NECA News September 2023

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NECA QLD BRANCH

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 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 NECA, which does not hold itself responsible for correctness of any statement contained herein.

SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES HAVE A BIG IMPACT

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) employ most of Australia’s population and account for 99.8% of our businesses, playing a critical role in the Australian economy and making an important contribution to local communities. this is especially evident in the electrotechnology industry, where the majority of electrical contractors are SMEs, many of which start out as small, family-owned businesses.

In this issue of NECA News, we focus on SMEs and the value they bring to our industry. From a business management perspective, we look at people management, insurance, safety and tips for effective quoting, while our legal teams discuss some

of the issues that SMEs face, with suggestions on effective debt collection, business planning and structures.

throughout their business journey, our members gain considerable wisdom. We talk to several small business owners who share their insights into growing a successful business. We also explore the question of ‘to grow or not to grow’, an important decision that every business owner thinks about at some stage along their journey. Lastly, we review the work that NECA is doing to support our members including updates on safety, training, legal, technical and advocacy, plus an overview of state-based matters. NECA

has a strong commitment to helping contractors build successful businesses, and we appreciate the opportunity to support members’ continued growth and development. Collectively, we are building a strong industry, capable of meeting Australia’s growing demand for energy and new technology. We would like to thank you for your continued support for NECA. If you have something to share about your corner of the country, let us know. We’d love to hear from you.

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The NECA News team

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MEET THE AUSTRALIAN SMALL BUSINESS AND FAMILY ENTERPRISE OMBUDSMAN

OUR GOAL, At t HE OFFICE OF t HE AUS t RALIAN SMALL BUSINESS AND FAMILY EN t ERPRISE OMBUDSMAN, IS tO HELP t O ENSURE AUS t RALIA IS t HE BES t PLACE tO S tAR t, GROW AND t RANSFORM A SMALL BUSINESS AND FAMILY EN t ERPRISE.

It’s not our gift to guarantee any business will be a success, but it is our mission to make sure no one fails because they didn’t know about something that would help.

We do this through our assistance function and our work to showcase ‘better practice’ among smaller enterprises and those dealing with them. We also provide advice to the Australian Government and its departments and agencies.

Since being created seven years ago, we have helped small businesses to resolve over 40,000 disputes with other businesses or government agencies, at low-cost, outside the costly legal system.

Small businesses have faced a rolling series of challenges over the past few years. these include coping with natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic, the ‘new normal’ with interest rates and inflation at the highest levels for a generation, and a raft of other issues to cope with such as high energy costs, supply chain difficulties and labour shortages.

Yet, small business continues to make a massive contribution to our nation and our communities. these are great people in plain sight, and we see them everywhere, every day.

the value of small business to the economy surged by 15% in 2021/22 to $506 billion – half a trillion dollars - and accounts for one third of Australia’s GDP.

Almost 98% of businesses are small businesses – some 2.5 million who provide jobs for over 5.1 million people and employ 42% of all apprentices and trainees in training. this is nearly double the amount employed by big business.

In the electrical services sector, there are almost 43,000 small businesses, an increase of 4.2% in 2021/22. Some 44% are self-employed.

Small business owners come with varied ambitions, backgrounds and experiences. What they have in common is the entrepreneurial flare and desire to have a go.

Statistically, across the board, the average small business owner is a self-employed man, aged 50, who works full-time and earns below the average full-time wage. Yet that is far from the full story. Female ownership is trending up and now accounts for 35% of all our small business owners.

But small business owners are getting older. Nearly half are aged 50 or over and just 8% are under 30. that’s half the peak that this age group achieved in the mid-1970s of 17%. We need to replenish and nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs, value self-employment and encourage and enable smaller enterprises and the livelihoods they make possible.

And the dream to be your own boss, working when and where you choose, while pursuing a passion is what motivates 1.6 million people to be self-employed.

Self-employed people are not vulnerable, so-called ‘gig economy’ workers who need to be protected. But there is a risk if we allow that misconception to grow, we will snuff out the flexibility that’s so valued and important to the success of self-employment.

Owning a small business can be a hard slog and may not always be as

rewarding as people might hope. Around 43% of small businesses failed to make a profit and 75% of owners take home less than the average wage.

With modest incomes, tight margins and increasing costs, the value and importance of trusted advice is vital. that’s where we can help.

two out of every five cases we deal with relate to payment disputes. Just recently we helped a small business owner who had completed several electrical services jobs for another business but had only been partially paid.

there has also been a doubling over the past two years in the proportion of cases relating to the construction industry, which now accounts for just over one in 10 of the calls for assistance. this coincides with the rising number of insolvencies in the construction sector.

Increasingly there are problems with digital platform providers and the number of cases we’re seeing has doubled over the past two years to 26%.

Some people build their entire businesses on social media and digital platforms, but if they are locked out of their account, typically after being hacked, it can be a nightmare trying to contact a real person to resolve their problem.

One of the absurdities of the current situation is after being locked out of your account, you need to access your account to make a complaint. It’s the ultimate run-around.

We believe it is crucial that platforms implement clear, appropriate and standardised procedures to enable a

timely resolution of small business disputes. they need clear escalation points and dedicated contacts for dispute resolution agencies, so small businesses can have their dispute handled efficiently and resume operating sooner.

there has also been a rise in the proportion of disputes about contracts. there are several business practices that are not illegal but are certainly unfair. typically, this happens when there is a power imbalance, and when one of the parties does not follow the intent of an agreement as struck.

Outlawing unfair business practices should be accompanied by an enhanced ability of small business owners to enforce their rights. this could be done by introducing a Federal Small Business and Codes List into the Federal Circuit Court of Australia, to provide small businesses and regulators with more feasible and timely means of enforcing their legal rights.

Under our plan, disputes would be capped at $1 million (award or fine) and delivered via online hearings, significantly reducing the time and cost burden on a small business.

We also champion the need for right-sized regulation. too often, it is assumed a small business is a shrink-wrapped version of a big business with a compliance and HR department, when in reality it is the time-poor owner who must deal with the frequent changes to workplace and taxation laws, not to mention managing privacy and cyber security issues.

the Australian taxation Office (AtO) has extraordinary powers and we’re concerned about this being exercised in a proportionate way given the muscled-up approach to recouping long-term debts that small businesses may not even be aware exist.

One of the things we do is provide a tax Concierge Service which allows a small business that objects to an assessment from the AtO to get an independent reality check of the viability of their case, before time and money is spent.

We ask them to put a $100 payment on the table, as a bit of skin in the game, and we’ll fund the rest of a one-hour

consultation with an experienced small business tax lawyer to see if you’ve really got a case. If the case has got some legs, we’ll assist its onboarding into the Administrative Appeals tribunal, and help navigate that process with a clear focus on what the issues of the dispute are and ensuring the evidence is presented well. there’s ongoing support and assistance until a decision is reached.

Finally, when you own a small business, it is just as important to spend time working on your business as it is to spend time working in your business.

Small business owners feel acute pressure to ‘do it all’ and to keep up the appearance

of being fine even when they are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing. For small and family business owners, their identities are interwoven into their business and the stakes are so much higher than just a job. In many cases they have put their family home on the line to build up their business, which amplifies the emotional challenges.

We aim to put the wind in their sails, not in their face.

We have a range of checklists, resources, tools and guides to help small businesses on our website www.asbfeo.gov.au

Bruce Billson Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman

Bruce Billson, Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS AND POLICY

NECA HAS BEEN WORKING HARD At NOt ONLY t HE FEDERAL LEVEL, BU t AROUND t HE COUN t RY tO ARGUE A FAIR GO FOR OUR MEMBERS AND t HE ELEC t ROt ECHNOLOGY SEC t OR. A LARGE AND IMPOR tAN t PAR t OF OUR MEMBERSHIP IS SMALL BUSINESS, AND At NECA NAt IONAL WE ARE LASER-FOCUSED ON GE tt ING OU t COMES tO HELP SUPPOR t, SUS tAIN AND GROW MEMBERS’ BUSINESSES.

As you will see throughout this edition of NECA News, NECA has worked closely with the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, federal and state ministers of parliament, and government departments to address the issues that make your jobs harder, keep you up at night and pose real risks to your businesses.

We have all seen the news articles of construction company collapses and liquidations. Our members end up picking up the mess and are often the ones left unpaid. that is why the NECA team are pushing all levels of governments to change the Security of Payment legislation to be fairer and ensure you get paid for the work you do.

Our CEO, Oliver Judd, recently met with the Minister for Finance, Katy Gallagher, to discuss this reform specifically. We made it clear that subcontractors need protection, and the Federal Government has promised to address Security of Payment during this term of government. NECA National will continue to push for change because our members deserve to get paid for the work they do.

NECA appointed to National Construction Industry Forum

In July 2023, Irma Beganovic, Director of Government Relations at NECA National was appointed to the Federal Government’s National Construction Industry Forum (NCIF). Irma will be a strong, influential voice for our industry, specifically on Security of Payment reform. Irma has been extremely effective in making sure our industry is heard across a range of key policy areas that impact our members every day.

through the NCIF, NECA will represent employers and directly engage with the broader building and construction industry and the Federal Government. the Forum reports directly to the Federal Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Minister Burke, and will cooperatively tackle issues facing the building industry with an initial focus on safety, productivity, skills and training, workplace relations, industry culture, diversity and gender equity.

Australia continues to experience a low unemployment rate, currently sitting at 3.5%, which has led to an extremely tight labour market. there is a pipeline of investment ready to deliver the next generation of energy production in Australia, in addition to the current workload our members are expected to deliver.

At NECA we are focused on diversifying our industry’s workforce and promoting

targeted training for Australians. this is through our involvement in the Federal Government’s Jobs and Skills Council, which we are now a partner of. At NECA we need to increase our workforce significantly to meet the future challenges and we will continue to deliver and argue our sector’s position to all levels of government to make sure this happens.

Government advocacy

there has been a significant uptake in new legislation introduced in both the Federal and State Parliaments over the past 12 months. Across Australia, NECA’s members are required to navigate different legislative, policy and regulatory frameworks.

Our Government Relations and Regulatory team is engaging more than ever with our NECA members, helping navigate political or regulatory issues that may impact them. NECA members are encouraged to contact one of our team members through their NECA representatives, should support be needed. You can also stay up to date through regular communications from NECA National.

Kent Johns NECA Head of Government Relations and Policy

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SPOTLIGHT ON UNFAIR CONTRACTS

UNFAIR CON t RAC t t ERMS HAVE EMERGED AS A CRUCIAL ISSUE ACROSS t HE CONS t RUC t ION SEC t OR, PAR t ICULARLY IN SPECIALIS t SUBCON t RAC t ING t RADES AND BUSINESSES. t HE USE OF UNFAIR CON t RAC t t ERMS IS PLACING UNNECESSARY PRESSURE ON AN INDUS t RY

t HAt IS ALREADY FACING UNPRECEDEN

the presence of unfair contract terms within subcontracting agreements undermines the principles of fair competition, collaboration and equitable treatment of all parties involved. It creates an imbalance of power between the head contractor and subcontractor, which not only hampers the ability of subcontractors to operate efficiently, but inhibits economic growth, commercial fairness,

critical infrastructure project delivery and innovation within the industry.

Amendments to the unfair contract terms laws were passed by the Federal Government in November 2022, with the changes coming into effect from 9 November 2023. the amending legislation overhauls the existing unfair contract terms regimes, by substantially

expanding their application to a wider range of contracts, introducing financial penalties, and giving courts greater flexibility in terms of remedies. However, NECA will be pushing for greater changes to protect our members. Members are reminded that for assistance in this area, NECA Legal and NECA National are always available to help.

SMALL BUSINESS, BIG JOURNEY

WHEN CAMERON GIBSON WAS LOOKING FOR AN ALt ERNAt IVE tO FLY-IN FLY-OU t WORK, HE DECIDED tO SE t UP PERI PERI ELEC t RICAL. SEVEN YEARS, AND MANY LESSONS LEARNED LAt ER, PERI PERI ELEC t RICAL IS AN AWARD-WINNING BUSINESS. t HEY RECEIVED A COMMENDAt ION IN t HE 2022 NECA WA AWARDS EMERGING SMALL BUSINESS CAt EGORY AND WERE ALSO ANNOUNCED t HE WINNER OF t HE 2022 NAt IONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR WORK HEALt H & SAFE t Y – EXCELLENCE IN AC t ION.

We were pleased to talk to Cameron about his business journey.

What are some of the lessons you’ve learned in building a successful business?

One key lesson has been not to grow too big, too quick. Several years ago, a company approached us with a proposal to contract out their solar work to us. As

part of this, we took on their installation team, effectively tripling our business overnight. It was tricky to combine their team with ours, as the two companies had quite different cultures and values.

Since then, we’ve found the right balance of workload and business size. We’ve recently reduced our team to three guys and have found this size is more profitable than having a larger team of six

or seven people. to get to the next level, we’ll need to go hard and build a team of ten or so people, so that the profit becomes worth the extra management load. Right now, we’re focused on staying smaller and making that model work.

Another key lesson has been to diversify rather than put all our eggs in one basket. At one point, we’d committed to one major client and weren’t taking on anything else. When their work dried up, we went from doing four installs a day to one a week. this wasn’t enough to sustain the larger team we’d built, which was a massive challenge, so we branched out into general electrical work to back up our solar work.

It’s also important to be open to new opportunities. Recently we became one of two WA installers for Volt solar tiles. these roof tiles are a new solar product, which sit flush with the roof and can be installed as part of the build rather than post-handover. the tiles are a premium product and moving forward, being a preferred installer will enable us to deliver more boutique solar installations.

Can you tell us how you’ve built your positive team culture?

It’s important to invest in your team. I work closely with the team on site and catch up with everyone on a daily basis. Also, once a month we do a half-day training session covering areas the team feels they need more experience/knowledge in. this enables them to grow as people and see a clear career path in the business.

We’ve recently moved to a four-day week, which is working for everyone. the team were already doing ten-hour

days, so it didn’t mean that their days became any longer, and now every weekend is a long weekend. As a business, we’re able to better schedule our work knowing that everyone will be fully available for those days.

Another key element is having strong safety systems – this is essential. We want to send our team home safe and happy every day, so we’ve invested in safety in a way that many other small businesses do not.

You won the 2022 National WHS Excellence Award. What benefits have you gained from your safety efforts?

We invested in edge protection equipment, which was a significant cost; however, knowing we were doing the right thing was the key driver. It sent a clear message to our team, and our clients, that we genuinely care about safety. the system gives everyone peace of mind, and it’s made the team more productive. they work faster as they can move around more easily and concentrate on the job knowing there is no way that they can fall off the roof.

We have a reputation for outstanding quality work, but I also think winning the WHS award for our safety initiative was another key reason that Volt took us on, as it validated our safety focus.

What has made you a leader in the WA solar and renewable energy space?

We have a vibrant and dynamic business. teamwise, we’ve established a small capable group, with a positive, qualitydriven culture. We also provide a range of innovative services, underpinned by our investment in safety and commitment to our clients and partners.

Staying up to date with the latest technology has kept us at the forefront of the sector. We choose quality products supplied by manufacturers with solid technical support and warranties.

Working with companies who support us from the start all the way through to the after-sales process ensures we provide the best experience for our clients.

What are your thoughts on the renewable energy expansion?

there are lots of opportunities in this space. We’ve built our business by installing innovative solar and battery storage solutions, and with the growth of this sector, have seen the many benefits for consumers and the environment. We’re pleased to partner with companies such as Volt, who place a strong focus on producing products in an environmentally responsible way. I believe we need more transparency about the carbon emissions needed to produce green energy products and how we recycle products at their end of life. there are some companies doing some fantastic work, and industries need to get on board. For example, in South Australia a company recycles 97% of the panel components, with the aim of being at 100% by mid-2024. We need to be looking at more of these options.

Have you any final thoughts on running an SME that you’d like to share?

Mindset is important as a business owner. take care of your mental health and don’t give up. Find a good mentor to bounce ideas off and who can support you in hard times. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn from other contractors’ experiences. Keep learning and make sure you work on yourself as well as the business.

HOW NECA HELPS SMALL BUSINESSES A

JOURNEY THAT NEVER STOPS EVOLVING

SMALL BUSINESS IS t HE LIFEBLOOD OF t HE NAt IONAL ECONOMY AND DOMINAt ES t HE ELEC t RICAL AND COMMUNICAt IONS CON t RAC t ING SEC t OR. AS A SMALL BUSINESS OWNER, YOU KNOW t HE CHALLENGES OF MANAGING, PROt EC t ING, AND GROWING YOUR BUSINESS. YOU’VE WORKED HARD t O GE t WHERE YOU ARE t ODAY – YOU DON’ t HAVE t IME tO WORRY ABOU t NAVIGAt ING COMPLEX INDUS t RY REGULAt IONS OR S tAYING UP-t O-DAt E ON t HE LAt ES t CHANGE t O SAFE t Y COMPLIANCE.

that’s why NECA is such an invaluable resource for you. With our network of services, benefits, resources and above all expertise in all aspects of the electrotechnology industry, we help give your business the POWER it needs to succeed. From technical advice to work, health & safety support to expert Legal and Workplace Relations advice,

it’s only a phone call away as a NECA member. this allows you to focus on what you do best - running your business.

With NECA in your corner, no matter where you are on your small business journey – starting out or moving up –NECA is here to provide you with the guidance, knowledge and confidence

needed to take your business forward and stay compliant with industry standards and regulations. take advantage of all that NECA has to offer and let us be your partner in success. With our support, you can be sure that your business is ready for whatever roadblocks stand in your way.

Advocacy

Industry representation at all levels of government and key industry groups.*

Events

Access to education, training, events, workshops, seminars, industry conferences, NECA Awards, webinars, industry nights and networking opportunities.*

Benefits

Discounts and other benefits on business essentials including fuel, fleet vehicle purchases, insurances, and more.*

training and skills industry accredited courses through NECA’s Post-trade training partners.*

NECA Technical Support & Advice

Our technical experts are trained electricians. NECA Members get access to unlimited phone and email support on Australian Industry Standards including Wiring Rules and State Electricity Rules.*

NECA’s Knowledge Base

A centralised hub of the best source of industry information, privileged only to NECA members. the NECA Members Knowledge Base includes industry Australian Standards, technical articles and more. Log into the Knowledge Base in your NECA state to view the full suite of resources available.*

NECA Workplace Relations

Basic phone and email support on all matters including pay rates, award rates, termination, travel allowances and leave entitlements specific to your business.*

Workplace Health and Safety Advice

Phone and email advice on all safety issues. Our Work, Health & Safety team specialise in the electrical industry to assist our members with their questions and challenges.*

Apprenticeships

Group training organisations takes a hassle out of paperwork and payroll for electrical contracting businesses, allowing you to focus with on-the-job training.*

Expert Legal Advice

Expert legal advice on matters such as contract disputes and negotiation, debt recovery and representation.*

Safety Systems

Choose from a range of Safety Systems based on your business size and needs.*

NECA Guard

NECAGuard has developed an industry specific insurance program that is specifically tailored for electrical contractors and can be customised to meet the specific needs of your business including:*

½ combined professional indemnity, public liability and management liability;

½ NECAGuard essentials;

½ cover for working at mine sites;

½ builders home warranty;

½ cover for power pole inspectors;

½ commercial motor;

½ trade packages;

½ workers compensation;

½ personal accident and illness;

½ marine transit and general property.

Industry updates

Industry specific eNewsletters, eAlerts and quarterly NECA NEWS magazine.*

Member Services Support line

A dedicated member services telephone support line.*

*Support, advice, member services and benefits may vary within each State. Please contact your NECA State Branch for more information.

SHOOTING FOR THE STARS

FOR ANDREW HARDINGHAM tHE ROAD tO RUNNING A SUCCESSFUL ELEC t RICAL CON t RAC t ING BUSINESS WAS FAR FROM CONVEN t IONAL.

After finishing school, Andrew began a degree in design for theatre and television at Charles Sturt University in regional NSW where he also worked as a lighting and audio technician for the Wagga Wagga Civic theatre. It was at university that he gained work placement with Fox Studios and ended up as part of the production crew for the Matrix Resurrections and the Matrix Reloaded.

After university Andrew returned to Fox as a model maker/prop maker where he had the opportunity to work with an avionics engineer, quickly developing a talent for electronics. He soon found himself running a small electronics department

working on movies such as Star Wars –Revenge of the Sith, Superman Returns and Stealth.

