions and the way we recruit, so that we bring in a different view.
Unless we think forward and prepare, businesses will do the same things and get the same results. In doing so, we
software. If yours is one of 10 cars pulling in, and they’re all flat, charging all at once may overload the circuit and the building’s maximum demand. the software determines which car needs the most charge, then shares the load so all the cars can be safely charged.
½ be aware of emerging technologies. We need to move into the next two years with a mindset for change. We need to be open to new ideas and start thinking creatively so we can respond effectively; ½ upskill. In future the capability to manage product interfaces
CHANGE THE ONLY CONSTANT?
We spoke to two long standing NeCA members, who shared their reflections on how industry has changed since their apprenticeships.
“there have been big changes in safety requirements since the 1980s,” said Jim ramsay from Lakewood electrical Services in NSW. “We have new techniques, new knowledge, new equipment. Safety is constantly at the
Our thanks to Dan and Jim for sharing their thoughts, and we wish them every success with their ongoing business journeys.
forefront, no matter what sector we work in.”
“As electricians we have a lot to keep up with,” said Dan. “the simplicity of running a cable for a switch or power point will never change, but stepping into the realms of automation, solar and consumer technology means constantly being involved with new products and educating ourselves. these days we need good It skills, not just the ability to install a cable.”
IN NOV ember 1888, tA m WOrt H IN Ne W SOU t H WAL eS beCA me t He FIr S t t OWN IN AUS tr ALIA t O reCe IV e AN e L eC trICI t Y SUpp LY FOr ‘ t He p UbLIC At LA rGe ’. SINCe t He OrIGINAL 240-VOLt tA m WOrt H p LAN t S tA rteD Up, AUS tr ALIA’S e L eC trICAL INF r AS trUC t Ure HAS GrOWN IN t O AL mOS t e V erY COrNer OF t He COUN trY. IN tODAY’S teCHNOLOGICAL AGe , I t IS HA rD t O Im AGINe A t Ime WHe N p OW er DIDN’ t COme At t He FLICK OF A SWI t CH, AND Y et, I t WASN’ t SO LONG AGO t HAt p OW er Dem ANDS W ere FA r S m ALL er AND L eSS COmp LICAte D.
“I think the last ten to fifteen years have been one of the best times in industry. We’ve seen more industry awareness, better quality products, new technology and more training opportunities for apprentices,” said Jim. “We need to engage the young apprentices
technology and our ways of working may be on the move, but the principles of running a successful business remain constant. they have seen NeCA members flourish, since the first NeCA branch (Victoria) opened its doors in 1916.
coming through, and we need our senior industry experts to stay in the industry longer so we can continue to benefit from their experience.”
both Jim and Dan have taken over businesses that were established by their fathers over 50 years ago, with Lakewood electrical Services having been a NeCA member since 1958, and rayton electrical since 1973. When we asked for their advice for those thinking about becoming an electrical contractor, their responses reflected the values that our industry is grounded in. Long-term relationships, employing the right people, a commitment to learning. Strong work ethics and providing the highest quality service.
As industry evolves, so too has the training it provides for both its existing and new workforce. there is strong recognition of the need to balance time-honoured skills with new developments and fresh thinking.
“Gone are the days of a double power point and a batten holder in the middle of the room,” said Dan Van Gasteren of rayton electrical in South Australia. “I remember dad telling me he could first-fix three houses and second-fix two in a day because they were so simple.these days with the internet of everything (IOe), smart wiring in a house makes up half of the job scope for the middle to high-end project builds with automation. Commercial projects aren’t far behind either when it comes to network systems, Wi-Fi, access control, security, closed circuit television etc.”
It’s not just what we are installing that’s changed. the way we go about our day-to-day work has changed dramatically too.
“Australian Standards have also changed the way we work,” said Jim. “As our industry grows its knowledge understanding,andwe develop more industry standards that ensure we install equipment and materials consistently, effectively and safely. Whether we are talking commercial, industry or domestic – it has made our industry more professional.”
FEATURE S EPTEMBER 202218 |
these qualities give businesses a solid ground to build on, standing the test of time regardless of how much change is swirling around us.
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the introduction of computer aided design (CAD) helped to alleviate some of these problems and gave the industry its first opportunity to see the benefit of having plans exist within a digital environment. As CAD technology developed, 3D elements were introduced, bringing more detailed information, more realistic visuals, and multiple viewing aspects to blueprint drawings.
THE ABC OF BIM
S EPTEMBER 202220 |
the greatest advantages of bIm exist in the information that is gathered within the model across the entirety of the project. Not only is this information stored
Levels of BIM
model is changed, the amendments are automatically reflected in the central model available to all collaborators. this allows the model to remain consistent and coordinated at each stage of the design and construction process.
within the model, it’s also actionable. A good bIm model can include part and material-based information, as well as geospatial, financial, procurement and logistical information. the data is particularly useful in improving accuracy, communicating design intent between the office and the field, improving knowledge transfer from stakeholder to stakeholder, reducing variation orders and field coordination problems, and providing insight into existing buildings for maintenance, upgrades or renovation projects down the track.
tr ADI t IONALLY, INFOrm At ION reGA rDING CONS trUC t ION prOJeC t S WAS e X preSS e D USING Dr AWINGS AND bLUeprIN t S, bU t AS ANYONe WHO HAS WOrK e D WI t H t HeS e me DIUm S WOULD AtteS t, t He met HOD WAS FA r F rOm perF eC t. A pA rt F rOm t He t WODIme NSIONAL LImI tAt IONS m AKING I t DIFFICULt t O VISUALISe DIme NSIONS AND ALLOWANCeS, V er SION CON trOL AND Up DAteS beCA me e X treme LY DIFFICULt t O m ANAGe . e ACH COp Y OF t He p LANS Nee De D t O be LOCAte D AND Up DAte D m ANUALLY AND USUALLY bY HAND, Cre At ING Opp Ort UNI t Y FOr errOr S AND INCONSIS te NCIeS t O Creep IN.
What is BIM?
the latest standard in construction modelling is building Information modelling (bIm), and it offers much more than a conventional 3D model can. Cloud computing has allowed users to create a common data environment (CDe), where bIm models can be accessed and modified by stakeholders in a highly collaborative process. this allows architects, engineers, developers, contractors, and other construction professionals to plan, design, and construct within one 3D model. bIm models are intelligent, have geometry and can store data. If any element of the
bIm is typically broken down into what are known as ‘bIm levels’, with each level describing a different degree of complexity or ‘maturity.’
Level 0 BIM: Paper-based drawings + zero collaboration
Level 0 bIm refers to a level of working that is not collaborative at all. examples of level 0 bIm include 2D CAD and working
Levels 4, 5, and 6 BIM: Addition of scheduling, costs and sustainability information
with hard copy drawings. this level of working is usually seen on smaller projects that do not include the use of bIm in contract specifications.
An increasing number of stakeholders are using bIm models to design, streamline and forecast the requirements of their projects. many stakeholders are already using augmented and virtual reality technology to walk clients and other stakeholders through projects before breaking ground. A number of tier one construction companies now have immersion rooms in their offices where clients can surround themselves in a model that is projected onto the walls of a 360-degree room.
Level 1 BIM: 2D construction drawings + some 3D modelling
Level 4 bIm includes scheduling data, which sets out each phase of the project and its various components.
many firms are at Level 1 bIm, with some using 3D CAD for concept and design work, but 2D for drafting and production. Level 1 bIm doesn’t involve much collaboration, with each stakeholder publishing and managing their own data.
there are already a number of countries in which bIm has been mandated on government projects, and several Australian state governments are already requesting bIm on their construction projects. With the ability to help contractors and manufacturers with training and scheduling, architects to showcase their designs, and owners to walk through their structures and make better decisions for maintenance and retrofitting, it makes sense that bIm will have an increasing role to play within our industry in the not too distant future.
Level 3 BIM: Stakeholders work with a shared 3D model
At level 2 bIm, stakeholders use 3D CAD models but don’t necessarily collaborate on the same model (i.e. not working in a central environment). Individual models are shared through a common file format and later combined with other stakeholder files to expand a model. this allows time savings, cost reductions, and removes the need for rework; however, it relies on the sending and receiving of models between contributors.
*Images: 3D BIM models created by Stowe depicting GPO fittings, a plantroom and comms cabinets.
Looking ahead
each stakeholder at bIm level 3 develops their own bIm which is shared in a CDe referred to as ‘Open bIm’, models are accessible to all stakeholders. this allows each discipline to develop their own bIm while linking others in a live environment. this level of working allows a better overview of the entire project, easier collaboration between multiple contributors, and reduced rework and revisions.
Level 5 bIm has the addition of cost estimations, budget analysis, and budget tracking. At this level, project owners can forecast and track what costs will be incurred over the length of the project.
reduced energy consumption over the life of the building and better operational management after handover.
FEATURE
Level 2 BIM: Stakeholders work on their own 3D models
Finally, Level 6 bIm includes environmental information, including the energy consumption of a building prior to its construction. this ensures that designers consider more than just the upfront costs of an asset. Level 6 bIm allows designers to model and test energy efficient and sustainable designs. the benefits that come with these levels of bIm include more efficient site planning and scheduling, realtime cost visualisation and analysis,
| 21WWW.NECA.ASN.AU
Do most manufacturers lock customers into a proprietary system or do application programming interfaces (APIs) make it possible to incorporate third-party components?
I think there is confusion around these products, as people believe they are automation, but in reality they are Iot devices. real home automation is so much more advanced. However, the popularity of these devices will no doubt grow, as Google, Apple and Amazon have signed an agreement called “matters”, whereby everything will talk to each other, regardless of the brand. Currently there is a rise of “connected” homes, which means a home that is connected via several apps; however, a true smart home is when all systems are integrated using the one control system (such as Savant, Crestron, etc).
What are your thoughts on privacy, data security and hacking in relation to home automation?
Where do you see the future of home automation, and do you expect new markets to open up in sectors such as aged care and disability services?
AUStr ALIA’S UptAKe OF HOme AU tOmAtION teCHNOLOGY IS ON A r ApID rISe. WItH tHe r ANGe OF De VICeS beCOmING mOre AFFOrDAbL e AND AVAILA bL e , t He m A r K et IS e X peC te D t O HAV e AN ANNUAL GrOW t H r Ate OF A rOUND 10%, WI t H A prOJeC te D VALUe OF US$4.5 bILLION bY 2026*. NeCA WAS p L e AS e D t O S pe AK tO JA meS m AXW e LL OF e L eC trIC ONe reGA rDING HIS INSIGH t S IN t O t HIS GrOW t H A re A.
the future opportunities of home automation are endless. more and more homes will become reliant on it, and it will become more accessible.
Unfortunately, there are few regulations at the moment, which is leading to some very poor work being done. However, the Custom electronics Design and Installation Association (CeDIA) is working hard to get regulations in place so that electricians have to be smart-home certified, and undertake courses before they can do the work. We are constantly upskilling ourselves as the home automation space is forever changing and expanding.
Are there any regulations around smart home automation system installation in Australia, and is a security licence or any other licence required?
battery backup will eventually be a huge part of a smart home. more homes will have the capability to choose to switch circuits off the grid and power it on battery only etc. I feel smart homes of the future will become more difficult for us as integrators, but far simpler for the homeowners.
It’s an exciting time for our industry!
What part do you think artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning will play in the future of home automation?
Some manufacturers for luxury automation will lock you into a single control system, but will provide profiles or drivers written within the ApI guidelines to control sub-systems and devices.
Voice control is something that will be a huge part of the future - and particularly useful in sectors such as disability services. New products coming out will have AI that doesn’t listen to your every conversation like many current products do. Single compound commands will become popular, i.e. home automation doing multiple things at once (opening blinds, turning off lights, turning on music etc). Geofencing will also play a big part in the future of home automation, so when you’re in the vicinity with your phone, things will start to activate (except your alarm system of course). Homes of the future will be a lot simpler and a lot smarter. these are just some of the opportunities I see.
HOME AUTOMATION
Home automation has really grown during COVID times. people are spending so much more time at home, and seem to be spending more money on their homes and holiday properties, as they have been unable to travel. this has opened up a larger number of opportunities for us. Has the popularity of Google Home and Amazon Alexa helped or hindered this market? Where do you see this going in the future?
modern day automation can usually be retrofitted. re-wiring can be expensive so we always try to add/install cables where possible. We always work with our clients to create a seamless system that will be the most functional for their home and meet the family’s expectations, and always stay within the boundaries of what their product is designed for.
S EPTEMBER 202222 | FEATURE *www.bit.ly/statistasmarthome
I feel that AI will play a huge role in the future of smart homes. the technology will essentially learn how you use your house, anticipate what you are going to do when you walk into a room, and then make that happen. We are already seeing network equipment being released onto the market with AI capabilities.
to have the alarm code to gain access or disable systems. We (as electricians) don’t program the alarm codes, they still come from the alarm company. We simply interface with the alarm system.
If there is an issue with home automation, customers have to grant us access to their system and then we only get 24 hours access, so it is quite secure.
Does home automation typically require re-wiring, or can most systems be easily retrofitted?
How has the home automation market grown in the past 12-24 months and how has COVID-19 affected this?
most customers are cautious, which I think is completely fair. they always ask about protecting their privacy and potential hacking. However even if a hacker did get into a smart home system, they could only turn some lights on and off, maybe some music too, but they would still need
JAMES MAXWELL, ELECTRIC ONE SA
From eliminating errors to offering insight, augmented reality in construction can effectively streamline the entire project life cycle, and as technology evolves, it will change the way electrical contractors offer and deliver their services.
Subcontractors and construction workers can overlay elements of a finished project into a construction environment and check measurements, clearances and potential clashes with other trades.
Collaboration is able to take place more easily, regardless of the location of the participants, with all team members able to share files, view scenarios and annotate directly over a real-life environment. this is particularly useful for providing training and technical advice.
Safety trainers are using this technology to help simulate scenarios where participants are able to safely learn from their mistakes.
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this cutting-edge trend is expected to open up significant opportunities for businesses and their clients across all industries. Now is a great time for contractors to start watching Ar developments, think about how to incorporate them into their business and position themselves for the future.
Unlike virtual reality, which creates artificial or simulated environments, Ar uses (and adds to) the existing environment. Using an Ar headset or a smart device camera, users can integrate computer generated information (sound, text and images) into the ‘real world’, enabling them to overlay graphics or data on to the environment that is currently in front of them.
AUGMENTED REALITY IS REVOLUTIONISING CONSTRUCTION
perHA p S beS t KNOWN FOr I t S US e IN t He mObIL e GA me p OK emON GO, AUGme N te D re ALI t Y (A r) IS NOW mUCH mOre t HAN JUS t AN e N tertAINme N t Or COmp U ter GA mING GImmICK.
While Ar technology is still evolving, we are seeing an increasing number of industries applying it in innovative ways. It is going to significantly change how we see and connect with our world, communicate and solve problems.
In recent years, Ar has found its way on to construction sites and it’s proving to be useful across a wide range of applications.
Companies investing in this exciting technology are already enjoying the benefits.
Ar is also being used to walk clients through certain projects even before work on site has commenced. this is proving to be a valuable tool during tendering and to help clients better visualise the finished project.
½ harden your passwords by using unpredictable passphrases instead;
You can quickly check if your password has been stolen by entering your email address in the ‘Have I been pwned’ data breach database (haveibeenpwned.com).
½ do not click on suspicious links or open emails which were not expected, or do not appear to be from a recognised sender;
Another basic, yet often overlooked element of protecting yourself against an attack is neglecting to update your computer systems. “Hackers are constantly looking to discover new vulnerabilities and updates are one of the greatest defences we have in preventing the infiltration of your computer systems.”
½ limit access to sensitive data to only those who need to view it; and
½ do not store records of client’s banking and credit card information.
NeCA Group It manager, Alex Kim, said “Unfortunately the weakest link in cybersecurity is often the human factor. A simple oversight or lapse in concentration can have devastating consequences, often resulting in reputational and financial losses. A good strategy is to remain vigilant and sceptical of all unexpected emails, text messages, and attachments. When in doubt, don’t click.”
only to protect customers’ data, but also to protect you should any losses occur as a result of such a data breach.
CY ber CrIme IS ON t He rISe A mONG Sm ALL AND meDIUm AUStr ALIAN bUSINeSSeS, pA rt ICULA rLY AS SO mANY AUStr ALIANS CONtINUe WOrKING FrOm HOme. WItH mANY IN tHe eL eCtrOteCHNOLOGY S eC t Or WOrKING F rOm perm ANe N t HOme OFFICeS, e L eC trICAL CON tr AC t Or S r ANK HIGH ON t He LIS t OF tA rGet S FOr CY berCrIme SYNDICAteS. DAtA GOV erNANCe AND S eCUrI t Y IS AN Imp OrtAN t ISSUe FOr CON tr AC t Or S, AND t He COS t OF A DAtA bre ACH COmprOmISING YOUr CUS t Omer S’ per SONAL INFOrm At ION COULD HAV e A m AJOr ImpAC t ON YOUr bUSINeSS.
the 2020-21 Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) Annual Cyber threat report claims that more than 67,500 cybercrimes were reported during this period, with losses totalling over $33 billion. the report states the average loss per successful email compromise is now more than $50,600.
Hardening passwords is another crucial aspect of It security. Using a passphrase, a sentence-like string of words instead of a password is recommended by ACSC. It’s generally accepted that a complex password is more secure, in reality, password length, rather than character variety, is the critical component of a password’s strength. Using passphrases is far more secure than passwords—even if they feature no special characters at all, since a longer password is harder to crack if data is stolen.
RAPID CLIMB IN ONLINE CRIME
½ use m ulti-Factor Authentication where possible;
½ do not give clients or other non-employees access to your computer or mobile device;
FEATURE S EPTEMBER 202224 |
Despite the rising instances of cybercrime on Australian businesses, Alex Kim has the following tips that you can easily implement to help safeguard against an attack:
Financial details are another prime target for hackers, with data often used to transfer funds or on-sold. Security around payment systems is usually managed by the payment partner, and it is recommended that contractors never store customers’ credit card information in any way. these measures serve not
½ perform regular operating system security updates;
most cyber insurers will now only offer policies where a high level of cyber security protocols have been implemented. these may include having:
What does cyber insurance cover?
½ a two-person approval process for payments over $2,000.
½ an I t Forensic Consultant was appointed to fix the damage and investigate if the hacker still had access;
½ third party claims - claims from third parties following breaches to your system. Includes defence costs, investigations and cover for fines and penalties;
there are five main areas of a good cyber policy:
½ an insured client’s system was hacked;
1. Social engineering and third-party liability
2. Data Breach
½ cyber incident response line –providing an incident hotline is one of the most important features of a good cyber policy.
½ payments were made to the hacker’s account amounting to $500,000;
½ the insured was paid the remaining $50,000 as a claim payment.
½ if there had been a privacy breach, the insurer may also cover fines and mandated notifications;
½ business interruption (following a cyber incident);
You still take out home and contents insurance when you have locks and alarms, and cyber risk management is no different. even with the most secure cyber risk controls and employee training, cyber insurance is an effective cyber risk management strategy.
½ processes to verify any changes to bank accounts; and
FEATURE | 25WWW.NECA.ASN.AU
Real claim examples
½ the subcontractor’s email had been hacked allowing the emails
½ the hacker had used access to request funds transfers from the insured’s clients and their bank;
½ social engineering and phishing - use of deception to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential or personal information and into making payments;
½ an insured client’s system was hacked, preventing access to documents including critical contract details and designs;
Cover requirements
WHAT IS CYBER INSURANCE?
What is a threat?
½ payments of $70,000 were subsequently made to the bogus account;
Cyber exposures are an endemic threat to all business. You may have heard of some high-profile cases affecting large businesses; however, in recent years cyber criminals have been targeting small to medium businesses including NeCA members.
½ the latest security updates and patches installed;
Alexander Joosten Account Manager, Willis Towers Watson (WTW) www.wtwco.com
Interested in a quote?
½ a subcontractor emailed a member asking for the bank details for a payment to be changed;
½ insurance claims covered the insured’s business Interruption losses, forensics and legal costs;
½ remediation;
AND WHY YOU SHOULD ALREADY HAVE IT
½ two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (m FA);
½ embedded firewalls and anti-virus protection;
½ in this instance the insured was able to claim a total of $63,000.
3. Ransomware attack
For more information on cyber insurance or to obtain a quote, call 1800 335 014 or email necaguard@neca.asn.au
½ password protection on all devices;
Here are some real claim examples from small businesses, some of which are from NeCA members.
½ the member verified this request via email;
½ the insurer appointed an I t Forensic Consultant to help recover $450,000;
½ a cyber policy with social engineering can manage cost recovery and reimburse any unrecoverable losses.
½ the insured contacted the insurance provider’s hotline;
½ a law firm was then appointed for remediation and to investigate if the matter needed to be notified to the p rivacy Commissioner;
to be sent to and from the authenticatedsubcontractor’saccount;
Australian-based Legend Corporation has over 30 qualified engineers and technical experts across a range of disciplines. In recent years Legend Corporation has placed a strong focus on design and innovation within the electronic and electrical segments. NeCA News recently caught up with General manager of Hendon Semiconductors, Jason Gerard, to learn more about the research and development that goes into the products released under Legend Corporation’s brands.
