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<strong>February</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />

Official Magazine of the Motor Trade Association <strong>SA</strong>/NT<br />

STRONGER<br />

TOGETHER<br />

NOVITA MIGHTY RIVER RUN: <strong>MTA</strong> MEMBERS SET <strong>SA</strong>IL FOR A GOOD CAUSE<br />

<strong>2022</strong> STATE ELECTION: AUTOMOTIVE ISSUES ADDRESSED BY BOTH LEADERS


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MOTOR TRADE MAGAZINE: <strong>SA</strong><br />

3<br />

CONTENTS FEBRUARY<br />

<strong>2022</strong><br />

HYUNDAI RALLIES THE TEAM<br />

SKIP TO ARTICLE<br />

<strong>2022</strong> STATE ELECTION Q&A<br />

SKIP TO ARTICLE<br />

The <strong>MTA</strong> sat down with both party leaders to discuss the issues<br />

that matter to you! Read the leaders’ thoughts on the economic<br />

impacts of COVID-19, planning for and investing in electric<br />

vehicles, the Repair Industry Code of Conduct and much more.<br />

Adelaide was littered with rally cars<br />

in late November last year, with the<br />

impressive vehicles seemingly on<br />

every street corner. This was the first<br />

time that Hyundai entered a team into<br />

the rally.<br />

NOVITA MIGHTY RIVER RUN<br />

04 Chair’s Report<br />

05 CEO’s Message<br />

06 <strong>2022</strong> Election: Q&A with Steven<br />

Marshall - Liberal<br />

08 <strong>2022</strong> Election: Q&A with Peter<br />

Malinauskas - Labor<br />

10 Member Profile: Hyundai Rallies<br />

the Team<br />

13 Advocacy: July 1 Ambition for<br />

New Code<br />

14 Member News: Novita Mighty<br />

River Run<br />

16 Advocacy: <strong>MTA</strong> Petitions Premier<br />

to Adopt National Framework<br />

18 50-Year Member: Rhemac Motors<br />

20 Workplace Vaccination<br />

Requirements<br />

22 25 & 75-Year Member Businesses<br />

23 New Members<br />

24 Consumer Business Services:<br />

Interstate Work Opportunities<br />

Made Easier<br />

26 Careers: Intro to Auto<br />

28 2021’s Major Changes to Casual<br />

Employment in Australia<br />

30 <strong>2022</strong> Hybrid and Electric Vehicle<br />

Course Dates Now Available<br />

32 Back in the Day with <strong>MTA</strong>:<br />

<strong>February</strong> 1992<br />

33 Business Partners Index<br />

34 Member Classifieds<br />

SKIP TO ARTICLE<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> member Todd Quigley recently<br />

took a break from his usual Monday to<br />

Friday to take part in the Novita Mighty<br />

River Run, boating up the Murray River<br />

from Mannum to Berri over five days.<br />

WORKPLACE VACCINATION<br />

SKIP TO ARTICLE<br />

The <strong>MTA</strong> provides a guide to Members<br />

on how to navigate COVID-19<br />

vaccination in the workplace, and<br />

to ensure they meet their WHS<br />

obligations.<br />

mtasant.com.au


4<br />

CHAIR’S REPORT<br />

CHAIR’S<br />

REPORT<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> CHAIR, FRANK AGOSTINO<br />

I think we can all agree that the turbulent start to <strong>2022</strong> has<br />

not gone as we had hoped for Australia. However, despite<br />

the impacts of the Omicron variant, South Australia has<br />

reached a vaccination rate of 90 per cent and our industry<br />

shows resilience as we transition to living with the virus.<br />

We have previously enjoyed minimal impacts and<br />

restrictions compared to the rest of Australia, and<br />

especially compared to the rest of the world. The<br />

emergence of Omicron in our community simply<br />

means we must continue to adapt and innovate in the<br />

way we do business.<br />

I would like to acknowledge the <strong>MTA</strong> member businesses<br />

which have been affected, and commend the automotive<br />

industry as a whole for its perseverance in the face of this<br />

latest hardship.<br />

While rules and restrictions continue to change on a<br />

regular basis, you can rest easy in the knowledge that the<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> will always be there to support your business and<br />