‘Even though I eventually moved into practical electrics and rigging electrics film, production companies weren’t able to offer an apprenticeship,’ Andrew said. ‘Most production companies only exist for about 18 months for the duration of the film production. Once the movie is sold to a distributor the production company

closes down, so undertaking a four-year apprenticeship isn’t really possible.’

With a desire to obtain qualifications, and eventually a full electrical licence, Andrew decided to embark on a Certificate II in Electrotechnology via correspondence, at the same time opening a testing

and tagging business called Sydney Electrical Appliance testing.

‘I was testing appliances between films when things were quiet, usually for around three months of the year. the business grew quickly and at one point I had six technicians on the books, while I was still employed at Fox,’ Andrew said.

Shortly after completing his Certificate II, the Global Financial Crisis hit, and the film industry entered a down-turn. the big American film makers pulled back on production in Australia and Andrew saw this as an opportunity to move on.

‘I thought this was a good chance to get fully qualified and move into commercial electrical. I managed to take a couple of licenced electricians with me and started Sydney Electrical & Data. My electricians operated as my supervisors, and I created a set-up that allowed me to complete my apprenticeship whilst running my own business.’

Sydney Electrical & Data celebrated its 15th anniversary this year, whilst Sydney Electrical Appliance testing turned 20.

‘We’ve been fortunate to have the business grow, largely through word-ofmouth and networking. We’ve currently got 18 staff onboard, including six

apprentices and have expanded to offer dry fire services and electric vehicle load management and infrastructure. We’ve built a talented team, both in the field and in the office and my wife Jacinda has been amazing. She looks after every aspect of the business and has done so from the beginning. She’s across recruitment, compliance, ISO integrated

management, marketing and still finds the time to raise our three children.

‘I think a big part of our success comes from networking, and I encourage anyone starting out in the industry to join NECA. A lot of the most interesting projects you get to work on don’t come through advertising on Google or in the newspaper. People get to know you through your association with other projects and building a reputation does take time.

‘NECA offers the opportunity to network with other people who are in the same industry and to ask lots of questions. Don’t be afraid to ask questions at NECA meetings. I’ve been fortunate to have several experienced contractors help me out, many from businesses that are in a completely different league to myself. I don’t know anywhere outside of NECA where you can get that sort of advice.’

COOKIES AND CREAM

WHAT THE SHIFT FROM GOOGLE’S UNIVERSAL ANALYTICS TO GA 4 MEANS FOR YOU –AND HOW TO NAVIGATE IT SUCCESSFULLY

t HERE’S BEEN A SIGNIFICAN t SHIF t IN t HE GOOGLE ANALY t ICS ECOSYS t EM LAt ELY, AND I t ’S BOUND tO HAVE A CONSIDERABLE IMPAC t ON SMALL tO MEDIUM BUSINESSES (SMES). WE’RE tALKING ABOU t t HE t RANSI t ION FROM UNIVERSAL ANALY t ICS (UA) t O GOOGLE ANALY t ICS 4 (GA4) – GOOGLE’S LAt ES t UPGRADE DESIGNED tO PROVIDE A MORE IN t EGRAt ED AND PRIVACY-CEN t RIC APPROACH tO DAtA ANALYSIS.

But hang on – you might be wondering what Google Analytics is. At its core, it’s Google’s tool to track customers’ website journeys, and hand you – the owner of the website – that information so you can optimise your sales service.

think of it like this: Imagine a shop owner who has a magical notebook. Every time someone comes into the shop, the notebook makes a note. It writes down what time they came in, which aisles they walked down, what they looked at, and what they bought. It even remembers if they’ve been in the shop before! GA is that notebook. And, just like the shop owner uses the notebook to make the shop better, website owners use Google Analytics to make their website better for the people who visit.

So what’s changing, exactly? UA, the previous version of Google Analytics, is user-centric and session-based. It used cookies to track website visitors and their behaviours. However, cookies are being deleted completely (mostly thanks to the GDPR legislation passed in Europe a few years back). Instead, GA4 relies on ‘events’ –things which happen on your site and who made them happen. GA4 also puts more emphasis on machine learning to anticipate user behaviour, addressing increasing privacy restrictions and cookie-less future.

GA4’s machine learning (sort of like AI – but not) capabilities can also help predict future behaviours of your client base, such as the potential revenue you could earn

from a particular group of customers, or even if these customers will stop buying from you. this advanced level of insights can help SMEs make data-driven decisions even with minimal spend.

So what does this mean for you, the business owner? As GA4 moves towards a more integrated model, it can unify data from various sources like websites, apps, and social media platforms in a way UA couldn’t. What this means for your business is a more comprehensive understanding of your audience and their journey. However, setting up the tracking for these sources in GA4 can be a bit tricky. the good news? Free

resources are available online, or you can use a budget-friendly consultant to ensure you’re not missing anything.

We know all of this may feel daunting. But, in reality, it’s surprisingly easy to let it run, check it every few weeks, and adjust any marketing you might be doing with real, solid data. As they say, change is the only constant, and this is especially true in the digital world. the digital landscape might be changing, but SMEs equipped with a little bit of knowledge and a sprinkle of patience will be more than capable of keeping up.

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 MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES:

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 representation

Access to discounts or benefits for Fuel, Fleet, Insurance, and Health Cover

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

NOT A MEMBER? GIVE YOUR LOCAL NECA BRANCH A CALL

RELATIVE SUCCESS

WHILS t NO LONGER S t RIC t LY A SMALL BUSINESS, t HE FAMILY E t HOS

At KERFOOt, BASED IN SYDNEY’S HILLS DIS t RIC t, IS AS S t RONG AS I t HAS EVER BEEN DURING t HE COMPANY’S 51-YEAR HIS t ORY.

Since Keith Kerfoot first opened the doors in 1972, Kerfoot’s management have continually looked for ways to foster a welcoming family environment, where both staff and clients can feel at home.

Both of Keith’s sons, Stephen and Richard, followed in their father’s footsteps and joined the electrical trade, before becoming directors of Kerfoot. their wives, Michelle and Allyson, are also highly valued members of the team. More recently Keith’s grandsons, Josh and Matt, have taken up the mantle as the third generation of Kerfoot electricians to enter the trade.

the Kerfoot legacy is not something that has been entrusted to the Kerfoot family alone, with long-standing electricians Jay Anderson, Brett Williams, and Glenn Vella all now having their children undertaking an apprenticeship in the business.

‘We have a really proud heritage here,’ said General Manager, Josh Kerfoot. ‘We’re so honored. It is not just the Kerfoot family who value the culture, but more and more of our staff are bringing family members onboard to work as part of the Kerfoot team too.’

Between them, the Kerfoot family and this impressive group of electricians and apprentices now hold more than 160 years of combined experience.

‘We’re extremely proud that families have entrusted their children with Kerfoot, and they are invested in our values, culture and the industry’s future,’ said Company Director, Stephen Kerfoot. ‘It means a lot that they respect what we do enough to want to bring their children on board.’

Jay Anderson is Kerfoot’s longest serving electrician (outside the Kerfoot family). His son Josh always had an interest in the trade.

‘I was always asking Dad questions and was interested in the gear he had in his van. After working with Dad for a few weeks I knew the electrical trade would be a good fit, but I wasn’t prepared for what the trade entailed,’ Josh Anderson said.

‘We initially thought he should begin his apprenticeship with a smaller company, and he began working with a mate of mine until things went very quiet for them. It was then that he was invited to move his apprenticeship over to Kerfoot. For me it’s great to have him here. I know the team that he’s working with, and I know that he’s learning things the right way,’ said Jay.

For apprentices Jayden Vella and Heath Williams, it wasn’t their dad’s influence alone that drove them towards an electrical career.

‘I had the opportunity to try a few different areas of construction at school. I think Dad wanted me to go to university, but I liked electrical due to the math component and really wanted to give it a go,’ Jayden said.

Heath also got to experience a number of trades at school. ‘I liked the handson aspect of electrical,’ he said. ‘I had a strong interest in science, so that aspect drew me towards the electrical trade.’

In 2018 Kerfoot implemented a cuttingedge approach to training their apprentices by founding their own inhouse dedicated apprentice mentor, Rob Bozinovski. Rob recognises that while having a parent in the trade can offer certain advantages to apprentices, it can also create hidden expectations, where some of these apprentices may feel an added pressure to prove themselves beyond what others might experience.

Rob notes this comes from the desire to break away from any perceived favoritism and to be evaluated on their own individual merit. ‘they don’t want to let their dads down, themselves down, or the company down. It gives them a lot of extra accountabilities, but we’re seeing some great results from these members of our team,’ said Rob.

‘When we look at our electricians, Jay joined Kerfoot as an apprentice in 2001 and followed his passion leading the

team in technical data installation and projects. Brett, an incredibly talented services electrician, started in 2004 coming across from running his own small business. Glenn joined us in 2005 and is now leading teams from both Kerfoot projects and services,’ said Rob.

‘these are some of the most experienced electricians and industry mentors we have. they’re all very well-respected tradespeople, which inspires not only Josh, Heath, and Jayden, but the whole team to work to the same high standards.’

In addressing the group at a recent gathering, Company Director, Richard Kerfoot said he was honored by how long Jay, Brett and Glenn had been with the company, and that together with their children they have chosen Kerfoot as the place for Josh, Heath, and Jayden to begin their careers.

‘We’re very proud of the culture, history, and camaraderie at Kerfoot, and are very aware that these attributes don’t exist through the efforts of the Kerfoot family

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alone,” said Richard. ‘We’re extremely thankful for the team that we have here and the company we’ve built together. to see the next generation of the Kerfoot team come through is something really special, and it exemplifies to us that every member of the team should be truly proud of what they have fostered.’

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• IEC worldwide tested and certified. Low smoke, halogen-free, flame retardant and high temperature resistant system.

UNLOCKING EFFICIENCY AND EXCELLENCE EMPOWERING SMALL BUSINESS WITH CHATGPT

IN tODAY’S COMPE t I t IVE LANDSCAPE, SMALL BUSINESSES NEED tO EMBRACE EVERY ADVAN tAGE AVAILABLE tO t HEM. ONE SUCH ADVAN tAGE t HAt HAS EMERGED IN RECEN t YEARS IS t HE POWER OF AR t IFICIAL IN t ELLIGENCE (AI) tO S t REAMLINE OPERAt IONS AND ENHANCE PRODUC t IVI t Y. WI t H t HE ADVEN t OF CHAt GP t, AN ADVANCED LANGUAGE MODEL DEVELOPED BY OPENAI, SMALL BUSINESS t RADESPEOPLE CAN NOW tAP IN tO t HE POt EN t IAL OF AI tO REVOLU t IONISE t HEIR OPERAt IONS, AU t OMAt E tASKS, AND PROVIDE EXCEP t IONAL CUS t OMER SERVICE.

Effectively utilising ChatGPt requires a strategic approach that aligns with your business objectives. By following a few key steps, small businesses can unlock the full potential of this AI-powered tool. Firstly, it is crucial to identify areas of your business where automation and AI can make a significant impact. these areas may include customer service, inventory management, scheduling, or even content creation. Once these areas are identified, you can begin to integrate ChatGPt into your operations effectively.

the benefits of incorporating AI into your small business operations are plentiful. First and foremost, automating tasks can save you valuable time and resources. Mundane and repetitive tasks that were previously done manually can now be handled by ChatGPt, allowing you and your team to focus on higher-value activities. With time saved, you can redirect your efforts towards strategic planning, business development, and building stronger relationships with your customers.

Consistency is another critical benefit of using ChatGPt. With its ability to provide accurate and reliable information, ChatGPt can ensure that your customers receive consistent responses and solutions. Whether it’s answering common inquiries, providing technical support, or offering product recommendations, ChatGPt can deliver consistent and reliable customer interactions, fostering trust and loyalty among your clientele.

Furthermore, leveraging AI in your business operations can enhance the

overall customer experience. By integrating ChatGPt into your website or customer support channels, you can provide instant and around-the-clock support to your customers. this accessibility and responsiveness not only improve customer satisfaction but also set you apart from your competitors. Customers appreciate businesses that are available to address their concerns promptly, leading to increased loyalty and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Beyond customer service, ChatGPt can assist in automating administrative tasks. For example, it can handle appointment scheduling, order tracking, and inventory management, reducing human error and improving efficiency. With ChatGPt’s ability to understand natural language, it can easily process and analyse customer requests, making data management a breeze. the automation of these tasks not only saves time but also minimises the risk of errors, improving overall operational accuracy.

It is worth noting that while AI can enhance your business operations, it is not a replacement for human expertise. ChatGPt should be seen as a tool that augments your team’s capabilities, rather than a substitute for human interaction. By combining the strengths of AI and human intelligence, small businesses can deliver a personalised and exceptional customer experience while maximising operational efficiency. Small business tradespeople are the backbone of our economy, and

adopting AI technologies like ChatGPt can help them thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. By embracing AI, these businesses can streamline their operations, automate timeconsuming tasks, and deliver consistent and effective customer service. the possibilities are endless, from reducing administrative burdens to providing real-time support to customers.

In conclusion, small businesses can leverage ChatGPt to transform their operations and achieve new levels of success. By effectively integrating AI into their processes, small business tradespeople can save valuable time and resources, provide exceptional customer service, and elevate their overall efficiency. It’s time to unlock the power of AI and propel your business towards a brighter future.

the above article was written entirely using ChatGPt as an example of how AI platforms can generate content on a specific topic, directed toward a specific audience. NECA does not endorse ChatGPt or alternative AI applications as tools to provide finished content and makes no claims as to the accuracy or relevance of the data, content or information provided.

UNDERSTANDING AN INSURANCE QUOTE

CONSIDER WHEN YOU PROVIDE A QUOt E ON A PROJEC t FOR A CUS t OMER. t HERE ARE MANY t HINGS t HAt WILL INFLUENCE YOUR QUOt E SUCH AS QUALI t Y, SERVICE AND DURABILI t Y AS YOU REMIND YOUR CUS t OMER – YOU GE t WHAt YOU PAY FOR.

Insurance is no different.

At NECAGuard, we are often asked to provide a quote so the member can compare it to their existing insurance, only to find the quote is being compared to an insufficient or incorrect policy, which might not respond to all types of claims. You can buy off-theshelf insurance coverage easily, quickly and often for a cheap premium; however, is that policy really protecting you and your business?

Does your current policy just say “Electrician” as your business description?

Are you involved in any fire or security alarm installations, switchboard manufacturing, accredited service provider (ASP) level 1, 2 or 3 services, air conditioner installation and maintenance, solar panel system design, testing and tagging, report writing, insurance assessment report writing, home automation, data and telecommunications cabling, or QLD consumer protection?

Do you work at quarries or mines, airports, in or over rail?

these activities and many others are outside most insurers’ definition of electrical services. they should be separately listed under the business activities or business description of your policy, or at least disclosed at the renewal process. Without it, any claim may be reduced or not paid at all.

As an Insurance Broker Willis towers Watson (WtW) is legally required to provide financial advice which means our NECAGuard quotes are our recommendations on the

cover we think you should take out. When purchasing insurance direct from an insurer, beware if they aren’t providing advice or recommendations on the suitability of the product quoted.

WtW takes the time to ask the right questions ensuring you get market leading coverage at a competitive price. Reach out to us any time for a chat or be sure to contact us at least a few weeks before your renewal is due. We will be happy to help you to adequately protect your business.

Alexander Joosten Account Manager, Willis Towers Watson (WTW) www.wtwco.com

MANAGING TRICKY PEOPLE

AND HOW TO BRING THE BEST OUT OF EMPLOYEES

I ONCE HEARD t HE S t ORY OF A BUSINESS OWNER WHO GOt SO FRUS t RAt ED WI t H t HE REPEAt ED ARROGANCE, NON-t EACHABILI t Y, BELLIGERENCE, AND ERRORS OF AN EMPLOYEE, t HAt HE BLEW HIS S tACK. HE POIN t ED At t HE DOOR AND tOLD HIM tO F*** OFF. HE MEN t IONED HE WOULD PAY EVERY t HING OWED tO HIM AND NOt t O COME BACK. AND, AS AN AF t ER t HOUGH t, HE SAID, ‘I GUESS I WILL SEE YOU IN COUR t ’.

Managing tricky people can be just plain tricky. Some days, we have less glorious moments than others.

Stepping back momentarily, all of us have tricky elements to lesser or greater degrees. Reminding ourselves of this helps us be more likely to approach others with a foundation of empathy. When we see the world through their eyes, it helps us to be better at not judging them, be unfairly demanding, pushing them, or swearing at them.

When someone frustrates us, and it triggers our frustration, we can end up on a path where rarely anyone wins. But activating empathy enables us to bring more measured correction, training and support. Empathy helps us lead from beside rather than the person feeling they are being yelled at from afar.

Building on this is another primary concept: conditions.

the most frequent question I receive from leaders is, ‘How do I motivate my people?’ I’ve come to see motivation as a by-product; a result of other factors. For example, I never wish my roses were more motivated to grow, nor do I yell at them to do so. I have learned that if I provide the right conditions, they are more likely to behave how I want them to and ultimately flourish.

the scientist B.F Skinner noted this from his work with animals: “Any condition or event which can be shown to have an effect upon behavior must be taken into account. By discovering and analysing these causes we can predict behavior.”

transferring this concept to the workplace, there are general conditions that most employees need, such as being paid well, working in a positive culture, and enjoying their work. then, there are specific conditions that individuals benefit from, and this is

where leaders do well to have some insight into what their people require. Sarah, for example, thrives in a highly reactive environment, whereas Johnny needs routine. tom is more effective working in silence, but Carol thrives when working alongside others. While challenging and not always possible, adjusting specific conditions to suit the individual can be highly beneficial.

the elements of empathetic leadership and the importance of general and individualised conditions apply across the board. But sometimes, honest conversations followed by a micro-management or performance management approach must come into play.

I was asked to coach a person who would have won the award for the most unmotivated and was a serious underperformer. I worked with management to ensure they adapted their leadership style and adjusted conditions to what was best for him. We then had an honest conversation,

initially framed in terms of required results, not the direct issues. I asked them for their thoughts as to how we would achieve those outcomes.

this approach enabled us to be both on the same side, looking out at the situation together, while allowing them to identify the issues requiring correction. I then trained/upskilled them in these areas, all the while keeping them accountable (daily) for results. While it was a micro-management process, the results were significant. If this had not worked, it would have proceeded to performance management, where another honest conversation would have been had about the future of their employment with another process enacted.

the elements of empathy, adjustment of conditions, honest conversations and upskilling with accountability, all combine to create a powerful context for helping people thrive. In doing this, you will help both the tricky and the easy shine, and it will help keep you out of court.

Michelle Sexton Clinical Psychologist, Ray Hodge Consulting

INCREASE YOUR SALES THROUGH A MORE EFFECTIVE QUOTING PROCESS

Designing and implementing a thorough quote preparation and follow-up process is essential to driving increased sales. If you are leaving the quoting process to chance, these simple steps will improve your quote-to-sales conversion rates.

Preparation phase

Who is the buyer?

Quoting to people who do not have the ‘authority to buy’ contributes to low quote-to-sales conversion rates. to identify the buyer ask, ‘Who makes the final decision on this quote’s approval. Is it just yourself or are there others involved?’ or, ‘What is the approval process for this quote?’

While it is not always possible to deal with buyers direct, understanding the decision-making process, and where possible, directing your quote to the buyer, will save time and improve your success.

It’s all about the client

When we communicate according to what is essential to the buyer, it builds rapport and trust, which ultimately help sales. Listen carefully to potential clients and they will teach you what’s important to them. And then, if they want detail, dig into the specifics. If they want fast facts, then fast facts it is. If they want to share a laugh, be available.

Find out what’s driving the purchase

When asked to prepare a quote, it is essential to understand what is ‘driving’ the buying decision, which often has an emotional component. For example, a budding celebrity chef/ entrepreneur seeking a new kitchen fit-out would most likely have a different emotional profile (underpinning their decision-making process) than Mary, who adores serving delights from her kitchen to family and friends.

Showing your celebrity chef the multiple Insta-worthy vantage points of your design may just put you ahead of the pack even if your price is higher.

While for Mary, it might be more important to highlight your design’s special seating provisions for family and friends, so she may enjoy their company while she cooks. Noting such thoughtful inclusions on your quote demonstrates you understand their personal needs and will work with their preferences.

What’s their budget?

Ascertaining the buyer’s cost expectations helps to:

½ understand whether their budget is realistic, thus saving time preparing a quote that couldn’t be accepted anyway;

½ quote within their budget expectations; and

½ create a conversation for increasing the budget if needed.