AUSTRALIAN SOLUTIONS FOR AUSTRALIAN CONDITIONS
adapted to Australian conditions. A few years ago, the Hendon Semiconductor team developed a world class dimming solution to resolve the abnormal light flicker that was encountered by many traditional lighting products being imported into the country. this is just one example of how local research and development has had an impact on products most of us use every single day.”
Jason Gerard Executive General Manager, Hendon Semiconductors
“people don’t realise that many products designed overseas just simply don’t work in Australia and often require modifications or re-engineering to be
AUStr ALIAN’S HAVe A LONG HIStOrY OF FINDING UNIQUe SOLU tIONS FOr tHeIr prObL emS, AND It ’S tHIS INGeNUIt Y tHAt HAS SeeN AUStr ALIANS INVeNt A LONG LISt OF prODUCtS tHAt HAVe SHApeD t He mODerN WOrLD. t He e L eC trIC DrILL, WI-FI teCHNOLOGY AND t He bIONIC e A r W ere ALL De VeLOpeD IN AUStr ALIA, NOt tO meNtION tHe teCHNOLOGY beHIND GOOGL e mApS WHICH IS reLIeD Up ON bY mILLIONS A rOUND t He WOrLD e ACH DAY. SO WHAt GOeS IN t O De V e LOp ING A prODUC t, Or re e NGINeerING ONe t HAt DOeSN’ t QUI te FI t t He Dem ANDS OF t He AUS tr ALIAN m A rK et ?
“It’s not common knowledge that businesses like ours even exist,” Jason said. “Not only do we support local markets by designing solutions for Australian problems, we also export products into global markets. All of this is proudly supported by the engineering capabilities of our teams right here in Australia.”
Jason said that it’s not uncommon to have products adapted for different markets. Supporting local brands that supply Australian designed and/or Australian made products is critical in driving continued innovation within the local technology sector. Jason sees this as a growth area for the industry, and with continued support, an opportunity for many with the right skills and a curious mind to prosper. “With a renewed
focus on sovereign capabilities, the demand for skilled engineers, technical and semi-skilled people is continuing to grow across all sectors. I’m incredibly excited by this and can’t wait to see what Australia’s next crop of talent will come up with in the future.”
S EPTEMBER 202226 | ADVERTORIAL
Craig van Spronsen Electric Vehicle Solutions Manager, NHP Electrical Engineering Products
from 2035. this will also come into effect closer to home, with the ACt bringing this into force from 2035 for passenger vehicles. there are already more than 30 countries, cities and states that will implement a ban on combustion vehicles, and this will drive significant investment from automotive brands in preparation.
S EPTEMBER 202228 | ADVERTORIAL
A common question which has driven hesitation towards eVs has been vehicle range and charging options. the reality is any decent eV will travel in excess of 400 kilometres per full charge. With regards to charging, it is estimated that 85% of eV drivers will charge their vehicle at home, plugging in their vehicle every other night to ensure a full battery the next morning. besides the fast, silent and enjoyable performance of an eV, they are extremely cost effective to run. Charging at home costs approximately a quarter of the cost of running a petrol car and about half the cost if charging from a commercial/public fast charger.
electric vehicles have changed a lot in recent years - they have become far more practical, they now have strong range, are fast and technologically superior to traditional vehicles. Some forwardthinking automotive manufacturers are re-directing much of their r&D investment into eVs, which will result in a surge of upcoming electric products.
Charging an eV can occur through AC or DC charging. eV batteries only accept DC charge, and seeing as the grid only delivers AC current, a conversion needs to occur.
A charger such as the Delta AC max 22 kW receives AC current and sends that AC current directly to the vehicle. the vehicle converts the current through an on-board rectifier in the boot, which converts the power to DC. Due to the size and weight of the on-board rectifier, these are usually rated at about 11 kW. It’s important to note that the charger might be able to deliver up to 22 kW, but the vehicle is the bottle neck in this regard due to its 11 kW rectifier.
Alternating current (AC) versus direct current (DC) charging
EV global expansion and the Australian market
A DC charger, such as the Delta DC Wallbox 25 kW, does the AC to DC conversion on the charger. the current enters the vehicle as DC, bypassing the
THE EV REVOLUTION IS HERE
WHAT IS THE HYPE ABOUT?
on-board rectifier and the full 25 kW can potentially be delivered to the battery.
the eV revolution is here, and we are at the dawn of a new transport era, which will provide the electrical industry with significant opportunities for decades to come.
In this scenario there is no limitation by the charger or vehicle - they are both running at optimum capacity. DC charging is usually much faster with many vehicles able to accept over 100 kW.
DC chargers are available in a range of speeds, and NHp is able to support projects from 25 kW right through to 200 kW for ultra-fast performance.
e L eC trIC V eHICL eS (e VS) HAV e reCe IV eD SIGNIFICAN t Atte N t ION IN reCe N t mON t HS. NOt SUrprISINGLY, WI t H OIL prICe INCre AS eS, OV er S e AS CONFLIC t AND SHIpp ING CHAOS, t He prICe per LI tre OF petrOL HAS SKY rOCK ete D. AUS tr ALIAN DrIV er S A re re-CONSIDerING t He Ir Opt IONS A bOU t HOW tO Get A rOUND e FFICIe N t LY. IN t HIS A rt ICL e , W e LOOK At WHAt ’S DrIVING t He GrOW t H IN t He GLOb AL e V m A rK et, HOW I t WILL ImpAC t t He AUS tr ALIAN m A r K et AND HOW t He LOCAL e L eC trICAL INDUS trY CAN Se IZ e t He Opp Ort UNI t IeS t HAt t HIS re VOLU t ION preS e N t S.
Automotive manufacturers are investing in eVs for a number of reasons, but one of the largest influencing factors will be their ability (or lack thereof) to sell combustion cars in the future. For example, the european Union recently announced that there will be a ban on the sale of new petrol/diesel vehicles
Light the way with Nexus RF solutions! Innovative solutions for monitored emergency lighting systems Simplicity through commissioning Reliability through sel nhp.com.au/Stanilite sales@nhp.com.aunhp.com.au1300NHPNHP Light the way with Nexus RF solutions! Innovative solutions for monitored emergency lighting systems Simplicity through commissioning Reliability through sel nhp.com.au/Stanilite Innovative solutions for monitored emergency lighting systems Simplicity through commissioning Reliability through self-monitoring nhp.com.au/Stanilite sales@nhp.com.aunhp.com.au1300NHPNHP
With the national awards still to come, more details will be provided in the December issue of NeCA NeWS. In the meantime, we encourage you to visit NeCA.tV to watch the winners’ video clips.
½ Shepherd e lectrical for Green e nergy and Industrial Large;
½ Control & e lectric for Work Health and Safety – e xcellence in Action;
On Friday 19 August, NeCA ACt held its annual excellence Awards lunch at the Hyatt Canberra with over 300 guests celebrating the very best electrical and communications projects from across the ACt
Nataisha Martin NECA ACT & Southern NSW Member Manager
Welcome to the September issue of NeCA NeWS.
½ m artin Donnelly for Industrial Small;
It’s hard to believe that we are three quarters into the year, with planning already underway for our next series of Industry Nights and end-of-year events.
½ National e lectrical Solutions for Lighting Design and Construct;
½ Stowe Australia for Commercial Small;
½ m artin Donnelly for Commercial m edium; and
We would also like to acknowledge and thank our awards sponsors: Clipsal Schneider, Legend Cabac, NHp, mmem, tLe, NeSS Super, NeCA training and Apprenticeships, and our event supporters: the ACt training Fund Authority and the ACt Government – Access Canberra.
Praise for constructionfemale-ledproject
to remove gender barriers in the construction industry, we need to see projects with a stronger female representation across all levels of hierarchy. NeCA applauds the ACt Government on this initiative. BRANCH
ACT
thevisittohereScan homepageACTNECA S EPTEMBER 2022
NECA ACT Awards 2022
BRANCH UPDATE
½ Star e lectric for Commercial Large.
the Strathnairn primary School project, with its women-led onsite management and women’s representation amongst all trade subcontractors, is a rare opportunity to implement and improve positive cultural change. Just over 15% of NeCA’s 150 apprentices in the ACt are female, with NeCA continuing to actively increase the number of female apprentices it employs. barriers for women entering the industry are slowly coming down; however, women still have very small numbers of female peers on site, and this can be intimidating for some people seeking to enter the industry.
Congratulations to our award category winners:
NeCA CeO Oliver Judd said, “With just 2.4% of the construction workforce being women, the industry needs to make cultural changes that encourage more women to join, and provide ongoing top-down same-gender support to maintain retention.”
½ Intravision for IC t and AV;
NeCA recently commended the ACt Government’s focus on gender equity for women in the construction industry, after the government announced that the new Strathnairn primary School will be a female-led construction project.
NeCA, which has long advocated for women in construction, stated that the initiative was a significant step forward in improving gender equality within the construction industry.
½ Davis Hart e lectrical Solutions for Small Contracting b usiness of the Year;
½ offering alternative solutions to your technical issues; and
2.6.3.2.2 Domestic and residential installations (AU)
Where an electrician chooses not to install an rCD on a final subcircuit under this clause, the electrician should ensure they have a risk assessment of why they elected not to install an rCD. the risk assessment should show acceptance by the person Conducting a business or Undertaking (pCbU) of the electrical installation.
Where an electrician is using exceptions 2 & 3 as listed under this clause not to install an rCD on a final subcircuit, the Access Canberra electrical inspections
Free solar training with NECA Training
All NeCA members receive free phone and email support from our technical experts. Scan the Qr code to connect with NeCA.
It is recommended that electricians fit rCDs designed to trip at 30mA leakage for all final sub-circuits up to 32A in all non-residential installations where employees and visitors can encounter electrical equipment.
½ conducting site visits for third-party opinions.
Access Canberra guidance to changes to RCDs
As Australia expands its renewable energy adoption, it is increasingly important for electricians to have the knowledge and skills to work on solar power systems. In Canberra, the solar capital of Australia, more than 10% of houses have rooftop solar systems.
AS/NZS 3000:2018 A2 clause 2.6.3.2.3 exceptions
UNLIMITED BASIC PHONE AND EMAIL SUPPORT FOR ALL TECHNICAL ENQUIRIES
NeCA will continue to apply for further industry course funding so members can gain skills that are in high demand. Keep an eye out in your email for further updates.
the list provided in the clause is not exhaustive, and each installation’s circumstances must be assessed for all relevant risk factors.
Our team can assist you with:
Usually valued together at $4,190, the courses were offered free for NeCA ACt members who submitted an expression of interest. this program generated recordbreaking enrolments, quickly filling the available places. Upon completion of the course, students will receive a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment.
If you are seeking interpretation of industry standards or other technical issues, speak to a NECA Representative today!
NeCA recently became aware that electrical contractors may be using online forums to get advice and interpretation of industry standards. Whilst there are some excellent forums available, feedback shows they are not always the best source of accurate information.
the risk assessment may be required if there is an investigation into an accident that an rCD could have prevented. Also, the risk assessment will assist the electrical Inspector to understand your circumstances for the exemption.
Where employees, customers, and visitors encounter such equipment in commercial and industrial settings,
Additional protection by rCDs with a maximum rated residual current of 30mA shall be provided for all final subcircuits in domestic and residential electrical installations.
Access Canberra has provided guidance on changes to rCDs, which relate to several clauses in AS/NZS 3000:2018 A2. these include:
team will need to see a copy of the risk assessment to support the decision not to install an rCD on that final subcircuit. the risk assessment is to show acceptance by the person Conducting a business or Undertaking (pCbU) of the electrical installation.
All NeCA members have access to unlimited phone and email support with any technical issues. If you need any clarification on how the changes apply to your unique situations, connect with NeCA’s Scanexpertstechnicaltoday.theQrcode to submit your enquiry.
Clause 1.5.14 Protection against external influences
How can NECA Technical Experts assist you?
| 31WWW.NECA.ASN.AU ACT BRANCH
Increasing the ACt’s electricity generation using solar is an ACt Government priority. In recent months, NeCA training secured ACt Government Job trainer Skilled Capital Funding to provide a limited number of free Solar and battery Storage courses delivered from NeCA’s Fyshwick Campus.
Care should be taken when designing the installation to minimise nuisance rCD tripping due to combined leakage currents of electrical equipment.
Domestic and residential installations
contacts are likely to be more frequent, compared with residential installations.
NeCA’s technical experts sit on a range of industry standard committees including the Wiring rules committee, and often provide submissions on changes in legislation or policy. this work keeps them up to date with current knowledge.
½ interpreting industry standards;
the risk assessment may be required if there is an investigation into an accident that an rCD could have prevented.
NSW
Meet NECA’s new Sydney Metro Membership Manager – Mynas Leontios
BRANCH UPDATE
NeCA has welcomed new NSW Government initiatives aimed at improving industry accreditation safeguards, including a trial of an enhanced public register and the delivery of the Service NSW business profile.
New Digital High Work Licences now live
We recently launched a webinar series hosted by our in-house legal, Hr and Ir experts. these webinars have been developed to educate members on debt collection, unfair contract terms, employee entitlements, employee termination and obtaining a judgement.
this standard has had a complete revision, superseding AS/NZS 3760:2010 and its Amendment No.1 (2011) and Amendment No.2 (2012) on 24 June 2023. this edition is a full re-write and contains many changes throughout the BRANCH
NECA’s legal webinar series
Welcome to our September issue of NeCA NeWS.
the last few months have been very busy but exhilarating, as we finished off our Northern and Southern Industry Nights and moved into our Sydney metro Industry Nights. With member loyalty at an alltime high, and new membership signups increasing at an accelerating rate, more and more members are benefiting from NeCA’s broad range of services.
the delivery of the initiatives involved extensive industry consultation from associations such as NeCA and required extensive trials to ensure a benefit for consumers, tradespeople and businesses. the enhanced public register provides customers with access to reference against a multitude of licences, whilst benefitting business owners by facilitating accurate management of licences and compliance obligations.
Brett Carew Nothern NSW Member Manager Mynas Leontios Sydney Metro Member Manager
If you would like to watch one of our webinars, then visit the NECA website for more information or keep an eye out in your email inbox.
We have been very pleased to welcome mynas Leontios, our new Sydney metro member manager, to the NeCA team. mynas spent over nine years at NeSS Super as the business Development manager, so he is no stranger to our industry and I’m sure many of you have crossed paths at past NeCA Industry Nights and events.
AS/NZS 3760:2022 is now available on NECA’s Technical Knowledge Base
app. these improved systems are designed to instil greater consumer confidence by enabling searches for worker licence records and business registrations, ensuring fully qualified tradespeople are identified and selected for performing specialised work.
thevisittohereScan homepageNSWNECA S EPTEMBER 2022
the initiatives include updates to the public register website and supporting digital licences on the Service NSW
mynas is excited to take up this new role with NeCA, and support members with information on the latest policy and market changes, as well as technical, legal, human resources (Hr) and industrial relations (Ir), HSeQ advice, post trade training, insurance and other business support to ensure that your business and the electrotechnology industry continue to thrive.
NeCA members can now view the AS/NZS 3760:2022 In-service Safety Inspection and testing of electrical equipment and rCD’s. the standard is now live on NeCA’s technical Knowledge base (tKb).
many NeCA members should be advised that if they provide services either as a stand-alone service or as part of installation and maintenance work, then they require professional indemnity insurance cover for their business. Some of these professional services include testing and tagging; design of photovoltaic solar systems; switchboards, security systems; fire safety assessment and design
½ supply cables from solar panels to an inverter unit will be live when the solar panels are generating electricity. Check to see whether the property has a battery storage system and isolate it accordingly;
the sessions were aimed at educating our future industry leaders on quality products and innovations within the electrotechnology industry.
document, including requirements for rCD testing by electrical contractors.
the recent deaths of two NSW electricians in separate incidents as a result of an electrical shock highlights the dangers of working with live wires. We urge all workers (electrical and non-electrical) to SWItCH OFF all power at the property’s switchboard (meter box) and take steps to prevent the power being switched back ON until the work has been completed and the area has been vacated.
test for ‘dead’ before you touch. be aware that some properties may have illegal connections that do not switch OFF under normal circumstances. treat all wiring as live unless proved otherwise by a licensed electrician.
to prevent incidents, members are reminded that they have access to a free 90-minute NeCA Safety Advisory visit to help improve your standards of OHS compliance.
Your NeCA member Site Safety Audit visit will:
If you are renewing your providesyouradvicecover,insuranceorseekingonwhethercurrentcovertheright
½ before entering the roof space or subfloor space of a house, let someone who is on site and contactable know where you are going and how long you will be;
protection, scan the Qr code to speak to a NeCAGuard representative.
½ electrical wiring work must only be carried out, or supervised, by a licensed electrician who has the necessary training and experience;
½ assist with any challenges of managing safety;
for emergency and exit lighting, pLC and SCADA. Other services include preparing plans, specifications, calculation and designs.
A message from SafeWork NSW: test for ‘dead’ before you touch
overhead service lines and the consumer mains will still be live;
If you are interested in a free 90-minute member Site Safety Audit, scan the Qr code to connect with a NeCA member manager.
½ switching OFF power at the meter box does not turn off the electricity supply from the street to the meter box. t his means the incoming
| 33WWW.NECA.ASN.AU NSW BRANCH
½ demonstrate our safety management systems and learn about new offerings;
Scan the Qr code to connect with NeCA technical.
½ inform you on how to achieve triple ISO accreditation.
NECA apprentice sessions
If you have any enquiries relating to this standard, or other technical enquiries, please connect with NeCAs technical team. All NeCA members have access to unlimited phone and email support with any technical issues.
SafeWork NSW advises:
½ if you find any damaged wiring, exit safely and let the owner or property manager know so that proper repairs can be organised.
½ assist with accredited service provider (AS p) accreditation;
remember to always apply the safe work principle:
If you make a mistake delivering your professional services, your customer may make a claim against your business for losses as a result of actual or alleged negligent acts or omissions in the professional service or advice.
NeCA members are encouraged to enquire with a NeCAGuard representative for a specific and tailored package to suit their individual business needs.
½ check your compliance with safety and licensing laws;
In recent months, NeCA business partners Clipsal Schneider, Legend CAbAC and NeSS Super, spent a week with NeCA training apprentices at our Centre of excellence in Chullora.
Professional indemnity insurance – why you need it
Having professional indemnity insurance will protect your business with legal costs associated with responding to or managing claims. more importantly, using an insurance broker that addresses the specific needs of your business will ensure that you have the right coverage.
½ asist with understanding of the N e CA SW m S templates;
please note that this content relates to employees covered by the Award only. If your employees are covered
person Conducting a business Undertaking (pCbU) for work that is considered High risk Construction Work (HrCW) or any work involving energised electrical work.
Verification testing, and Cable Installation.
All NeCA members receive unlimited basic phone and email support on all Hr and Ir enquiries including pay rates, award rates, termination, travel allowances and leave entitlements. Scan the Qr code to submit your enquiry.
NSW BRANCH
NECA MEMBERS HAVE ACCESS TO THE INDUSTRY’S TOP 10 SWMS
It is important to note that shift loadings under the Award only come into effect when the company continues to offer afternoon or night shift for at least five consecutive afternoons or nights. However, when an employee is undertaking such a shift which does not continue for at least five successive afternoons or
A SWmS ensures that potential on-site risks and hazards have been identified and rectified. It also has detailed instructions for on-site workers to follow to mitigate the risks. SWmS need to be prepared by a
If you need advice on how to pay your employees who work afternoon or night shifts, connect with NeCA’s in-house Hr and Ir experts.
As a member you can also ensure you have the correct safe work practices in place, by accessing your free 90-minute Safety Advisory visit.
Sorting your SWmS need not be a tedious task. Log on to tKb and download the industry’s top 10 SWmS templates: electrical, Work at Heights, Asbestos, Overhead powerlines, General trade Work, Ladders, electrical Installations,
Scan the Qr code to request your visit.
NIGHT SHIFTS VS AFTERNOON SHIFTS
Developed by NeCA experts specifically for industry, the NeCA safe work method statements (SWmS) can be downloaded for free from NeCA’s technical Knowledge base (tKb).
under an enterprise agreement, specific advice should be sought.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE IN PAY RATES?
NeCA’S HUm AN reSOUrCeS (Hr) AND INDUS trIAL re LAt IONS (Ir) te A m HAS reCe N t LY reCe IV e D A NUmber OF CALLS F rOm member S e NQUIrING A bOU t pAY r AteS FOr emp LOY eeS WOrKING AF terNOON Or NIGH t SHIF t S.
nights, they are entitled to payment at time and a half of their ordinary hourly rate for the first two hours of the shift, and double time thereafter (monday to Friday). Note that these penalties increase for shift work on Sundays and public holidays and for casual employees.