keep you updated.<br />

As well as staying on top of the latest COVID-19<br />

information, the <strong>MTA</strong> has been focussing its efforts<br />

on the approaching Federal and South Australian State<br />

elections. We continue to communicate the contribution of<br />

automotive to the economy so that all political candidates<br />

and parties understand the priorities of our industry.<br />

This is important now more than ever, with many member<br />

businesses grappling with industry-wide issues, such as<br />

pandemic-related loss of business, new and emerging<br />

automotive technologies and ongoing skills shortages.<br />

As I write this, a review is underway of consumer<br />

guarantees and supplier indemnification in Australian<br />

Consumer Law − a major issue, which affects all <strong>MTA</strong><br />

members. Whether you’re a dealer, repairer, supplier<br />

or dismantler, we will be bringing your feedback to<br />

government.<br />

As this is an ongoing issue, we will continue to advocate for<br />

the best possible outcomes for our members. We will keep<br />

“I would like to acknowledge<br />

the <strong>MTA</strong> member businesses<br />

which have been affected,<br />

and commend the automotive<br />

industry as a whole for its<br />

perseverance in the face of<br />

this latest hardship.”<br />

you up-to-date on all major decisions from both us and<br />

government, so keep an eye out for our communications in<br />

the coming months.<br />

Last May, we heard loud and clear from our Divisional and<br />

Zone Chairs, who form the Industry Advisory Council, that<br />

the biggest challenge facing the automotive industry was,<br />

and continues to be, skills shortages. They asked the <strong>MTA</strong><br />

to focus our efforts on reengaging with the education<br />

system and school pathways.<br />

Recently appointed <strong>MTA</strong> School Pathways Coordinator,<br />

Andrew Parkes has been doing invaluable work in<br />

promoting automotive careers to young people, both<br />

through his school visits and his on-site workshops. His<br />

job was constructed using direct feedback from members,<br />

and has already delivered an increase in apprenticeship<br />

applications. Read more about his work on page 26 .<br />

In this uncertain time, it is important to remain connected<br />

and maintain our strong sense of community as members<br />

of South Australia’s automotive industry. Rest assured that<br />

the <strong>MTA</strong> is here to protect your interests and, as always, is<br />

on hand to help you with anything this year brings.<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS


FOLIO CEO’S MES<strong>SA</strong>GE<br />

PLACEHOLDER<br />

5<br />

CEO’S<br />

MES<strong>SA</strong>GE<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> CEO, PAUL UNERKOV<br />

As we farewelled 2021 and set our<br />

sights towards a new year, it’s fair to<br />

say that life in the automotive retail,<br />

service and repair industry like others,<br />

continues to be challenging. Running a<br />

business today is more complex than<br />

it has ever been, and so it has been<br />

my primary concern to ensure that<br />

as members, you remain connected<br />

with the <strong>MTA</strong> through updates and<br />

advice, and that we are representing<br />

your interests through our ongoing<br />

advocacy to government.<br />

We know skills shortages continue to<br />

be a massive challenge for industry<br />

and so it was no surprise that when we<br />

asked you whether you supported close<br />

contacts being able to safely return to<br />

work if they meet specific COVID-<strong>SA</strong>fe<br />

requirements, 95% said yes. In January,<br />

we wrote to <strong>SA</strong> Premier, Steven<br />

Marshall on this topic which you can<br />

read more about here .<br />

<strong>SA</strong> Body Repair Laws<br />

At the beginning of December last<br />

year, the <strong>MTA</strong> secured a massive win<br />

for the automotive industry in South<br />

Australia, with the passing of the new<br />

Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair<br />

Industry (MVIRI) Code of Conduct<br />

legislation through <strong>SA</strong> Parliament.<br />

South Australia is now the first<br />

Australian state or territory to add<br />

enforceable penalties for breaches of<br />

the MVIRI code which will become law<br />

under the Fair Trading Act (<strong>SA</strong>) 1987.<br />

The amendment will help to protect<br />

small-to-medium <strong>MTA</strong> repair<br />

businesses, through facilitation of<br />

fairer dispute resolution processes<br />

with insurers.<br />

In addition, the changes will also<br />

require insurers to disclose to South<br />

Australian policy holders whether<br />

they have choice of repairer, as<br />

well as whether they have direct<br />

financial ownership or a contractual<br />

relationship with a repairer.<br />

Skilled Migration<br />

Just prior to international borders<br />

reopening in Australia last year, the<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> learned we were successful<br />