It can be as simple as asking, ‘Do you have a budget allocated for this?’ By discussing money upfront, it’s easier to tailor your quote within parameters that suit the client.

Submission and follow-up phase

The power of assumption

Assuming the work is yours makes it easier for the buyer to decide. So, let them know when you will send the quote and schedule a time with them to discuss it. Leading strongly through the conversation, providing options along the way, directs them in the buying process. When they confirm, ‘Yes, this quote reflects our needs’, it is essential to book the job start date, as this consolidates their decision.

When they object

Believe it or not, objections are the best news. When the buyer has a problem with your quote, it means they are engaged enough to problem solve it with you. they

haven’t thrown it in the bin. to deal with this, prepare by writing down sample responses to common objections.

For example:

Objection: ‘I’ll call you back.’

Response: ‘Great. Would this Friday morning or afternoon work for a call?’

Objection: ‘Your price is too high.’

Response: ‘How far apart are we?’

Objection: ‘I have to check with the missus.’

Response: ‘I could drop in tonight or tomorrow morning to take her through the quote. Which would suit?’

the more practised you are at overcoming objections, the more your sales will escalate.

Evaluation and process corrections

tracking a few simple measures will help you build on strengths and correct weaknesses.

For example, the:

½ Overall conversion ratio: quotes submitted to quotes won;

½ Conversion rates within price bands, such as $10,000 to $40,000 and $40,001 to $100,000. t his indicates your business’s most competitive price points and those that may require attention;

½ Conversion rates by applicable employees. t his will indicate the highest performers, enabling you to establish their ‘best practices’ across the broader team.

A final note

Sales are about mutually beneficial outcomes. A thorough quotation process increases sales and improves the client experience. It’s a win all round.

Ray Hodge Business Coach & Consultant www.rayhodge.com.au

FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

I t ’S 1988. t HE YEAR t HE t V SOAP HOME AND AWAY WAS LAUNCHED BY t HE SEVEN NE t WORK, NEW PARLIAMEN t HOUSE WAS OPENED BY ELIZABE t H II IN CANBERRA, AND t HE WORLD’S LARGES t UNDERGROUND MINE, OLYMPIC DAM, OPENED. 1988 WAS ALSO t HE YEAR t HAt DAVID NEINDORF COMMENCED WORKING FOR HANSEN ELEC t RIC.

At the time, Hansen Electric, run by husband-and-wife duo Richard and Dianne Hansen, was a small contracting business managed from a shed at the rear of their home on Peake terrace in Waikerie, South Australia. Shortly after, the Hansens purchased the old telecom Depot and transformed the site into their first functional workshop and office space. they later went on to build a purpose-built workshop and offices in Waikerie’s industrial area in 2000.

While working with Richard and Dianne, David gained his electrical contractors license, soon after taking on a supervisor role. He went on to work for the Hansens for nearly twenty years before Richard’s sad passing from mesothelioma in the summer of 2007. Eleven months

later, David purchased the business continuing the customs that Richard and Dianne had instilled in him across two decades of working for them.

Hansen Electric undertakes a broad range of work, that is typical of country contractors, including smaller domestic installations and industrial contracts, through to large commercial projects. their work takes them across regional South Australia, including the Riverland, Murray Mallee, Mid-Murray, Mid-North, and Barossa Valley regions.

For the first couple of years of David being at the helm of Hansen Electric, his supportive wife Sandy continued in her early childhood position with the Department of Education while working part-time in the business, learning

the administration side from Dianne. In 2009 Sandy took on a full-time role as Office Manager at Hansen Electric.

Hansen Electric’s employee numbers have remained consistent with six at their subsidiary branch in Berri, and ten at their primary branch in Waikerie. Of their sixteen employees, six are apprentices, including Jess Oakley thorne their second female apprentice and their first to take on the dual trade skillset.

Hansen Electric values and promotes lifelong learning for all employees. this is evidenced by their encouragement of dual trade electrical and refrigeration apprenticeships, and certifications in data and communications, solar, leadership, business administration, and mini excavator training. they extend

learning opportunities at their offices to Year 10 high-school students with work experience available in both branches.

Hansen Electric participates in the Riverland West Chamber of Commerce Careers Expo at Waikerie High School on an annual basis to highlight the benefits of learning a trade, demonstrating that a career in this industry is possible for anyone. their partnership with Waikerie High School and the Rotary Club of Waikerie enables them to run mock employment interviews for school students, providing them with an invaluable opportunity to apply for a job and experience the interview process as part of the Work Ready school subject.

It isn’t surprising that the owners and employees of this influential business

JESS OAKLEY THORNE: MY JOURNEY AS A FEMALE DUAL TRADE APPRENTICE

Jess Oakley thorne is Hansen Electric’s second female apprentice, and their first to undertake a dual apprenticeship. She shared the story of her journey within the trade.

have won numerous awards. David won the Riverland West Business and tourism Hansen Memorial ‘Excellence in trades, Servicing and Repairs’ Award in 2008. Both David and Sandy won the Riverland West Chamber of Commerce ‘Best trade Business for 2022’. Project Manager, Brad Lloyd won ‘trainee of the Year’ and Leading Hand, Sam Doecke was the runner-up for ‘Apprentice of the Year’ in the Rotary Club of Berri, Riverland, and Mallee Vocational Awards in 2018.

to move from humble beginnings in a backyard shed in a Waikerie sidestreet to a successful enterprise that provides electrical, air conditioning, and refrigeration services to homes and businesses across over 80,000 kilometres of regional South Australia is a testament to the skills and dedication of David and Sandy Neindorf.

‘I completed Year 12 in 2011 with no direction in what I wanted to do. University nor the typical office job didn’t appeal, so I started a couple of tAFE courses to try and gain some direction in where I wanted my career to head,’ said Jess.

‘I spent two years doing seasonal work in the vineyards and silos, before moving into a cellar-hand role. I also tried the hospitality industry, but despite enjoying it, I couldn’t see myself succeeding there long-term. I later completed Certificates III and IV in Personal training as I have always loved playing sport and keeping active, but unfortunately being a Personal trainer wasn’t the career for me either.

‘I was offered a job at the local hardware store, Mitre 10, in their trade Centre, which sparked my interest in potentially undertaking a trade. the manager at the time was previously a builder and he took me under his wing providing me with a wealth of knowledge

about the ins and outs of the construction industry. I ended up taking over his managerial position, a role that I stayed in until the dual trade apprentice position at Hansen Electric was advertised.

‘I applied, but with no expectations. I was a female, but I was also a mature-aged female. I was stoked when I found out I was successful. I walked onto day one of the job with no prior knowledge in electrical or refrigeration, but with the supportive team at Hansen Electric behind me, I have not looked back.’

NECA SA/Nt’s Executive Director Larry Moore acknowledges the tremendous support that Hansen Electric has provided to the employment of dual trade apprentices stating, ‘It is great to see one of our members embracing this newly developed dual trade apprenticeship, which no doubt will bring fantastic benefits to both the company and apprentice concerned.’

TAS BRANCH

BRANCH UPDATE

Ben Shaw NECA TAS Member Manager

Welcome to the September edition of NECA News

the future of the electrotechnology industry is looking bright. We are constantly evolving with new innovations that will electrify our nation and sustainably power our future. We are also making strides in supporting women and creating more diversity within our sector. I couldn’t be prouder to be leading the charge for our industry in tasmania.

In this issue, I want to highlight some of the exciting initiatives we have been working on.

For any professional, upskilling is an absolute necessity in today’s fast-paced work environment, and NECA members are no exception. the good news is that over the next few months, NECA is offering industry-specific training opportunities in AS/NZS 3012:2019 and AS/NZS 3017: 2019 to help members take their skills to the next level. Each course is 80% funded by Keystone with six continuing professional development (CPD) points available for those who complete the course.

As winter comes to an end, it’s a great time for businesses and professionals to network and unwind after some busy months. this September we are holding our second series of Industry Nights for 2023, which will be bigger and better than ever.

Stay tuned, because we can’t wait to share these details with you. Keep an eye out in NECA’s eNews for dates and details.

NECA TAS members are eligible for 12 CPD points annually

NECA is committed to helping members maintain and build their skills and knowledge, and comply with CPD requirements, with access

to professional development. You will earn points annually through the following opportunities:

NECA Industry Night

March 2023: 4 CPD points

NECA membership

1 CPD point

NECA Legal Webinar Series

1 point for each webinar (up to 5 points)

NECA branch meetings

1 point for each meeting (up to 4 points)

NECAs quarterly industry magazine

3 points (4 issues)

NECA industry training

12 points (2 courses at 6 CPD points each)

NECA online training portal

30 points (15 courses at 2 CPD points each. Free for NECA members)

through a range of technical and practical initiatives, we are actively working to assist you. Stay tuned for exciting updates and valuable insights in our upcoming eNewsletters or scan the QR code to visit the online CPD portal.

Regulator update

Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS) has announced an increase in fees for the following:

1. Notices of Defective Electrical Work: On 1 July 2023 the re-inspection fees for Notices of Defective Electrical Work (NOEW) increased to $53.40 for the first notice and $213.60 for the second and third notices (fee per notice).

2. Annual increase in licensing fees: the start of the 2023/2024 financial year brings an increase to all fees charged under the Occupational Licencing Act 2005. this increase will affect the annual licence fees for all classes of occupational licences. the updated licensing fees can be found on the Licence, Registration and Accreditation Fees page on the CBOS website.

Industry courses in the Construction Site Wiring Rules

NECA is running Construction Site Wiring Rules courses in AS/NZS 3012 and AS/ NZS 3017 in September and October. Designed specifically for NECA members, these courses will provide you with the necessary skills to thrive in your career.

Hosted by NECA and delivered by NECA training & Apprenticeships (ACt), Course 1 is tailored to meet the requirements of AS/NZS 3012:2019, focusing on electrical installations for construction and demolition sites. We go above and beyond by also incorporating relevant sections from other standards to ensure you come away with a well-rounded knowledge.

Course 2 aligns with the latest AS/NZS 3017:2022 Electrical Installations standards, providing you with the expertise needed to excel in your field.

Both courses are available for just $800 each. NECA members can apply for Keystone funding and receive an incredible 80% rebate on the course fees. Upon completion of

each course, NECA members will be issued with a Statement of Completion and six CPD points.

Although places are now full, NECA tAS members are encouraged to submit their expression of interest for new class dates.

Vale Mac Russell, an avid NECA member and inspirational leader

In this issue I would like to take a moment of silence on the passing of Mac Russell, a cherished member of the NECA community. Mac bravely fought a long illness before departing from this world on 9 June 2023.

Described by his business partner Neville Smith as ‘a person with a remarkable ability to connect with others’, Mac will be remembered for his genuine interest in everyone he met and his love for engaging in meaningful conversations.

Russell-Smith Pty Ltd, a proud NECA member, benefited greatly from Mac’s leadership as he served as the NECA tasmania State President for

several years and later took on the prestigious role of National President.

In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the electrical contracting sector, Mac was awarded the esteemed title of Member of the Order of Australia in 2007. Alongside his professional endeavours, Mac generously dedicated his spare time to various service clubs, including Apex and Rotary, and played a pivotal role in numerous community projects in the northwest tasmania area.

During this difficult time, NECA extends its deepest condolences to Mac Russell’s family. His memory will forever remain in our hearts.

Events and meetings

eCIL meetings

Midland Bowls Club, Cambell Town

Wednesday 6 September, 10am–12pm

Online via Microsoft Teams

Wednesday 6 December, 10am–12pm

electrical Industry training Days

Hobart

11–15 September, Full day

Launceston

9–13 October, Full Day

Devenport

23–27 October, Full Day

NeCA tAS Industry Nights

Penguin Football Club, Penguin tuesday 19 September, 4.30pm–7.30pm

The Boathouse, Launceston

Wednesday 20 September, 4.30pm–7.30pm

C3 Convention Centre, Hobart

thursday 21 September, 4.30pm–7.30pm

NeCA North West branch meeting

RBD Electrical

Monday 13 November, 7pm

Read NECA’s eNews for more details and to register or visit the NECA website.

‘We will need an army of skilled workers to power the Australia of the future,’ Federal Minister for Skills and training, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP told a gathering of industry professionals at NECA’s National Electrotechnical Industry Lunch.

‘Australia is undergoing a significant transformation towards a clean energy future, and with that comes many opportunities,’ Mr O’Connor said.

With several key announcements in this year’s Federal Budget for clean energy initiatives, and the unveiling of the government’s Net Zero Agency and Advisory Board, you don’t have

ADVOCACY AND POLICY UPDATE

MINISTER CALLS FOR AN ARMY OF SKILLED WORKERS

to look too far to see that a clean energy future ranks highly on the government’s list of priorities.

the Federal Budget also set aside $3.7 billion for a five-year national skills agreement, to make skills and training more accessible and equitable. Mr O’Connor said, ‘I want to thank you for your hard work in getting this JSC (Jobs and Skills Council) off the ground. the quicker they can start the work, the sooner we will have a more complete picture of the sector’s skills needs.

‘NECA themselves are an exemplar on how to support apprentices [to]

NECA TASMANIA PARLIAMENTARY DINNER

Back in May, NECA together with the AttorneyGeneral, the Honourable Elise Archer MP, hosted the tasmanian Parliamentary Dinner, at Parliament House in Hobart.

NECA commends the tasmanian Government’s investments in infrastructure, particularly the following initiatives that will directly benefit our members and their businesses:

½ $685,000 for small business grants;

½ $7.5 million for education facilities upgrades for the Electrical Switchboard Program;

½ $4.4 million for the Renewable Energy Schools Solar Panels Program;

½ $667 million for Skills and Workforce Growth for apprenticeships or traineeships;

½ $4 million over six years for the Build UP tassie program to support young people aged between 16 and 24 to enter the construction industry and gain skills for life.

SUPPORTING WOMEN IN THE ELECTROTECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY

finish their training and qualify in trades,’ Minister O’Connor said.

NECA Education & Careers CEO, Mr Gideon Perrott, added, ‘We have been working hard to ensure that over 90% of NECA apprentices are now completing their training, and we are encouraged by the growing number of women who are joining the electrical trade.

’the Minister’s focus on fixing foundation skills, and the effort and investment placed on the construction and clean energy sectors, will ensure our industry gets the highly skilled, vocationally educated tradespeople we desperately need.’

Recently I caught up with NECA members Annah Fromber and Chey Sullivan from Contact Group and Dr Karin Matthison to discuss policies for women in electrotechnology, and how we can create a more diverse electrical industry.

During the meeting, they reviewed NECA’s national policy position and explored ways to bring it to life in tasmania. It was an amazing first step on our journey, and we are fully committed to making a difference!

If you’re passionate about supporting women in the electrotechnology industry or know someone who is, stay tuned! We’ll soon be calling on you to stand with us and participate in initiatives that drive positive change.

We will continue to engage with the tasmanian Government on behalf of our members, as we advocate for a fairer and more prosperous electrotechnology sector.

HAVE YOU CHECKED YOUR CHARGE-OUT RATES LATELY?

ARE YOUR CHARGE-OUT RATES ARE WORKING FOR YOU?

AS AN ELEC t RICAL BUSINESS OWNER, YOU PU t IN CONSIDERABLE EFFOR t, t IME, AND FINANCES tO SECURE WORK, BU t BEING PROFI tABLE IS NOt A GUARAN t EE. t O ENSURE YOUR BUSINESS t HRIVES, YOUR CHARGE-OU t RAt E MUS t NOt ONLY COVER ALL COS t S, BU t ALSO GENERAt E AN INCOME.

Surprisingly, many businesses haven’t adjusted their charge-out rates for years. Whether due to market pressures or negligence in calculating actual costs, both reasons should raise concerns. In a competitive landscape with rising expenses, it is crucial for businesses to consistently evaluate their rates.

Now, how can you determine if your charge-out rate is profitable? And more importantly, how can you ensure that all your business costs are accounted for?

Key tips for calculating charge-out rates

1. Make sure you know the different costs that apply to your business, to make sure your charge-out rate is profitable.

2. Calculate your employment and overhead costs to ensure you are making a profit.

3. Consider apprentices, insurance, post-trade training and industrial relations resources as options to upskill your workforce or reduce costs.

4. Be mindful of the legal ramifications around price fixing.

5. Check your charge-out rate is market competitive. NECA’s bi-annual Market Monitor Survey shows the average industry rates and charge-out methods used by electrical contractors.

How many charge-out rates should you have?

to begin with, it’s crucial to acknowledge that each customer is unique, and considering varying rates for different customers is key. Ultimately, it boils down to your ability to manage and streamline your team effectively.

One option to explore is implementing a job management software program that empowers you to establish a customercentric discount structure. this structure could include tiered levels of discounts based on the classification of your customers. However, it’s worth mentioning that acquiring a job management program might impose additional monthly or annual expenses, which as a small business owner, you may prefer to avoid.

Getting it right – tools to assist you with calculating costs

NECA has developed a simple calculation tool that you can use to master your numbers and get up to speed on what you need to know.

NECA’s Member Knowledge Base (MKB) contains specific tools to help you manage your business costs including our:

½ charge-out information webinar;

½ labour cost calculator;

½ charge-out rate calculator;

½ how-to guide on calculating overhead costs; and

½ Market Monitor survey report.

Using these tools and resources can help you calculate your existing costs and compare them to your charge-out rates. By increasing your rates and reducing your business costs, you can turn your cash flow around and make more profit.

Know your worth

By prioritising your numbers, you can significantly boost profits and cash flow. Understanding your charge-out rate not only promotes accountability in achieving your desired outcomes, but also shifts your mindset from simply having an electrical job to effectively managing a profitable electrical business.

For more information and to discuss your business needs, scan the QR code to connect with your NECA State Member Manager.

Controlling your costs ultimately reduces how much it costs to run your business and increases the opportunity to make more money on your charge-out rate.

VIC BRANCH

BRANCH UPDATE

Pawel Podolski NECA VIC Executive Director Dean Spicer NECA VIC President

HELLO AND WELCOME tO tHIS EDItION OF tHE NECA NEWS. IF YOU’RE NEW t O OUR COMMUNI t Y, WE’RE PLEASED t O HAVE YOU JOIN US.

NECA VIC 2023 Awards Celebrations

We’d like to start by reflecting on the tremendous success of the 2023 NECA VIC Awards. the event was a hit, and the calibre of projects submitted this year surpassed even our high expectations, showcasing the industry’s continuous growth and evolution. Photos and videos from the night can be accessed via NECA Victoria’s social media channels. We are excited to feature some of the award-winning projects, teams, and their successes in the next edition of this magazine.

Victorian News

Before we dive into what’s packed into this edition, let’s touch on some recent industry happenings.

Firstly, we’re very excited to introduce you to the new NECA Education & Careers trade training centre in Dandenong. this facility promises to be a cornerstone for electrical apprenticeships.

Consistent with our efforts to make premium education available to the new generation of up-and-coming electricians, you’ve probably heard the Federal Minister for Skills and training talking about the need for a skilled workforce to power Australia’s clean energy future. It’s a significant focus for our industry, and you’ll find this theme woven into several articles in this edition.

Another pressing issue for the industry continues to be the non-payment to subcontractors. We want you to know that NECA is actively advocating both hard and very successfully on your collective behalf for fairer practices in this space. We’ve recently participated in a Victorian Legislative Assembly inquiry on this matter.

A Guide to Electrical Contracting, valuable resource now FREE for members

In addition to representing the industry as NECA Victoria Councillor and President, Dean Spicer is also part of the NECA Foundation, a cause that is close to his heart. the NECA Foundation was set up to provide an opportunity for industry mentors to Give Back what they feel they got out of the industry. the ethos of the NECA Foundation is to encourage the next generation of our industry to further their education and skills with a particular focus on leadership.

this year, the NECA Foundation released a guide to electrical contracting, which was written by industry veteran Ken Postill to ensure new and up-andcoming contractors avoid pitfalls inherent to our industry. NECA Victoria is supporting this cause, by funding the NECA Foundation’s guide to electrical contracting business for its members.

If you are a NECA VIC Member, you can download the book for free from the resource library of the NECA VIC website and help support the Foundation. NECA Victoria will donate the price of the book to the Foundation for each member downloading this resource.

Free Mentoring in Solar & Battery Installations

Lastly, we continue to offer free mentoring for Solar and battery installers and inspectors. this initiative is designed to provide valuable guidance from experienced electrical inspectors, and we encourage you to take advantage of it.

VALE JANE YUILE

Sadly, Jane Yuile, the first female Chair of (what is now) NECA Education & Careers died on the 6 May, aged 66.