S EPTEMBER 202234 |
Are you aware that under the Electrical, Electronic and Communications Contracting Award 2020 (the Award) an afternoon shift is one that finishes after 6:00pm and at or before midnight, whereas a night shift is when an employee works on a shift finishing after midnight and at or before 8:00am.
Once again, NeCA teamed up with SafeWork NSW to assist small business owners. businesses that attended the Sydney metro Industry Nights received a $1,000 Small business rebate towards the purchase of safety equipment.
a
Legend Cabac
We greatly appreciate the dedication and support of our business partners and presenters who make it possible for us to run such successful events. Our panel of industry experts included: bruce blacker from NSW Fair trading, Daniel Daoud and Neil roberts from SafeWork NSW, Jared Wilson and brendan Hook from training NSW, Jeremy Wilson and mark Henson from Ausgrid, Jude perera from endeavour energy, Stafford poyser and Lauren Howe from NeCA Legal, Owen Leslie and Adriana Hondrogianis from NeCA HSeQ, and NeCA’s technical manager Grant morehouse.
electrical contractors were also given the opportunity to ask our panel of experts a raft of key questions, and network with our business partners and NeCA staff.
valued
giving away an
during
the
How to enter
½ User-friendly GUI on a highresolution colour LCD Double-tap the screen to zoom the optical fibre up to 520 times owerful and innovative performance Active clad-alignmnet
½ p
NeCA’s business partner is Inno Clad Fibre Splicer VIeW3prO + Cleaver, at over $8,500 to lucky NeCA member August and September 2022. Inno Clad Splicer VIeW3prO + Cleaver is:
NSW BRANCH
Optic
½
½
the nights have been very well received, with considerable positive feedback provided by attendees on the night and through our online survey. Our thanks to everyone who took the time to attend.
What an amazing start for our new Sydney metro member manager, mynas Leontios, assisted by the dedicated and hard-working NeCA team.
| 35WWW.NECA.ASN.AU YOUR CHANCE TO WIN AN INNO CLAD SPLICER VIEW3PRO + CLEAVER VALUED AT $8,848.79
I A m p L e AS e D t O SAY t HAt t He INDUS trY NIGH t S HAV e ONCe AGAIN bee N A Gre At SUCCeSS. HUNDre DS OF e L eC trICIANS
SYDNEY METRO INDUSTRY NIGHT UPDATE
Simply watch the webinar as NeCA,s business partner Legend CAbAC and its product partner mSS Data Solutions discuss the fibre optic splicing and testing advancements in technology and in 25 words or less, name the two categories of the Fibre Optic Splicers available. Scan the QR code to enter.
F rOm ACrOSS t He SYDNe Y metrOp OLI tAN A re A HAV e Atte NDe D, He A r ING A bOU t t He LAteS t K e Y CHANGeS t O rUL eS AND reGULAt IONS, AND t He bUSINeSS ImpAC t S.
the Industry Nights were made extra memorable with free merchandise giveaways from NeCA and our business partners, plus the chance to win an Inno Clad Splicer VIeW3prO + Cleaver thanks to Legend CAbAC valued at $8,848.79. the competition will run until 10 October 2022, so there is still time to enter. See below for details.
On the night, NeCA’s legal team also discussed the Five basic ‘must Dos’ to ensure you get paid on time, and later provided attendees with an opportunity to discuss their legal issues with our experts face-to-face.
NeCA e L eC trICAL A ppre N t ICeSHIp S reCe N t LY He LD I t S ANNUAL A ppre N t ICe AWA rDS NIGH t At DOCKSIDe , DA rLING HA rbOUr IN SYDNe Y. t He NIGH t Ce L ebr Ate D OUr A ppre N t ICeS’ e FFOrt S AND SUCCeSS eS, AND prOVIDe D A VALUA bL e Opp Ort UNI t Y t O t HANK OUr HOS t S FOr t He Ir CON t INUe D SUpp Ort, pA rt ICULA rLY DUrING t He DIFFICULt COVID LOCKDOWNS W e ’V e e NCOUN tere D OV er t He LAS t t WO Y e A r S.
the following individual year awards were presented to apprentices based on their overall performance throughout the year. the winners were selected based on their academic studies, work reports completed by the host, and on-the-job assessments by their Field Officer.
Overall Performance Awards
½ 2nd runner up Brendan Ah-Tong hosted by A r A e lectrical.
S EPTEMBER 202236 |
The 2021 Apprentice of the Year
Canberra (02) 6280 5580
the Apprentice of the Year Award is based on a combination of academic results, site assessments, work ethic and work performance throughout the entire length of their apprenticeship. bailey is a proven excellent performer, who is highly regarded by NeCA electrical Apprenticeships and his host company.
NeCA electrical Apprenticeships is looking for new starters to join our industry as we head into a period where electricians will be more in demand than ever. For more information, or to apply online, visit our website www.necatraining. com.au or contact your local office.
½ t hird Year Apprentice 2021 Corey Hackett hosted by pm e lectric.
½ First Year Apprentice 2021 Cooper Brown hosted by Kerfoot.
brisbane (07) 3276 7950
Sydney (02) 9744 2754
½ 1st runner up Ryan Ferris hosted by Fredon Industries.
NECA is recruiting
½ Lachlan Bates hosted by Fredon.
½ Jared Calaer-King hosted by JV Holt.
NSW BRANCH
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE
Our congratulations to bailey Gronau, hosted by Heyday Group, who picked up the top prize: the 2021 Apprentice of the Year.
We’d also like to congratulate:
½ Second Year Apprentice 2021 Kurt Mills hosted by b arnwell Cambridge.
IN HIGH QUALITY APPRENTICE TRAINING
Technical Field Officer’s Awards
the technical Field Officer Awards are presented as encouragement awards for consistent performance. they recognise consistent outstanding performance on and off the job throughout their apprenticeship. this year’s awards went to:
½ 3rd runner up Jordan Kenny hosted by Star e lectrical.
½ Timothy Gale-Re hosted by GS te C.
½ Kristy-lee O’Farrell hosted by Heyday.
½ Ethan Baxter hosted by A r A e lectrical.
the centre has been purpose-built to deliver quality training in the latest technologies, including solar and telecommunications. the courses currently on offer cover optical fibre, the Internet of things (Iot), tradeselectricalespeciallyboom,Governmentintmmtlaunchedandpowercoursesandsmartstorage,accreditation,telecommunicationsbatterygridconnectandmetering,testingverification.Additionalincludingstandalonesystemsdesigninstallareduetobeinthenearfuture.heHonAlisterHenskinsmLA(NSW),inisterforSkillsandtrainingandinisterforScience,Innovationandechnology,whoopenedthecentreAprilthisyear,said,“theNSWisdrivingaconstructionandmoretradespeople,thoseinadvancedandcommunicationsareneeded.”
S EPTEMBER 202238 |
IN CHULLOr A NSW, Dem AND FOr eL eC trOteCHNOLOGY
p OS t tr ADe COUrSeS HAS GONe t HrOUGH t He rOOF.
on 1300 361 099 or scan the Qr code to visit our website.
NSW BRANCH
NeCA’s expanded facilities, including a 100 seat auditorium and purpose-built classrooms, are equipped to deliver practical and theory based post-trade training to up to 250 tradespeople each week.
If you want to know more about our posttrade contactcourses,trainingNeCA
SINCe t He OFFICIAL OpeNING OF S tAGe t WO OF NeCA’S StAte-OFt He-A rt CeN tre OF e XCeLL eNCe
David Gilbert, NeCA NSW rtO Operations manager, said, “We are incredibly proud of the breadth and standard of post-trade courses we are now able to offer to industry. If you’re looking to expand your current skill-set, keep abreast of current and emerging technologies, or move into a new area of the trade, NeCA post-trade courses should definitely be on your radar.”
DEMAND FOR NECA POST-TRADE TRAINING IS ON THE RISE
• Combined Endorsement special, which includes Structured Cabling, Coaxial Cabling and Optical Fibre training
We have created the Combined Endorsement Special for industry workers to gain knowledge and experience for all their cabling needs over five days. This course is also discounted, so you wont be paying high fees to kick start your career! Hume Highway, Chullora, skills@necatraining.edu.auwww.necatraining.com.auNSW
Upon completion, you will receive a Statement of Attainment that you can submit to gain your registration.
•
With a range of Telecommunications training to kick start your career. You will complete your training at our new Chullora Centre of Excellence and gain knowledge and practical experience. Our courses include; Open Registration, including the ACMA exam for Electricians
Nationally Accredited Training 122
• Solar Grid Connect Design and Install • Solar Grid Connect with Batteries Design and Install • Stand Alone Power Systems Design and Install is coming soon to NECA Training!
Solar and CoursesBattery
NECA Training offers multiple accredited courses in Solar and Battery. Become an accredited solar installer. You will learn in an online classroom for the first six days of the course; learn from anywhere! The last two days are face-to-face in our Chullora Centre of Excellence. Our CEC Accredited Solar Courses include;
We have tailored our solar training to give you all the knowledge you will need to get a head start in the Solar Industry and to make the registration process with the Clean Energy Council as smooth as possible.
TelecommunicationsCourses
S EPTEMBER 2022
Christopher Gradwell NECA QLD Member Manager
Welcome to our September issue of N e CA N e WS.
We welcome m ichael Horsham as an additional technical Support Advisor based in Queensland. Having worked in the industry for many years, m ichael has joined us from N e CA training, bringing a wealth of technical experience and knowledge. m ichael will assist the technical team, especially in Queensland, with responding to the hundreds of phone and email technical enquiries received from members each week.
If you have a technical query or require advice, you can call m ichael on 1300 361 099. As a N e CA member, you receive free unlimited phone and email support on all technical issues.
BRANCH UPDATE
t he sold-out event saw m C m ick Colliss host 250 attendees at Sofitel b risbane Central, celebrating the very best electrical and communications projects from across the state.
N e CA C e O, Oliver Judd said, “Congratulations to our winners, who have not only showcased outstanding examples of the best our industry has to offer, but have also shown what is possible for the future of our industry.”
Congratulations to: tri Coast e lectrical, Give Industries, Green Switch e lectrical, Fredon, e lonara, p erigon, Northern e nergy Group and r&H e lectrical. Our apprentice winners are Harry r enshaw, Kieran Cairns and r yan Williams.
t he new testing and tagging standard (AS/NZS 3760:2022 Inservice safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment and r CD’s) is now available on N e CA’s technical Knowledge b ase ( t K b).
If you have any enquiries relating to this standard, or other NtoScantconnectenquiries,technicalpleasewithNeCAsechnicalteam.theQrcodeconnectwitheCAtechnical.
With the national awards still to come, more details will be provided in the December issue of N e CA N e WS. In the meantime, we encourage you to visit N e CA.t V to watch the winners’ video clips.
Winners of the 2022 awards were selected from an extremely strong field, with N e CA Queensland State m embership m anager, Chris Gradwell adding, “ t he finalists from all awards categories should be very proud. t he calibre of work exhibited by our Queensland members is among the country’s best. I look forward to seeing how our winners fare at the N e CA National Awards in November.”
NECA QLD Excellence Awards
NECA’s Technical Knowledge Base
QLD BRANCH thevisittohereScan homepageQLDNECA
t he last few months have been exceptionally busy here in Queensland. With member loyalty at an all-time high, and new membership sign-ups increasing at an accelerating rate, more and more members are benefiting from N e CA’s broad range of services.
N e CA has recognised the industry’s best at the 2022 N e CA Queensland Awards, which were held on Friday, 5 August 2022.
t his standard has had a complete revision, superseding AS/NZS 3760:2010 and its Amendment No.1 (2011) and Amendment No.2 (2012). t his edition is a full re-write and contains many changes throughout the document, including requirements for r CD testing by electrical contractors. For a full list of changes, members can log on to t K b
Welcome to Michael Horsham
½ fridge magnets and switchboard stickers;
½ newspaper and Yellow p ages advertising;
N e CAs legal team recently held a webinar discussing the basic ‘must dos’ to ensure you get paid on time. m embers can log on to t K b to watch the webinar.
Some public liability insurance policies may have exclusions for work done in certain locations or industries. Commonly excluded areas include mines, quarries, airports or airfields, power generation and rail.
You don’t need to include licence details on the following:
t hey specialise in insurance packages tailored specifically for the electrical industry, including cover for contractors working in hazardous areas.
t here are several reasons that you may find yourself in this situation. For example when there are:
Warning to contractors about advertising requirements
In August, the Queensland Government appointed Keith m cKenzie to the role of Commissioner for e lectrical Safety.
½ online advertising if it links to your website or social media homepage, and the homepage has the licence number clearly displayed;
½ a number of parties involved which affects the flow of payment;
½ posters, brochures and flyers;
Scan the Q r code to submit an enquiry with N e CAGuard.
When advertising your business your licence details must be included in the following:
½ disputes over the completion of work.
½ vehicle signage;
½ sponsorships (e.g. football jerseys);
N e CA sits on the e lectrical Safety b oard, and has welcomed Keith’s appointment. We look forward to working with him to improve our industry’s safety.
| 41WWW.NECA.ASN.AU QLD BRANCH
½ telephone on-hold advertising.
t his is a statutory position that sits separate from the e lectrical Safety Office. t he position reports straight to the m inister for Industrial r elations, and has the following primary roles:
r egardless of the reason, it is important to prepare for the possible need for debt recovery assistance.
t he e lectrical Safety Office (e SO) has issued a warning to electrical contractors about the need to follow the rules when it comes to advertising their business. e SO is trying to prevent unlicensed businesses from operating in the industry, so not following the rules could result in a fine.
½ business cards and stationery;
½ radio and television advertising; and
½ shopfronts; or
As an electrical business owner, you may often find yourself in circumstances where payment has fallen due, but you have not been paid.
New Commissioner for Electrical Safety appointed
½ websites and social media (see below for social media post exceptions);
Did you know that you likely won’t be covered if you have a claim from work in an excluded location? An insurer may also limit cover for other claims if they determine a non-disclosure of work in an excluded location, meaning they charged the wrong premium.
½ merchandising (e.g. hats, pens);
On printed materials, the licence details must be displayed clearly enough to be easily read. For spoken advertising, the licence details must be clearly audible.
½ procedures in place for requesting variations and making payment claims that haven’t been correctly followed; or
Does your insurance policy contain restricted locations exclusions?
Chasing that final payment
If your insurance policy is coming up for renewal, we recommend you seek advice from N e CAGuard.
½ telephone messenger service.
If you are experiencing difficulties in recovering debts owed, N e recommendsCA that you contact our industry experts.
½ liaising with stakeholders on the strategic direction for electrical safety in the state.
Keith has served on a range of industry boards and committees, and has been a member of the e lectrical Safety b oard and the e lectrical Licensing Committee since 2011. Having worked across all areas of industry, he brings considerable experience in promoting safe work practices to his new role.
ARE YOU RECEIVING NECA’S WEEKLY ENEWS? NeCA’s weekly eNews educates electrical contractors on the latest industry information and the updates in technical, industrial relations, legal, human resoursces, workplace health and safety. If you are not receiving eNews and want to stay informed on industry issues, scan the Qr code to submit your details.
Scan the Q r code to submit your enquiry.
½ uniforms;
½ chairing the e lectrical Licensing Committee; and
½ chairing the e lectrical Safety b oard;
½
½
½
Solar photovoltaic (PV) cable installed to AS/NZS 5033:2021 – extension of compliance period
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MEMBERSHIP
unlimited
200 electrical contractors throughout Queensland who they believe have installed LG e SS Home e nergy Storage b atteries between 2017 and 2019.
t hese batteries are being recalled in Australia due to the risk of overheating and catching fire. to date, four Queensland fires and nine nationally have been attributed to these batteries.
e lectrical contractors must ensure compliance criteria for solar p V cables are met before they are installed, and suppliers must ensure equipment criteria for solar p V cable are met before sale.
free industry events and regular updates.
Recall on LG Home BatteriesStorageEnergy
½
discounts, offers and deals on business essentials including fuel;
t he e SO is morecontactingactivelythan
members
½ basic
QLD BRANCH
S EPTEMBER 202242 |
While e SO has said that contractors are not responsible for the faulty batteries they may have installed, they do have a duty to alert householders of the batteries’ recall and to direct them to the recall site.
unlimited phone and email support with technical, workplace health and safety (WHS), human resources (H r) and industrial relations (I r) issues;
t he 2021 edition of AS/NZS 5033 requires solar p V cables, that are not underground,installedtonow comply with I e C 62930 e lectric cables for photovoltaic systems with a voltage rating of 1.5 kV DC.
unlimited access to N e CA’s technical Knowledge b ase ( t K b) with the latest industry standards, WHS documents and H r and I r templates;
t he 2021 edition of AS/NZS 5033 superseded the 2014 edition on 19 m ay 2022, after a six-month transition period. Queensland’s e SO has extended the six-month transitionary period to 19 November 2022 to allow suppliers to sell existing solar p V cable, and for installers to install it. After this date, all solar p V cable must comply with the 2021 standard.
½
½
phone and email enquiries with our legal team;
Get in touch today with Christopher Gradwell – your NeCA Queensland member manager.
t he recalled batteries were manufactured between April 2017 and September 2018, and were originally sold under the name LG Chem Ltd (now LG e nergy Solutions). t he model numbers for the affected batteries are: reSU3.3, re SU6.5, re SU10, re SU13, re SU7H type-r , re SU10H type-C, re SU10H type-r , re SU10H type-r (Secondary), S/A Gen2 1 p (em 048063 p3S4) and S/A Gen2 2 p (em 048126 p3S7).
SafetyStar - a free document-based management health, safety, environment and quality (HS e Q) system, designed to assist electrical contractors to meet minimum compliance;
t he use of solar p V cable complying with the requirements of the 2014 edition of AS/NZS 5033 Installation and safety requirements for photovoltaic (p V) arrays, has been extended until 19 November 2022 in Queensland.
have access to email and phone support through our member Services team, ensuring that you and your business receive the right specialist advice when you need it. the NeCA team can assist your business with:
training and skills development;
workwear, corporate clothing and ppe targeted for the industry;
½
The energy sector remains as important to us as ever having been such an integral part of Energy Super’s history.
We’re a 100% memberowned super fund, trusted by Queenslanders since 1965, and committed to achieving the best and brightest retirement outcomes for all Thanksmembers.tothecombined strengths of three funds we proudly manage around $31 billion in retirement savings on behalf of 260,000 members*.
Our increased size and scale mean we’re even more equipped to provide an outstanding personalised service while keeping our fees as low as possible.
Super (formerly known as Energy Super).
Talk to us today.
We look forward to continuing our commitment to supporting the energy sector as we grow.
The super fund that’s right by the side of the energy industry
*Combinedbrightersuper.com.aufigureasat31December2021.LGIAsuperTrustee (ABN 94 085 088 484 AFS Licence No. 230511) as trustee for LGIAsuper (ABN 23 053 121 564), trading as Brighter Super. Brighter Super may refer to the Trustee or LGIAsuper as the as the context requires. Brighter Super products are issued by the Trustee on behalf of LGIAsuper.
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Energy Super, LGIAsuper and Suncorp Super have come together to build positive retirement outcomes for our Meetmembers.Brighter
If you have a project or apprentice that you are proud of, we encourage you to seriously consider entering the 2023 NeCA Awards because the recognition and rewards are significant. If you have a great project, excellent apprentice or you are a small business doing fantastic things, it would be beneficial to begin thinking about your submissions now. members can get plenty of assistance with their submissions from our business relationship manager, Leah boyce. If you would like further information on entering a project, business or apprentice into the awards, please do not hesitate to contact the NeCA SA/Nt office and speak to Leah. BRANCH
I would like to sincerely thank everyone who attended the event and showed support for our industry and our association.
thevisittohereScan homepageSA/NTNECA S EPTEMBER 2022
meGt, CNW, Lynch meyer, portable Long Service Leave and Lai Group.
We wish to congratulate all the winners and finalists of the Awards and thank all of those who nominated a project or apprentice. It is pleasing once again to see the great work our members are undertaking and the fantastic apprentices they are employing and training.
peer, e-Oz energy Skills Australia
Silver Sponsors NeCA Careers & Apprenticeships (NCA) and simprO
NHp and CAbAC Perpetual Sponsor Clipsal by Schneider Apprentice Sponsor bianco Construction & Industrial Supplies Gold Sponsor Cbus Super Product Sponsor milwaukee tools
Larry Moore NECA SA/NT Executive Director
the full write up on this year’s NeCA SA/Nt excellence and Apprentice Awards will be featured in the December edition of the NeCA NeWS.
SA/NT
National Business Partners
Award Sponsors
the evening kicked off with a welcome from our new president, Andrew Cross, and some information about what NeCA has been involved in over the past twelve months. We were also pleased to recognise outgoing president, Andrew thorpe, for his fantastic commitment to NeCA SA/ Nt over the past seven years as president. Later in the evening we had a performance from comedian and impersonator ben price, who wowed the crowd with his phenomenal impersonations of famous people from around the world. to cap off the evening, band mr. buzzy had the dance floor full with a fantastic line up of new and old songs.