in our lobbying efforts for the<br />

return of six automotive trades<br />

to the Designated Area Migration<br />

Agreements (DAMA) skilled migration<br />

program in South Australia.<br />

Pleasingly, another occupation<br />

was also added to the list: 070499<br />

Automotive Transmission Technician.<br />

This fantastic win can not only<br />

be attributed to the work done by<br />

the <strong>MTA</strong>, but also the invaluable<br />

contributions made by our members,<br />

particularly through the session<br />

we held with the South Australian<br />

Department for Innovation and Skills<br />

in <strong>February</strong>.<br />

The six reinstated occupations are:<br />

• 321111 Automotive Electrician<br />

• 321211 Motor Mechanic (General)<br />

• 321212 Diesel Motor Mechanic<br />

• 321213 Motorcycle Mechanic<br />

• 899411 Motor Vehicle Parts and<br />

Accessories Fitter (General)<br />

• 324111 Panelbeater<br />

Motorcycle Training Review<br />

In November, changes to the<br />

Graduated Licensing Scheme for<br />

motorbike riders came into effect.<br />

Motorcycle Industry Association <strong>SA</strong>/<br />

NT Chair, Mark Flynn, together with<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> staff, recently engaged with the<br />

Department for Infrastructure and<br />

Transport and other stakeholders to<br />

get the review underway.<br />

Our clear message to the Government<br />

is that any changes should not<br />

become unreasonably expensive or<br />

over burdensome for new riders.<br />

Second-hand Vehicle<br />

Dealers Act Review<br />

Over the last three years, the <strong>MTA</strong> has<br />

been advocating to Consumer and<br />

Business Services (CBS) for a review<br />

of the Second-hand Vehicle Dealers<br />

Act 1995. We are aiming to modernise<br />

South Australian laws to match<br />

how you, the dealers, conduct your<br />

business.<br />

CBS sought input from the <strong>MTA</strong><br />

among other stakeholders, and<br />

endorsed the majority of our proposed<br />

changes. Suggestions such as<br />

removing the waiver of cooling-off<br />

rights and stronger penalties for<br />

odometer tampering were among our<br />

formally lodged recommendations.<br />

We look forward to seeing the draft<br />

legislation in the coming months.<br />

Engage with us on the issues that<br />

matter so your opinions are heard.<br />

Whether it’s through zone and<br />

divisional meetings or the surveys we<br />

send out via email, the <strong>MTA</strong> will take<br />

those sentiments to government and<br />

advocate for necessary change in the<br />

automotive industry.<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

mtasant.com.au


6<br />

<strong>2022</strong> ELECTION<br />

Q&A WITH<br />

STEVEN<br />

MARSHALL<br />

PREMIER OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA<br />

South Australia has reaped the<br />

rewards of successfully managing<br />

the health and economic impacts of<br />

COVID-19. As Australia and the world<br />

opens up, what are your priorities to<br />

ensure that businesses in this state<br />

can grow and prosper?<br />

It’s been almost two years since<br />

the COVID-19 pandemic first began<br />

and despite the initial fears that<br />

our economy could be facing an<br />

unprecedented crash, nothing could<br />

be further from the truth.<br />

My government’s management of the<br />

COVID-19 pandemic has seen our<br />

economy go from strength to strength,<br />

with businesses both small and large<br />

enjoying extraordinary demand –<br />

particularly in the automotive sector.<br />

Under my government South Australia<br />

went into <strong>2022</strong> with the lowest<br />

unemployment rate in our State’s<br />

history, the strongest economic<br />

growth in the nation, and is the third<br />

most liveable city in the world. It is no<br />

wonder that people around the globe<br />

are taking notice of South Australia.<br />

For the first time in 30 years we have<br />

more people moving back to Adelaide<br />

than moving away from it – young<br />

people realise they can have a fulfilling<br />

career right here in South Australia.<br />

This means your kids will be able to<br />

buy a house and have a career here,<br />

and it also means more customers<br />

and clients for your business.<br />

My Government is committed to<br />

continuing this trajectory – from<br />

investing in our critical industries<br />

of the future like defence and space,<br />

to attracting global businesses like<br />

Amazon and Google, we want to see<br />

the South Australian economy as the<br />

best place to live and do business in<br />

the nation. I also want to ensure that<br />

our local businesses, like yours, have<br />

the skilled staff you need to grow your<br />

bottom line.<br />

COVID-19 has been a major disruptor,<br />

regularly changing the way we do<br />

business in this State. If you are<br />

elected as the next Premier, what<br />

support, clarity and confidence can<br />

automotive businesses expect from<br />

your government?<br />

I understand that all businesses<br />

have had to adjust how they operate<br />

in order to keep their staff and<br />

customers safe. For the automotive<br />

repair sector this has meant extra<br />

sanitation practices, limiting face to<br />

face interaction with customers, and<br />

extra management to ensure your<br />

staff and clients have been able to<br />

socially distance.<br />

My Government understands<br />

how important it is to keep South<br />

Australian vehicles running safely,<br />

which is why mechanics were<br />

classified as an ‘essential service’<br />

and able to operate during lockdowns.<br />

I want to thank all of you for doing the<br />

right thing – you have kept your staff<br />

and customers safe.<br />

Currently electric vehicles only make<br />

up a very small percentage of sales<br />

in South Australia, with varying<br />

predictions about how many will be<br />

sold and when. How will you help<br />

businesses in the automotive industry<br />

plan and invest towards this future<br />

with confidence?<br />

My Government is committed to<br />

growing the amount of low emission<br />

and electric vehicles in South<br />

Australia, but we understand that we<br />

need to incentivise buyers in order to<br />

stimulate the market.<br />

This is why in December my<br />

government announced a generous<br />

$3,000 subsidy to help drive the<br />

take-up of zero and low emission<br />

vehicles. This subsidy is available for<br />

7,000 eligible new battery electric and<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS


<strong>2022</strong> ELECTION<br />

hydrogen fuel cell vehicles registered<br />

in South Australia from 28 October 2021.<br />

There will be a price cap of $68,750<br />

(inc GST) to provide an incentive to<br />

bring lower-priced electric vehicles<br />

to the market and avoid subsidising<br />

expensive electric vehicles.<br />

This is on top of the single largest<br />

investment in electric vehicles in the<br />

state’s history through our $18.3m<br />

Electric Vehicle Action Plan –<br />

announced as part of the State<br />

Budget 2020-21.<br />

We’ve also committed a further $12.25<br />

million to accelerate the uptake of<br />

electric vehicles (EVs) with a new<br />

EV smart charging subsidy for South<br />

Australia households that invest in<br />

smart charging solutions.<br />

My government will continue to<br />

work with the <strong>MTA</strong> to identify the<br />

opportunities for the industry,<br />

including the best ways to up-skill<br />

your workforce so they are ready to<br />

work on these new technologies.<br />

Changing automotive technology is<br />

also putting pressure on government<br />

revenue such as national fuel excise,<br />

leading to different states and<br />

territories implementing or ruling out<br />

road user charge policies for zero and<br />

low emission vehicles. Is a road user<br />

charge at a state level in our<br />

best interests?<br />

The reality is, if you’re driving an<br />

electric vehicle then you’re not paying<br />

fuel excise at the pump and you’re<br />

contributing significantly less to the<br />

vital upkeep of our vast road network.<br />

A road user charge for zero and<br />

low emission vehicles means that<br />

everyone is contributing fairly to the<br />

upkeep of our roads.<br />

Ultimately this reform will have to<br />

happen - as more and more Australian<br />

motorists shift to zero and lowemission<br />

vehicles, all Governments<br />

will need to ensure there is sufficient<br />

funding for ongoing road maintenance<br />

and infrastructure investment.<br />

Road user charges are now becoming<br />

common place in Australia – with<br />

Victoria, NSW and recently Tasmania<br />

all announcing or implementing a road<br />

user charge.<br />

We are looking at a scheme similar to<br />

Victoria’s, where motorists would be<br />

charged a set rate based on kilometres<br />

travelled.<br />

There has been a strong focus on<br />

growing and retaining apprentices from<br />

the State and Federal governments<br />

over the past two years. What will your<br />

party do to encourage businesses to<br />

continue to invest in apprentices?<br />

When I speak to mechanics and<br />

automotive business owners around<br />

the state, they tell me that the biggest<br />

limiting factor to their business is<br />

availability of skilled workers.<br />

The solution to this is twofold: training<br />

up our local workforce to create a<br />

skills pipeline, and bringing in skilled<br />

workers from interstate and overseas<br />

who can plug skill gaps quickly.<br />

This is where my Government’s $200<br />

million Skilling South Australia initiative<br />

made a real difference, delivering<br />

nation-leading growth after Labor’s<br />

6-year apprentice and trainee decline.<br />

Over the past four years South<br />

Australia has led the nation with<br />

over 55,000 new apprenticeship and<br />

traineeship commencements, many in<br />

the automotive sector. Since we were<br />

elected in 2018, over 3,300 businesses<br />

have hired a trainee or apprentice for<br />

the first time – and that momentum<br />

will continue.<br />

A re-elected Liberal Government will<br />

continue to invest in our apprentices –<br />

making it easier for businesses to hire<br />

and train the skills they need to grow<br />

their workforce.<br />

While focussing on the local skills<br />

pipeline, we have also recognised<br />

that urgent skills gaps can be plugged<br />

quickly by incentivising qualified<br />

tradespeople from overseas to<br />

consider bringing their careers to<br />

South Australia.<br />

Following representations from<br />

my government about the latent<br />

need within our sector, the Federal<br />

Australian Government has added<br />

Automotive Electricians, General Motor<br />

Mechanics, Diesel Motor Mechanics,<br />

Automotive Transmission Technician<br />

and Motorcycle Mechanics back onto<br />

to the list of trade workers able to apply<br />

for a prioritised work visa in South<br />

Australia under the DAMA program.<br />

I am confident that these two<br />

approaches will grow the skills we<br />

need for our automotive sector.<br />

I would also like to take this<br />

opportunity to thank all the <strong>MTA</strong><br />

members who have taken on new <strong>MTA</strong><br />

apprentices in the past 18 months.<br />

Far from being discouraged by a<br />

global pandemic, you have invested<br />

in our industry, our young people and<br />

mature aged apprentices. Around 500<br />

apprentices and trainees have been<br />

the direct recipients of the <strong>MTA</strong>’s<br />

Group Training Scheme, and I’m<br />

excited to see the next generation of<br />