Jane was born and raised in Canada but married an Aussie and moved to Australia, settling in Melbourne before later moving to Adelaide.

Jane joined the board of what was then the 370 Degrees Group as an independent director in 1999, at a time when the company was jointly controlled by NECA and the Electrical trades Union. She became Chair a year later and held the position until she left the board in 2010. During her time as Chair, the company’s professionalism, performance, and board governance improved markedly, thanks in a large part to Jane’s drive, personality, and ability to zero in on what mattered. Jane was never confrontational but always firm and fair.

She was undoubtedly one of the very first female Chairs of any construction industry related company or organisation. Jane was a pioneer at a time when few women occupied positions of authority in the industry. After leaving the board, Jane went on to have an extremely successful career in Adelaide, at various times being Chair of ANZ Bank South Australia and a Director of the Flinders Medical Centre, the Art Gallery of South Australia, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide Airport, the South Australian Film Corporation, and many others.

tragically, Jane became a quadriplegic in 2017

MARKETING STRATEGIES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

after diving into the water in New Zealand. Notwithstanding this, after 18 months of rehabilitation and while still requiring constant care, Jane managed the transition back to continuing her directorships on several boards, right up until her death.

IN tODAY’S DIGI tAL AGE, SMALL BUSINESSES, INCLUDING t HOSE IN t HE ELEC t RICAL INDUS t RY, HAVE A PLE t HORA OF tOOLS At t HEIR DISPOSAL tO MAXIMISE t HEIR MARKE t ING EFFOR t S, BUILD t HEIR BRAND, AND DRIVE SALES. t HIS AR t ICLE HIGHLIGH t S SIMPLE, YE t POWERFUL S t RAt EGIES t HAt CAN HELP SMALL ELEC t RICAL BUSINESSES t HRIVE IN t HIS COMPE t I t IVE MARKE t

Understand Your Audience

Understanding your audience is the first step. Analytical tools such as Google Analytics or your CRM provide valuable insights into your customers’ behaviour, allowing you to optimise the way you engage.

Expand Your Digital Footprint using Social Media

Social media platforms allow you to engage existing customers, reach new audiences, and generate brand awareness. Facebook, especially local community groups, can be a powerful tool for small businesses. You can even run targeted advertisements to generate business.

Reaching Your Local Community via Direct Mail

Despite the rise of digital marketing, direct mail marketing can still be an effective strategy for small businesses, especially those serving a local community.

Distributing flyers with information about your products, services or special offers can help you reach potential customers directly in their homes.

Building Relationships: Networking and Community Engagement

Building relationships with other businesses and engaging with your local community can also be beneficial. NECA Victoria and its Sponsor Business Value Partners provide an environment in which you can develop strategies, learn, and solve problems with like minded people who share similar challenges.

Word of Mouth: The Power of Personal Recommendations

Word of mouth is the most powerful marketing tool of all. Personal recommendations can have a significant impact on your business’ reputation and customer base. Encourage your customers

to share their positive experiences with your business on their social media platforms, Google Reviews or in local Facebook groups. this not only helps you reach a larger audience but also builds your reputation within the local community. the adoption of these tools is just the beginning. the real challenge lies in continuously learning, adapting, and innovating in your marketing strategies. So, as we wrap up, consider this: How can you use these tools to create a marketing approach that is not just about selling, but about storytelling? How can you leverage digital marketing not just to reach your customers, but to connect with them? How can you turn relationships into a money-making machine? With the right tools and strategies, you can make your mark. So, take the leap, embrace some of these simple suggestions, and watch your small business soar to new heights. If you get lost and want to bounce some ideas, reach out to the marketing team at NECA.

GENERATING ELECTRICIANS IN DANDENONG

VICtORIA’S MANUFACtURING HUB IS SE t tO PRODUCE

t HE NEX t GENERAt ION OF SKILLED ELEC t RICIANS

t HROUGH t HE NEW NECA EDUCAt ION & CAREERS t RADE t RAINING CEN t RE IN DANDENONG.

NECA Education & Careers invested in the Dandenong campus to meet the ‘remarkable’ demand in electrical apprenticeships. With construction complete the campus opened for students in August. the trade training centre has seven classrooms and two purpose-built workshops for future electricians to hone their skills, and offers government-funded programs for both Certificate III and Certificate II courses.

NECA’s members collectively employ more than 50,000 people across Australia, including many based in Greater Dandenong. the new training facility is also open to non-NECA members.

A campus at the heart of Dandenong’s thriving manufacturing and construction industries is a perfect fit for apprentices who are likely to find employment in the area.

STEP INTO THE FUTURE WITH SOLAR

STEP INTO THE FUTURE WITH SOLAR

Upskill and learn:

Upskill and learn:

Energy audits

Energy audits

Design briefs

Design briefs

Complete the installation, adjustment, and set up of photovoltaic power systems

Complete the installation, adjustment, and set up of photovoltaic power systems

Find solutions to problems in ELV and LV photovoltaic systems and apparatus

Find solutions to problems in ELV and LV photovoltaic systems and apparatus

Working safely and to installation standards

Working safely and to installation standards

RINGIN’ IN THE DEBT BOOST YOUR BOTTOM LINE

t HE CONS t RUC t ION INDUS t RY ACROSS AUS t RALIA IS FACING CHALLENGES, WI t H MORE t HAN t WO BUSINESSES A DAY GOING IN t O LIQUIDAt ION. AS A SMALL ELEC t RICAL BUSINESS IN VIC t ORIA, HOW CAN YOU PROt EC t YOURSELF AND ENSURE YOUR FINANCIAL S tABILI t Y? t HIS AR t ICLE EXPLORES S t RAt EGIES FOR EFFEC t IVE DEBt COLLEC t ION AND CASH FLOW MANAGEMEN t

Understanding your rights

As a small business owner, it’s crucial to understand your rights when it comes to debt collection. Ensure your collection activities comply with consumer protection laws. the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) provide guidelines to assist with understanding your rights and obligations.

Communicate with your debtors

Effective communication is key to managing debt collection. If your customers are not paying their debts on time, reach out to them. Understand their situation and work out a mutually beneficial repayment schedule. By maintaining open lines of communication, you can foster better relationships with your customers, making future debt collection easier.

Recovering overdue payments

Recovering overdue payments is a process that starts with friendly reminders and gradually escalates. Here are some steps to guide you:

1. Send a friendly reminder when a payment is overdue. It could be a simple oversight on the customer’s part.

2. If there’s no response or the agreed payment is missed, follow up with an overdue payment reminder.

3. Send a final notice if payment is still not received.

4. As a last resort, send a formal letter of demand. However, consider this option carefully from a business relationship perspective as it can potentially damage the relationship beyond repair. though, if you are at this stage – chances are the relationship is not working very well already.

Seek legal assistance from Constructive Legal Solutions

If your efforts to recover the debt directly have not been successful, it might be time to seek legal assistance. Constructive Legal Solutions, NECA Victoria’s legal arm, can help you understand your legal rights and options for debt collection, including working with a debt collection agency. their expertise can save you time, money and resources.

Debt collection can be a challenging aspect of running a small business, but with the right strategies, it’s manageable. By understanding your

rights, communicating effectively with your debtors, and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can improve your cash flow and ensure the financial stability of your business.

Remember, NECA is here to support you through this journey. If you’re facing challenges with debt collection, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re committed to helping small businesses like yours navigate the complexities of debt collection and secure your bottom line.

NECA ADVOCACY: STANDING UP FOR SUBCONTRACTORS IN VICTORIA

NECA is committed to representing the interests of subcontractors in the electrical industry. Recently, we had the opportunity to give evidence at the Victorian Legislative Assembly Environment and Planning Committee’s inquiry into non-payment of subcontractors. this article provides an update on the proceedings and our ongoing advocacy work.

NECA’s representation at the inquiry the committee, comprised of members from various Victorian constituencies, heard from NECA representatives about the significant issues caused by the non-payment of subcontractors within the building and construction industry.

“Of the 360,000 Victorians working within the sector, 93% were employed by small businesses. This year alone the Victorian construction industry has reported 518 insolvencies, which equates to 28% of all insolvencies nationally and has had a devastating effect on the financial and mental health of small business owners, their families, and their employees.”

Chris Van Der Kooi, a NECA Victoria Councilor and General Manager of Van Wyk Electric, shared a personal account of the impact on his business when a builder defaulted on a payment. the committee showed particular interest in the ripple effects of such actions and where funds are being diverted before builders and head contractors go into liquidation.

NECA Victoria Executive Director, Pawel Podolski, advised the committee that the industry is recommending stronger Security of Payment laws through the implementation of the Murray Review in Victoria. this would ensure that stage payments for a project are held in trust, safeguarding funds for subcontractors should a builder become insolvent. Mr. Podolski also highlighted the need for stronger prohibitions against unfair contract terms and called on the Victorian Government to ensure fair contracting throughout the procurement process.

NECA’s ongoing advocacy

Representing several industry bodies, NECA commends the committee for undertaking this important inquiry. We will continue to advocate for the rights and interests of our members and keep you updated on the outcomes of this work, including the committee’s report to the Victorian Government, and the government’s subsequent response.

NECA is committed to supporting small businesses in the electrical industry. We understand the challenges you face and are actively working to represent your interests at the highest levels. We will continue to keep you informed about our advocacy efforts and the outcomes of this important inquiry. together, we can work towards a fairer and more sustainable industry for all.

WA BRANCH

BRANCH UPDATE

Claire Gerber Membership, Events and Partnership Manager, WA

Change in NECA WA Branch Secretary role

After serving almost five years as the Branch Secretary of NECA WA, Carl Copeland has recently resigned from this position. Carl looks forward to focusing all his efforts on his role as CEO of ECA WA and continuing the growth of ECA WA’s business units - the College of Electrical training, Electrical Group training and Equip-Safe.

NECA WA sincerely thanks Carl for his tireless work, which has driven NECA’s membership to record numbers (1,632 at the time of writing), in addition to strengthening NECA’s relationships with Western Power and Building and Energy.

Charlie terranova from CAM Electrical has been voted Carl’s replacement as Branch Secretary.

For those who may be unaware, for several years ECA WA has provided legal, technical, safety, marketing and administrative services to NECA WA and its members.

this arrangement ensures that member services are provided in WA and fulfil the needs of WA members.

Tragic electrocution of an electrician in Nollamara

Most members should be aware of the recent tragic death of young electrician Matthew Milner, who was electrocuted in a residential roof space on 29 June.

We offer our deepest condolences to Matthew’s family, friends and colleagues.

An extensive investigation into this incident is underway and there are many unconfirmed

details. As such, NECA are unable to provide commentary while the facts are still being determined.

Regardless, this awful incident is a powerful reminder to everyone in our industry of the importance of turning the power source off and not working live. Please ensure that you and all your colleagues have strict working live policies that are followed meticulously. Working live is simply not worth the associated risks.

Building and Energy have provided further recommendations on staying safe when working in the roof space on page 43.

A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support Matthew’s family.

Type A and Type AC RCDs

We are aware of continued confusion in WA regarding the use of type AC RCDs. this has come about because some states adopted the Electrical Regulatory Authorities Council (ERAC) implementation model, which differs to the regulations that went live in WA on 30 April 2023.

As a reminder, Building and Energy and Western Power have implemented and are enforcing the requirements of clause 2.6.2.2.2 of AS/NZS 3000:2018

to be clear - type AC RCDs do not have to be replaced in existing installations. However, type AC RCDs cannot be used for like-for-like replacements, nor can they be used in any new installations. Only Type A RCDs can be used in these situations.

temporary power poles that are sent to site will also need to be upgraded with a type A RCD unit as they are considered a new installation.

Congratulations to Jaden Woodbury, owner of JW Electrical Contractors, who was recently elected by members to the NECA WA Branch Council.

2023/24 NECA WA Branch Council

NECA WA President

Charlie terranova

CAM Electrical Services

NECA WA Vice President

Barry Allen

Barry Allen Electrical Services Treasurer

Shay Charlton

Team Electrical Services

Councillor

Jack Grego

Apollo Electrotech Councillor

Oliver Forster

ODF Electrical Councillor

Andrew Lucas

ADL Electrics Councillor

Peter Beveridge

Williams Electrical Service Councillor

Chris Sweeting

Westwide Electrical Councillor

Jaden Woodbury

JW Electrical Contractors

NECA Awards

this year’s NECA Awards event was a spectacular success. More than 500 people attended the sold-out event, which showcased the best of our industry’s apprentices, business innovation and project capability.

Although all winners will be featured in the December edition of NECA News, we would like to acknowledge the 2023 recipients of our newest awards:

½ Women in Energy – Mel Moore from GEM Generation Electrical Maintenance;

½ Leaders in Diversity – Wilco Electrical.

As our industry struggles with a chronic skills shortage that is expected to last for some time, it is vital that businesses look beyond traditional recruitment

methods. Businesses who cast their net more widely have a better chance of growth, and when combined with an inclusive culture, can benefit from the improved innovation, creative problem solving and staff retention that a diverse workforce can bring.

Recent prosecution for no multiple earthed neutral

An electrical contractor was recently fined a total of $50,000 for submitting Notices of Completion for work where no multiple earthed neutral (MEN) was found on three separate installations. the responsible electrical workers were additionally fined $10,000 each. While there has been a sharp increase recently in the number of prosecutions being brought by Building and Energy for this offence, they have been consistent for many years in saying that it is a breach of the Electrical Licensing Regulations, which they will not hesitate to prosecute.

Given the MEN system is a critically important safety component of an electrical installation, NECA WA would support the prosecution of any contractor who fails to ensure that a MEN is connected. this is a point that is regularly raised at our Industry Nights. Members, please ensure that you have a procedure in place that prompts you to confirm that the MEN is in place before you submit a Notice of Completion. this can be done via standard checking and testing procedures, conducting a fault loop impendence test or by simply taking a photograph.

Our very affordable NECA Safe Digital App has an Electrical Installation Test tool which prompts you to confirm that the MEN connection has been re-installed after testing and allows you to upload a photo to confirm this. Find out more about the Electrical Installation test tool at bit.ly/47tRUqw

NECA Safe Digital can be purchased online at bit.ly/NECASafeDigital

Update on WA Aboriginal cultural heritage laws

there has been a great deal of public discussion recently regarding the State Government’s modernised Aboriginal cultural heritage laws, which took effect on 1 July. the laws would have been particularly relevant to businesses that are installing utilities and are required to perform trenching or excavation on affected properties. the state government has since confirmed that they will repeal the new laws with immediate effect. they have indicated that they are likely to revert to the previous legislation with some minor changes.

NECA WA welcomes this change and will provide further information when it becomes available.

Training discount for members – RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights

If you or your staff need to do training for working safely at heights, now is the time to book! Equip-Safe have increased availability for this course at their Welshpool training facility, and NECA members receive 5% off the standard course price! Equip-Safe has been providing registered training to workers across WA for over 26 years and joined the ECA WA family in 2022. they focus on practical training – so wherever possible you learn on the machine, ensuring you are confident applying your new skills safely in the real world.

Find out more and enrol online at bit.ly/3s4kBdo

New Councillor welcomed to the NECA WA Branch Council

News from the College of Electrical Training (CET)

CEt recently made the difficult decision to slow down apprentice training enrolments, while they focus on improving lead times for training commencement. Apprentice enrolments have been increasing year on year since mid-2020, in direct correlation to the introduction of increased incentives for both employers and apprentices.

While we welcome the support for training our future workforce, it has been disappointing to see no real increases in funding for not-for-profit charitable RtOs, such as CEt the same price increases that are impacting industry, such as those affecting the price of cables, switchgear and utilities, have been challenging across the RtO space. Combined with supply shortages and a competitive recruitment environment, recovery will be slow for some time.

On a brighter note, opportunities for graduating apprentices are on the up. WA’s prominent role in the new energy future, with abundant sun and wind combined with the state’s strategic location embraced by the AUKUS alliance, has opened a career pipeline that will serve our electrical workforce for decades. the green and blue water economies have the capacity to swallow up many thousands of workers, and with the mining industry still going strong, there is no better time or place to be a sparky than here in the West.

Resignation of CET’s General Manager, Steve Hall

It is with great sadness that we announce the resignation of CEt’s General Manager, Steve Hall. Steve has presided over a period of rapid growth

at CEt, with apprentice enrolments being at their highest ever number.

Steve initially joined CEt as the Campus Manager at CEt Joondalup, before being promoted to CEt’s General Manager position, a role he has served in for the past four years. Prior to transitioning to the training space, Steve ran a successful contracting company of his own.

Steve has accepted a position at the recently established Jobs and Skills Council as General ManagerProjects. His extensive knowledge of the electrotechnology training packages will be a great benefit in this role, so we are happy to confirm that his skills and experience won’t be lost to the electrical industry.

Aidan O’Grady, ECA WA’s General Manager - Member Services and Operations, will act in the CEt General Manager position whilst an extensive recruitment process is undertaken.

Long and long mandatory in 2024

Between now and 2024, CEt will be moving to a long and long policy for all learners. Why? It’s been long accepted in industry that long and longs provide the best protection from workplace environmental dangers, including arc flash, cuts and abrasion risks. CEt had already committed to long and longs for all trainers and assessors, and now feel it’s time to reinforce the industry norm in the college environment. CEt’s campuses are fully air-conditioned, including the workshops, so the move will have little impact on learners. Learners will see an increase in promotional material, with the policy coming into full force in January 2024. A small amnesty period is expected as learners adjust, but just like CEt’s boots, no smoking and

open blade knives policies, if a learner attends in anything other than long and longs, they will not be permitted to enter classes or the workshops.

CEt encourages students to wear company-provided uniforms at the college, so this may be the perfect time to review your company’s policy regarding uniforms.

Electrical Group Training (EGT) Update

EGt saw strong demand for apprentices throughout the 2022/23 financial year, taking on 170 new apprentices by 30 June. the last couple of months have been slower, however, because of what appears to be a gap between construction jobs. this has led to EGt reducing new induction targets, which were already being impacted by the extended waiting period to commence training at CEt and tAFE for off-the-job training. On a positive note, plenty of work is said to be coming up soon, providing optimism for the rest of the year.

EGt will continue their support of motorsport and Australian Football League (AFL) through the 2023/24 financial year in search of the best apprentices. they have now added the Australian e-Sport League and Comic Con to the list of events, schools and expos they visit and support. So, if you see EGt at a raceway, school, employment expo, WAFL or WAFLW game, convention or e-Sport event, go and say hi. EGt also have the corporate box at the Motorplex again for the upcoming drag racing season, so if any members or EGt host employers and their staff would like to attend an upcoming event, contact EGt on (08) 6241 6100.

ROOF SPACE REMINDER AFTER TRAGEDY

FOLLOWING t HE t RAGIC DEAt H OF A YOUNG ELEC t RICAL WORKER IN JULY 2023, BUILDING AND ENERGY IS REMINDING ELEC t RICIANS AND Ot HER WORKERS ABOU t t HE IMPOR tANCE OF SWI t CHING OFF At t HE MAINS SWI t CH BEFORE EN t ERING A ROOF SPACE.

Building and Energy is investigating what caused the fatal accident while the 24-year-old was working in the roof space of a suburban Perth house. ‘this devastating event sadly marks the third electrical fatality in WA in four years that has occurred in a roof space,’ WA’s Director of Energy Safety, Saj Abdoolakhan, said.

‘It is a stark reminder of why it is mandatory in WA for all workers to turn off the power at the main switch before entering the roof or ceiling space of any domestic property.’

Regulation 55 of the Electricity (Licensing) Regulations 1991 prohibits electrical work on or near an energised part of an electrical installation except under certain specific situations prescribed in Sub-regulation 55(2).

the most effective safety control measure is to de-energise the relevant part of the electrical installation and to ensure the work is not carried out near any part of the installation that remains energised.

Before any electrical work is undertaken, the responsible person must ensure the electrical installation or the relevant part of the electrical installation to be worked on is tested by a competent person to ascertain whether or not it is energised; and if it is found to be energised, is de-energised by a competent person.

Please refer to the Code of Practice for Persons working on or near energised electrical installations at www.bit.ly/3PhlSXE

More broadly, it is also an offence under work health and safety legislation for any other trades, not just electricians, if they leave the main switch on at the time of entering a roof space.

‘Hazards in roof spaces may not be immediately obvious in tight spaces with poor visibility. there could be exposed live electrical conductors or wiring, damaged or deteriorated cables, non-compliant past electrical work and many other dangers.’

to remind tradespeople and homeowners about the hazards, Building and Energy is continuing to distribute roof space

safety stickers for ceiling entry points and switchboards. the stickers were originally distributed with electricity bills. ‘turning off the mains switch is a simple step that could prevent a tragedy,’ Mr Abdoolakhan said.