BRANCH UPDATE
Our sincere thanks to all our sponsors; because quite frankly these events could not be run without their generous support.
Our sponsors this year included:
We have once again received excellent feedback in regard to the event, which seems to be growing in number and popularity every year.
OUr INDUS trY GALA DINNer , He LD ON F rIDAY 9 S eptember 2022, WAS ANOt Her OU t S tANDING SUCCeSS, WI t H OV er 400 Atte NDeeS e NJOYING AN e V e NING FILL e D WI t H e N tertAINme N t, Gre At FOOD AND WINe , AND INDUS trY ACHIe V eme N t S ON DISp LAY bY bOt H member S AND t He Ir A ppre N t ICeS.
Bronze Sponsors
the outcome from the Forum was the development of a Sop Statement of Agreement calling on the Australian Government to address the current Security of payments legislation which do not protect jobs or support Smes, and to facilitate the creation of nationally consistent laws to protect small and medium businesses across Australia.
Contract Clauses for Department for Infrastructure & Transport (DIT)
½ strengthen the prohibition of unfair contract terms;
from the effects of insolvency. the collapse of large builders across Australia have placed many Smes under enormous financial stress, threatening the further collapse of smaller businesses resulting in the loss of many more jobs.
In early August I had the great pleasure of attending an Industry Forum consisting of industry associations, union representatives and interested parties from the construction sector to discuss the current inadequate and inconsistent Security of payments legislation.
Across Australia, state-based security of payment laws has a serious impact on the level of protection afforded to subcontractors and does not adequately protect contractors and subcontractors
mr John murray Am attended the Forum and provided an overview of Australia’s Security of payment Laws and his review of Security of payment Laws, building trust and Harmony report, commissioned by the Australian Government.
½ ensure government procurement practices support fair contracting down the contractualconstructionchain.
½ urgently enact federal Security of p ayment legislation that implement the m urray r eport;
Save The Date for our Crucial Women in Construction End of Year Celebration
| 45WWW.NECA.ASN.AU SA/NT BRANCH
the Statement of Agreement essentially identified the following three important actions to be implemented by the Federal Government:
After COVID interrupted our last two planned Crucial Women in Construction (CWIC) events, we are extremely pleased to announce we are bringing a CWIC event to you before the end of this year. this will provide attendees with the opportunity to network and celebrate the great work that women do within our industry, over some light refreshments on a Wednesday afternoon. We are thrilled to announce that Jessica Stenson will be joining us at the event as our guest speaker to discuss her achievements and how she overcame challenges to become an Olympic long-distance runner. this end of year celebration will be held on Wednesday 16 November 2022 in the Gallery room at the National Wine Centre. Invitations will be sent out soon but save the date in your diaries now, as this special event will be limited to 100 people only!
Security of Payment Forum
order to ensure the building industry has fair, productive and more protective laws, which reduce the impacts of insolvency.
I am also extremely delighted to announce that, after much advocacy, the Department for Infrastructure and transport (DIt) has agreed to our proposed changes to General building Contractor’s (GbC contracts) and its conditions of tendering including the inclusion of rise and fall provisions, bulk purchasing arrangements and change to the tender validity period to 60 days.
NeCA, rACCA and the Specialist Contractors SA will continue to advocate on behalf of members and the industry in
through the forum of Specialist Contractors SA we have been able to work with DIt to progress these issues to enable much improved contractual arrangements for subcontractors.
As we are all aware building and construction industry subcontractors are responsible for approximately 85% of the build within the commercial construction industry so these changes are extremely important and believe they offer a great step forward towards fair and sustainable contracting.
We sincerely thank minister Koutsantonis and the Department for Infrastructure and transport for their responsiveness and leadership on this matter.
For further information or assistance with any of the above please contact the NeCA SA/Nt team on (08) 8272 2966.
We appreciate your feedback and any other comments you may have.
½ N e CA’s new Certified Contractor p rogram;
½ Virtual p ower p lants (V pp s);
ADeLAIDe IN LAte JUNe, AF ter preSeNtING NINe SHOWS tO 700 eLeCtrICIANS tHrOUGHOUt metrOp OLI tAN AND reGIONAL SOU t H AUS tr ALIA.
S emINA r S HAV e COme t O A CLOS e , WI t H t He NeCA te A m AND ASSOCIAte D S p ONSOr S AND preSeNterS retUrNING tO
ROADSHOW SEMINAR SERIES WRAP UP
½ updates on the Dual trade Apprenticeship pilot program;
½ the new Service and Installation r ules book;
Congratulations to Sebastian Fisher from Livewire Digital who won the milwaukee m18 FUeL 8 piece power Kit valued at $2,529! Seb is pictured above with milwaukee plumbing & electrical Specialist, Justin Kennedy.
thank you to milwaukee and HIKmICrO for their generous donations for our Annual roadshow Seminar Series.
S EPTEMBER 202246 |
SA/NT BRANCH
½ electronic Certificate of Compliance (eCoC) reporting; and
please do not hesitate to call or email us with your feedback, questions or comments regarding the roadshows. this helps NeCA SA/Nt to improve and continually grow the roadshow Seminar Series so you can get the best out of the seminars.
NeCA SA/Nt would like to thank members for their support of this year’s roadshow Seminars, and we look forward to seeing you all again at next year’s event. If you did not get the chance to attend, copies of the handouts can be acquired by contacting the NeCA SA/ Nt office or calling in to pick one up.
Congratulations also goes to Josh parsons from CSJ electrical who won the HIKmICrO thermal Imaging Camera, worth $2,000! HIKmICrO is the new name in thermal imaging cameras. Offering superb value for money, coupled with leading edge technology and features, HIKmICrO is the smart choice for condition monitoring professionals in Australia and New Zealand. Find out more about HIKmICrO cameras at www.neca.asn.au/sa
½ smart meter mandatory wiring;
½ Distributed e nergy r esources (D er);
topics covered at the seminar presentation included:
Once again, the NeCA roadshow Seminars have been a great opportunity for contractors and their employees to receive information and assistance from NeCA, SA power Networks and the Office of the technical regulator, on a range of topics, in addition to viewing the many products and services available through our dedicated sponsors.
½ much more.
electricians who are a part of the Clean energy Council Solar pV Accreditation
Scheme can receive 10 CpD points for attending a NeCA roadshow Seminar this year. For further information, visit twww.solaraccreditation.com.auoobtainyourcopyofattendance for this year’s roadshow, contact the NeCA SA/Nt office via email at neca@necasa.asn.au
these events are a large commitment and we thank everyone involved for their dedication and contribution, especially our sponsors and presenters.
½ Australian Standards updates;
Major Prize Draw Winners
t He 2022 NeCA rOADSHOW
the CWIC initiative began in early 2020 in
CRUCIAL WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION UPCOMING EVENTS
the following CWIC event on the calendar will be the highly-anticipated return of the Annual High tea. Save the date for Friday 3 march 2023, where we celebrate and support the fantastic women in the construction industry and all the hard work they do. Attendees will have the opportunity to listen to guest speakers, network, interact with a panel of women from all areas of the industry, win prizes and enjoy a delicious High tea on a Friday afternoon. Keep an eye out on our eNews and social media as more information will be released later this year.
We are looking forward to bringing these events to you. While this event is marketed as women in construction, we highly encourage males to attend to support the females in their businesses and in our industry.
WWW.NECA.ASN.AU | 47
Stay tuned as tickets sales will open very soon. As this event is capped at 100 attendees we anticipate it to sell out fast!
the first event on the CWIC calendar is scheduled for Wednesday 16 November 2022 at the National Wine Centre, and will be an end of year networking and cocktail function. We were extremely sad to have had to cancel our High tea earlier this year, so now that events are back on, we decided it was a great opportunity to hold something before 2022 flies out the door. the event will feature a special keynote guest speaker who will speak of achieving goals, navigating through a male-dominated industry and more. the function will also provide attendees with a great opportunity to network and celebrate the end of the year over some canapes and refreshments.
conjunction with our allied associations Air Conditioning and mechanical Contractors Association (AmCA) SA and master plumbers Association (mpA) SA. We identified there was little support for females in the electrical, plumbing, refrigeration, air-conditioning and mechanical services sectors, and yet there are so many females playing such important roles in these industries.
AF ter HAVING t O CANCe L t He CrUCIAL WOme N IN CONS trUC t ION (CWIC) ANNUAL HIGH te A e A r LIer t HIS Y e A r DUe t O COVID-19, W e A re V erY e XCI te D t O ANNOUNCe W e A re OrGANISING NOt ONe , bU t t WO CWIC e V e N t S IN t He COmING mON t HS!
For further information on this initiative, please contact Leah boyce, business relationship manager at NeCA SA/Nt on (08) 8272 2966 or leah.boyce@necasa.asn.au
SA/NT BRANCH
TAS BRANCH thevisittohereScan homepageTASNECA S EPTEMBER 2022
Keep an eye out for the December issue of NeCA News for all the details of our winners.
BRANCH UPDATE
Welcome to the September issue of NeCA News. We have had an exciting few months and look forward to seeing our members at the many events still to come this year across tasmania.
First and foremost, I am exceptionally proud to announce my recent appointment as State manager Government relations, member engagement, and Director of Australian Cabler registration Service (ACrS). I am honoured to be part of an amazing association that advocates, supports and educates our industry.
We recently launched a webinar series hosted by our in-house legal, human resources and industrial relations experts. these webinars have been developed to educate members on the following topics:
NECA’s legal webinar series
½ Chasing that final payment claim? How to get what you are owed!
NeCA CeO, Oliver Judd said, “Congratulations to our winners, who have not only showcased outstanding examples of the best our industry has to offer, but have also shown what is possible for the future of our industry.”
NeCA would like to congratulate the tasmanian Award winners for their outstanding achievements.
½ Overtime penalties, annual leave and r DOs. Are you paying your employees their entitlements?
½ So, you have obtained a Judgement in your favour. Now what?
National NeCA CeO Oliver Judd, together with State manager ben Shaw, joined over 20 industry leaders, including senior executives from
elise Archer, tasmanian minister for Workplace Safety and Consumer Affairs, echoed mr Judd’s comments saying, “I extend my congratulations to all the 2022 winners of the awards, and thank everyone who submitted a nomination. It’s wonderful to see such a vibrant, positive and futurefocused tasmanian industry.”
the sold-out event saw former Australian cricketing great Damien Fleming host over 250 attendees at Hobart’s Crowne plaza, celebrating the very best electrical and communications projects from across the state.
NECA Tasmania Awards 2022
and its ambitions to not just be part of, but leading our renewable future.”
½ take it or leave it! How do you protect yourself against unfair contract terms?
Winners of the 2022 awards were selected from an extremely strong field, with Guy barnett, tasmanian minister for energy and renewables, saying, “NeCA should be proud of the sector’s success
On Saturday 2 July, NeCA recognised the industry’s best at the 2022 NeCA tasmania Awards.
½ You’re fired! How to manage employee termination the right way.
Ben Shaw NECA TAS Member Manager
Parliamentary dinner
If you have missed out, then visit the NeCA website for more information, or watch the past webinars on NeCA’s technical Knowledge base (tKb).
In June, NeCA held its inaugural parliamentary Dinner. the event provided an opportunity for NeCA members to meet with relevant state members of parliament for the purpose of giving our sector a stronger voice with key decision makers.
As a result of our great success with Industry Nights held earlier this year, we are once again kicking off another series to end the year. Keep an eye out for more information on dates and venues. We are planning an exciting schedule that you don’t want to miss.
Online continuing professional development (CPD) training portal
NECA State Council Meeting Wedsday, 2 November 2022
½ encouraging female participation in construction;
NECA North West Branch Meeting m onday, 14 November 2022
Industry Night Burnie tuesday, 25 October 2022
NECA National Awards DInner t hursday, 24 November 2022
the event was hosted by minister Guy barnett and attended by industry and government leaders, including premier Jeremy rockliff, Deputy premier and treasurer michael Ferguson, minister roger Jaensch, minister madeleine Ogilvie and Speaker of the House of Assembly mark Shelton, providing NeCA members with some really valuable one-on-one time with government.
½ review of procurement policies and guidelines in relation to the prequalification process;
1. Appendix G – added.
Lastly, the NeCA team is here to provide you and your business with resources and expert advice to help support your business growth. If you have questions regarding your NeCA membership or require industry advice, please connect with NeCA member Services or myself.
connect with NeCA’s technical experts. All NeCA members receive free unlimited phone and email support.
Simple to navigate, you can log into the portal using the your tKb username and password. orneca.pointsbuild.com.au/neca/tasmaniaVisitscantheQrcode.
½ consistency and compliance in the application of tasmania’s treasury p requalification Scheme for contractors; and
½ 4.5.3 r equirement to Install p rivate Service p ole
½ security of payment reforms including project trust accounts for government contracts to ensure everyone in the chain gets paid for the work they perform;
Industry Night Launceston Wedsday, 26 October 2022
Some of the key topics discussed included:
NeCA members are reminded that we hold branch meetings, state council meetings and electrical Contractor Industry Liaison (eCIL) meetings throughout the year. If you have not attended any of these meetings, then I suggest you join us at the next series. the meetings are a great way to keep informed on relevant industry issues, discuss any emerging issues and network with other contractors and industry leads. Keep an eye out in NeCA’s weekly eNews or visit our website for dates and details.
NECA State Council Meeting Wedsday, 7 December 2022
Scan the Qr code for more registration and to register.
NECA 2022 Industry Nights summer series
wording as was in version 7 for:
If you are orrules,interpretationseekingoftheseindustrystandardshavetechnicalissues,
NECA branch meetings
NeCA members can download a copy of the rules from the tasNetworks website.
TasNetworks Service and Installation Rules v8.2
½ opportunities for a better, cheaper and more accessible tAF e system.
Calendar of Events
ECIL Meeting Wedsday, 7 December 2022
2. Section 4.5: Distribution Network Availability – clarification and update of wording.
| 49WWW.NECA.ASN.AU TAS BRANCH
Industry Night Hobart t hursday, 27 October 2022
to help further define electrical Contractors responsibilities around private works (ie. work that tasNetworks is not permitted to perform) we have added diagrams for various scenarios within ‘Appendix G’. this will help to clarify what the responsibilities of tasNetworks and the electrical Contractor are.
Feedback from industry has seen the requirements revert back to the same
From 1 July the tasNetworks Service and Installation rules v8.2 is now in effect. the changes include:
We recently launched a new online training portal that provides NeCA members with free access to CpD courses. the portal has been launched with 15 courses, each worth two CpD points, and all successfully completed courses will be automatically lodged with Consumer, building and Occupational Services (CbOS) for you. Further courses are in development, based on members’ questions and the feedback received by our technical managers.
tasmania’s largest contractors and the industry’s key suppliers.
½ 4.5.2 r equirement to Install a tasNetworks Service p ole.
t He S tAte ’S Ne W eS t GrOUp OF prOJeC t m ANAGer S AS pA rt OF AN INNOVAt IV e S tAte-WIDe tr AINING prOGr A m
NeCA tasmania has partnered with the Australian Institute of project management (AIpm) and the tasmanian Government to deliver 80 new certified project managers into tasmania’s electrical sector.
TAS BRANCH
“One of the main issues contributing to this shortage has been the lack of courses held in the state and the high cost per person to attend.
NeCA members attending the course will have the opportunity to complete the fully funded bSb40920 Certificate IV in project management practice and the bSb0820 Diploma of project management.
S EPTEMBER 202250 |
minister ellis commented, “I’m delighted that NeCA and the AIpm have delivered this training in three major centres throughout the state. these 80 new certified project managers will help close some of the skills gaps the construction industry is currently facing. the energising tasmania initiative is helping to deliver accessible post-trade training accessible to our tasmanian workforce.”
NeCA tasmania members were recently provided with the opportunity to enrol in the fully-funded course over three months in Hobart, Launceston and Devonport. Usually valued at $4,000,
the Diploma in project management was offered free for NeCA members.
About the course:
the Diploma in project management is nationally recognised. NeCA members who successfully complete the course are admitted to the Institute of project management as a Certified project Officer (CpO), and can further upskill to Certified project professional, master or Director at a higher-level certification.
“NeCA tasmania is thrilled to offer this training specifically for the electrotechnology sector, and I thank the State Government again for its support. this course has been made possible and offered free to all participants through funding from the government’s energising tasmania initiative,” mr Shaw concluded.
NeCA tasmania State manager ben Shaw said, “We thank the tasmanian Government for funding these courses. the need for more certified project managers in our sector has been raised repeatedly over recent years. the ongoing construction boom, coupled with global supply chain issues and skilled labour shortages, has seen this need reach critical levels. It is now more important than ever to ensure we have the skills and knowledge to deliver projects on time, on budget and without further delay.
IN AUGUS t, tAS m ANIAN mINIS ter FOr SKILLS, tr AINING AND WOrKFOrCe GrOW t H, F e LIX e LLIS mp, W e LCOme D
NECA TAS DELIVERS FUTURE PROJECT MANAGERS TO BOOST THE ELECTRICAL SECTOR
Pawel Podolski NECA VIC Executive Director Dean Spicer NECA VIC President
Welcome to all our readers! please join us again on a voyage, exploring some of the updates on what’s been happening in Victoria in recent times. A particularly warm welcome to all our new members of our NeCA Victoria community, as you start your journey with NeCA.
culture or staff engagement, union jobsite issues, contract disputes, inadequate terms and conditions, or a lack of outof-the-box human resources documents and contracts – NeCA’s newly launched business Solution Hub might have some very cost-effective answers for you. the purpose of ‘the Hub’ is to assist contracting businesses with cost efficiencies and reducing the burden of compliance requirements in our increasingly complex business world – all without adding significant costs or overheads. NeCA members have access to exceptionally deep discounts rates against standard commercial pricing for the above services. Give the team at business Solutions Hub a call on 1300 445 687 or visit the totheremindeFindsuccessfulteacherCareerstradeenjoy,thisexperiencearguetocompanies.workingfoodupcomingtakingtcontributionstoNbehalfmemberstourtoIevolvegood–businesssolutionshub.com.au/neca-vicwebsite:itmightjustgiveyousomecreativeideasastohowtoyourbusinessmodel.wouldalsoliketotaketheopportunityacknowledgemarkFalloon,oneoflong-standingCouncilmembersandreasurer,whohasprovidedNeCAVictoria’stirelessservicesince2015.OnoftheNeCAVictorianCouncilandeCA’smembership,DeanandIwouldliketaketheopportunitytothankmarkforhisandwishhimalltheverybest.oanyoneelsewhoisthinkingaboutacareerbreakorchange,inthearticlesyoumayfindsomeforthoughtaboutoptionsoutsideofonthetoolsorrunningcontractingWhatisoneofthebestwaysgivebacktotheindustry?Somewouldit’ssharingourknowledgeandwiththenextgeneration.Ifissomethingyouthinkyoumightthenmaybeit’stimetoconsiderteaching.NeCAeducationandhasaspeciallydesignedpipelineprogramtohelptradiesbecomeelectricaltradeteachers.outmoreonthefollowingpages.njoythereadfolksandasalways–weyoutomaximiseandaccesswiderangeofservicesavailableyouthroughyourmembership.
If your business is dealing with issues like unrecovered debt or performance conduct issues, not winning tenders, poor
VIC BRANCH thevisittohereScan homepageVICNECA S EPTEMBER 2022
BRANCH UPDATE
Our industry is currently going through some interesting changes, as we normalise after two very distracting years, and deal with some more recent macroeconomic challenges. the supply chain challenges, skills shortages, inflationary pressures and the like are starting to have an impact on many businesses. this is forcing many contracting businesses to look to more creative ways to both cut costs and derive efficiencies from the services they subscribe to.
NeCA has also been working on new solutions to support our industry, and more importantly – help avoid businesses having to hire more specialised business support resources, or having to enter long term multi-year subscription commitments to get the right business support.
One of these services is NeCA, and we encourage all our members to tap into the breadth of services available to them, as well as the many discounts and exclusive deals that NeCA membership offers.
Firstly, we would like to acknowledge one of our long-standing NeCA Life members and ex-National president, Neville palmer, who has passed away since the last magazine edition. Having served as NeCA National president, NeCA Victoria president, board member on the NeCA Foundation and a Director of Australian Cabler registration Service (ACrS), Neville remains in our hearts and will be remembered for his tireless dedication to growing and strengthening the electrical industry. Neville was a mentor for the whole industry, for contractors and NeCA staff alike, and anyone he engaged with around him. He will remain part of the NeCA fabric forever and will be deeply missed.
prescribed work includes but is not limited to works involving consumer’s mains and main switchboards, as well as switchboards and sub-mains supplying individual units, flats or apartments. Additionally, prescribed work includes high voltage installations, electrical installations in patient areas, generation systems and electric security fences.