automotive repair experts already well<br />

on their way to fulfilling careers.<br />

According to AAA data, South<br />

Australia has one the highest road<br />

tolls per capita in the country, and the<br />

ABS shows that we also have one of<br />

the nation’s oldest vehicle fleets. With<br />

70 per cent of used vehicles in the<br />

state sold privately, do you support<br />

making it a legislative requirement<br />

and responsibility for those selling a<br />

vehicle to ensure it is roadworthy?<br />

My Government currently has no plans<br />

to implement a mandatory roadworthy<br />

certificate requirement on all second<br />

hand vehicle sales.<br />

Consumers and the crash repair<br />

industry have had a massive win with<br />

Parliament passing laws to mandate<br />

the national Motor Vehicle Insurance<br />

and Repair Industry Code of Conduct<br />

in South Australia with binding<br />

mediation and penalties. Will you<br />

commit to delivering the regulations<br />

and implementation of dispute<br />

resolution by 1 July <strong>2022</strong>?<br />

My Government is currently working<br />

through the implementation of the<br />

scheme, including how it may impact<br />

with work being undertaken by the<br />

Commonwealth.<br />

7<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

mtasant.com.au


8<br />

<strong>2022</strong> ELECTION<br />

Q&A WITH<br />

PETER<br />

MALINAUSKAS<br />

LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION<br />

South Australia has reaped the<br />

rewards of successfully managing<br />

the health and economic impacts of<br />

COVID-19. As Australia and the world<br />

opens up, what are your priorities to<br />

ensure that businesses in this state<br />

can grow and prosper?<br />

The COVID-19 pandemic presents<br />

a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to<br />

build a better South Australia. But it<br />

won’t just happen. We must seize<br />

this moment.<br />

I am determined that the suite of<br />

policies I take to the people of South<br />

Australia in March are not just for<br />

the next election, but for the next<br />

generation.<br />

The coming years will present<br />

challenges, but they also present<br />

opportunities, the likes of which we<br />

haven’t seen since World War II. I<br />

have already announced some of<br />

my policies for the future and look<br />

forward to detailing more in the<br />

lead up to the election. In 30 years'<br />

time, I hope our children can say this<br />

generation saw the moment, and<br />

seized the moment.<br />

Let’s make the legacy of COVID-19 a<br />

more secure and prosperous future.<br />

The next four years will be critical<br />

for our states economic future<br />

post-COVID-19. Under a Malinauskas<br />

Labor government there will be no<br />

new taxes or sudden tax changes<br />

like we saw with the introduction<br />

of Land Tax aggregation. There will<br />

also be no dramatic increases in<br />

levies and charges.<br />

We will also deliver a long term<br />

plan to address skill shortages<br />

that are impacting so many of your<br />

businesses. Our plan for motorsport<br />

and car clubs will get more classic<br />

and historic vehicles onto the road<br />

for club events and exhibitions, and<br />

support the car restoration industry,<br />

including panel beaters, spray<br />

painters, mechanics, auto electricians<br />

and motor trimmers.<br />

COVID-19 has been a major disruptor,<br />

regularly changing the way we do<br />

business in this State. If you are<br />

elected as the next Premier, what<br />

support, clarity and confidence can<br />

automotive businesses expect from<br />

your government?<br />

We will work with the <strong>MTA</strong> and key<br />

businesses to forge a shared path<br />

driven by the consensus that a small<br />

state thrives on co-operation, not<br />

division, and that we are stronger<br />

working together towards shared<br />

goals. We will provide clear direction,<br />

because if we want businesses to<br />

employ, invest and create jobs, they<br />

need certainty in an uncertain world<br />

Currently electric vehicles only make<br />

up a very small percentage of sales<br />

in South Australia, with varying<br />

predictions about how many will be<br />

sold and when. How will you help<br />

businesses in the automotive industry<br />

plan and invest towards this future<br />

with confidence?<br />

Labor will repeal the Marshall Liberal<br />

government’s electric vehicle tax. This<br />

legislation is due to take effect from<br />

2027, and Labor will repeal it before<br />

any electric vehicles can be taxed for<br />

the kilometres they drive. We want to<br />

encourage South Australians to buy an<br />

electric vehicle and hitting them with<br />

this tax will have the opposite effect.<br />

Changing automotive technology is<br />

also putting pressure on government<br />

revenue such as national fuel excise,<br />

leading to different states and territories<br />

implementing or ruling out road user<br />

charge policies for zero and low<br />

emission vehicles. Is a road user charge<br />

at a state level in our best interests?<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS


<strong>2022</strong> ELECTION<br />

9<br />

Labor does not support the<br />

introduction state road users charges,<br />

they are not in South Australia’s best<br />

interest. That is why we will repeal the<br />

EV tax.<br />

National fuel excise has always been<br />

the responsibility of the Federal<br />

Government and any changes should<br />

be done nationally led by the Federal<br />

Government.<br />

There has been a strong focus on<br />

growing and retaining apprentices<br />

from the State and Federal<br />

governments over the past two<br />

years. What will your party do to<br />

encourage businesses to continue<br />

to invest in apprentices?<br />

I have heard loud and clear the calls<br />

from your industry and others about<br />

our state’s skills crisis. That is why<br />

I have developed and released a<br />

comprehensive education policy<br />

which is all about improving the quality<br />

of our schools, but also the pathways<br />

out of school and into employment.<br />

A central feature is my plan to build<br />

five new technical colleges. Our<br />

technical colleges policy will be built<br />

with the latest equipment and stateof-the-art<br />

technology. They will be<br />

run in conjunction with nearby high<br />

schools to allow year 10-12 students<br />

to successfully complete their <strong>SA</strong>CE,<br />

while getting trade qualifications.<br />

They will also facilitate links with local<br />

businesses, connecting students to<br />

apprenticeships and traineeships.<br />

According to AAA data, South<br />

Australia has one the highest road<br />

tolls per capita in the country, and the<br />

ABS shows that we also have one of<br />

the nation’s oldest vehicle fleets. With<br />

70 per cent of used vehicles in the<br />

state sold privately, do you support<br />

making it a legislative requirement<br />

and responsibility for those selling a<br />

vehicle to ensure it is roadworthy?<br />

Along with advancements in vehicle<br />

technology, a focus on the ‘fatal<br />

five – seat belts, speed and drink<br />

driving – Labor’s record investment<br />

in government on road infrastructure<br />

helped reduce South Australia’s road<br />

toll. South Australia’s annual road went<br />

from 138 fatalities in 2002 to under<br />

100 during our term of government.<br />

But one life lost is one too many, and<br />

we need to constantly strive to look for<br />

new ways to prevent death and serious<br />

injury on our roads.<br />

Labor does not support the<br />

introduction of mandatory vehicle<br />

inspections because of the financial<br />

burden it places on the community<br />

and the analysis from interstate<br />

jurisdictions which reveals that they<br />

only contribute a minor reduction in<br />

injury crash rates.<br />

However, we do support a voluntary<br />

vehicle inspection scheme at the<br />

change of ownership. This will provide<br />

consumers with the opportunity to<br />

seek out an accredited organisation to<br />

inspect a vehicle prior to a transaction.<br />

Consumers and the crash repair<br />

industry have had a massive win with<br />

Parliament passing laws to mandate<br />

the national Motor Vehicle Insurance<br />

and Repair Industry Code of Conduct<br />

in South Australia with binding<br />

mediation and penalties. Will you<br />

commit to delivering the regulations<br />

and implementation of dispute<br />

resolution by 1 July <strong>2022</strong>?<br />

Labor supported the Fair Trading<br />

(Motor Vehicle Insurers and Repairers)<br />

Amendment Bill, and if we form<br />

government after the March election<br />

we will deliver the regulations to<br />

ensure implementation occurs as<br />

soon as possible.<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

mtasant.com.au


10<br />

MEMBER PROFILE<br />

HYUNDAI RALLIES<br />

THE TEAM<br />

“With<br />