‘WA electricians must also follow the live work prohibitions set out in the Electricity (Licensing) Regulations. Employers and senior staff can also play a key role by leading from the top – and by example – to uphold a robust safety culture and correct procedures at every job to ensure everyone goes home safely.’

Saj Abdoolakhan WA’s Director of Energy Safety www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy

VALE SHAUN DOYLE

WA’S OLDEST MEMBER

WE REGRE t t O INFORM MEMBERS t HAt SHAUN DOYLE OF ALBANY, NECA WA’S LONGES t-S tANDING MEMBER, PASSED AWAY ON 30 JUNE At t HE AGE OF 103. HE IS SURVIVED BY HIS CHILDREN ANGELA, MARGARE t, CHRIS t INE AND JOHN, AND t HEIR FAMILIES. SM DOYLE IS NOW RUN BY SHAUN’S SON, JOHN, MAKING t HE BUSINESS A MEMBER OF NECA WA FOR t HE LAS t 75 YEARS.

Always interested in electronics and technology, he was helped to make ‘a bread board’ one-valve radio, which, late at night, he could use to tune into broadcasts of ‘the Ashes’ from the UK. On discovering this, his father, who Shaun describes as a ‘sports tragic’, commandeered it for his listening pleasure.

In this edition of NECA News, we’d like to honour Mr Shaun Martin Doyle, who is our oldest member and celebrating his 100th birthday this year. Shaun is a long-standing member of NECA WA, having joined in the 1940s. Shaun was born in Narrogin in 1919, second son and third child of Peter Doyle, who was a National Bank Manager, and his wife Kitty. Shaun completed his primary school education at the local convent.

He recollects that his interest in all things electrical started when he was about six years of age and asked his mother about the function of a large aerial in the town. She explained it was so people who had a wireless could tune into 6WF (West Farmers). His Uncle Pat subsequently gave him

an old four-valve radio, which he described ‘was as big as a fridge’, from the farm at Jittarning. ‘It never worked,’ said Shaun. While Shaun always had an interest, he reminisces that he ‘never had a clue how anything worked.’ He didn’t give up though, continuing to explore his interest.

In 1932, when he was 12 years old, Shaun’s father was transferred to the National Bank in Albany. there the family lived in the residence above the bank on Stirling terrace, which is now a guest house. Shaun has fond memories of attending Albany Senior High School and noted that he and his cohort had to help plant the pine trees on the hill behind the school, some of which still remain.

In 1936, a new opportunity came Shaun’s way. While his father was away watching the annual foot race in his hometown of Stawell Victoria, Shaun was approached by Mr Keith Collins and asked if he would be interested in an apprenticeship. One of only two electricians in Albany, Keith ran a radio sales and repair shop behind his father’s shoe shop. Shaun discussed the offer with his mother and she gave him permission to accept it, much to his father’s chagrin when he returned home. the timing was soon after the Great Depression and money was short. In those days an apprenticeship had to be paid for at a cost of around £50. His father’s salary had dropped from £7 per week to £5 and Shaun’s sisters had to come back home from boarding school. ‘But,’ Shaun said, ‘everyone was in the same boat.’

As an apprentice, Shaun was indentured for five years. While city-based apprentices spent one day a week at the Perth technical School in St. George’s terrace, there was no technical school in Albany. Mr Collins taught him everything. Shaun remembers working as one of two employees in a corner of the back room at a table made from a packing

We are grateful to Shaun’s family for allowing us to re-share the following article, covering his fascinating career and life, originally published to honour Shaun’s 100th birthday in 2019.

case, rewiring electric motors. He was taught no theory whatsoever but was able to do everything. On rare trips to Perth, Shaun would haunt technical book shops to buy what he could afford.

three years into his course, World War II was declared. Like so many others, Shaun made himself available for the Air Force in December 1939. In May 1940 he was called up and transferred to Pt. Cooke in Victoria to train as a Wireless Operator –Air and to learn how to operate them in the aircraft. Shaun noted that he wasn’t too confident because, at that stage, he still hadn’t learnt much electrical theory.

His next move was to Mt. Gambier for exercises in air navigation and wireless operations in aircraft and later, he was stationed at Warnambool, an advanced operational base with reconnaissance over the sea. Following this, Shaun went to Melbourne and attended RMIt where, finally, he started learning the theory so lacking in the previous few years. He recalls thoroughly enjoying his time there, with ‘lots of study combined with lots of social life’.

Shaun’s next post was overseas. Shaun travelled from Sydney by RAAF ship

to New Guinea. He was only there a short time, but it was long enough for him to contract Dengue Fever. From there he moved on to Darwin, arriving in time for the 1942 bombing raids, which left him permanently deaf in his left ear. He was 23 years old at the time. After the first raid, he and his companions were able to hurriedly remove all the radio equipment into the bush and notify headquarters in Alice Springs of the situation.

Along with several others, Shaun was eventually seconded to Carnarvon to continue working. It was there that he met Maureen Hughes who was home from teaching in the South West. In May 1945, he was discharged from the Air Force and returned home to Albany to complete the last two years of his apprenticeship. At that point, Shaun met up with Maureen again when she was teaching at the local primary school. they married in May 1948.

Shaun remembers sitting three examinations with the Apprenticeship Board in 1947: Installing, Fitting/ Armature/Wiring and Radio Repairs. He was the first to sit these exams and was granted a ‘B’ licence, for one year as a journeyman. Normally, he would have been released from his apprenticeship at this stage, but Mr. Collins kept him on for a further two years.

Shaun continued to work from 8am until 6pm, walking to jobs with a ladder over one shoulder, coils of wire over the other and a tool box.

If he wasn’t back at the shop by 6pm, sometimes (but not always), Mr Collins would come looking for him, driving his 1928 Chevrolet Overland tourer, with guards on the running boards for the ladders. ‘Just do the job the best you know how and cultivate a reputation for that. Be able to look back on a job well completed.’

Now that Shaun had gained plenty of experience, Mr Collins suggested he might like to go into business for himself in another town. He thought Mt. Barker might be suitable, but Shaun’s father had seen a business for sale in York. So, on his and Maureen’s honeymoon, they moved to York, having secured the business using a bank loan (ironically not the NAB) of £700 and the £50 given to him by the Air Force (to buy a suit). So started S and M Doyle, Electrical Contractors. Shaun’s shop focused mostly on selling and repairing radios, but he soon ‘had work coming out of his ears’ as the former State Electricity Commission (SEC) had decided to expand the AC grid to every house and farm in and around York. He also secured the work in nearby towns like Northam and Beverley.

After seven years, Shaun investigated applying for an ‘A’ licence. Upon researching it, he discovered it would be a very tough examination as he had so much work and so little time to study, plus, by then, he and Maureen had three small children. Reading the licence information further, he saw the sentence, ‘Apply if you think you can do it.’ Shaun applied and got it.

In 1958 when Shaun and Maureen, now with four children, returned to Albany, there was only one other ‘A’ grade electrician in town. Shaun had started tendering for jobs through the Public Works Department before he left York and as he had already built up good relations, he was accepted and started work almost immediately. His first job was to rewire the nurses’ quarters at the Vancouver Street Hospital. then, he moved on to the Council offices and the internal wiring in the town Hall. As Shaun noted, ‘the benefit of being in a regional town was a lot of work.’

Shaun’s business is now run by his son John. When asked about the longevity of his business, Shaun felt that the reputation of a job well done and a fair price stood him in good stead. He freely admits to being a perfectionist and didn’t want the firm associated with what could be viewed as ‘shoddy workmanship’. He was on good terms with consultants and architects who were all confident to leave him to do the electrical design after they

briefed him on the requirements. He worked on State Government jobs such as hospitals and technical schools, and other projects such as shopping centres and banks. He admitted that he really liked his job, which his family noted, probably explained why it was so hard for him to retire. Coming down ‘off the ladder’ took an age!

When Shaun originally became a NECA member, there wasn’t a branch in WA so he joined the South Australian branch. He enjoyed the articles and was particularly drawn to the advertising, where he discovered innovations such as the double power point! He was then able to order and use them in his work in WA. When a chapter was formed in Perth, Shaun periodically went to the meetings to keep abreast of the latest technology.

When asked about the biggest changes in the industry during his working career, he had no hesitation in saying it was the advent of plastics. When Shaun started out, he used brass lamp holders and wire coated in red India rubber and sheathed in cloth. the arrival of the digital age was the next big change. ‘technology is advancing so quickly that people in the profession need to be researching almost daily for new and better innovations,’ Shaun said. Shaun still enjoys doing his research, although these days it’s purely out of interest.

Shaun has been immersed in the electrical industry for almost his entire life and has much wisdom to share. His advice for contractors is, ‘Just do the job the best you know how and cultivate a reputation for that. Be able to look back on a job well completed.’

Shaun has lived in the family home since 1962, Maureen having passed away in 1999. His children, Angela, Margaret, Christine and John and their families are very proud of their loved, humble, shy, clever, tolerant, humorous father. Our thanks to Shaun for sharing his story.

NECA WA would like to express sincere condolences to Shaun’s family and friends, and thank him for a lifetime of dedicated service to the WA electrical industry.

PLUMBING COMPANY TAKEN TO TASK FOR UNLICENSED ELECTRICAL WORK

A PER t H GAS, PLUMBING AND ELEC t RICAL BUSINESS HAS BEEN FINED $75,000 FOR INS t RUC t ING A PLUMBER tO ASSESS ELEC t RICAL INS tALLAt IONS AS PAR t OF AN ‘UPSELLING’ SALES S t RAt EGY t HAt COS t VULNERABLE CONSUMERS t HOUSANDS OF DOLLARS.

Media and social media interest in Building and Energy’s prosecution helped to remind consumers that only licensed electricians can carry out electrical work and assessments.

the case against Pascoes Maintenance Group Pty Ltd went to trial at Armadale Magistrates Court. A plumber formerly employed by the company testified that Pascoes provided him with a ‘switchboard upgrade manual’ and a script to convince plumbing clients that they also needed electrical work.

the plumber told the court he was instructed to offer a ‘free safety check’ at every plumbing job. He would then identify an apparently non-compliant switchboard, RCDs or earth stake, while referring to recent safety incidents such as a Perth girl’s serious electric shock after touching a garden tap.

the plumber said Pascoes’ senior management discussed the sales approach for electrical work at meetings and his supervisor reassured him that the practice was okay.

the company’s bonus structure encouraged upselling, so clients were directed to purchase an electrical ‘safety package’ or a switchboard upgrade for at least $4,000, compared to fixing a leaking tap for $165. the plumber estimated he provided at least 400 quotes during the two years he worked for Pascoes, with 80% of these including electrical upgrades for clients who had contacted the company about plumbing issues.

the Pascoes switchboard manual had photos of switchboards and other electrical equipment that apparently had ‘regulatory breaches’ along with suggested conversations to sell upgrades to clients. A Building and Energy electrical inspector later testified that the alleged breaches described in the

manual were factually incorrect and were not legitimate safety concerns. Witness statements from three Pascoes clients who dealt with the plumber in April and August 2020 were accepted as evidence during the trial.

After asking for a check of his rooftop solar hot water system, a 91-yearold widower was told his Maddington home’s switchboard was outdated and unsafe. the plumber quoted $10,880 for the plumbing and electrical work.

‘I thought this was an awful lot of money,’ stated the elderly man, who has since passed away. ‘But I agreed as I had no hot water and [the plumber] had told me the switchboard was unsafe.’

the plumber was also called out for a hot water issue in Forrestfield, where an eight-month pregnant woman was caring for her toddler. He quoted $4,500 for the plumbing and electrical work and referred to the Perth girl’s electric shock.

‘[He] went on to tell us that the whole switchboard needed to be upgraded and that if our two-year-old daughter put her finger in a power point she could be electrocuted,’ she stated.

Another woman living alone in Maddington was quoted $8,840, of which only $385 was for the hot water system connection she had requested.

‘I’ve had gas fitters, plumbers and electrical contractors work at the property and none of them mentioned the things he was telling me,’ the woman stated.

Pascoes was convicted on 17 July 2023 for contravening the Electricity

(Licensing) Regulations 1991 by instructing its employee to carry out electrical assessments without holding the required electrical worker licence. In addition to the $75,000 fine, Pascoes was ordered to pay $8,203.75 in costs.

‘[the business] clearly made a significant amount of money from this way of doing business,’ Magistrate Vivien Edwards said, adding that people could be at risk if they are not licensed to deal with electrical installations. ‘the message needs to be sent to other businesses and corporations that such behaviour will not be tolerated because the lives of the public and employees are put at risk.’

In 2021, the plumber received a $5,000 fine and a spent conviction for related charges. At that time, another magistrate described the activity as ‘a scam’, ‘not fair business’ and ‘morally offensive’ due to the vulnerable customers.

WA’s Director of Energy Safety, Saj Abdoolakhan, said the significant fine against Pascoes should send a clear message about providing unqualified electrical advice, particularly for financial gain.

‘Electrical assessments by an unlicensed person are illegal and dangerous, and in this case the aim was to scare consumers and exploit their trust to make money,’ Mr Abdoolakhan said.

‘When engaging a tradesperson, consumers should only take advice from a trusted and appropriately qualified person, as well as seeking out more than one quote for the work even in an emergency. Ask to see their licence.’

Saj Abdoolakhan WA’s Director of Energy Safety www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy

SWITCHBOARD CAPACITY MANAGEMENT CRITICAL

TO SUPPORT THE INCREASE IN DEMAND FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY

AS t HE DEMAND FOR RENEWABLES CON t INUES tO GROW tO MEE t DECARBONISAt ION GOALS, WES t ERN POWER PROVIDES A t IMELY REMINDER ABOU t t HE IMPOR tANCE OF ADEQUAt E SWI t CHBOARD CAPACI t Y MANAGEMEN t WHEN ADDING ADDI t IONAL LOAD tO AN INS tALLAt ION CON tAINING GENERAt ION DEVICES, SUCH AS ROOF t OP SOLAR.

Electrical contractors have an obligation before increasing load to assess and confirm the demand requirements in line with Australian Standards and network connection service requirements (WA Service and Installation Requirements WASIR 2023).

Accurate assessment of a customer’s maximum demand for electricity from the grid (normal supply) is critical to ensuring safe power supply and compliance with AS/NZS 3000, in particular but not limited to clauses 1.6, 1.7, 1.9.3, 2.10.6.

Before adding additional load, electrical contractors should consider the following:

½ t he connection of a generation device (providing supplementary supply) does not alter the rating of busbars or cables used in a switchboard;

½ While the maximum demand from the grid is lessened by the supplementary supply when in operation, the actual maximum demand may exceed the rating of the switchboard segments resulting from the combined available supply;

½ Increasing load within the switchboard requires each segment of the switchboard to be assessed for maximum loading for expected current carrying capacity from either the normal supply (from the grid) or the supplementary supply, or both at the same time;

½ With a supplementary supply available, your customer may have already increased their load to self-consume the additional energy provided by the generation device. t his means any further load increase

may result in the maximum load exceeding the normal supply and switchboard rating, resulting in an increased risk of overloading;

½ If the maximum load exceeds the normal supply rating and switchboard rating, the customer’s main switchboard shall be protected from over current in conformance with AS/NZS 3000 (clause 2.5.1, Protection against overcurrent), by using a main switch circuit breaker.

Additionally, if the requested increase in demand exceeds what is offered for a standard network connection or is likely to exceed the existing service connection capacity, then an application for an upgrade will be required. A customer can authorise their electrical contractor to apply for a supply allocation upgrade via Western Power’s website.

Note: Figure 1 shows a typical busbar arrangement with only a normal supply from the grid. Figure 2 shows a typical busbar arrangement with a normal supply from the grid with the addition of a supplementary supply from an inverter energy system (5 kVA). A main switch circuit breaker is used to provide overload protection to the customer’s main switchboard segments where the load exceeds the busbar capacity.

Figure 1 typical busbar arrangement with a normal supply from the grid

Figure 2 typical busbar arrangement with a supplementary supply from an inverter energy system (5 kVA)

ACT BRANCH

BRANCH UPDATE

Nataisha Martin NECA ACT & Southern NSW Member Manager

Welcome to the September issue of NECA NEWS!

What a whirlwind few months it’s been. We’ve been buzzing with activities and events, from our intense preparations for the NECA Awards to our enlightening NSW Government Regulator Update sessions. But that’s not all. Our diligent NECASafe team has introduced its latest innovation: the Silica Risk Assessment Calculator. this indispensable tool raises awareness about the dangers of silica and provides guidance on how to protect against it.

Additionally, NECA training has kicked off its school-based apprenticeship programs in the beautiful Illawarra region. this program offers the next generation of electricians a chance to gain invaluable hands-on experience in the field. If that wasn’t exciting enough, we are thrilled to announce the arrival of our first group of apprentices at the brand-new Centre of Excellence, located on the scenic South Coast of NSW.

Last, but certainly not least, it’s crucial for contractors to stay up to date on industry regulations and tap into expert knowledge. that’s why the NECA Members’ Knowledge Base (MKB) is an unrivalled resource for electrical contracting professionals. It provides essential information on rules, regulations, and valuable resources. Keep reading below to find out how you can request a virtual tour.

We hope you enjoy this edition of NECA News. Stay tuned for more information in NECA’s eNews.

Inaugural apprentice group starts training at NECA’s Centre of Excellence

We are proud to share that our first group of first year apprentices from Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla and Sapphire Coast commenced their technical studies on tuesday 4 July 2023. We welcome these apprentices to NECA’s Centre of Excellence and the electrical industry and are dedicated to supporting them, and all future students in achieving their electrical qualifications.

Enrolments are now open for future apprentices who want to jump-start their careers with the Electrical trade Qualification in UEE30820 Certificate III in Electrotechnology – Electrician.

the NECA Centre of Excellence gives apprentices access to a unique learning experience that is both challenging and rewarding. Our team of highly experienced industry experts provide a comprehensive education, from foundation skills and competencies to technical studies.

We look forward to seeing our current and future apprentices grow with us, as they embark on an exciting journey towards a career in the electrical industry.

For questions regarding enrolment or hosting an apprentice with NECA, scan the QR code and submit your enquiry.

Gain access to Industry Regulations, expert knowledge and resources with NECA Members’ Knowledge Base

to stay up to date with the latest in industry developments, NECA members can access the NECA Members’ Knowledge Base (MKB), a centralised hub that provides the best source of industry information, privileged only to NECA members.

MKB includes access to:

½ Australian Standards and regulations;

½ health, safety, environment and quality (HSEQ) documents;

½ Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS);

½ a series of toolbox talks;

½ legal, human resources and industrial relations templates; and

½ member-only webinars.

MKB is an invaluable tool for members, offering access to a vast amount of expert knowledge and resources. It enables members to stay informed about the latest industry updates and best practices, as well as safety regulations and other relevant industry information.

If you would like to know more, scan the QR code to schedule in a virtual tour.

NECA TRAINING & APPRENTICESHIPS UPDATE

Expression of Interest for NECA’s Commercial Workshop in the ACT

NECA’s legal experts will be running a Commercial Contracts Workshop in the ACt this face-toface workshop will run for one day and will navigate you through the essential subjects of contract administration and payment recovery.

Participants will gain an understanding of the principles of contract administration including managing time and delays, additional costs and work, and payment. Part two of the session will focus on recovery of payments including security of payments and court processes.

through hands-on scenarios and real-world examples, you’ll develop the confidence to apply these strategies in your everyday work. the workshop is suitable for anyone who is involved in carrying out projects under construction contracts. It also suits people with roles that include entering and administering contracts and making claims for payment (such as project managers).

Scan the QR code to register your expression of interest in attending.

Empowering the next generation with NECA Training & Apprenticeships — A School-based Apprenticeship Program

the electrical industry is experiencing a surge in demand, driven by increased sales of electric vehicles (EVs) and the installation of EV chargers. Additionally, government initiatives aimed at achieving zero net emissions are further contributing to the challenges we face.

to combat the skills shortage in industry, NECA is actively encouraging contractors in the Illawarra region to consider taking on schoolbased apprentices. this not only helps nurture the next generation of skilled professionals, but also strengthens our workforce to meet the demands of the evolving market.

By using this strategic approach, NECA is ensuring industry has a sustainable and proficient workforce that can serve both the growing EV sector and the broader goal of environmental sustainability.

What makes school-based apprenticeships so valuable?