NEW NOTICE TO MARKET FROM SOLAR VICTORIA
energy Safe Victoria (eSV) is reminding electricians that all prescribed work, including switchboard replacements, need to be inspected by a licensed electrical inspector before it’s connected to the energy supply.
| 53WWW.NECA.ASN.AU
energy Safe Victoria (eSV) has become aware of a trend of non-compliant underground consumer’s mains being installed on residential construction sites.
the Solar Victoria Notice to market sets out the mandatory and recommended requirements for retailers and installers to participate in the Solar Homes and Solar for business programs.
this reminder has been prompted by the delivery of the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021, which mandates that all rental property switchboards are fitted with safety switches from 29 march, 2023. these regulations are expected to result in a sharp rise in the number of switchboard replacements carried out across the state over the next seven months.
ESV WARNING REGARDING SWITCHBOARDS ON RESIDENTIAL BUILDING SITES
to ensure industry is able to cater to the increased demand while meeting requirements within the Electricity Safety Act 1998, electrical workers are urged to plan ahead, by working closely with both inspectors and customers.
eSV is also highlighting this message in response to a number of recent incidents involving prescribed work, including replacement switchboards, where installations were connected to an electricity supply before they were inspected.
to discuss this matter further, contact the NeCA Vic technical team via email at technical@neca.asn.au
eSV understands there are circumstances when electrical equipment needs to be energised to test or commission. However, energising electrical equipment should only be done after all other visual inspections and testing has been carried out in order to verify that the electrical equipment is safe to energise by electricans.
eSV will be supporting electrical workers by providing details of common noncompliances (and what to do to avoid them) found in our audits. We expect electrical workers to use this information to modify their work practices to ensure compliance.
eSV may initiate enforcement action when electrical workers are not responding to the education material provided and are repeatedly delivering non-compliant works.
While we acknowledge there are currently shortages in the number of licensed electrical inspectors, eSV is working with Solar Victoria and the Victorian Government to deliver a support and mentoring program, which will increase the number of trained inspectors.
ELECTRICIANS REMINDED TO KEEP POWER OFF UNTIL ALL PRESCRIBED WORKS ARE INSPECTED
the purpose of both the Electricity Safety Act 1998 and Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021 is to protect the safety of all Victorians. We understand the logistical challenge faced by electrical workers organising inspections and value the essential service they provide to Victorians.
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Marnie Williams
Additionally, the electrical equipment must be de-energised after the testing or commissioning is completed and must remain disconnected from the electricity supply until the work has been inspected by an inspector.
this will ensure inspectors are able to attend and inspect as soon as possible after the work is completed, resulting in as little inconvenience to tenants and owners as possible.
ESV Commissioner and Chairperson www.esv.vic.gov.au
please note, the requirement to ensure power remains off after completing prescribed work was established under the Electricity Safety Act 1998, as a way to protect the community from house fires and electrocution.
the new Notice came into effect as of 1 July 2022 and there are five new recommended requirements, relating to product and system updates, as well as additional obligations for retailers.
the requirements outlined in the Notice to market focus on worker and customer safety, fit for purpose and future-proofed product installations and ensuring all Victorians benefit from clean and affordable solar energy.
the Electricity Safety (General) Regulations require underground consumer’s mains installed on a construction site to be mechanically protected up to and into the switchboard/ metering enclosure. Specifically, they must: ½ be double insulated up to the first protective device within the switchboard or metering enclosure; and ½ be enclosed in compliant heavy duty nonmetallic conduit from the point they exit the ground up to the point at which they enter the switchboard/metering enclosure; and ½ be provided with additional mechanical protection from the point they exit the ground up to within 100mm of the switchboard/metering enclosure that is constructed of either: a galvanized steel tube with a wall thickness of at least 3.2mm; or a 1.6mm thick or greater, sheet steel cover with an unsupported width not exceeding 100 mm.
Utilising labour hire workers has its advantages and disadvantages, and we address them in the table below.
However, in situations where the labour hire provider and the host employer are related entities, it may be found that the host employer is in fact the employer for the worker.
In 2018, Victoria became the third state in Australia to pass legislation the Labour Hire Licensing Act 2018 (the Labour Hire Act) that implemented labour hire licensing requirements. With the implementation of the Labour Hire Act, providers and host employers now have obligations they need to comply with, otherwise they face heavy penalties for any unlawful conduct.
therefore, host employers should work with labour hire providers to consult, cooperate and coordinate with one another, as reasonably practicable, to ensure the health and safety of the labour hire workers.
When you engage with labour hire firms, it is advisable that you require them to hold a labour hire licence and to also provide you with proof of insurance coverage for items such as workers compensation and public liability.
½ It can be highly beneficial in situations where the host employer only requires a worker for a short duration or for the completion of specific tasks.
Disadvantages
½ providing and maintaining a working environment that is safe and without risks to health and safety;
Managing the safety of labour hire workers
Just recently, the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (the OHS Act) was amended to ensure that labour hire workers have the same rights and protections as direct employees of a host employer. the definition of “employer” and “employee” in
the OHS Act was extended to identify labour hire workers as employees of both the labour hire provider and the host employer.
to understand what “labour hire” is and the obligations of providers, please refer to the Labour Hire Arrangements –providers article by Constructive Legal Solutions at www.bit.ly/labourhirecls
WorkSafe has published specific guidance to assist duty holders in complying with their new requirements.
Payment of labour hire workers
Documents to request from providers
A host employer has a commercial contract with the labour hire provider where labour (the worker) is supplied.
Importantly to note is that there is no contract between the worker and the host employer, and therefore the amount of claims a worker can make against a host employer is very limited. Instead, these workers would be able to make claims against the labour hire provider who is in fact classified as their employer.
½ monitoring conditions in the workplace.
Saras Varatharajullu Constructive Legal Solutions
Failure to comply with consultation requirements can expose duty holders to a fine of 180 penalty units (as of the date of this article around $32,000) for individuals and 900 penalty units (as of the date of this article around $163,000) for bodies corporate.
If you are intending on engaging with a labour hire service provider, have questions around existing arrangements, or concerns around the recent changes regarding health and safety obligations for a host employer, you may contact us on 1300 632 247 belabouraWeadmin@constructivelegalsolutions.com.auorarealsoabletoassistwithdraftinglabourhireagreement,andhaveahirebriefingdocumentthatcanmadeavailabletoyouonrequest.
½ Host employers may be liable for any damage/injury in certain circumstances.
½ Labour hire providers may be supplying workers to a host employer’s competitor, which may lead to issues of conflict of interest or confidentiality.
LABOUR HIRE ARRANGEMENTS
As the worker performs work, the host employer pays the labour hire provider who in turn pays the worker.
DO YOU KNOW THE INS AND OUTS?
½ assessing risks – ensuring there are no gaps in health and safety for labour hire workers;
½ monitoring the health of employees;
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½ Host employers are able to maximise their assets, having someone fill in while an employee is away on long term leave.
½ training;
½ Where workloads increase, host employers can meet demands without going through lengthy processes of recruitment.
½ Claims of unfair dismissal or industrial relations issues on employment may be avoided.
½ t he host employer is reliant on the labour hire provider and could be left without workers if the provider faces industrial problems or goes bankrupt.
½ Costs of employment may be avoided – e.g. accrual of leave entitlements, workers compensation, etc.
½ t he host employer may experience a loss of in-house skill. t he labour hire worker would be trained up in the company’s processes, and upon completion leave the host employer, taking the time spent training, and the experience built, with them.
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½ It allows the host employer to fill any skills gaps in its own employee pool.
this means that both the labour hire provider and the host employer are responsible for the safety of labour hire workers and share responsibilities for their health and safety.
Advantages
Advantages and disadvantages of using labour hire workers
½ Where a host employer has a strong union presence on its sites, unions may oppose such an arrangement.
these shared responsibilities include:
NeCA’s representatives, technical managers michael Weekes, and Louis Knoops along with the Victorian branch of the etU and the Institute of electrical Inspectors provided expert advice and input to design and implement the CpD program. NeCA has also greatly contributed to encouraging reluctant electricians to participate through our continuous CpD discussions during our state-wide NeCA events.
the energy minister, Lily D’Ambrosio announced that “the eight-hour Skills maintenance course will also be free thanks to $7.2 million in funding from the Victorian Government over the next five years.”
Louis Knoops N e CA technical m anager, Hon Lily D’Ambrosia m inister for e nergy, e nvironment and Climate Change, Michael Weekes N e CA technical m anager and Stuart McIntosh Director, e lectrical Inspections Victoria.
this is an exciting opportunity for Victorian electrical licence holders, which will not only enhance skills and preserve the industry’s high levels of professionalism, but will also reduce complacency across the sector. this program will help to deliver the highest possible standards of electrical work, with workers required to complete eight hours of training every five years. the training is being delivered by trusted professionals and has been devised and agreed upon by industry experts, and is enthusiastically supported by unions, employers and government.”
NeCA CONSIS te N t LY SUpp Ort S INI t IAt IV eS t HAt He L p K eep VIC t OrIANS SAF e AND e NSUre t He HIGHeS t S tANDA rDS p OSSIbL e IN OUr e L eC trICAL INDUS trY.
this Victorian CpD program seeks to promote safer and better work practices for everyone in the industry by raising the level of skills and competency for electrical workers. An exciting opportunity for all license holders to improve their skills and maintain the industry’s high levels of professionalism, thereby protecting the trade from suspicious operators. It will also increase the incentive for Victorians to only deal with
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Over the last 18 months, NeCA has been actively involved in influencing, developing, and reviewing the Victorian Continuing professional Development (CpD), a program for electrical license holders to maintain, improve, broaden, and enhance their knowledge, skills, and competence. It will take place in carefully selected regional and metropolitan Victorian locations, using professionally prepared materials in a classroom setting. each eight-hour session will include approximately 60% hands-on training for electricians.
appropriately qualified license holders, making the community safer.
Leanne Hughson energy Safe Victoria CeO
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LAUNCH OF THE CONTINUOUS DEVELOPMENTPROFESSIONALPROGRAM
NeCA encourages electrical license holders to participate in the CpD program. remember, we cannot afford to be complacent, no matter how experienced we are, especially in this safety-critical industry.
Michael Weekes Technical Manager, NECA Victoria
Stage 2 from 1 February 2023construction contracts over $1,000,000 (including GSt) entered into after 1 February 2023 that require the holding of retention money, to place retention money in a retention trust account.
the main impacts of this requirement are being felt outside of the perth metropolitan area and major regional centres of Albany, bunbury, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie and mandurah. Western power has deemed the major regional centres to be any property within the official local government boundaries of each of these cities.
Sometimes there are critical pieces of legislation that industry has to fight tooth and nail to prevent; the Western Australian Government’s proposed industrial manslaughter legislation is such a law.
The State Government has also recently released its long-awaited draft Security of Payments legislation. This is vital legislation for NECA members and for subcontractors in general.
ALTHOUGH MARKET CONDITIONS REMAIN DIFFICULT, IT IS PLEASING TO HEAR FROM MEMBERS IN THE RESIDENTIAL SECTOR THAT THE VARIOUS GOVERNMENT STIMULUS PACKAGES AIMED AT INCREASING THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW HOMES IS HAVING A POSITIVE EFFECT.
NECA has lobbied the McGowan government, as well as the Liberal Opposition and cross-bench members of Parliament, as part of a coalition of more than twenty other industry associations who also oppose this legislation.
It is vital that all contractors familiarise themselves with this legislation because it will criminalise workplace accidents
I encourage every Western Australian business owner and director to read the joint submission to government that NECA WA has made along with the other industry associations. The submission, which is on NECA WA’s website, is more than 20 pages long but it is critical that you understand the potential implications for you, your business, your co-workers and your family.
Stage 3 from 1 February 2024construction contracts over $20,000 (including GSt) that require the holding of retention trust monies will be required to hold the funds in a retention trust account.
Stage 1 from 1 August 2022 - the new security of payment laws will create more structure and transparency to payment rights under contracts, together with a more effective means for contractors to recover payments owed through a process of rapid adjudication. the new laws are more consistent with those across the rest of Australia.
risks they could face under the worst parts (e.g. Section 30B) of the Western Australian Government’s proposed Workplace Health
Industrial LegislationManslaughter
Outside of these regional centres, a standard single-phase connection is limited to 32 amps, and for 480 volts multiphase, 20 amps per phase. this is clearly inadequate for most customers who wish to install standard modern items such as air-conditioning and induction cooktops.
Security of payments reform
Carl Copeland NECA WA Branch Secretary
Given the impact on both consumers and contractors, NeCA will continue to liaise with Western power to find
BRANCH UPDATEBRANCH UPDATE
The strong prices for gold and iron ore in particular have ensured that members working in the resource sector are also enjoying strong demand for electrical work.
Western Power main switch requirement
the new Building and Construction Industry (Security of Payment) Act 2021 (WA) (the Act) introduces better payment protections for all participants in the sector. the Act came into effect on 1 August and applies to construction contracts entered into from this date forwards. the former Construction Contracts Act 2004 will continue to apply to contracts already in place prior to 1 August 2022.
the new reform package will take effect in three stages:
It is not found in any other state or territory.
Members in this sector expect a considerable increase in work in the near future.
NECA has met with the Minister for Industrial Relations, Bill Johnston, and personally expressed our concerns to him. We were particularly adamant that the legislation must contain defences that protect contractors whose safety practices meet the legislative requirements.
The Government’s proposed industrial manslaughter law exposes business owners to up to 10 years in jail and a $2.5million fine if an accident occurs on
There is obviously still a long way to go in terms of a full recovery but it does seem that Western Australia is better placed than other states at present.
SEPTEMBER 2020
a workable solution. However, if that is not possible, then we will be highlighting this issue directly with the minister of energy, bill Johnston mLA.
NECA Technical is taking as many, if not more, calls than it was before COVID, which indicates there are still lots of members performing work.
Security of Payments Legislation
WA BRANCH thevisittohereScan homepageWANECA S EPTEMBER 2022
It is ridiculous to have a situation where a business owner has implemented safety practices that ensure compliance with all of their WHS obligations and yet can still be subjected to prosecution.
We have received a large volume of communications from members regarding Western power’s requirement to install a circuit breaker as a main switch for all new connections and for any altered connection arrangements.
Members can be assured that NECA WA will continue to fiercely oppose this legislation in its current form.
As this requirement applies to any altered connection, the installation of solar panels on an existing property, which has been supplied for many years without issue, will likely begin to experience nuisance tripping problems. this will be particularly felt on farms with a 480-volt supply.
building and energy are holding free seminars on the changes to this legislation throughout WA during September, October and November 2022. Seminar registrations can be made at www.bit.ly/wasecurepayreg
Carl Copeland NECA WA Branch Secretary
Fly the Flag is the day we celebrate the efforts our industry makes toward suicide prevention and improving mental health. We recognise the work that our Connectors, ASISts and mAteS Volunteers do every day on construction sites across Western Australia.
Congratulations to all the winners at our recent excellence and Apprentice Awards. I wish them all the best of luck at the National Awards, which will be held in Adelaide in November.
not only provide additional digital content for our students, but also information and training for the entire industry. With the studio being ready to go at a moment’s notice, we can move ideas from concept to video quicker than ever. Look out Youtube! We can see the next generation smashing that ‘like button’, subscribing and, hopefully, a gold Youtube plaque on the wall soon enough!
to reinforce the vital issue of mental health in our industry, and how the fantastic network that has been developed by mates in Construction can help. please refer to mIC’s website www.mates.org.au/fly-the-flag-dayat
Excellence and Apprentice Awards
It was great to receive feedback, both during and after the event, that this was the best awards ceremony we have held. So, my sincere thanks to Kyra and Claire, our fantastic events team.
College of Electrical Training (CET) update
eGt has had a solid financial year. to the end of June 2022, we trained 113 new electricians and at the same time recruited 181 apprentices, finishing the year with 507 apprentices, just short of the budgeted 528. On average 17 apprentices are expected each month for the remainder of the year, with the theme of very strong demand and a shortage of quality applicants continuing. While it can be tempting (at times) to sacrifice quality for quantity, we remain focused on employing the right people with the best chance of becoming electricians.
We are also looking for new quality applicant pools by partnering with the perth motorplex, D1WA Drift racing Club, the WA Sporting Car Club, and the WA Football Commission. So you can expect to see our branding featured across local AFL and motorsport events in 2022 and 2023.
Your organisation can participate in Fly the Flag Day by holding a bbQ, toolbox talk, morning tea or lunch,
Cet is seeing apprentice commencement numbers not experienced since the previous mining boom. With an 18% increase in commencements over this time in 2021, and 46% since July 2020, the reversal of a six-year decline in apprenticeship commencements is encouraging. With demand increasing at this rate, an equal demand for new instructors remains. If you have ever thought of giving back to the trade via the classroom and workshop, now is the time.
Electrical Group Training (EGT) update
We have also had the Construction training Fund (CtF) extend our funding program for women and Indigenous Western Australians over the age of 21 by 20 places in 2022/2023. this funding provides around $10,000 per year, passed on in full to host employers. eGt also have places left on the state government’s Group training Wage Subsidy (GWS) for apprentices starting in 2022 working on government projects. the funding is worth $134,625 over four years and is designed to cover the whole wage component of an apprentice’s (junior) wage. there has never been a better time to hire an apprentice, or to become one. If you know of anyone who would make a good apprentice, please refer them to us via our website www.egt.net.au
Mates in Construction - Fly the Flag Day
A full list of the winners can be found in our member Area.
In other exciting news, our in-house production studio is now up and running. With four distinct stages, including a lounge for informal interviews, a formal announcement lectern, a green screen and a workshop bench, Cet is now set to
Malcolm Scott
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September 8 is mates in Construction’s (mIC) Fly the Flag Day.
It is with great sadness that I announce the retirement of malcolm Scott from our technical team. mal has been a stalwart of the team for just over six years, during which time we estimate mal has answered more than 30,000 enquiries. technical is regularly listed as the most important service we offer to members, and mal has been vital in providing that service. We wish mal all the best in his retirement as he returns to his hometown of Albany.
If you’re looking for an alternative career, a competitive salary and most importantly job satisfaction, an instructing role might be the right move for you. Industry instructing offers full time and part time options, as well as the opportunity to combine instructing with being on the tools. For more information on the opportunities available at Cet visit www.cet.asn.au
perth offered michael a new set of opportunities, taking him into roles working on stand-alone power systems and power systems for communications equipment. For several years, he was involved in commissioning, quality control and assurance, as well as building the systems themselves.
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INDUSTRY TRAINING A SATISFYING CAREER
moving off the tools and into the classroom was a bit daunting at first.
“this is the first job I’ve had, where I had no practical experience before I started,” said michael. “I was worried, wondering if I’d made the right move, but settled in quickly. As part of my
“I realised I needed to come up with a plan and find a job that was less labour intensive. When I saw Cet advertising for an instructor, I decided to give it a go. I haven’t looked back since then.”
We were pleased to speak to michael tomic, an instructor at the College of electrical training (Cet), to gain his insights and experiences of this worthwhile career option.
“From there I spent some time in Indonesia, where I met my wife, and we lived in bali for several years,” said michael. “I got a fly in-fly out role with Downer, working on the Wheatstone LNG project. After a while the four and one swings started to take their toll, so I took six months off to spend some time with my family, before transitioning to life in perth.”
WI t H ACCeSS tO A DIV er S e r ANGe OF S eC t Or S AND prOJeC t S, t He e L eC trICAL INDUS trY HAS LONG e NJOY e D A brOAD r ANGe OF CA reer pAt HS. WHe N tALKING A bOU t ADVANCeme N t, t He DISCUSSION OF te N Ce N treS ON ‘CONV eN t IONAL’ pAt HWAYS L e ADING IN tO m ANAGeme N t rOL eS Or bUSINeSS OWNer SHIp. A L eSS er-KNOWN Opt ION IS t He rOL e OF INDUS trY INS trUC t Or , AN Attr AC t IV e ALterNAt IV e t HAt e NA bL eS e L eC trICIANS t O te ACH t He Ne X t Ge Ner At ION OF A ppre N t ICeS, WHIL e CON t INUING tO ADVANCe t He Ir CA reer
After completing his apprenticeship, michael started his career in the industrial sector, working in mine site construction and maintenance.
When spinal surgery made it difficult for michael to work on the tools, he started looking at other options.
induction, Cet placed me with another instructor for a couple of weeks, which got me off the ground. then I went for a two-week training course to complete my Certificate IV in training and Assessment. I wanted to get the qualification finished, so that I could focus on what I needed to do for my students.”
“before my initial classes, I was nervous - was I going to know everything that I needed to know?” said michael. “but it was fine.
“As an instructor, you get thrown into all sorts of topics, and you have to pass that knowledge on to someone else. It’s not a job that you walk into and replicate the same thing each day,” said michael. “Instructing is a constantly differentstudentsenvironment.changingmyallcomefromindustries.Insome
“We have very open discussions that harness everyone’s knowledge. the reality is that I’m not always the right person in the room, and as an instructor, you have to be able to accept that. You can’t assume
you have all the answers. I draw on my students’ knowledge as much as my own.”
cases, they work in sectors I haven’t worked in, or haven’t been in for some time.”
“I’m learning new things every day,” explained michael. “It’s a great feeling to go home, knowing something new, that I didn’t know when I woke up. that didn’t happen in my old job, where I was focused in one specific area.”