By taking on school-based apprentices, employers can effectively evaluate their skills, work ethic, and compatibility with their company culture. this assessment process helps employers identify potential long-term employees and reduces their recruitment costs as they can hire apprentices who are already trained in their specific business practices.

For more information speak to a NECA representative or scan the QR code to register your interest.

INTRODUCING THE SILICA RISK ASSESSMENT CALCULATOR

PRODUCED BY NECASAFE

NECASAFE HAS JUS t IN t RODUCED I t S LAt ES t DEVELOPMEN t — t HE SILICA RISK ASSESSMEN t CALCULAt OR. WI t H t HIS ONLINE RISK CALCULAt OR, YOU CAN INPU t JOBRELAt ED RISK FAC t ORS AND RECEIVE SUGGES t ED ENGINEERING AND PERSONAL PROt EC t IVE EQUIPMEN t (PPE) CON t ROLS FOR t HE JOB. t HE CALCULAt OR IS EASY tO USE, MAKING I t AN INVALUABLE RESOURCE FOR ACCURAt ELY DE t ERMINING RISK LEVELS ON t HE JOB SI t E.

Silica Training in the ACT

In the ACt there is mandatory training for those who work with crystalline silica materials. the Work Health and Safety (Crystalline Silica Awareness training Course and Occupations) Declaration 2023 came into effect in July 2022. Under this law all workers in specified occupations, and those who are reasonably expected to be exposed to airborne silica dust as part of their work, must complete 10830NAt – Course in Crystalline Silica Exposure Prevention before 1 October 2023.

NECA members can access the Silica Risk Assessment Calculator via the NECA Members’ Knowledge Base. Once logged in, select the NECASafe Resources tab, followed by Silica Resources. Finally, click on the Silica Risk Assessment Calculator to start the assessment process.

It’s important to note that this tool was developed directly from feedback we received from members via the NECA Safety Network. this network meets quarterly, enabling attendees to learn about the latest safety updates and consult with NECA on safety improvement projects.

While the Silica Risk Assessment Calculator provides guidance, it’s crucial to evaluate safety measures on-site to ensure they are appropriate and effective. Additionally, it’s necessary to comply with relevant local regulations, as they can vary

depending on the jurisdiction. We want to emphasise that NECA and its employees cannot be held responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use of this calculator. therefore, use this tool with caution and use your best judgment when implementing the suggested controls to ensure the safety of you and those working around you.

NECA members seeking workplace health and safety (WHS) advice and consultancy are encouraged to connect with NECA. Our NECASafe team specialise in the electrical industry and can assist you with your questions and challenges. As a NECA member, you and your team receive unlimited phone and email advice on all safety issues. We also provide a range of extra services including document development, NECA confidential compliance audits and inspections, root cause investigations and toolbox training.

NECA training provides the 10830NAt course in Crystalline Silica Exposure Prevention comprising the nationally endorsed and recognised unit of competency NAt10830001 – Prevent crystalline silica exposure.

Unit of Competency

NAt10830001 – Prevent crystalinine silica exposure

Cost

$330 per person

$230 after applying for the ACt training Fund Authority (tFA) subsidy, which applies to all eligible businesse

Class Size

16 people

Class Times 7am – 11am 12pm – 4pm

For assistance with your WHS issues or more information on silica training in the ACt, scan the QR code to submit your enquiry.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS IN REGIONAL NSW GET THE INSIDE SCOOP INTO AVOIDING FINES AND INFRINGEMENT NOTICES

BE t WEEN APRIL AND JUNE, NECA COLLABORAt ED WI t H SAFEWORK NSW AND NSW FAIR t RADING tO HOLD I t S SERIES OF NSW GOVERNMEN t REGULAt OR UPDAt E 2023 SESSIONS IN SOU t HERN AND NOR t HERN NSW. ALL Att ENDEES WERE GIVEN INSIGH t S IN t O VARIOUS KEY INDUS t RY t OPICS t HAt DIREC t LY RELAt E t O ENSURING SAFER WORK PRAC t ICES. t HIS INCLUDED INFORMAt ION ABOU t HOW tO AVOID ON t HE SPOt FINES AND INFRINGEMEN t NOt ICES.

the sessions took us through Southern NSW including Griffith, Merimbula, Albury, Wagga Wagga, Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst and Wollongong. We also visited regions in Northern NSW such as the Central Coast, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, tamworth, Ballina and Coffs Harbour.

Some of the key takeaways focused on:

SafeWork target areas: Inspectors from SafeWork NSW will be visiting your area, so make sure your safety procedures are compliant.

Working live is prohibited: SWItCH OFF all power and take necessary steps to prevent the power being switched back ON.

Falling from heights: Protect your workers from falling from one level to another regardless of height.

Speak Up Save Lives initiative: If you see something unsafe in your

Apprentice Safety: Your apprentices must always be closely supervised by a qualified electrical supervisor for all electrical and/or hazardous tasks. It is your responsibility to provide them with sufficient training onsite to ensure their safety at work.

thank you to NSW Fair trading and SafeWork NSW for funding this event. We’d also like to express our gratitude to our amazing business partners for their continued support: MMEM tLE Haymans, NHP, Clipsal Schneider, NESS Super, NECA training and Apprenticeships and ACRS.

NECA members needing technical support and advice are encouraged to contact NECA on 1300 361 099. As a NECA member, you and your team receive unlimited phone and email support on all Australian Standards including Wiring Rules and State Electricity Rules.

NSW BRANCH

BRANCH UPDATE

Metro Member Manager Julia Cassar Sydney Metro Account Manager

Welcome to the September issue of NECA News!

As we turn the page and welcome the month of September, we can’t help but reflect on all that has transpired in the last few months. From exciting industry events to outstanding achievements, it’s been a whirlwind of activity for the NECA community.

We have just held our NSW Awards celebrating the excellence and innovation of our industry’s finest. We will be pleased to provide more details in our December issue of NECA News. We’re also thrilled to share the highlights of our recent tour of the Clipsal Schneider Innovation Hub, where we were able to dive into the latest electric vehicle chargers, smart home solutions, and power solutions, amongst other groundbreaking technologies.

And let’s not forget about the incredible work accomplished by NECA Legal, who have achieved remarkable success over the last year, winning 14 adjudication applications in a row and recovering over $1 million in payments.

Lastly, NECA is proud to continue supporting the industry with its upcoming October event: the NECA Industry and Regulators’ Update 2023. At this event, attendees will gain insights straight from industry regulators such as SafeWork NSW, NSW Fair trading and NECA technical. With educational and informative sessions on a variety of topics ranging from safety inspections to compliance standards and rules for electrical works, this is the perfect opportunity for industry professionals to gain valuable knowledge on essential business topics.

the event will also provide a great space for attendees to network with

industry experts, leading product suppliers and local wholesaler representatives. Refreshments will be provided throughout the day, making it an all-inclusive event for industry members. Whether you’re an experienced practitioner in the electrical industry or just starting out, the NECA Industry and Regulators’ Update 2023 is a must-attend event to stay ahead of the curve on current regulations and practices. We look forward to seeing you there! Flick to the next page for registration details.

It’s clear that NECA is a driving force in the electrical industry, and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the year has in store.

If you have any queries or require the support or advice of our NECA experts, please contact NECA Member Services on 1300 361 099.

Mynas Leontios Sydney

Behind the scenes in innovation and cutting-edge technology with NECA business partner Clipsal Schneider

Recently, we had a fantastic opportunity to take 40 electrical contractors on an exciting tour of the Clipsal Schneider Innovation Hub at Macquarie Park. All attendees were blown away by the wealth of innovative products that were on display: from electric vehicle (EV) chargers and Wiser smart home solutions to commercial and residential switches, sockets and power solutions.

With the latest technologies and design options in the market today, the Clipsal Innovation Hub showcases everything you need to power up your business in today’s rapidly changing environment.

During the tour, our NECA experts in safety, technical and legal provided invaluable insights on how to minimise risk and protect businesses against non-compliance with industry regulations. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of the safety

requirements and regulations related to SafeWork NSW’s Safety Blitz, technical updates on Australian Standards and rules, as well as information about cash flow issues, insolvency, bankruptcy, and best practice for getting paid on time. Additionally, they learned key business essentials to improve their business operations and gained knowledge about NECA membership and the support it offers during times of change.

this event was a great networking opportunity, allowing contractors to connect face to face with one of our industry’s leading product suppliers. Food and drinks were provided, making it a truly enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

We would like to express our gratitude to Aaron Katemis and Hastak Shah from Schneider Electric for organising the tour.

Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events and tours in the near future. In the meantime, feel free to explore the Clipsal Schneider Electric Innovation Hub at Macquarie Park, and discover how the latest products can help your business stay ahead of the curve. Visit the Clipsal Schneider website to book an appointment.

VICTORY FOR NECA LEGAL RECOVERING PAYMENT CLAIMS AND SETTLING DISPUTES

NECA’S LEGAL t EAM HAS ACHIEVED REMARKABLE SUCCESS IN t HE PAS t 12 MON t HS. t HEY HAVE CONSECU t IVELY WON 14 ADJUDICAt ION APPLICAt IONS, RESULt ING IN OVER $1 MILLION IN RECOVERED PAYMEN t S. MOREOVER, t HEIR EFFICIEN t LE tt ER OF DEMAND PROCESS HAS LED tO t HE SUCCESSFUL RECOVERY OF OVER $300,000! t HIS OU t S tANDING t RACK RECORD SHOWCASES t HE t EAM’S DEDICAt ION AND EXPER t ISE IN DELIVERING RESULt S FOR OUR MEMBERS.

NECA Legal continues to achieve exceptional results in the construction disputes space. In one recent example, NECA Legal helped a member with a case against a contractor who had initially issued a notice alleging liquidated damages in the order of $50,000 against our member, despite the contractor being the primary cause of the delays on the project. It was clear, as is often the case, that the contractor was facing issues with their client and was attempting to pass the liability down to our member in an attempt to ‘dip into’ their retention.

In this case, NECA Legal stepped in to assist our member when they were not paid the retention money they were owed. to achieve this, NECA Legal took a combined approach by preparing a payment claim against the contractor. they also prepared a notice of dispute under the contract, disputing the liquidated damages claim. the contractor never responded or engaged with our member under the dispute resolution process. the result was twofold: not only did the contractor pay the retention amount to our member, but it also resulted in a waiver of their position on liquidated damages.

Given the cash flow issues and insolvency events that are rife in the construction industry, the fact that our member stood up for themselves and enlisted strong legal assistance from the excellent team at NECA Legal meant they got their retention payment and were up by thousands, instead of down by thousands more (if the contractor had enforced the liquidated damages). this successful outcome showcases the effectiveness of NECA Legal’s intervention.

What to do if you have not been paid?

All electrical contractors conducting work or providing goods or services under a construction contract have the right to receive ‘progress payments’ for work delivered. this is to support cash flow to contractors.

As a business owner, unpaid invoices can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. Not only does it affect your cash flow, but it also impacts your overall business health. Fortunately, there are different strategies you can use to collect your debt.

If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry. NECA’s legal team is here to help. With years of experience in debt collection, they can guide you through the process and give you the support you need. Whether you need a letter of demand, statement of claim, security of payment, or statutory demand, their team can help you get the results you need to keep your business moving forward. Don’t let unpaid invoices stand in the way of your success - let NECA help you get back on track. Reach out to our expert legal team and get started on reclaiming what’s rightfully yours.

As a NECA member you have access to unlimited basic phone and email enquiries with our in-house legal team, who can advise you on various matters including debt recovery, retention of monies, and contract drafting/reviewing. Additionally, as a member, you have free access to a review of your invoices and letters of demand.

Additionally, our NECA Members’ Knowledge Base (MKB) provides a wealth of legal resources, such as the National Construction Code and the Building

and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act, and a variety of contract templates, including commercial contracts, do and charge contracts, and home building contracts.

With NECA membership, you have all the support and resources you need to be fully supported in your business operations.

Lessons from battling Security of Payment claims

Contractors along the payment chain face insolvency risks if funds don’t flow steadily. Electrical contractors, often at the end of the credit line, are particularly vulnerable when it comes to receiving payment.

NECA’s recent exclusive member-only webinar shares insights, wins, and frustrations from battling Security of Payment claims. the webinar also addresses the top five questions recently asked by NECA members, covering topics such as payment claims, adjudication, milestone payment regimes, and enforcing judgments. It also includes real-life successful determinations and an update on NECA’s ongoing reform efforts. NECA members can watch the webinar on MKB.

For support and advice, we encourage you to connect with NECA’s legal experts. Scan the QR code to submit your enquiry.

CONTACT NECA FOR EXPERT LEGAL ADVICE AND REPRESENTATION

CONSIDERING AN ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIP?

WI t H OVER 850 QUALI t Y APPREN t ICES EMPLOYED, NECA t RAINING AND APPREN t ICESHIPS ARE EXPER t S IN RECRUI t ING APPREN t ICES AND GAINING NAt IONAL RECOGNI t ION FOR OUR APPREN t ICES’ EFFOR t S.

NECA is ramping up recruitment for our 2024 intake, with industry demand continuing to rise. We are currently seeking first-year apprentices to commence their training during the upcoming summer season. We are looking for candidates to kick-start their career in this secure, well-paid industry in NSW, the ACt and southeast QLD. While we do employ a limited number of apprentices throughout the year, the majority begin their training between November and January.

Our recruitment expertise is reflected in the quality of apprentices we provide to the industry. Notably, completion rates for electrical apprenticeships within the Australian context typically hover around 55%. In contrast, NECA training and Apprenticeships has achieved a remarkable completion rate exceeding 90%. Our success can be attributed to identifying suitable candidates up front, the support we provide throughout the apprenticeship with our industryspecialist field officers/mentors and the excellent work opportunities provided by NECA members.

Applying is as simple as completing our Expression of Interest page on the NECA training website. From there, we run a pre-selection test to confirm the candidate has the mathematics and literacy level required to succeed as an electrician. Samples of this test are available on our website. those who pass the test are then invited in for an interview.

We are also interested in candidates’ proficiency with hand tools and their practical experience. A candidate who works well in teams, enjoys a hands-on role and meets the literacy and numeracy levels required to complete the trade is preferable to one who can score 100% in numeracy, but isn’t suited to the electrical contracting work environment.

For our NECA members, we offer support beyond recruitment. As a leading employer of apprentices within our industry, NECA training and Apprenticeships boasts extensive expertise spanning all facets of apprentice training, from recruitment to successful completion. Our assistance is readily available to members seeking support on

apprenticeship matters, irrespective of their status as NECA hosts.

these benefits apply to businesses of all sizes. NECA’s current hosts include the full range, from small family companies to the industry’s largest majors. NECA’s rates are very competitive and we take on most of the risks of employment. We have great candidates currently in southeast QLD and welcome opportunities to provide apprentices to new hosts in Brisbane and its surrounds.

For more advice or to enquire about becoming a host, call your local NECA office via the details below or email us at contact@necatraining.com.au

NEW DATA AND TELELCOMMUNICATION COURSES

SINCE 1988, NECA t RAINING HAS PROVIDED DYNAMIC, FIRS t-CLASS t RAINING COURSES t HAt KEEP INDUS t RY UP tO DAt E WI t H LEADING-EDGE t ECHNOLOGIES. AS t HE PEAK BODY FOR t HE t ELECOMMUNICAt IONS AND ELEC t RICAL INDUS t RIES, NECA PROVIDES SUPERIOR t RAINING AND FACILI t IES SO t HAt INDUS t RY’S SKILLED LABOUR FORCE CAN AN t ICIPAt E t HE NEEDS OF t HE FU t URE.

With technology evolving at high speed, communications and automation continues to dominate the landscape. Electrical professionals looking to expand their capabilities into new, complimentary areas can take advantage of our purpose-built facilities at NECA’s Centre of Excellence in Chullora.

the cabling environment in data and telecommunications has dramatically changed in recent years. With new technology driving specialised solutions, the demand for more advanced technicians is constantly growing. Standards are changing exponentially in a space that has always been heavily regulated. It is therefore critical to ensure that data

and telecommunications training meets all requirements and evolves with industry’s ever-changing needs.

With a state-of-the-art lab-type training facility, NECA training can now upskill telecommunications technicians and provide a pathway for the cabler into the digital age. NECA training’s post-trade offering includes optical fibre, the Internet of things (Iot) and ACMA registration courses. With the latest digital equipment and networking devices, experienced trainers deliver HANDS-ON training using top-quality technical resources.

traditionally electrical and communications cablers have

concentrated on open registration and endorsements. NECA has designed an innovative skillset that aims at the convergence of cabling equipment and provides an excellent pathway for both types of cablers to build on their expertise. the NECA skillset includes basic IP, equipment installation and network fault location, to close the gap between the cabler and the equipment/It installer.

With a more skilled workforce, businesses can benefit from valuable technical resources, up-to-date best practices, better workplace outcomes and improved productivity.

NECA TELECOMMUNICATIONS PROVIDE Nationally recognised training Specialists in the telecommunications and electrical industries

Train with professionals, someone you can trust NECA provides training for the industry by the industry

Anyone can enrol (including non-members)

TELECOMMUNICATIONS COURSES AVAILABLE

Open Registration Courses

Structured Cabling (Cat 5-7)

Coaxial Cabling

Optic Fibre Terminations

Open Registration Exam for Electricians

Working Near Electricity Network – Initial

Working New Electricity Network – Refresher

More courses available

WE ARE NOT-FOR-PROFIT | PASSING THE BENEFITS ON TO YOU

CALL (02) 9288 4424

EMAIL skills@necatraining.com.au

QLD BRANCH

BRANCH UPDATE

Christopher Gradwell NECA QLD Member Manager

Welcome to the September issue of NECA News

As a previous electrical contracting business owner, it’s crucial to stay up to date on the latest industry trends and regulations to keep your company running smoothly. In this issue we share some important updates with you to help you run your business better including dealing with unpaid debts and hosting an apprentice.

On another note, as the electrical industry continues to grow and evolve, it’s important to stay connected and up to date on the latest advancements and best practices. that’s why I’m encouraging all electrical contractors to reach out to their local wholesalers and ask them to host an industry night with NECA. this will create an opportunity for professionals to come together and share their knowledge and experiences while also building valuable relationships within their community.

End the stress of unpaid debts

Dealing with unpaid debts can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Fortunately, there are effective measures you can take to address the issue and ease your mind.

In one instance, one of our members, (a small business owner) recently contacted us regarding accusations made by an employee that they had terminated. the employee raised multiple allegations, from unfair dismissal and gender identity discrimination to mental health protection. the employee also filed a psychological injury-related compensation claim and a complaint with SafeWork.

NECA’s Legal team were quick to assist this member with this case. NECA Legal’s team brought this case to conciliation where they objected to the employee’s case, and settled the

matter without paying any money and reduced the employees claim down to signing off their eprofiling cards.

the NECA member was extremely grateful. After the matter was resolved he said that it was like 20 tonnes of weight had been lifted from him. Now he can sleep better, start smiling again and refocus on his business. this case is a clear example of the invaluable support and guidance NECA can provide to members dealing with legal issues. If you’re facing a similar issue, we encourage you to seek help from our NECA legal experts who can guide you through the process. Your NECA Membership provides you with unlimited basic phone and email enquiries with our in-house legal team on all matters including debt recovery, retention of monies, drafting and reviewing contracts.

Scan the QR to submit your enquiry or contact us on 1300 361 099.

Queensland Regulator Update

Ergon and Energex commence privatelyowned property pole inspection programs

In August 2023, Ergon Energy Network/ Energex began carrying out both visual and serviceability inspections of customer’s first privately-owned property pole which the Point of Attachment and Connection Point is attached to. Any Privately Owned Electric Lines (POEL) assets attached to the first privately-owned property pole will also be inspected.

the aim of this inspection program is to enhance community safety, ensure the safety of the electricity network and manage bushfire risk. the landowner remains legally responsible for rectifying any defects

found on the first privately-owned property power pole through these inspections, as well as the ongoing inspection and maintenance of any other privately-owned electrical asset.

During these inspections, Ergon Energy Network/Energex will be undertaking a comprehensive assessment of the first privately-owned property power pole, potentially digging around the base of the pole, as well as other tests to determine the integrity of the pole and other components.

If defects are identified, the landowner will be advised to arrange to repair the defect(s), within specific timeframes depending on the severity of the defect, by engaging the services of an electrical contractor (or other provider) who is qualified to do the works.

As part of this program, Ergon and Energex may provide details of the NECA contact centre phone number (1300 361 099) to landowners, who may then contact NECA to find the details of a local electrical contractor.

this may result in increased work for you as a contractor, because of the scale of the inspection program and the promotion of the importance of privately-owned asset inspections.