Industry instructors’ key function is to help students understand and prepare for realworld experiences, by sharing their knowledge and expertise.
While it wasn’t part of michael’s original career plan, becoming an instructor has proven to be a rewarding career choice.
“teaching is a rewarding responsibility. my students all learn differently. Some want to sit on their phone all day as they can pass the tests without any problems. then you get those students who give you all their attention, but for whatever reason, it just doesn’t make sense to them. As an instructor, I’m constantly adapting, identifying who needs help and being creative in finding ways to engage them. I get a lot of satisfaction from seeing my students progress.”
Working at Cet is like being part of an industry encyclopedia – a human one. everyone is so knowledgeable. If you don’t know something, there is always someone who can help.”
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“becoming an instructor at Cet was the right move for me. I enjoy passing on my skills and knowledge, and hope it helps my students have a career path that is as varied and satisfying as mine has been.”
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New provisions have been implemented in the Ir Act requiring all state system employers to issue pay slips and are now required to retain each entry regarding annual leave and long service leave during the employment and for a further seven years after termination of employment.
the mechanisms for enforcing contraventions of state employment laws have been strengthened including an increase in penalties and liabilities for accessories to contravention.
It is also prohibited for employers to unreasonably require employees to pay back their wages to the employer or another person (sometimes known as ‘cash backs’).
Bullying and sexual harassment
KEY CHANGES TO WA’S STATE EMPLOYMENT LAWS
public and private sector employees may now make an application to the Western Australian Industrial relations Commission (WAIrC) for a stop bullying or stop sexual harassment order, where they reasonably believe it to have occurred at work, under the new stop bullying and sexual harassment provisions.
there is a new minimum entitlement of five days unpaid family and domestic violence leave for all employees in the state industrial relations system, including employees who are covered by WA State Awards and industrial agreements, and employees who are award free. this entitlement is noncumulative, and is available in full at the beginning of each 12-month period for all employees inclusive of part-time and casual.
Unpaid family and domestic violence leave
t He INDUS trIAL re LAt IONS L eGISLAt ION A me NDme N t AC t 2021, e FF eC t IV e F rOm 20 JUNe 2022, HAS IN trODUCe D S e V er AL CHANGeS t O t He WA S tAte emp LOY me N t LAWS. t He mOS t NOtA bL e OF CHANGeS HAV e bee N SUmm A rISe D be LOW.
Sick leave and carers leave have been combined and are now deemed as personal leave. there has been no change as to how the paid personal leave accrues and accumulates, however, the limit on the amount of paid leave taken for caring purposes each year has been removed. Full-time and part-time employees must use their available paid personal leave before accessing unpaid personal leave. However, casual employees can access up to two days of unpaid personal leave per occasion for caring purposes.
provisions were added into the Industrial Relations Act 1979 (Ir Act) and the Minimum Conditions of Employment Act 1993 (mCe Act) to combat wage theft and afford further protections to employees from their employers taking or entering any unreasonable actions or contracts with them.
Wage theft and strengthening enforcement
Sham contracting is prohibited, and an employer is prohibited from representing, or telling an employee or prospective employee, that a ‘contract of employment’ (where the worker is an employee and entitled to minimum wages and other protections) is a ‘contract for services’ (where the worker is an independent contractor).
the Ir Act prohibits an employer from advertising employment at a rate of pay that is less than the minimum wage applicable to the job under the mCe Act or a state award, order, or industrial agreement. Any false or misleading conduct will attract civil penalties upwards of $130,000 in cases of serious contravention, and state industrial inspectors now have enhanced powers to offer infringement notices for failures.
employers now have new employment obligations to employees under the mCe Act as the definitions have removed exclusions for people that are paid wholly, by commission or piece rate and percentage rewards.
Changes were also made to right of entry provisions. A unionauthorised representative may enter premises during work hours to:
Johnny Brits Legal Practice Director, ECA Legal ecalegal@ecawa.org.au
More generally:
Deductions from pay
½ hold discussions with employees who are members of the union or eligible to become members.
more information can be obtained from the Department of mines, Industry regulation and Safety at www.bit.ly/lawchangeswa
representatives to make electronic recordings of any work, material, or machinery that is relevant to the suspected breach being investigated. An electronic recording could include a photograph, video or audio taken with a mobile phone. there is no automatic right of entry to a workplace that is also used for habitation by the employer or a member of their household, but an order permitting entry may be obtained from the WAIrC.
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Deductions from an employee’s pay can be made if an employee gives written authority for such deductions to be made and monies paid to another party on their behalf. An employee can withdraw their authorisation at any time by giving written notice. An employer is not obliged to make deductions requested by an employee. An employer cannot directly or indirectly compel an employee to accept goods, accommodation, or other services of any kind instead of money as any part of the employee’s pay.
½ investigate a suspected breach of a state industrial law, award or agreement;
Changes to the Long Service Leave Act 1958 (the ‘LSL Act’)
the right of entry provisions have been amended to expressly enable authorised
An employee may take long service leave in separate periods of any length in addition to requests to take such at half pay for twice as long or double pay for half as long. In addition, provisions regarding the ‘transfer of business’ have been added to the LSL Act based on provisions of the Fair Work Act 2009 and enforcement provisions have been strengthened.
½ investigate a suspected breach of state work health and safety law; and
An amendment which commenced earlier this year, 12 February 2022, is the inclusion of easter Sunday as a public holiday within WA. Accordingly, State awards and industrial agreements that provide for public holidays are to automatically recognise the easter Sunday as a public holiday, bringing the total number of public holidays to 11.
Union right of entry
Disclaimer: This summary is a guide only and is not legal advice. For further information, call ECA Legal on (08) 6241 6129 or email ecalegal@ecawa.org.au
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(b) rCD type A and appropriate equipment that ensures disconnection of the supply in case of d.c. fault current above 6 mA
electrical workers also need to be aware of the requirements outlined in the WASIr the section covering electric vehicles changes frequently, so we recommend that contractors check the WASIr prior to an eV install.
If you have any questions about this rapidly evolving technology, please contact NeCA technical.
Malcolm Scott Technical Services Advisor NECA WA
the next step is to review the Wiring rules.
apply for each connection point:
(a) rCD type b
As electric and hybrid vehicles (eV) increase in popularity, the installation of eV chargers/charging stations is becoming a more common request for electricians. It’s important that members are aware of the specific requirements in WA to ensure their work is compliant.
Installers need to determine if the direct current (DC) protection is incorporated in the charging station and, if not, employ the measures outlined in Appendix p4.1.
p4.1 rCDs
Manufacturer’s instructions
rCDs should disconnect all live conductors.
the installation of eVSe may alter the consumers site maximum demand and potentially the associated network supply and connection arrangement requiring additionally or upgraded infrastructure and installation protection. (For additional information refer to the relevent network operator and clause 11.6.4)
each connecting point should be protected by its own rCD of at least type A, having a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA.
NeCA technical recommend that members consult the manufacturer’s instructions, Appendix p of the Wiring rules, and the Western Australian Service and Installation requirements (WASIr).
the rated current of eVSe shall not cause the total load limits specified: 1. in clause 7.6.2, table 3 for equipment to be connected to Horizon power’s distribution network; or 2. for a standard connection service connected to Western power’s distribution network; to be exceeded.
www.neca.asn.au/wa
the requirements of AS/NZS 3190, AS/NZS 61008, AS/NZS 61009, AS/NZS 60947 series or IeC 62423 apply to rCDs.
Where the eV charging station is equipped with a socket-outlet or vehicle connector complying with the IeC 62196 series, protective measures against d.c. fault current should be taken, except where provided by the eV charging station. the following measures
As a result of recent updates, there are no longer specific requirements for residential and commercial/industrial electrical vehicle supply equipment (eVSe). the following now applies:
Wiring Rules
WASIR
WA BRANCH
Appendix p Guidance for installation and location of electrical vehicle socketoutlets and charging stations of AS/NZS 3000:2018 provides further guidance in regard to the installation and location.
Generally, eV chargers need to be installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions – that’s your first port of call. Contact the manufacturer directly if you have any questions.
electric vehicle supply equipment (eVSe) and associated eV plugs/ connectors shall comply with relevant industry standards and the network operators technical requirements.
A WA GUIDE FOR INSTALLING ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGERS
10.11.6 electric cehicle supply equipment
Clause p4.1 of Appendix p (below) specifies the residual current device (rCD) requirements for each connecting point.
to put it simply - there are 19 High risk Construction Work Activities that require a SWmS. Visit www.bit.ly/NeCA_HrCW to view the complete list. these activities have been loaded into the NeCA Safe Digital App.
If your work does not involve any High risk Construction Work Activities, then you will not need to provide a SWmS, and can continue to complete a standard risk Assessment via the tool.
If you select one of the High risk Construction Work Activities when using the risk Assessment tool, you will be prompted to provide a SWmS. If you have uploaded your company SWmSs in the administrative console, they will appear in a dropdown list and you can easily select the relevant one for the task.
NO MORE SWMS CONFUSION WITH NECA SAFE DIGITAL
sign-off on the risk Assessment via the App. If you have additional attendees on site that are not users of the App (such as apprentices, subcontractors and/or labour-hire) their attendance can also be recorded via the tool.
there is often uncertainty over when a Safe Work method Statement (SWmS) is required and subsequent company processes can be unnecessarily complicated. You can avoid the guess-work and save time by using the NeCA Safe Digital App to complete your risk Assessments.
Simply answer the questions and the risk Assessment tool will determine whether or not a SWmS is required, and then prompt you to provide the relevant details and documents.
Additionally, the risk Assessment tool can capture hazards on site which (if applicable) assists with making your generic SWmS site-specific.
WA BRANCH
It’s easy to streamline safety in your business and be confident that you are doing the right thing when it comes to SWmS with NeCA Safe Digital. Starting at only $15/month for a single user, members can also record pre-Start/ toolboxes, Vehicle Inspections, electrical Installation tests, Incident reports and Hazard reports via the App – to sign-up online visit www.bit.ly/NeCASafeDigital
If you need help preparing SWmS for your business, NeCA WA have a suite of generic SWmS available for purchase. Contact NeCA Safety on (08) 6241 6100 or email safety@necawa.asn.au
NeCA Safe Digital is suitable for sole contractors and larger teams. If your business involves a larger team with a supervisor, they can review and
When is a SWMS required?
Australian Standards. the changes made support and facilitate the growth of renewable energy and distributed energy resources - such as rooftop solar, battery storage, electric vehicles, and electric vehicle chargers.
WI t H A rOUND 2.3 mILLION CUS t Omer S, t HAt IS 1.1 mILLION CONNeC t IONS, W eS terN
the WASIr update introduced new connection requirements for alterations to connection arrangements and increases to usage, including the need for the main switch to be a circuit breaker, a device designed to provide overload protection for a household if connection service capacity is exceeded and to prevent tripping of upstream network protection.
p OW er m ANAGeS t He GrID e FF eC t IV e LY AND e FFICIe N t LY bY e NSUrING e ACH CONNeC t ION CAN INDIVIDUALLY Dr AW Up t O t He Ir AGree D SUpp LY ALLOCAt ION.
Western power manages, maintains and plans the electricity grid to accommodate the energy needs of West Australians, in line with its obligations under legislation and standards such as the WASIr. Western power is supporting the decarbonisation efforts of West Australians by modernising the grid and responding to the needs of customers.
more information can be found on the Western power website.
WA BRANCH
As before, electrical contractors have an obligation, when adding new circuits (i.e. additional load, electric vehicle charging, solar systems, air-conditioning, new electric stoves), to assess demand requirements for households in line with network connection service requirements and apply for upgrades if they are likely to be exceeded.
WESTERN POWER RURAL SUPPLY ALLOCATION REVIEW UNDERWAY
In August 2021 the Western Australian Services and Installations requirements (WASIr) was updated to ensure the safe management of the network and to align with the evolving renewable energy market and state/national compliance frameworks, as well as
As part of their commitment to delivering the best possible power supply to the community, Western power is reviewing the regional and rural standard supply allocations of 32 Amp for single phase (240V) connections to ensure they are fit for purpose.
Western power is working closely with electrical contractor industry bodies and solar installers to assess alternative options, with the aim of providing an update by the end of the year. the review follows the updating of technical manuals, standards and guidelines associated with both traditional and renewable energy connections, which was essential with the community’s drive towards decarbonisation.
S EPTEMBER 202264 |
Households can apply via Western power’s website to increase their supply allocation at a cost. Alternatively, they can authorise their electrician to apply on their behalf.
Households are responsible for managing their total electrical load and should seek electrical contractor advice when adding or replacing larger appliances and equipment to ensure they have the required service connection capacity.
“Significant legislative changes in the past five years have included new regulations to restrict work on energised electrical installations. New guidelines were also published on appropriate supervision levels for electrical apprentices.”
“General improvements in electrical safety outcomes over a long period may be linked to sustained industry-wide efforts including legislative reforms and compliance activities,” mr Abdoolakhan said.
Western Australia’s Director of energy Safety, Saj Abdoolakhan, said while the outcomes are pleasing, efforts must continue across a range of safety, education and compliance measures.
“Although there were no fatal electrical accidents in Western Australia in the last financial year, two of the most recent electricity-related deaths involved tragedies in roof spaces where installations were still energised,” mr Abdoolakhan said.
“the electrical industry can play a key part in this conversation and help owners and occupiers understand the requirements and why they should expect and encourage the power to be off,” mr Abdoolakhan said.
FOr tHe FIrSt tIme IN At L e ASt 40 Ye ArS, WeSterN AUStr ALIA reCOrDeD ZerO FAtAL eL eCtrICAL ACCIDe N t S DUrING t He 2021-22 FINANCIAL Y e A r . OV er t He pAS t 10 Y e A r S, t He S tAte HAS ALSO See N DeCLINING tre NDS IN NON-FAtAL e L eC trICAL ACCIDe N t S per mILLION peOp L e AS W e LL AS De At HS Or S erIOUS ACCIDe N t S reSULt ING F rOm LIV e WOrK bY e L eC trICIANS.
Saj Abdoolakhan Executive Director, Building and Energy www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy
to residents to explain the legal requirement for the mains power to be off while carrying out electrical work.
“Discussions about switching the power off should start early so the expectations are clear from the beginning.”
While building and energy – Western Australia’s energy safety regulator –expands and diversifies its industry compliance activities, consumers have also been brought more into the electrical safety conversation.
“this is an important reminder for electrical contractors, electricians, other tradespeople and the general public about potential roof space hazards such as damaged, deteriorated or poorly installed electrical infrastructure that can be difficult to see or avoid.”
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INCLUDING CONSUMERS IN THE ELECTRICAL CONVERSATIONSAFETY
A high-profile campaign by building and energy, in partnership with network operators, urged people to immediately report any shocks and tingles at their homes, contributing to a 77% increase in these reports.
“earlier this year, building and energy also launched an initiative to remind home owners and occupiers that, by law, all tradespeople who need to enter the roof space at their property must turn off the power at the main switchboard – and residents should also do this if they have to go into the roof space,” mr Abdoolakhan said.
Letters explaining the requirement were included with power bills along with warning stickers that can be placed on manholes and meter boxes to remind people to turn off the power before entering the roof space.
electricians also have access to a building and energy letter (available at dmirs.wa.gov.au) that can be provided
ben is also the State manager for Government relations and member engagement for NeCA in tasmania. ben comes to ACrS with a wealth of experience both as a director and in the electrotechnology sector. ben has experience at the top levels of local government both in tasmania and nationally, serving on the Local Government Association of tasmania (LGAt) and Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) boards in director roles. ben also has strong links and relationships with government at all three levels, which will support ACrS in its regulatory advocacy endeavours.
In particular, new wireless technologies continue to develop and grow as they become more widespread in their use. 5G mobile and Wi-Fi6 are two of the latest developments. All of this technology requires programs with strong, consistent and stable networks, and cabling is required to support them.
A lot of recent discussion has been about the rapid growth of Australia’s digital economy, with home and office integration, the uptake of the Internet of things (Iot) within premises and the impact of technical advances such as home automation and power over the ethernet.
Next year, the ACmA will commence its legislatively required ten-year review of the current legislation relating to cable work. this will provide an opportunity to ensure that the legislation and cabling rules are modern, fit-for-service and take account of the pace of technological change.
the ACmA requires technicians to have a current cabling registration when they install any type of equipment that will be
there are currently around 70,000 registered cablers throughout Australia, and ACrS believes we need to look at the introduction of high quality continuous professional development to help them maintain current knowledge and skills.
ACRS NEWS thevisittohereScan websiteACRS S EPTEMBER 2022
An important role of the Australian Cabler registration Service (ACrS) is to advocate on cablers’ behalf to government to ensure that their voice is heard. For this reason, ACrS meets regularly with the Australian Communications and media Authority (ACmA) and also participates on the Communications Advisory Group (CAG). Our participation in these meetings also enables ACrS to provide timely and relevant information to cablers through our electronic newsletter and magazine articles.
DIRECTOR’S REPORT
ACRS Welcomes Ben Shaw
Peter Lamont Director ACRS and Senior Policy Advisor peter.lamont@neca.asn.au
ACrS is pleased to welcome ben Shaw as a new ACrS Director.
ben has over 20 years’ experience in technical sales and marketing roles within the electrical sector, including nine years at tricab, an Australian-owned and made cable manufacturing company. With his many contacts within the sector, ben will broaden ACrS’ reach even further.
With all this in mind, it is critically important that both new entrants and existing cablers keep up to date in technological developments, and how to install and maintain new systems. While training is the key, many training courses struggle to keep pace with technological change, and more needs to be done in this space.
ACrS is one of only five cabler registration providers approved by the Australian Communications and media Authority (ACmA). It is a totally-owned subsidiary of NeCA. ACrS plays a vital role in assessing the training and competency of people who wish to perform cabling work.
There are a number of Cabling Registrars authorised by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) in Australia, including ACRS, that can verify a cabler’s eligibility for registration.
ACRS NEWS
Once I’ve completed the training, who do I register with?
Once I’ve completed the training, who do I register with?
IS YOUR BUSINESS COMPLIANT FOR CABLING?
The ACMA has a range of options available to enforce compliance. These include: formal warnings; non-compliance notices to the telecommunications carrier, which may result in disconnection from the network; telecommunications infringement notices (on-the-spot fine of $2,040); and if the matter is serious enough, taking court action, which may result in a conviction and/or a fine of up to $20,400.
It is illegal for anyone other than a registered cabler to install or maintain cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are installing any equipment that will connect to the network – from smart home systems to extra phone lines – you need a current cabling registration.
BUSINESS
telcos must now also publish information to assist their customers to proactively manage and report SmS scams, share information about scam messages with other telcos and report identified scams to authorities.
It is illegal for anyone other than a registered cabler to install or maintain cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are installing any equipment that will connect to the network – from smart home systems to extra phone lines – you need a current cabling registration.
Am I registered to do the work?
Carrying a current cabling registration card confirms you have completed the relevant training and gained the professional experience to complete the work to the customer’s expectations.
Peter Lamont Director, ACRS www.acrs.com.au
You must also have a minimum of 80 hours cabling experience for Restricted
Am I registered to do the work?
The ACMA has a range of options available to enforce compliance. These include: formal warnings; non-compliance notices to the telecommunications carrier, which may result in disconnection from the network; telecommunications infringement notices (on-the-spot fine of $2,040); and if the matter is serious enough, taking court action, which may result in a conviction and/or a fine of up to $20,400.
Cabling Registration run by the industry, for the industry
Registration and 360 hours for Open Registration. Holding an electrical licence, Security licence or enAbleTM NBN Card will suffice.
According to Australian Competition and Consumer Commission
An Open Registration is required for commercial and domestic premises work. For work in domestic premises you only require a Restricted Registration.
Thinking about a move into data and communications as a way to diversify your contracting business? Here are a few critical questions to ask before you get started.
In Australia, all cabling work, including telephone, data, fire and security alarm system cabling, that connects with the telecommunications network must be performed by a registered cabler, or under the direct supervision of a registered cabler.
Peace of mind costs less than 60c a week! Register with ACRS and reap the benefits of being with the only Australian electrical specialist registry while avoiding a hefty fine.
What is required to become a registered cabler?
Carrying a current cabling registration card confirms you have completed the relevant training and gained the professional experience to complete the work to the customer’s expectations.
ACrS is currently proposing to amend the telecommunications Labelling Notice to include Qr codes to align the labelling requirements with those under the radiocommunications Act. this will provide consistency and flexibility for suppliers in the Australian market and enable suppliers to comply with the requirements through the use of modern technology.
An Open Registration is required for commercial and domestic premises work. For work in domestic premises you only require a Restricted Registration.
“It is exciting to have ben join the team and bring some fresh ideas to the table,” said peter. “ben will also be particularly good at promoting ACrS and raising cabler requirement awareness in tasmania.”
Carrying a current cabling registration card confirms you have completed the relevant training and gained the professional experience to complete the work to the customer’s expectations.