Should you undertake any work to replace or rectify private power poles, you will be required to issue a Certificate of testing and Compliance to the customer on completion. this may need to be emailed to Ergon Energy Network/ Energex by the customer, or by the electrical contractor, to confirm the defects have been addressed.

For any landowner-requested pole repairs, an Electrical Work Request (EWR) will need to be submitted to Ergon Energy Network/Energex to relocate the services to the new pole.

What is a privately-owned property power pole?

A privately-owned property power pole is a pole that was erected by a landowner, probably when power was first connected. Ergon Energy Network/Energex’s electricity network connects to the first privately-owned property power pole (usually within 20 metres of the property boundary) to supply power to a home or other

buildings on the property. these poles can look like the ‘poles and wires’ on the street, and are typically made of timber, concrete or steel.

these poles are noted as privatelyowned in Ergon’s records and may also have an identifying number/letter label on them. If not, they may add one to the pole following the inspection.

NECA Members requiring clarification on these inspections or other technical issues are encouraged to connect with NECA technical.

Haymans Arc Flash and 61439 Information Session

Attendees of the Haymans Arc Flash and 61439 Information Session were treated to a wealth of valuable insights. Led by Michael Horsham, NECA Queensland technical advisor, commercial electrical contractors within the region gathered to learn more about AS/NZS 61439 Switchboard compliance and shed light on crucial considerations and diverse requirements. they were also guided through the necessary documentation process to ensure the smooth delivery of compliant projects.

Equipped with this knowledge, contractors unlocked a deeper understanding and proficiency in switchboard compliance standards, paving the way for successful execution of future projects in accordance

Has your business or site been audited?

In May this year, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland inspectors commenced respirable crystalline silica (RCS) audits at construction sites and workplaces which manufacture construction elements. Working with materials that contain crystalline silica can generate dangerous RCS dust. the workplace exposure standard is 0.05 milligrams per cubic metre averaged over an eight-hour period (eight-hour time weighted average (tWA)).

tasks such as cutting, sawing, grinding, drilling, polishing, scabbling and crushing materials that contain one percent or more of crystalline silica can generate RCS. Other tasks like dry sweeping or using compressed air can also disturb settled dust containing RCS and make it airborne.

Because of this risk, any construction task that generates RCS from a product containing one percent or more of crystalline silica is considered high-risk construction work. Being classed as high-risk construction work, means it is mandatory for a Safe Work Method Statement to be produced and implemented into your business prior to any work with RCS taking place.

WHY YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS AN APPRENTICE

IN OUR DYNAMIC AND EVER-EVOLVING INDUS t RY, S tAYING AHEAD OF t HE COMPE t I t ION REQUIRES NOt ONLY EXPER t ISE, BU t ALSO A COMMI t MEN t t O NUR t URING t HE NEX t GENERAt ION OF SKILLED PROFESSIONALS. HIRING A NECA APPREN t ICE CAN PROVE tO BE A S t RAt EGIC MOVE t HAt BENEFI t S BOt H BUSINESSES AND t HE INDUS t RY AS A WHOLE. NECA APPREN t ICES BRING A UNIQUE BLEND OF t HEORE t ICAL KNOWLEDGE AND HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE, MAKING t HEM AN INVALUABLE ASSE t FOR ANY ELEC t RICAL BUSINESS.

Here’s why your electrical business should consider becoming a host employer with NECA Electrical Apprenticeships:

Quality training and education

NECA Electrical Apprenticeships employ quality apprentices who have been recruited and are job-prepared. Apprentices who undergo NECA training are equipped with a solid foundation in electrical theory, WHS training, and practical skills. By hiring a NECA apprentice, your business gains access to this wellrounded education, which can lead to higher quality work and safer job sites.

Industry-relevant skills

NECA apprenticeships focus on imparting skills that are directly applicable to the electrical industry’s evolving demands. With rapid advancements in technology, energy efficiency, and automation, having employees who are up to date with the latest trends and techniques is crucial. NECA Apprentices are job ready with the following:

½ White Card;

½ Working at Heights; and

½ Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) plus Low Voltage Rescue (LVR).

Reduced Labour Shortages

the electrical industry often faces a shortage of skilled workers due to the retirement of older professionals and a lack of new entrants. By hiring NECA

apprentices, your business plays a proactive role in addressing this shortage. You contribute to the development of the next generation of electricians, helping to bridge the skills gap and ensure a sustainable workforce for the industry.

Cost-effective solution

By becoming a hosting company, you pay a fixed charge-out rate, whilst they take on all the added costs, responsibility and risk. You can take on an apprentice from three months to four years. NECA Electrical Apprenticeships has a large pool of apprentices and will endeavour to supply one who meets your needs.

Recruitment process

NECA Electrical Apprenticeships are recruitment specialists and have been recruiting apprentices for a long time. they advertise and manage a large funnel of candidates, giving them a large talent pool. their aptitude testing and interview and selection processes ensure their apprentices are a good fit for the industry.

Long-term investment

Hiring a NECA apprentice is not just a shortterm solution; it’s an investment in the future. As your apprentice gains experience and proficiency, they can become valuable assets to your business. Many successful electrical contractors started their careers as apprentices and have grown within the same company, contributing to its growth and success over the years.

Hosting an Apprentice is easy, so you can focus on training them

Once you are registered as a host trainer, a phone call is all that is necessary to arrange an apprentice. NECA Electrical Apprenticeships will provide a mentor who will visit the apprentice at your site. Our field offices are assigned to an apprentice, giving the host and the apprentice a point of contact, helping with the management of performance and personal issues that can impact a young working person.

NECA Electrical Apprenticeships takes care of the training contract and college enrolment, and pay all super and insurance, allowing you, as the host, to focus on training the apprentice.

NECA Electrical Apprenticeships is not for profit. Our charge-out rates are generally cost-neutral, meaning the cost of having a NECA apprentice would be the same as directly employing them, without all the extra burden.

If you are interested in becoming a host and want to know more, scan the QR code below to submit your details. A NECA Representative will contact you to discuss your requirements to give you the exact solution for your apprentice labour needs.

Contact 1300 361 099 for more information or scan the QR code to submit your expression of interest.

SA/NT BRANCH

BRANCH UPDATE

Larry Moore NECA SA/NT Executive Director

OUR INDUS t RY GALA DINNER, HELD ON FRIDAY 15 SEP t EMBER 2023, WAS AN OU t S tANDING SUCCESS

WI t H OVER 450 Att ENDEES ENJOYING AN EVENING FILLED WI t H GREAt EN t ER tAINMEN t, FAN tAS t IC FOOD AND WINE, AND INDUS t RY ACHIEVEMEN t S ON DISPLAY BY

BOt H MEMBERS AND t HEIR APPREN t ICES.

We wish to congratulate all winners and finalists of the Excellence, Small Business, and Apprentice of the Year Awards and thank all of those who nominated a project, their small business, or an apprentice. It is pleasing to once again see the great projects our members are undertaking, the operations of the fantastic small businesses across South Australia and the Northern territory, and the brilliant apprentices they are employing.

I would like to sincerely thank everyone who attended the event and showed support for our industry and the association.

We have once again received excellent feedback regarding the event, which is growing in numbers and popularity each year.

the evening began with a welcoming address from Andrew Cross, President of the NECA SA/ Nt branch. Once the evening’s formalities had finished, the Baker Boys band had the dance floor full, with a fantastic lineup of new and old songs.

Our sincere thanks to all our fantastic sponsors, because quite simply this event could not be run

without their generous support. Our sponsors this year, included:

Perpetual Sponsor

Schneider Electric

National Business Partners (Tier 1)

Schneider Electric, NHP and MMEM

National Business Partner (Tier 2)

IPD/ABB

Apprentice Sponsor

MEGt

Gold Sponsors

Cbus Super and NECA Careers & Apprenticeships (NCA)

Product Sponsor

Milwaukee tools

Silver Sponsor

simPRO

Award Sponsors

E-Oz Energy Skills Australia, PEER, and Portable Long Service Leave

Bronze Sponsor

CNW

the Excellence Awards provide an opportunity for electrical and communications contractors to showcase the high-quality work they perform daily. the Small Business Awards recognise our members who are making an impact in the industry and deserve to be acknowledged at the highest level. the Apprentice Awards commend the top apprentices in our industry based on their technical abilities, general knowledge, attitude, passion, and desire to succeed in their career.

the full write-up on this year’s NECA SA/Nt Excellence, Small Business and Apprentice Awards will be featured in the December edition of the NECA News magazine.

If you have a project, small business, or apprentice that you are proud of, we encourage you to seriously consider entering the 2024 NECA SA/Nt Excellence, Small Business and Apprentice Awards where the rewards are significant. If you have a project, small business, or apprentice in mind, it would be very beneficial to start thinking about your submission now! For the first time ever, we offered a free submission writing service that was very popular amongst members, and we are pleased to say this service will be available again next year! If you would like further information on entering a project, small business, or apprentice into the awards, please contact the NECA SA/Nt office and speak to Jamie Phillips, Marketing, Communications and Membership Manager.

New Workplace Relations Advisor

We are pleased to announce the appointment of our new Workplace Relations Advisor, Dain Venning, who commenced with NECA SA/Nt on tuesday 13 June 2023. Dain studied Law and Arts at the University of Adelaide.

Dain previously worked for the Federal Government in a project management role and is looking forward to a new challenge at NECA SA/Nt

We warmly welcome Dain to the team.

Specialist Contractors Association Annual Business Luncheon

On Friday 4 August 2023, we held our Specialist Contractors Association Annual Business Luncheon at the National Wine Centre, which saw over 150 attendees informed about managing risk in construction contracts.

Our esteemed presenter, John Murray AM, author of the acclaimed Murray Review, gave an outstanding presentation on Security of Payment legislation, statutory trusts, and unfair contract terms. Subsequently, the audience heard from a panel of experts including Andrew O’Connor from O’Connor Services, Kent Johns from NECA National, Michael Hutton from Lynch Meyer Lawyers,

Richard Luscombe from Windsor Management Insurance Brokers, and our keynote speaker John Murray AM. the event was an outstanding success with all attendees providing great feedback on the quality of the content and the fantastic networking opportunities available. We thank those who attended for taking the time to be there, and we sincerely thank our presenters and panel for their invaluable input.

For further information or assistance with any of the above, please contact the NECA SA/Nt team on (08) 8272 2966.

Peter Lamont Director ACRS and Senior Policy Advisor peter.lamont@neca.asn.au

What’s most important to Australian cablers?

t he Australian Cabler Registration Service (ACRS) and other cabler registered bodies partnered together and recently did a small survey of registered cablers to find out what they’re most concerned about and what they’d like to know more about. It proved very interesting.

We asked two big questions. First, we asked cablers to rate 10 topics they’d be interested in learning more about, ranging from the AS/CA S009 Standard to topics like deploying wireless properly, infrastructure for the Internet of t hings, risk mitigation (or ‘covering your butt’) and HDBaset (a consumer electronic and commercial connectivity standard) amongst others.

t he topic about the AS/CA S009 Standard stood out, so it was the first of our series of free webinars for cablers that we ran on 8 August. We called it, ‘ t he Importance of Applying S009 and adhering to its Guidelines’.

t he other big question was what topics you, the cabler, are most concerned about. A lot it seems, from the responses we got. It’s clear there’s some frustration in the industry these days.

One of the biggest was the quality of cabling work being done by so-called ‘cowboys’, as well as electricians. Obviously, some people are working out there without a cabler registration, and it is up to all of us to report such instances to the customer and complete the t CA-1 compliance form, or to make sure the information required by the t CA-1 form is included in your invoice.

Another major bugbear is the national broadband network (NBN),

with requests for a webinar on this topic too. One issue that seems to irk many of you is around the NBN equipment you need to alter it, and the accompanying document from the NBN. By the way it is worth having a copy and reading it. (Just search for the Authority to Alter NBN form and you will find it).

t he lack of auditing undertaken by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) was also raised. t his is a standing agenda item for all registrars and the International Copper Association Australia, but it has been a hard nut to crack. What we need is more complaints from the public, so if you see bad work, tell your customers to report it to the ACMA.

Digital media on coax also featured, particularly installing cabling to AS/NZS 14763 part 2 of a customer’s premises and overlaying remote power. t his then overlaps Power Over Ethernet (PoE) which brings in heat rise in cable and the derating of cabling systems under remote power.

t here were other issues you raised, including fibre. Many of these will be handled in our series of webinars. We hope to see you online soon on zoom.

ACRS will send you notifications through our quarterly newsletters, including registration details for these webinars. Once you have registered, we will send you a link to the webinar. It is important to notify ACRS if you have changed your postal address, mobile or email. t his will ensure you receive your renewal notification and renew your registration on time. Simply email enquiries@acrs.com.au or phone us on 1300 667 771.

TO GROW OR NOT TO GROW? A DEAL WITH THE DEVIL?

NIKOLA t ESLA FAMOUSLY CAME UP WI t H t HE CONCEP t UAL SOLU t ION FOR t HE ROtAt ING MAGNE t IC FIELD, t HE HEAR t OF ELEC t RICAL GENERAt ION. t HIS HAPPENED WHILE PONDERING GOE t HE’S FAUS t, t HE CLASSICAL DEAL WI t H t HE DEVIL POEM. ONE OF t HE t EN GREAt ES t DISCOVERIES OF ALL t IMES WAS BORN At t HIS GLORIOUS MOMEN t AND WI t H I t, OUR WHOLE INDUS t RY WAS BORN.

So is the question, to grow or not, more a product of ‘better the devil you know’, than the devil you are about to do a deal with?

At some point, the small business owner must ask themselves that question. What drives that question? too many late nights, early mornings, and weekends on the tools? Maybe the call-out that drops just as the footy starts? Or the customer who just won’t pay their bill?

Not surprisingly, most will usually end at ‘it’s just too hard’. Pressed on why, the answers flow rather quickly. I’m a perfectionist, everyone wants too much money, my turnover can’t support two people. Based on that, you can see why growing your business kind of feels like doing a deal with the devil. there may be some wins, but what losses await?

If only we had a system where you can train someone exactly how you like to do things. to have the same values as you, the same focus, drive and motivation?

We do. It’s the apprenticeship, and it’s been around for millennia.

to quote an NCVER report by Brian Knight: ‘Australia’s apprenticeship system was imported from Great Britain with permanent European settlement in 1788. However, the apprenticeship mode of skills transfer can be traced back to early civilisation.’

‘It is inconceivable that the great structures of ancient and medieval times, such as temples, cathedrals, viaducts and ships, could have been built without an effective system for intergenerational skills transfer. Apprenticeship is one of the few employment institutions from medieval times still recognisable today.’

In earlier times apprenticeships had a number of objectives…the most important was to ensure that the skills of master craftsmen were passed on from one generation to the next. (Knight, B 2012, Evolution of apprenticeships and traineeships in Australia: an unfinished history, NCVER, Adelaide.)

Hard to disagree with Knight there, for are we not the halo trade? Considering every electrician is the product of an apprenticeship, it only makes sense that a small business operator – the veritable sparky in a van - should think about taking on an apprentice when the seed of growing the business is first planted. Someone who you can mould into the future sparky, ready to take over from you.

Of course, some apprentices just want to move on, but growth in a business is still intrinsically linked to growth in industry. With the future of our industry tied so heavily to emerging technologies and practices, whether renewable energy, electric vehicles or something we haven’t even conceived yet, the youth of today are the future of our industry.

So maybe taking on an apprentice is not so much a deal with the devil, but a gift from Prometheus.

Steve Hall General Manager, College of Electrical Training

SO, YOU HAVE THE RIGHT POWER BACKUP, THINK AGAIN

As I reflect on the last 25 years of working in the electrical field, both in Australia and abroad, I realised how fortunate I have been to be part of a critical industry. I’ve worked on offshore petroleum marine rigs, pre-designed low voltage (LV) and medium voltage (MV) switchboards and electrical transportable buildings. Now I’m with Schneider-ASCO Pt, promoting power source management. the question about power reliability and the effectiveness of the emergency power backup to minimise the impact of power loss has always been the core of any critical building design.

In a perfect world we should not see any power interruption; however, as most of us have experienced in recent years the destructive forces of nature and the effect of rapid climate changes from fire, floods and storms has become part of our life. Our infrastructure needs to be equipped to provide our critical facilities with plan B for backup power or emergency power.

Backup power consists of multi-layers and equipment like battery sources or an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) system, depending on the load criticality.

Standby generators are one of the most commonly used emergency power sources. to transfer between the grid network’s main source of power and the emergency power from generators we use automatic transfer switch equipment (AtSE).

transfer switches can be PC class switches, CC class contactors or CB Class circuit-breakers. For an additional level of redundancy, and to eliminate having one point of failure, the design can also have isolation bypass transfer switches or a wraparound manual transfer switch to bypass the automatic transfer switch (AtS) during the periodic maintenance service or in the event of a failure scenario.

the major functions of an automatic transfer switch are to: carry currents continuously, detect power failure, initiate an alternate source (generator), transfer load, sense restorations to normal, re-transfer to normal and withstand and close-on fault currents.

transfer switches are not UPSs and cannot provide immediate power in the event of unplanned network distributions.

For transfer switches the two types of transfers are:

½ open transitions transfer switch (O tt S) also known as break-before-make; or

½ closed transition transfer switch (C tt S) also known as make-before-break.

the most common type of AtS is the open transitions transfer switches. the AtS can be two positions (source I - source II) without an off position. these can provide a very fast transfer (tens of milliseconds) between sources to eliminate the interruption time. It’s worth noting that activating the in-phase monitor is quite helpful while transferring motor loads

An open transition transfer switch can also be a three positions switch (source 1 – off - source II). this is known as a delayed transitions transfer switch (DttS) and the transfer occurs from seconds to minutes.

When you have multiple AtSs in one installation the delayed transitions can be very useful to stagger the load on the generator by having a different time delay before transferring between sources.

In some applications like hospitals, telecomms, etc., there is a need for closed transitions transfer switches, whereby the transfer occurs by

paralleling the normal and emergency source to re-transfer without power interruption for a very short period.

the switch transfers using a make-before-break sequence if both power sources are within acceptable parameters. Control logic continuously monitors source conditions and automatically selects open or closed transition according to real-time values. the overlap time is less than 100 milliseconds

It’s important to note that having a regular maintenance routine (predictive maintenance) for all backup power switchgear and equipment is vital to guarantee the reliability of the system.

In Australia and New Zealand, the following standards guide the selection of transfer switches:

½ AS/NZS 60947.6.1 driven from the IEC60947.6.1 Multiple function equipment – transfer switching equipment;

½ AS/NZS 3010:2017 Electrical Installations – Generating sets;

½ AS/NZS 3000:2018 Electrical Installations (Australia and New Zealand Wiring Rules).

In addition, consultants and specifiers for critical power applications may refer to compliance with UL1008.

What you need to look for in a transfer switch is qualification and certification to IEC 60947-6-1. Or if UL1008 is mentioned then the product will be published as UL-listed.

Additionally, you need to check with your local supply authority on the service installation rules as these may differ between states.

Tamer Mikhael BDM for ASCO Power Technologies APAC

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2022 AND THE FUTURE OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE

As we move towards a greener and more sustainable future, the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly gaining momentum. In fact, more EVs were sold in the first half of 2023 than in all of 2022, so it’s important that EV charging infrastructure is robust enough to keep up with the increasing demand.

to this end, the introduction of the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 means that a dedicated electric vehicle distribution board (EV DB) is required for new buildings, which presents electrical contractors in Australia with a transformative opportunity. In this editorial, we will explain the crucial role NECA members can play in the development of EV charging infrastructure and the importance of load management in the Australian market.

the NCC 2022 will be at the forefront in shaping the infrastructure landscape in Australia. It recognises the importance of sustainable practices and mandates certain requirements for EV charging infrastructure in new buildings and major renovations. Electrical contractors need to be well-versed with these regulations to ensure compliance.

the NCC 2022 requires that a certain percentage of parking spaces in new developments, and significant renovations, be equipped with EV charging points. this measure is a game-changer for the electric vehicle industry, as it ensures accessibility to chargers for the convenience of EV owners. Electrical contractors must collaborate closely with architects, builders and developers to plan and install the necessary charging infrastructure in compliance with the NCC 2022.

Dedicated electric vehicle distribution boards - what contractors need to know

One of the essential components of efficient EV charging infrastructure is a dedicated EV DB. this distribution board is designed to handle the unique electrical demands of multiple EV chargers simultaneously. It ensures a seamless and optimised charging

experience for EV users while preventing overloads and electrical hazards.