Cabling Registration run by the industry, for the industry
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) initiates enhanced rules to combat scams
What are the consequences of doing cabling work without being registered?
Not being registered is not worth the risk.
Peace of mind costs less than 60c a week! Register with ACRS and reap the benefits of being with the only Australian electrical specialist registry while avoiding a hefty fine.
The Australian Cabler Registration Service (ACRS) provides a fast, reliable and low-cost registration service for the electrical and communications industry.
No. To ensure compliance with the ACMA guidelines, cablers must be either registered or, directly supervised at all times by a cabler who is registered for the type of work being done.
Registration and 360 hours for Open Registration. Holding an electrical licence, Security licence or enAbleTM NBN Card will suffice.
IS YOUR BUSINESS COMPLIANT FOR CABLING?
You must also have a minimum of 80 hours cabling experience for Restricted
It is illegal for anyone other than a registered cabler to install or maintain cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are installing any equipment that will connect to the network – from smart home systems to extra phone lines –you need a current cabling registration.
Peace of mind costs less than 60c a week! Register with ACRS and reap the benefits of being with the only Australian electrical specialist registry while avoiding a hefty fine.
connected to the telecommunications network, including monitored security alarms, access control systems, closed circuit television, extra phone lines, internet connected computers, building automation or smart home systems.
The biggest consequence is that, should anything go wrong or your work is found to be faulty, your business insurance is unlikely to cover you. This could lead to litigation and substantial financial loss for your business.
BUSINESS
The Australian Cabler Registration Service (ACRS) provides a fast, reliable and low-cost registration service for the electrical and communications industry.
To become a registered cabler you must complete the appropriate training course for the work to be undertaken through a Registered Training Organisations (RTO).
The Australian Cabler Registration Service (ACRS) provides a fast, reliable and low-cost registration service for the electrical and communications industry.
the labelling requirements in the telecommunications Labelling
(ACCC) Scamwatch data, financial losses from SmS scams from January to July 2022 increased by 188% compared to the same period in 2021 – from around $2.3 million to over $6.5 million. SmS scams account for about 32% of all scams reported to date this year.
Peace of mind costs less than 60c a week! Register with ACRS and reap the benefits of being with the only Australian electrical specialist registry while avoiding a hefty fine.
Peace of mind costs less than 60c a week! Register with ACRS and reap the benefits of being with the only Australian electrical specialist registry while avoiding a hefty fine.
The biggest consequence is that, should anything go wrong or your work is found to be faulty, your business insurance is unlikely to cover you. This could lead to litigation and substantial financial loss for your business.
Cabling Registration run by the industry, for the industry
Peace of mind costs less than 60c a week! Register with ACRS and reap the benefits of being with the only Australian electrical specialist registry while avoiding a hefty fine.
Cabling Registration run by the industry, for the industry
As a result, ACmA has initiated new rules that require telcos to identify, trace and block SmS scams.
Carrying a current cabling registration card confirms you have completed the relevant training and gained the professional experience to complete the work to the customer’s expectations.
Cabling Registration run by the industry, for the industry
Peter Lamont Director, ACRS www.acrs.com.au
It is illegal for anyone other than a registered cabler to install or maintain cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are installing any equipment that will connect to the network – from smart home systems to extra phone lines –you need a current cabling registration.
Cabling Registration run by the industry, for the industry
Notice currently require suppliers to label their equipment with the rCm, and do not have the option to label equipment with a Qr code. this means there is an inconsistency between the radiocommunications Act and the telecommunications labelling requirements.
It is illegal for anyone other than a registered cabler to install or maintain cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are installing any equipment that will connect to the network – from smart home systems to extra phone lines – you need a current cabling registration.
ACrS will keep you informed on any updates.
It is illegal for anyone other than a registered cabler to install or maintain cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are installing any equipment that will connect to the network – from smart home systems to extra phone lines – you need a current cabling registration.
For more information visit www.acrs.com.au or call 1300 667 771.
When the Radiocommunications Act 1992 was amended last year, the definition of label was updated to include Qr codes. this meant that suppliers could label equipment under the radiocommunications labelling arrangements, with either the regulatory Compliance mark (rCm) or a Qr code, or similar.
Online scams have become a scourge of our current times. they can have a major impact on both individuals and businesses.
The Australian Cabler Registration Service (ACRS) provides a fast, reliable and low-cost registration service for the electrical and communications industry.
the new rules came into force on 30 June 2022, and require telcos to use multi-factor ID checks for customer transactions that are commonly targeted by scammers, including SIm swap requests and account changes.
Cabling Registration run by the industry, for the industry
For more information visit www.acrs.com.au or call 1300 667 771.
No. To ensure compliance with the ACMA guidelines, cablers must be either registered or, directly supervised at all times by a cabler who is registered for the type of work being done.
It is illegal for anyone other than a registered cabler to install or maintain cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are installing any equipment that will connect to the network – from smart home systems to extra phone lines – you need a current cabling registration.
Under Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) laws, ACrS has two directors to ensure the company complies with all rules and legislation. ben joined current Director peter Lamont as part of the ACrS team in June 2022.
There are a number of Cabling Registrars authorised by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) in Australia, including ACRS, that can verify a cabler’s eligibility for registration.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority is looking at introducing QR codes for all telecommunications equipment
To become a registered cabler you must complete the appropriate training course for the work to be undertaken through a Registered Training Organisations (RTO).
Not being registered is not worth the risk.
What is required to become a registered cabler?
Carrying a current cabling registration card confirms you have completed the relevant training and gained the professional experience to complete the work to the customer’s expectations.
Do all my staff need to be registered?
Peace of mind costs less than 60c a week! Register with ACRS and reap the benefits of being with the only Australian electrical specialist registry while avoiding a hefty fine.
Do all my staff need to be registered?
The Australian Cabler Registration Service (ACRS) provides a fast, reliable and low-cost registration service for the electrical and communications industry.
The Australian Cabler Registration Service (ACRS) provides a fast, reliable and low-cost registration service for the electrical and communications industry.
What are the consequences of doing cabling work without being registered?
In Australia, all cabling work, including telephone, data, fire and security alarm system cabling, that connects with the telecommunications network must be performed by a registered cabler, or under the direct supervision of a registered cabler.
Peace of mind costs less than 60c a week! Register with ACRS and reap the benefits of being with the only Australian electrical specialist registry while avoiding a hefty fine.
Carrying a current cabling registration card confirms you have completed the relevant training and gained the professional experience to complete the work to the customer’s expectations.
It is illegal for anyone other than a registered cabler to install or maintain cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are installing any equipment that will connect to the network – from smart home systems to extra phone lines – you need a current cabling registration.
Let’s hope that the new rules make a difference!
Carrying a current cabling registration card confirms you have completed the relevant training and gained the professional experience to complete the work to the customer’s expectations.
Carrying a current cabling registration card confirms you have completed the relevant training and gained the professional experience to complete the work to the customer’s expectations.
Thinking about a move into data and communications as a way to diversify your contracting business? Here are a few critical questions to ask before you get started.
professionals check that cable is properly marked before installing it and the certification status can be checked on the electrical regulatory Authorities Council (erAC) eeSS National Database.
it’s always better to check compliance first because the price at the other end heavily outweighs the price of replacing.
“If the cable isn’t marked properly, an inspector would have the right to say: ‘Well, I can’t identify this cable and therefore, can’t tell if it’s compliant or not. You have to pull it out and replace it with compliant cable.’”
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Sean Carroll Editor, Electrical Connection
there are standards and regulations tradies must adhere to when it comes to cabling, like most aspects of the building and construction industry. Despite being relatively cheap to install, having to remove all cabling as a result of not following these standards is extremely expensive.
Cabling is relatively inexpensive. Yes, there are high-end solutions that offer more benefits over their economical counterparts, but allin-all, cabling is nowhere near the most expensive part of a job.
the Australian Cablemakers Association (ACA) recently published a reminder to all electricians and electrical professionals to ensure all cabling installed falls within the scope of AS/NZS 4417.1 and is compliant with electrical Safety Scheme (eeSS) requirements.
“When you install cables into a building, you need to check that it’s compliant with the eeSS requirements and you need to be able to identify the cable,” ACA secretary Sandy
WHIL e I t mIGH t LA be LL e D CA bL
part of the ACA is a non-profit organisation called the Australian Cable Initiative (ACI). It was established to promote the safety and compliance of electrical cables used in buildings and it runs a surveillance program that monitors electrical cables manufactured, sold, used or distributed in Australia.
e V e N IF t He Y’re
SAVE YOURSELF THE TROUBLE, DO YOUR DUE DILIGENCE WITH CABLING
Sandy explains that the ACI recently found some incorrectly labelled cable and had it been installed the electrician may then have had to go through the arduous process of removing and replacing it.
For the first time, NeCA hosted an online forum for all our Standards Australia representatives. the forum was NeCA’s opportunity to thank our volunteers and staff that continue to significantly contribute to updating and developing existing and new technical standards. It also was an opportunity for NeCA and our members to engage in open dialogue about committee experience, pain points, and ways we can work together to strengthen our position as the industry leader in electrical standards development.
When working in restricted spaces or anywhere within a customer’s installation, there is no excuse to work live. the advice provided some general, but important notes to remind workers:
½ before entering the roof space or subfloor space of a house, let someone who is on site and contactable know where you are going and how long you will be;
WItH 2022 WeLL AND trULY IN FULL FLIGHt, SO Are tHe teCHNICAL te AmS IN ALL StAteS, tr AVeLLING ALL OV er OUr VASt NAt ION INFOrmING AND eDUCAt ING memberS OF t He LAteS t INFOrm At ION AND UpDAteS IN t HeIr A re AS. I t IS t HIS LOCAL SUpp Ort t HAt m AK eS NeCA t He L e ADer IN SUpp Ort ING eL eC trICIANS AS t He Y CA rrY OU t t He WOrK NeeDeD tO K eep t He COUN trY eL eC trIFIeD.
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Other subjects discussed included confidentiality, committee vacancies, expectations of both NeCA and our volunteers, and the timing of future forums. this forum will continue to evolve, with members being keen to meet quarterly to ensure we build on the success of the opening forum.
Electrical safety
½ if you find any damaged wiring, exit safely and let the owner or property manager know so that proper repairs can be organised.
the risk of any electric shock is real, but too often complacency sets in, workers let their guard down and accidents occur.
If you are unsure of your business processes, NeCA can help you assess your workplace to ensure you and your workers go home safely each day.
We would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the enormous contribution of Gary busbridge, who held this position for a number of years. the hard work Gary put in throughout his tenure has ensured the Wiring rules has remained relevant and continued to be the peak standard in the industry.
paul has been involved in the electrotechnology industry for his entire working career and has extensive experience in testing, connections of new and upgraded installations, process and policy preparation, inspecting electrical work and electrical investigations into accidents and deaths.
In August, Standards Australia announced a new Chairperson of eL-001, the peak committee for the Wiring rules, and it is with great pride that we announce NeCA National policy and technical Director, paul brownlee as the person to lead AS/NZS 3000 into the next phase.
Whilst this was sent to NSW workers, the lessons resonate across all states.
Standards representative forum
SEPTEMBER 2022
Standards update – new Chairperson of EL-001
the NSW Government recently wrote to all licensed electricians in NSW to update them on two electrical fatalities. both involved electrical workers, one being a tradesperson and the other being an apprentice. both incidents involved electricity and being in a restricted space.
Under his new appointment with Standards Australia, paul will be focused on the continued evolution of the eL-001 standard to ensure its relevance to the trade and broader electrical contracting industry.
½ switching OFF power at the meter box does not turn off the electricity supply from the street to the meter box. t his means the incoming overhead service lines and the consumer mains will still be live;
½ supply cables from solar panels to an inverter unit will be live when the solar panels are generating electricity. Check to see whether the property has a battery storage system and isolate it accordingly;
½ electrical wiring work must only be carried out, or supervised, by a licensed electrician who has the necessary training and experience;
NATIONAL TECHNICAL UPDATE
paul has previously worked on the NSW Solar bonus Scheme implementation and has advised on the Accredited Service provider (ASp) scheme, contestable metering, ring fencing and Australian Standards, and served on a number of Standards Australia committees.
In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment and rCDs
telecommunications installations - Administration of communications cabling systems, part 1: basic requirements
AS 62271.301:2022
AS/NZS 60079.35.1:2011 REC:2022 explosive atmospheres, part 35.1: Caplights for use in mines susceptible to firedamp - General requirements - Construction and testing in relation to the risk of explosion
AS 3085.1:2022
telecommunication cables - Insulation, sheath and jacket, part 2: test methods
Safety of transformers, reactors, power supply units and combinations thereof, part 2.4: particular requirements and tests for isolating transformers and power supply units incorporating isolating transformers for general applications
AS/NZS IEC 60479.4:2022
High-voltage switchgear and controlgear, part 301: Dimensional standardization of terminals
AS/NZS 3760:2022
AS/NZS 3100:2022
AS/NZS 60079.11:2011 REC:2022 explosive atmospheres, part 11: equipment protection by intrinsic safety
there were 230 new and updated Australian Standards released between April and August 2022. below is a list of some of the standards members may find applicable.
AS/NZS 61558.2.6:2022
Live working - electrical insulating gloves (IeC 60903:2014 (eD. 3.0) mOD)
Safety of transformers, reactors, power supply units and combinations thereof, part 2.6: particular requirements and tests for safety isolating transformers and power supply units incorporating safety isolating transformers for general applications
NATIONAL TECHNICAL UPDATE
AS 60903:2022
AS/NZS 4249:2022 electrical installations and safety practices - Film, video and television sites
AS/NZS 61558.2.16:2022
effects of current on human beings and livestock, part 4: effects of lightning strokes
Safety of transformers, reactors, power supply units and combinations thereof, part 2.16: particular requirements and tests for switch mode power supply units and transformers for switch mode power supply units for general applications
Approval and test specification - General requirements for electrical equipment
AS 1049.2:2022
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AS/NZS 2081:2011 REC:2022 electrical protection devices for mines and quarries
Recently released standards
AS/NZS 60079.29.4:2011 REC:2022 explosive atmospheres, part 29.4: Gas detectors - performance requirements of open path detectors for flammable gases
AS/NZS 61558.2.4:2022
AS/NZS 60079.14:2022 explosive atmospheres, part 14: Design selection, erection and initial inspection (IeC 60079-14:2013 (eD.5.0) mOD)
Paul Brownlee NECA National Policy and Technical Director
½ ensuring there is clearer delineation between what a transmission Network Service p rovider ( t NS p) business can and cannot do;
the national team are always here to help and support our state-based teams and all members. If you have an issue that you would like to see raised or followed up with your local member, regulator, distributor or at a national level, we are here to assist.
½ there needs to be a nationally recognised metering installation program, which allows electricians to move between metering coordinators and install all meters regardless of the retailer;
We continue to push for national uniformity on automatic mutual recognition across state borders. States are continuing to implement their own systems, but more needs to be done at a federal level to bring each state’s hard work together in one harmonious program.
½ making t NS p businesses more accountable for complying when applying to carry out external work; and
½ statutory legislation reviews on various acts and regulations that are critical to our members and the work they do;
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½ reviewing Distribution Network Service p rovider (DNS p) connection document changes;
½ contributing to metering rule amendments at a state level; and
the Australian energy regulator (Aer) released a discussion paper that highlighted the need to updated the current (20-year-old) transmission ringFencing Guidelines. the discussion paper acknowledged that the current guideline must be updated and that the evolution of the transmission network into battery storage, solar farms etc, has meant there is much more activity in the construction of transmission assets by third parties.
In brief, the paper sets out recommendations for the AemC to consider to allow them to grow the available workforce required to install smart meters. these recommendations include suggestions that:
½ strengthening the investigation powers;
½ greater reporting and transparency.
NeCA’s submission focused on:
Other projects
NeCA will continue to work closely with the Aer and looks forward to reviewing the draft guideline when it is released.
½ the choice of electrical contracting business to undertake the installation, needs to fall back to the consumer, allowing electrical contracting businesses to compete. t his will also allow businesses to assess risk based on their ability to market the business, rather than the whims of the metering coordinator;
NeCA continues to work with the Australian energy market Commission (AemC) and industry stakeholders to review the increased rollout of smart meters nationally. It is clear there is more work to be done to reduce the pain points around multi-tenanted sites, and to increase the rollout more broadly. NeCA recently met with the industry working group in melbourne to address some of these issues.
Australian Energy Regulator Transmission Network Service Provider RingFencing Discussion Paper
At a state level we have been actively supporting our state branches on:
metering review
ContestableWWW.NECA.ASN.AU
½ the rate paid to electrical contracting businesses needs to be determined by the market and not dictated by metering coordinators.
NeCA National policy and technical Director, paul brownlee said, “there is a lot to be gained if parties look beyond their own interests, and look more broadly at solutions that solve problems, instead of looking for reasons to refuse to do them.”
NeCA has also reached out to the AemC directly to offer support in better understanding the finer concerns our members face on a daily basis when installing smart meters. We also provided a technical paper which was tabled at the August meeting of the building ministers outlining our thoughts on this issue.
½ NSW and QLD flood emergencies, providing support and coordination where requested.
TECHNICAL
would need to complete 500 more apprentices a year for the next four years to get us back to where we were in 2017, assuming that is, no one actually leaves the trade in the next four years. History tells us that’s not going to happen. We are not only going backwards, but it’s also going to be a problem for some time. As proof, the West Australian recently reported, “building and construction apprenticeship commencements have more than doubled over the last two years to reach 2,708 in may, while electrical apprenticeship commencements have also nearly doubled to 2,232 in the same period. there are now more than 10,000 tradies and electrical apprentices currently engaged in WA – an all-time record.
Yet in 2022, attracting skilled migrants is near on impossible. Why? every country in the western world is facing the same challenges: an aging workforce, less interest from school leavers and a massively stimulated construction environment driving demand for workers.
Steve Hall General Manager, College of Electrical Training
W eS terN AUS tr ALIA IS KNOWN AS A bOOm bUS t S tAte , ALt HOUGH I t NOW Seem S t He reS t OF t He COUN trY HAV e JOINe D t He pA rt Y. ONe t HING W e ALL WAN t IN t He INDUS trY t HOUGH, A re t He beS t tr AINING OU t COmeS – GrOWING A COmpete N t AND prODUC t IV e WOrKFOrCe CONSIDerING t He WA SI t UAt ION FOr CON te X t, L et ’S LOOK At t He DAtA, AND S ee IF I t ’S L e ADING US tO t HAt OU t COme
In 2017, we graduated less than a quarter of the workforce we needed just to match demand. Five years on, what’s changed?
politics aside, prior to the pandemic, there were fewer school leavers choosing to do a trade than needed to meet any industry’s needs for a skilled workforce. Cue the ‘skilled migration’ argument.
So what outcome are we looking for? If it’s a competent and productive workforce, the data is telling us, and has done so for some time, we’re not getting it right. Now is the time to invest in what we already know - the apprenticeship journey starts in Years 7-10; build the links between science, technology engineering and maths (Stem) and the vocational outcomes we see in trades. We can’t just push ‘do maths’ if you want to be a sparky. We need the students starting in Year 7 to know that being able to apply Stem in your job brings rewards, both financially and personally.
Until we as an industry invest in the pathways to our trade, we will continue to face trade shortages, especially when we need the workers the most.
OPINION
In July 2017, there were nearly 38,000 people in Western Australia that held an electrical licence. Natural attrition in industry led to around 3,800 workers leaving the trade. In this corresponding period, there were around 3,000 apprentices in training, with an expectation that around 700 of those would complete and become licensed that year. What do these stats tell us?
While the pandemic has had a profound impact on the way we work and live, one thing it didn’t change was historically low rates of participation in the trades. being an electrician is one of the most popular career pathways, with 1 in 3 workers in the construction industry an electrician. It’s one of the reasons that electricians are carved out of reporting figures in many jurisdictions. Yet from 2015 to 2020, that participation rate dropped. Figures from the National Centre for Vocational education research (NCVer) have clearly demonstrated this trend is not unique to electrical.
About now, you’re probably asking what the figures are for this year? Just under 36,000 people hold an electrical licence.
As proof of that, the two finalists in the NeCA WA excellence Awards Innovation Category this year, both showed how Stem is being utilised in the environmental social and governance (eSG) and electricity supply industry (eSI) fields. real world application of Stem skills.
5% in anNotfixSurelyofinbutelectricians,anincreaseapprenticesaround50%.thatwilltheproblem.quite.Asindustry,we
S EPTEMBER 202272 |
Despite the strong training figures, the most recent job vacancy figures found there were 13,200 more positions available in WA than there were unemployed West Australians in June.” (Skilled worker shortage: New register to help lure workers from around world to WA, Josh Zimmerman, the West Australian tue, 19 July 2022 8:12 am).