Electrical contractors should be proactive in advocating for the inclusion of EV DBs in new constructions and renovations to comply with NCC 2022. By educating clients and stakeholders about the benefits of dedicated EV DBs, contractors can play a pivotal role in setting up future-proof EV charging infrastructure that meets the demands of this expanding market.

Load managementbalancing the grid

As the number of EVs on Australian roads increases, load management becomes a critical aspect of EV charging infrastructure. Load management refers to the strategic control of electricity demand to prevent grid overloads and power supply issues. It ensures that EVs can be charged efficiently without putting undue stress on the electrical grid.

Electrical contractors should employ load management strategies such as smart charging and demand-response technologies to stagger the charging times of multiple EVs. By doing so, contractors can avoid peak demand spikes, maximise the utilisation of renewable energy sources and minimise electricity costs for EV owners.

Modes of EV chargingunderstanding the options

there are several modes of EV charging, each offering unique benefits and use cases.

Level 1 charging

this is the most basic form of charging, utilising a standard household power outlet. It is slow and best suited for overnight charging at home.

Level 2 charging

Requires a 240-volt outlet and offers faster charging times compared to Level 1. they are commonly used in residential, commercial and public charging stations.

Level 3 charging (DC fast charging)

DC fast charging is ideal for public charging stations along highways and busy routes. It can charge an EV to 80% capacity in a relatively short time.

As the demand for EV charging infrastructure soars in Australia, electrical contractors find themselves in a pivotal position to drive change. By familiarising themselves with the NCC 2022, advocating for dedicated EV DBs and implementing effective load management strategies, contractors can ensure a smooth and sustainable transition to an electric future, while also benefitting from the additional business this will bring.

to help you take advantage of this transformative opportunity, NHP has partnered with Delta - one of the world’s largest EV charger manufacturers – to bring a range of high-quality EV charging products to the local market. these are suitable for most applications in most industries, as well as councils and commercial and residential buildings.

NHP offers a range of Delta EV chargers from the basic 7kW AC option to the 350kW ultra-fast charging option. Our team of dedicated engineers have also developed in-house solutions to meet local changing EV infrastructure needs, including NCC compliant EV DBs, the NHP Load Management System and EV readiness site assessment services.

For more information on NHP’s EV solutions, go to nhp.com.au/EV or speak to NHP’s EV specialists on 1300 NHP NHP.

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COMPLIANCE WITH AS/NZS 3000: “THE WIRING RULES”

History of the Wiring Rules

Prior to the year 2000 there were ten editions of the Wiring Rules. the rules started in 1931 and up until 1991 they were generally prescriptive. Over time, they went through a transformation as technology changed and safety provisions required enhancing as electrical equipment was becoming more commonplace.

At the turn of the millennium, we seemed to have had a Y2K moment … it was as if time had been altered and the ‘purple’ book had eaten the yellow book of old. the ‘Wiring Rules’ as we knew it was totally revamped from a book of predominantly yes and no rules, to a different format used as a guide to wiring.

For most electricians this caused confusion and allowed worst case scenarios to exist, as the lowest common denominator was being introduced by electricians taking advantage of obscure rules. this happened mainly because they didn’t understand the intention of the way the rule book was written.

this was not the intention of the committee at the time, as there was a handbook that was also issued alongside the rules. this handbook was known as HB 301-2001 Electrical

Installations: Designing to the Wiring Rules, and it was designed to facilitate the requirements of the 289-page version. this was a great book and complemented the newly formatted purple book. However, not many electricians purchased it as traditionally we only worked to one book. I was guilty of this too, having only become aware of this book some years later. Maybe if we had all purchased the handbook, the format and use of the 2000 edition would have been clearer, but hindsight is a wonderful thing.

the purple book was amended three times until the rewritten version came out in 2007. this was again amended a few times until our current rules came into being. these are AS/NZS 3000:2018, which incorporate three amendments. the current Wiring Rules are more prescriptive, but nowhere near the same level as the 1991 rules and prior. Whatever solution we apply to an installation, we still must determine that any failing can still be attributed to the electrician not following a few clauses at the beginning of the Wiring Rules.

We have recently seen Amendment 3. this will be the last amendment until a rewrite of the entire book in about five to eight years’ time.

Key clauses

there are three clauses that underpin the concept of the Wiring Rules and electrical safety. they are clauses 1.5, 1.6 and 1.7. the key words from clause 1.5 are words to the effect that the rules are intended to protect person, property and livestock against danger and damage. In that regard, not much has changed since the first publication of the original book in 1931.

Our main function as electricians is to ensure compliance and in doing so, stop installations from catching fire and protect people from receiving electric shocks or being electrocuted.

½ Clause 1.5 provides the fundamentals of the Wiring Rules and being fourteen subclauses deep, is very detailed;

½ Clause 1.6 talks about safety by design. Again, it refers to protecting persons, property, and livestock. It is not as long as clause 1.5, but it is just as important and underpins the fundamental learnings from the Certificate III Electrotechnology or similar that we completed before becoming licenced;

½ Clause 1.7 again refers to safety and reducing, minimising, or eliminating the risk to anyone or anything through fire or electric shock. It also mentions safe and sound installation practices. Compliance with this

standard is all about safety, not only for consumers, but us as well. If we fail to follow the rules, then we can place ourselves at risk of electric shock or worse, including arc flash burns.

We need to understand that compliance with these rules is a bare minimum. We can always work above these rules. For some time now I have been hearing, ‘but the clause says…’. Yes, but while a clause may state one direction, ask yourself are you satisfied that you are following the three clauses I’ve mentioned?

Regulators have difficulty in applying clauses that aren’t black and white. Personal opinion doesn’t count for a defect and can’t be applied. Clauses 1.5, 1.6 and 1.7 are hard to apply to defective work by a regulator on their own and need to be accompanied with another clause; however, a solicitor or barrister can apply the language of these three clauses if an electrician is being questioned in court about why a person is either hurt or dead.

Testing installations

A big part of what we do as electricians is testing. there are six mandatory tests in section 8 of the Wiring Rules. We should all complete tests every time we do work, no matter how small the job is. Yes, I hear you … it takes time and time is money but ask yourself this. How much is a human life worth… either yours or your client’s?

Another standard that has recently been rewritten is AS/NZS 3017:2022

Verification by inspecting and testing. this is a great standard for refreshing testing and learning different methods

of testing. It is much clearer than the previous version and is in colour. It is a fantastic manual for teaching apprentices and experienced electricians alike.

Just because the rules are not prescriptive…

When it comes to prescriptive versus subjective, one rule that comes to mind is the support of cables in roof spaces. For some years now I have seen, and I still hear about, the lack of cable clips on wiring in ceilings. Really, there is no excuse. Just because the clause is subjective and not prescriptive, does that mean you can just throw the cable across the ceiling and roof trusses?

No, plain and simple no, but there is no prescriptive means of knowing what to do. the 1991 version of the Wiring Rules stated cables were to be clipped every 300 mm or as most electricians know, a hammer handle length. When within two metres of a manhole, the distance was every 200 mm or a plier handle length.

the current clause 3.3.2.8 is “Other mechanical stresses” and while it doesn’t specify how far apart or how many cable supports there should be, to me and most electricians that used the 1991 book and prior, we would use 300 mm as a benchmark. Most electricians still do.

So why is it that post 2000 electricians are not doing this? there are many reasons, but none of them are valid excuses.

Again, let’s go back to clauses 1.5, 1.6 and 1.7. these are what I call “you use a clause to say what you are doing is correct. these can be used against you to say what you read and interpret is not safe,” clauses.

Wordy I know, but compliance is down to a few basic rules.

½ Remember, at the end of the day, our job is to ensure a safe and reliable electrical installation. Again, we are protecting persons, property and livestock from the harmful effects of electricity;

½ We must use our skills to test and in doing so, clients see us testing. t hey may have no idea what we are doing but are reassured that we are doing the right thing by them;

½ take pride in the fact that only electricians know elec-trickery and can test for a phenomenon that is not seen, heard or has a smell. t he bang test just doesn’t cut it.

Be safe. Go above what the rules state and don’t argue for “at or below” the level or the rules. Being compliant doesn’t just mean you are following the rules’ base line, it means you are considering the base and going above. It doesn’t have to be much above; however, it shows that you have read the rules and are being more than just compliant.

Grant Morehouse Technical Manager, NECA Group

FAMILY SEPARATION AND SMALL BUSINESS

IF YOU RUN A BUSINESS t HAt EMPLOYS UP tO 19 PEOPLE, YOU ARE ONE OF t HE MORE t HAN 2,500,000 MICRO AND SMALL BUSINESSES OPERAt ING IN AUS t RALIA.

these businesses include partnerships, sole traders and companies, along with Family and Unit trusts controlled by individual or company trustees.

Whatever the formal structure, there are often many factors that impact on business arrangements.

Many businesses are owned by people who are married or in a de facto relationship. the spouse couple might both be participating in the day-today functions of the business, or it could be run by one of the spouses alone. Perhaps there are third parties in a formal partnership agreement or involved as company shareholders.

the business may have been built over many years. the spouse couple may be directors and shareholders of a company structure, or trustees and appointors of a trust. there might be director’s loans or beneficiary loan accounts on the balance sheet. the family home could have been used as security for business loans; and the cars, used by the couple every day, held by and financed through the business. If it is a family business, there may not have been formal employment provisions in place for family members who have worked in and contributed to the business’s growth.

When the couple relationship ends, unravelling those business arrangements can be complicated. the business does not stop functioning because of a separation, but a new set of considerations must be dealt with.

After separation, a couple’s assets are divided between

them in accordance with the provisions of Australia’s Family Law Act 1975. this considers the financial and non-financial contributions each person has made to the relationship, as well as how particular issues will affect their ability to be financially independent in the future.

An interest that either spouse has in a business will be considered as part of that asset division, along with other holdings such as a family home, investment property and motor vehicles. It does not matter if only one of the spouses has been involved in running or working in the business. the process of dividing assets requires that the assets be assigned a value. In some circumstances, values can be agreed between the spouses. If there is no agreement, an independent valuation is obtained.

Valuing a business can be approached in several ways, and the method used will depend on the nature and structure of the business. Importantly, the business’ value for Family Law purposes may not be the same value that would be assigned to a business being prepared for sale. As such, a valuation should be undertaken by an experienced business valuer.

to obtain a valuation, all relevant financial information must be provided to the valuer. that includes bank statements, tax returns, financial statements, employee records, loan documentation, constitutions and trust deeds. the spouse couple should agree on who will be appointed as the valuer and be clear about the information and documents to be given to them. to avoid incurring unnecessary costs

and inflaming dispute, the valuation process should be transparent and communicated to both spouse parties. the separated couple may have an accountant who can assist with identifying and gathering information and sharing it with the Valuer and lawyers as may be required.

After separation the couple can either continue to jointly manage the business, dissolve it and split the proceeds, or one person can buy out the other. the decision taken will require careful consideration of the needs of each person in relation to ensuring business continuity, rearranging operations, and redefining entitlements.

Ongoing joint management requires both people to progress the separation in a respectful and civil manner, with emotional issues kept out of the practical decision making required to run a business. that may not be achievable. It is therefore prudent to get legal advice at an early stage, to make well-informed decisions.

If it’s agreed that one party will end their involvement in the business, it is important that process is done correctly.

For example, one person might need to resign as a director, transfer shares in a company to the other spouse and remove themselves from control of a trust. Loans, guarantees, claims and liability issues will need to be dealt with.

If the business is to be sold, the couple will need to jointly appoint an agent and agree the sale price, irrespective of

whether both have formal ownership of the business. this avoids disputes arising from one person appearing to control the sale process to their advantage.

Even if you are not separated, you might want to review how your business is operating to minimise the impact of a separation or divorce, should that happen.

If you are not keeping up-to-date and accurate financial records, are taking cash in hand work, or do not have shareholder agreements that include provisions around valuing the business, share transfers between shareholders, and dispute resolution processes, then you may find you will incur substantially more costs than you need to if you separate.

If you require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact your local branch.

Vanessa Balnaves Partner, Lynch Meyer Lawyers vbalnaves@lynchmeyer.com.au

WHAT’S ON YOUR PLATE, MATE?

LIFE AS A t RADESPERSON CAN BE

HEC

t IC, INFLUENCED BY UNPREDIC tABLE DAY-t ODAY WORKLOADS, t HE NEED t O JUGGLE PRIVAt E AND PROFESSIONAL OBLIGAt IONS, AND A LACK OF PRIVAt E t IME tO tAKE S t OCK OF PRIORI t IES. PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLOR JULIE WACKER OFFERS SOME t IPS ABOU t HOW tO COPE WHEN YOUR PLAt E GE t S OVERLOADED.

As life becomes increasingly hectic with age, it can be challenging to manage everything on our to-do list. to maintain a healthy balance and avoid feeling overwhelmed, it’s crucial to prioritise self-care and set clear boundaries with our workload. One effective strategy is to evaluate what tasks can be realistically accomplished without going overboard, and to let go of activities that may not be worth our time. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to not be able to accomplish everything, and that taking care of ourselves should always be a top priority, even if it means turning down excessive obligations.

Imagine yourself at a buffet: all your favourite food is there, plus some more… You can’t resist – you want it all. So, you start stacking and piling all these delicious items onto your plate. While you try to squeeze some more onto the plate, something else is slipping off… Sounds familiar?

Let’s have a closer look at your plate – called life; What is on YOUR plate? Mortgage payments, invoices, customers, job security, children’s school/kindergarten, car loan, house DIY projects, partner, parents of both of you, some sport, weekend activities, friends?

Having a lot on your plate doesn’t mean you have a full life – it is more likely to overwhelm you and it can cause a lot of stress. Life itself can become overwhelming.

Let’s take a moment and talk about your plate and strategise what you can do about it when it becomes too full.

First

take inventory. Recognising all the things on your plate is the first step, bringing in some awareness that you are pretty busy most of the time. take some time to do this, as sometimes we can’t recognise the important stuff in our lives anymore because it is always around us. You may want to write items down, which enables you to see how full your plate really is.

You may also want to ask a friend or partner what they have on their plate to ensure you have found all the main items on your plate. When you think you have found them all, look at your plate. How full is it? Is it still manageable or is it overflowing? What are your thoughts?

Second

Now the realisation dawns that in fact you have too much on your plate. So, what are you going to do about it? throw it all in the bin? Start over again? that is only possible in few situations. Most of the time we are bound to our word, with commitments or obligations likes contracts, mortgages, partners, parents and kids! So, back to the full plate – what can you do?

Have a look at the parts on your plate – are they all equally important? Do they have their fair share of your time and attention? Is there an imbalance between the parts on your plate and your wishes and wants?

You may want to level things out. Reducing on the one side and increasing on the other side to level the balance –but it is still the same full plate… the only solution is to take something off that plate. this is the hardest moment; you have to choose which parts need to be reduced. Start with the most pressuring thing – work out what it is that stresses you most. Work out all the things on your plate in an order of pressure. When you have done that, you can start thinking about an action plan for each item.

Secondly, when you have put your items in order, you may see that some items are not solvable by you. You may need professional help with some items on your plate, for example your mortgage. See if you can speak to your financial advisor about how to ease the load. talking about money can be challenging and daunting – prepare yourself with all the information needed to enable them to help you.

If your work is too demanding, i.e., too many hours or too many projects, you may want to talk to your manager. Prepare yourself for this talk: have information ready, plan ahead. Don’t ambush your manager during the coffee break. Ask for a designated time for you to raise the issue.

If your plate is full because of private matters, you may want to talk to a professional to get the help you need. If matters involve your parents, your kids or your partner, there is a good chance that assistance is available. Check out the local council, school or kindergarten or counsellor for issues with your relationship.

Third

You have realised that you need help – you can’t manage your plate on your own anymore. that is the tricky bit, and you want to ask for help. Whom can you ask? Are there friends, family members available? What can you say to them? When and how?

Asking for help sounds daunting, unfit and ‘bottom of the pecking order’ – or does it?

Most of us like to help others – pushing the car off the street, helping to load a heavy item in a cart, reaching high up to hand something down – you know what I

mean. People like to help, it makes them ‘feel good’ and both the helper and the asker feel better afterwards. So, why not use this great resource? What would you do if someone you know asked for your advice and told you about their situation? You wouldn’t send them away, would you? Sometimes, it is hard to have someone to talk to, as there is often no one around. As a sole trader, you don’t have many people around to talk to. When you work on your own at a client’s place, you cannot really tell your client about your mortgage, so you keep it to yourself and keep on going. Or you are working on a larger-scale project with some other tradespeople are around. People you hardly know. Well, you can go over to the sparky and talk about your next DIY project, but not really about the health of your parents. So, you continue on and bottle things up. In the evenings, you may have a partner to talk to but how much can you really talk about work issues? Isn’t it now the time to talk about family things? the kids’ school project, the house, the next holiday? So, where is your time to talk? When is your time to relax? When do you have ‘me time’?

Let’s check on that last point – when was the last time you had time for

yourself? What did you do with that time? Another project in or around your house? Or did you mow the lawn? Work on your car? Don’t get me wrong – these things can be the right things for you to do, but sometimes you may want to spend your time differently, like going for a walk or even just sitting somewhere and looking into the void.

So, what can you do?

After you become aware of your own situation, raising awareness is often the first step. talk to someone about your situation. Don’t bottle it up, it only becomes worse. Find professional help for specific topics. You need to know that you are not alone, and that your situation is not unique and there is help available. And, in addition to helping yourself, you may be able to offer the help that a mate needs. there is your opportunity to help someone out, to be a mate, to listen to your mate, and to listen to your partner and listen to your kids. together you can make a change. Even if it is a small change, it can start something bigger and better. Don’t Pile Your Plate!

Julie Wacker Counsellor and life coach me@juliewacker.com.au

BUILDING RESILIENCE

AS WE ALL KNOW, SMALL BUSINESS IN AUS t RALIA IS VI tAL tO OUR COUN t RY’S ECONOMY. I t CON t RIBU t ES OVER 32% OF OUR EN t IRE GROSS DOMES t IC PRODUC t, WI t H t HE LARGES t CON t RIBU t ION BY SMALL BUSINESS IN t HE CONS t RUC t ION SEC t OR. LE t US NOt FORGE t t HAt SMALL BUSINESS IS AUS t RALIA’S LARGES t EMPLOYER, PROVIDING OVER 40% OF t HE tOtAL WORKFORCE WI t H EMPLOYMEN t OPPOR t UNI t IES.

Running a small business can at times be incredibly rewarding, but also incredibly stressful as business owners (40% of who are over 45 years old) carry the ongoing responsibility of their employees’ ongoing financial security. Not to mention the challenges of natural disasters, COVID-19 and a challenging employment market all contributing to higher levels of stress. the ability to manage stress becomes really challenging and is actually a learned skill.

Let’s take a look at some wellresearched and successful ways to manage our stress and build our resilience to ensure we are in the best position to manage our business successfully.

Firstly, there is the need for us to actually realise and acknowledge the feelings we are having. Sometimes we are so busy and moving so quickly working in our business, that we can overlook our body rhythms and physical health. Ever had a break from your business, gone on holidays and almost instantly become sick? that can be your body realising it’s time to recover, making you susceptible to more disease, illness or exhaustion as you relax.

Secondly, taking time to eat well and eat often will refuel you to ensure that you are well positioned to handle the stresses of the day. It is so easy to skip meals when you are faced with ordering, paperwork, sales, customers, deliveries or whatever consumes you every day. It is also easy to consume caffeinated drinks, sugary treats or highly refined foods, which are often easy to access, cheap to buy and easy to consume on the run. take time to prepare your meals before each new day and pack fruits,

vegetables and balanced meals, and always include lots of water all day. thirdly, reflect on your success and where you and your team have got so far in the life of your business. Your business did not just become successful on its own. It has been hard work, late nights and dedication, and it’s OK to celebrate that. No one gets everything they want in life but try to realise often where you have come from, because things could always be a whole lot worse… right?

Finally, have a laugh, find the funny side to the stress you may find

yourself in. Share a laugh with the team, your customers, suppliers or drivers. It is very difficult to laugh and be sad about something all at the same time. Laughing increases your intake of oxygen, stimulating your heart and increasing endorphins released from your brain and this can be good to relieve your stress.

take the time to enjoy the fruits of your labours and thank yourself for all you do.

Michael Stoddart General Manager Mining Energy and Manufacturing, Mates in Energy