WHERE ARE THE WORKERS?
decrease4,500.inApprenticestraining-So,aof
The use of busbar in our industry is not a new concept. However, providing a full range of compact residential protection devices, for both single phase and three phase installations, that connect to the same low profile busbar, through dedicated busbar terminals, increasing safety, reducing installation time, maximising flexibility and aesthetics within one system, definitely is.
easier,hagerelectro.com.au faster, safer
onekonektCircuitProtectionSystem
1. Breach of contract
If the principal uses the registered design in an unauthorised way,
Question: If the principal later awards the job to another party, what protection does the contractor have against misuse of the proposed designs? Specifically, if, after refusing the job to the contractor, the principal provides those proposed designs to a separate party to complete the job, what legal recourse does the contractor have? Depending on the circumstances, the contractor may exercise one of these options:
If a process contract is breached, including by the principal using the contractor’s designs in an unauthorised way, this may entitle the contractor to damages for breach of contract, namely the tender costs.
Finally, a contractor can take more practical steps to minimise risk. It can, for instance, only provide the principal with designs in-person, supervising their inspection of those same documents. even so, a principal may flatly reject this and other similar requests, placing the contractor at a comparative disadvantage to other parties tendering for the job.
½ the contractor spent considerable time and resources preparing a tender, such as proposed designs, drawings, and other documentation; ½ the r F t sets out a detailed process requiring the principal to follow the same.
2. Breach of equity
If no process contract exists, there still may be an obligation for the principal to “act fairly” (pratt Contractors Ltd [1995] 1 NZLr 469). If a principal breaches this obligation, a contractor may be entitled to equitable compensation, though Australian law is unclear on this point.
the contractor may commence legal proceedings. In this event, the contractor may seek an injunction, damages, or an account of profits from the principal. For further information on the registration of designs and intellectual property infringement, refer to the Ip Australia website: www.ipaustralia.gov.au
Matthew Humphry Solicitor, ECA Legal
Disclaimer: This summary is a guide only and is not legal advice. For further information, contact your local NECA Branch.
be FOre AWA rDING A SIGNIFICAN t CONS trUC t ION JOb, prINCIpALS OF te N reQUIre prOS peC t IV e CON tr AC t Or S t O pA rtAK e IN t He te NDerING prOCeSS. AS pA rt OF t HIS prOCeSS, NOrm ALLY, prOS peC t IV e CON tr AC t Or S mUS t SUbmI t prOp OS e D DeSIGNS CONCerNING t He JOb FOLLOWING t HIS, t He prINCIpAL m AY Or m AY NOt AWA rD t He JOb t O t He CON tr AC t Or
SUBMITTING DESIGNS FOR TENDER
typically, and as a starting position, if the contractor accepts the request for tender (“rFt”) by submitting proposed designs to the principal, this does not lead to a legally binding contract. In this case, a legally binding contract does not exist until the contractor signs the formal contract for the job, following conclusion of the tendering process.
4. Register designs under the Designs Act 2003
before providing the designs to the principal, a contractor may register a registrable design (section 15 of the Designs Act 2003). the initial fee for registration is $250.
3. Breach of Australian Consumer Law
5. Practical steps:
LEGAL
Despite this starting position, the contractor accepting an rFt may lead to a legally binding contract, where there is a process contract. A process contract may exist where:
½ the r F t contains mandatory language (Hughes Aircraft Systems [1997] FCA 558);
the contractor may report the principal to Consumer protection alleging the principal engaged in misleading or deceptive conduct contrary to Australian Consumer Law. the principal, it could be argued, indirectly misled the contractor, using the contractor’s designs for purposes other than those originally intended. moreover, the contractor may allege the principal engaged in unconscionable conduct contrary to Australian Consumer Law.
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CONTACT NECA FOR EXPERT LEGAL ADVICE AND REPRESENTATION
If you would like assistance in reviewing a current independent contractor contract, or require a comprehensive contract, or you have a situation where you may be terminating an employee to then rehire them as an independent contractor, please contact your local NeCA branch.
½ arrangements for payments and taxation;
It is important to note, that just because an employer labels the contract an “independent contractor agreement”, that does not mean the relationship is automatically considered to be an independent contractor. Instead, the courts will look at the rights and obligations established in the written contract to determine the legal status of the relationship. therefore, factors such as the individual’s ability to have control over how the work is performed, subcontract the work to others, refuse to do certain work, etc will be given weight. So, if the contract contains clear provisions around this, the courts will give it great weight.
ARE YOU CORRECTLY HIRING YOUR INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR?
In both cases, there was a dispute around the individuals’ entitlements at the end of the engagement, with each individual claiming they were an “employee”. the High Court had to determine whether they were employees or individual contractors.
ADDreSSING t HIS V erY QUeS t ION. t He DeCISIONS prOVIDe Gre Ater CLA rI t Y FOr bUSINeSS eS A bOU t HOW tO HIre AN INDepe NDe N t CON tr AC t Or COrreC t LY.
You should:
t He HIGH COUrt OF AUS tr ALIA ISSUe D t WO DeCISIONS IN F ebrUA rY 2022
the Jamsek case was about two truck drivers who had been hired as employees and were then subsequently hired as independent contractors.
½ the intention of the parties;
When can the approachmulti-factorialOLDbeused?
S EPTEMBER 202276 | LEGAL
the Personnel Contracting case was about an individual engaged as a “self-employed contractor” and placed by personnel Contracting with a host company under a labour hire agreement.
½ if the contract is a ‘sham’, i.e., the individual in reality is being treated as an independent contractor. So, where an individual brings a sham contracting claim at the Federal Court, the multifactorial test could be utilised.
½ where there is validityorcomprehensivenocontractwherethecontract’sisdisputed;
business owners need to urgently review the independent contractor contracts they have in place to ensure they are comprehensive and meet the requirements established by these two decisions.
What should you do?
Previous approach
½ whether the individual can delegate the work to another (subcontracting).
½ if the parties varied the written contract through their own conduct after entering into the agreement;
Approved approach
½ ensure your business has a comprehensive written contract for independent contractors. You can use the multi-factorial test to adopt the appropriate clauses into the contract;
the previous approach of assessing conduct using the theCourt,unnecessaryapproach,multi-factorialalthoughdeemedbytheHighcanbeusedinfollowingways:
but the High Court, in the Jamsek case and the Personnel Contracting case, stated that it was unnecessary and inappropriate to review the conduct of the parties using the multi-factorial approach, where the contract is valid and comprehensive.
Saras Varatharajullu Constructive Legal Solutions www.constructivelegalsolutions.com.au
½ ensure that you are treating your independent contractors as such, rather than as an employee;
The cases
prior to these two cases, courts were assessing the actual conduct of parties, to determine whether an individual was an employee and would look at the day-to-day reality of the contractual relationship (a multi-factorial approach). Some of the factors included:
½ where an employee is terminated and is re-engaged as an independent contractor, ensure you carefully review the circumstances in case it can be viewed as sham contracting.
½ keep track of any variations to the independent contractor’s contract;
½ level of control over the individual;
the High Court proposed another methodology, where parties have a comprehensive contract. the High Court stated it would use the contract to determine the legitimacy of the relationship (without relying on the day-to-day dealings).
NECA TRADE SERVICES SAFETY SPECIALISTS WEBSITE
Congratulations to NeCA Queensland member Atomic Industries. the 360p HeartSine Defibrillator was presented by Stryker representative - ron Wason, brady representative – Jerone Augustijn, and NeCA QLD member manager – Christopher Gradwell.
WWW.NECA.ASN.AU COMPETITION
NECA & BRADY 360P HEARTSINE DEFIBRILLATOR COMPETITON WINNER ANNOUNCED
“As electricians we are particularly at risk of shock, we have WHS systems in place to avoid this happening but as part of our rescue procedures this defibrillator could be an essential part of our equipment.”
Did you know for every minute that passes after a person has a cardiac
HeartSine Defibrillators can be purchased from NeCA trade Services Safety Specialists website. Scan the Q r code to learn more and shop online.
NeCA, together with business partner brADY Stryker recently held a competition where members had a chance to win a 360p HeartSine Defibrillator valued at $1,999rrp
NeCA, tOGet Her WI t H bUSINeSS pA rt Ner br ADY S trYK er reCe N t LY He LD A COmpet I t ION WHere member S HAD A CHANCe t O WIN A 360p He A rt SINe De FIbrILLAt Or VALUe D At $1,999rrp.
members were asked to watch the NeCA and brADY webinar, then answer why defibrillators are important to you. Winner’s response:
arrest, the chance of survival decreases? Quick action by yourself or another worker could save a life!
Scan this Qr code to watch NeCA and brADY’s webinar on NeCA tV. Learn about the prevalence of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) and how to lead the way and be proactive in protecting your workers through the provision of Automated external Defibrillators (A Ds).
ELLE
LeD undoubtedly offers significant energy savings, but some lighting manufacturers are taking things even further.
From long, unbroken lines of light to single pendants, the ELLE range is a superior modular linear lighting system designed, tested and manufactured in Melbourne.
Cradle to Cradle certification is a global certification for products that are safe, circular and responsibly made. It is just one initiative helping to transform the traditional linear economic model of production and consumption into a circular economy driven by products that positively impact people and the planet.
The future is bright Ian Johnson, Lighting Solutions manager at eagle Lighting, said, “We’re learning that thoughtfully designed environments that bring together aesthetics, efficiency, and longevity are positive for people, the planet and businesses. And as technology advances, the role of lighting will continue to evolve and expand within this environment.”
Designed with creativity and ease of installation in mind, ELLE can be used to provide continuous lighting installations or geometric shapeswhether you require purely decorative accent lighting or technically perfect office lighting, the ELLE range offers a version to suit any project.
½ is your project utilising advanced lighting controls to provide additional energy savings?
Ian Johnson Lighting Solutions Manager, Eagle Lighting www.eaglelighting.com.au
Given this modular system’s possibilities, we sum ELLE up in four simple words: Sustainability - Quality - Flexibility - Affordability.
this holistic approach involves considering each luminaire’s design, manufacture, quality (product and light), transportation distance, and lifecycle.
As the drive for sustainability within the construction industry picks up pace, by taking a holistic approach, together, we can make the world a brighter place.
Support across the globe for environmental issues is exerting pressure for meaningful change in the construction industry. to meet this changing landscape, companies are accelerating their transition to sustainable practices to prosper in the marketplace. While the focus remains on the more prominent aspects of the construction process, the lighting element offers an ‘easy win’.
Light emitting diode (LeD) lighting provides one of the easiest pathways to reduce carbon and greenhouse gas emissions generated in the built environment. A combined carbon reduction of up to 90% can be achieved when fluorescent lighting is upgraded to LeD, and intelligent controls are integrated into the project.
www.eagle.lighting
Modular Lighting System
The rise of the ‘circular’ economy
Circular thinking goes beyond energy efficiency to introduce careful consideration of the entire lifecycle of each luminaire.
What to look for when choosing sustainable lighting
there are a host of important questions that must be considered for businesses and stakeholders serious about meeting their sustainability commitments. these include:
½ is your supplier applying circular thinking?;
GREAT LIGHTING NEVER STANDS STILL
½ is your lighting supplier taking concrete steps to action a validated sustainability strategy?;
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OPTIMISING WORKPLACE CONDITIONS FOR PEOPLE TO THRIVE
m Y Ne X t DOOr Ne IGHbOUr COmp LIme N te D m Y GA r De N ONe DAY, SAYING I t WAS “ t He tALK OF t He S treet ”. I be A me D ON t He INSIDe t O t HINK t HAt t He e FFOrt S I’D m ADe WI t H t He GA rDe N W ere SO e VIDe N t t He Y’D beCOme A t Op IC OF LOCAL IN tereS t
S EPTEMBER 202280 |
I once suggested to a supervisor who was struggling in this area to start by simply introducing some informal conversation into the workday. At the time it was asking him to step well outside his comfort-zone, so he started small by occasionally inquiring about people’s weekends. As time progressed people started to share more and experience greater personal connection with him. to his surprise, with improved connection, individuals started pulling together more as a team and work efficiencies improved.
each person within a team is unique and requires their right conditions to thrive. that said, there are some general and basic conditions that apply to most. As a leader, it can be challenging to find the balance between understanding and providing the basics that most employees need, while simultaneously taking the time to respond to individual differences. Leaders who discover this balance find themselves surrounded by motivated team members who typically thrive, personally and professionally. Learning
As children, we were curious about the smallest of things: this was part of the growth process and was spontaneously expressed, but with growing up and the passage of time, sometimes the expression of curiosity and interest gives way to demands and deadlines.
Here are six workplace conditions that will help your people thrive.
how to provide such supportive work conditions is crucial if we desire high performing teams and to retain top talent.
“mum, look,” says the five-yearold with wide eyed wonder.
they created ShipIt days. every quarter, their people have the opportunity to “down tools” and work on anything that interests them. For them, it’s all about innovation. they say, “We don’t know what slick new features, full-blown products, and everyday hacks will come out of each ShipIt day. but we know they’ll improve the company, the customer experience, and ultimately the world around us.”1
1. Personal connection
2. Curiosity and innovation
“Yes, it’s a beetle. We need to get home.”
Some people perform best when they have access to frequent engagement with others and freedom to laugh through their workdays. Others need periods of quiet and solitude to accomplish the work before them. Workplaces that provide positive spaces for engagement as well as quiet places where people may focus in solitude cater to both needs. the key is to create a workplace environment where people can interact flexibly with others and where they may choose according to their needs.
It’s not that I had tried to outdo the neighbours (although I was pretty happy I had), it was a simple matter of learning what the lawns and individual plants needed so I could provide the right conditions for optimal health and growth. Had I treated every plant the same, some would have flourished; others survived; and others may have simply given up and died.
the other consideration is leadership connection. From my observations, employees generally appreciate personable managers who are personally accessible and express interest in them as a whole person, rather than just a work person.
As with gardens so it is with people.
At the core of humanity is relationship, and connection with others is fundamental to wellbeing.
An administration manager asked me, “Does the boss think I’m doing OK?” this person’s boss had actually told me she was an invaluable staff member, but had neglected to tell her directly. She felt lost and neglected.
even when people know “what” they are meant to do—i.e., the task, the follow up effects of feedback and praise can more than double their performance.
the herb basil, flourishes in moist, compost enriched soil; it loves nitrogen, full sun, and warm conditions. It’s the full suite of these conditions that promote its growth and as its gardener, I have to ensure that each “conditional component” is maintained. Likewise, managers are the gardeners of the organisation. When they understand the various conditions that cause each individual plant to thrive, and when they undertake their management role with care and understanding, the workplace garden will thrive. And then, when one of your team says, “I love working here,” you know you are doing something right.
of understanding what conditions motivate each individual. Some people feel rewarded as they experience feeling more and more skilled at what they do. this may be achieved by simply focusing on catching your people doing “good” more often than offering feedback or criticism. Others may be motivated to achieve sales targets and their associated bonuses.
business owners often ask me to create incentivisation schemes to help keep their people motivated. “What if some of your people aren’t motivated by money?” I ask. “everyone is motivated by money,” is the most heard response. I have found otherwise and empirical research agrees. providing better than award wages helps employees feel their contribution is valued; it minimises the potential of them jumping ship elsewhere. Once the financial base is established, it then becomes a matter
but there is a divide here: Some employees confide they are bored with their work, see little future opportunity and sometimes, this is compounded by managers wanting to keep them “in their box”. On the other side, I meet those who have been thrown in the deep end, expected to know how to perform in a new role or project without the requisite skills or managerial support to scaffold for success.
belief in our people is a powerful foundational nutrient that needs to be balanced against insight into the individual’s strengths, development needs, and future aspirations. returning to the gardening metaphor for a moment, you wouldn’t stake a seedling tomato plant. However, at a later stage of development, it will benefit from having this kind of support provided. tailoring training and support to development needs as well as nourishing people with a healthy dose of belief in them will see them grow and thrive.
4. Rewards
6. Feedback and praise
| 81WWW.NECA.ASN.AU WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY
Understanding your people and tailoring rewards accordingly helps to build a foundation of trust, which creates a healthy context for them to feel motivated to strive, work, and consequently be rewarded for their efforts.
While Atlassian demonstrates a structured group process of innovation, it is also important to take this to the individual employee, providing latitude in their daily work. Leaders who provide room for their people to make improvement suggestions and, in turn, give them the freedom to pursue those initiatives can dramatically improve both individual and broader company performance.
Autonomous working isn’t about letting people do their own thing in the absence of accountability. It is about selfvolition, choice, and initiative—for the individual—with role accountabilities to meet. Autonomy creates higher self-worth that in turn enhances job performance, supported by another environmental condition, trust. Levels of autonomy need to be aligned to the competence of the employee. A trainee may need more oversight and support compared to someone who has demonstrated expertise and commensurate reliability over years. micro-management of a competent and responsible person sees them gradually wither and/or leave an organisation; but providing autonomous working conditions to that same individual will see them thrive.
5. Skillset development
Happy gardening!
1 www.bit.ly/24hrsopportunity
For the most part, people thrive on task extension. tasks, projects, and new opportunities that extend their personal growth and skillsets keep people engaged in their work and developing as people.
2 Crowell, Charles R., D. Chris Anderson, Dawn M. Abel, and Joseph P. Sergio. “Task clarification, performance feedback, and social praise: Procedures for improving the customer service of bank tellers.” Journal of applied behavior analysis 21, no. 1 (1988): 65-71.
Feedback and praise also reinforce positive behavioral shifts. When I communicate to someone I am coaching that their manager is pleased with their progress, this feedback has a stamping effect— strengthening the changes to date. It also inspires them to keep moving forward.
Ray Hodge Business Coaching & Consultant
www.rayhodge.com.au
Feedback to communicate how someone is performing in their role really helps. In one study, designed to improve overall performance with eight bank tellers, researchers measured the multiple effects of task clarification, performance feedback, and social praise. Noted was a 12% improvement from task clarification, with feedback and praise showing improvements of 6% and 7% respectively. 2
3. Autonomy
For others, it’s the implied trust from knowing that it’s genuinely ok to leave an hour early if the work for that day is done.
Summary
S EPTEMBER 202282 |
CrYS tALLINe SILICA IS US e D t O m AK e A VA rIet Y OF prODUC t S, INCLUDING e NGINeere D S t ONe FOr KI t CHe N AND b At HrOOm be NCH t Op S, brICKS AND t IL eS. I t CAN ALSO be FOUND IN SAND, S t ONe , CONCrete AND mOrtA r
a suitable method of silica dust disposal. this activity is likely to be one of the highest exposure points to silica dust, and NeCA is advocating for end-to-end policy on how best to work with and dispose of it. Current studies suggest silica is unlike asbestos where a single fibre can cause mesothelioma. Silicosis requires consistent and sustained exposure to silica dust.
½ wherever possible, have all engineered or natural stone products manufactured and/or cut in a controlled environment (not at sites), where extraction equipment is installed for the purpose of reducing exposure.
Unlike the strict regulations and procedures currently in place for the safe removal of asbestos, there is no advice on
When workers cut, crush, drill, polish, saw or grind stone or products that contain crystalline silica, dust particles are generated. these dust particles, known as respirable crystalline silica or silica dust, are small enough to lodge deep in the lungs and cause illness or disease including silicosis.
½ review your workers’ health monitoring program if there is silica dust at your workplace. t his should be conducted for all workers who generate silica dust or those working near it;
½ arrange for air monitoring if you are unsure how high the silica dust levels are at your workplace;
Workers are exposed to silica dust whenever it is airborne and they can breathe it in.
Here are five things you can do to help protect your workers from exposure to silica dust:
WORKPLACE HEATH AND SAFETY
Safe Work Australia recently announced that the workplace exposure standard (WeS) for respirable crystalline silica/silica dust has been reduced to 0.05 mg/m3
MANAGING THE RISKS OF CRYSTALLINE SILICA
½ assess the risk of silica dust at your workplace;
½ talk to your workers and any health and safety representatives (HS r s) about the reduced W e S, how it might impact your workplace, and any new training your workers might need;
½ review the control measures you have in place to minimise your workers’ exposure to silica dust;
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NECA membership isn’t a luxury, it’s a business essential. We have the experts in-house to provide you with the support you need to thrive in this industry. NECA INCLUDES:MEMBERSHIP NOT A MEMBER? GIVE YOUR LOCAL NECA BRANCH A CALL STARTSMEMBERSHIPFROMPERWEEK$ 10 .50 Free 24/7 access to view technical standards at your fingertips with TKB, NECA’s Technical Knowledge Base Free access to Technical experts for on the job support Free access to NECA Workplace Relations specialists Free access to Workplace Health and Safety advice Expert Legal advice on contract disputes and negotiation, debt recovery, and Accessrepresentationtodiscounts or benefits for Fuel, Fleet, Insurance, Health Cover and Mobile Industry representation at all levels of Government and key industry groups Access to education and training events, workshops,seminars and industry conference Access to enter NECA’s prestigious Excellence and Apprentice Awards Access to industry networking opportunities NECA ACT NECA NSW NECA QLD NECA SA & NT NECA TAS NECA VIC NECA WA 1300 361 099 1300 361 099 1300 361 099 (08) 8272 2966 1300 361 099 1300 632 247 (08) 6241 6100 NECA is the peak body representing the electrical and communications industry Australia-wide | www.neca.asn.au