the windscreen crushed in,<br />

the roof half crushed in, we drove it<br />

through to thunderous applause.”<br />

Peter Page<br />

Hyundai <br />

Adelaide was littered with rally cars in late November<br />

last year, with the impressive vehicles seemingly on<br />

every street corner.<br />

The 2021 Shannons Adelaide Rally was as big as ever,<br />

with 400 cars participating in two stages on each of its<br />

four days.<br />

Drivers participated in over 230 competitive kilometres,<br />

making it the largest event of its type in the world in 2021.<br />

This was the first time that Hyundai entered a team into<br />

the rally, headed by Paul and Luke Page from Peter Page<br />

Hyundai, Elizabeth.<br />

“Myself and my brother did the rally as an individual<br />

Hyundai i30 N for the first time in March (2021), because<br />

it was delayed through COVID-19 – it was supposed to be<br />

in October last year,” Paul said.<br />

“It came around pretty quickly this year, we decided to<br />

put a branded group together.<br />

“For us it was excellent, we got 11 Hyundai N Performance<br />

vehicles together. We put the word out on the<br />

N Performance of South Australia Facebook page, so the<br />

majority of them came from that space, we were just rapt<br />

to be a part of it.”<br />

The rally stages were different day-to-day, taking advantage<br />

of the many twisting roads around the Adelaide Hills.<br />

“Myself and my service manager led the group, and my<br />

brother followed the group,” said Paul.<br />

“We had to keep them all together, because between<br />

stages you’ve got to drive through the streets of Adelaide<br />

or through the hills, so you can’t get lost because you’re<br />

just driving in amongst traffic.<br />

“When you get to the next stage, all the road’s blocked<br />

off – then, 3-2-1-go hard! We follow each other in four<br />

second gaps.”<br />

Lead by the striking Performance Blue car, the cars in<br />

the team were a mix of the Hyundai N Performance<br />

range, with i30s, i20s and Fastbacks.<br />

However, one car from the team was a stand-out.<br />

Also participating was an ‘old school’ Hyundai Excel<br />

race car, which regularly competes in the Hyundai Excel<br />

Racing series.<br />

“He joined us for a bit of the old school, among the new<br />

school Hyundai vehicles,” said Paul.<br />

However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Excel.<br />

“On the last stage of the last day, the Excel − the actual<br />

racing car – just clipped a little bit of cliff face and a<br />

bit of gravel, and flipped on its roof,” he recalled.<br />

“Luckily, he had a roll cage. From a safety perspective,<br />

it had racing seats, it had proper harnesses, and as much<br />

as it looked a bit messy, he was fine, if a bit shaken.”<br />

But the Adelaide Rally hadn’t yet seen the end of the Excel.<br />

“It was driveable, because it had just flipped on its roof,<br />

so the suspension was good, the engine was fine,” Paul<br />

explained.<br />

“He got towed down to that final stage, jumped in the car,<br />

and drove through the finish line to a rousing reception.”<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

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11<br />

WATCH VIDEO<br />

Being the last car to finish the race on the last day, there<br />

were plenty of people crowding the finish line in Rundle<br />

Street to watch the beat-up Hyundai come in.<br />

“With the windscreen crushed in, the roof half crushed in,<br />

we drove it through to thunderous applause. That was a lot<br />

of fun.<br />

“On the downside he had an accident, but on the positive,<br />

he was safe, and he got to drive through the finish line on<br />

Rundle Street with a lot of people watching,” Paul recalled.<br />

But the Hyundai team weren’t just participating for the<br />

racing and rally driving.<br />

“For us it was about the whole package,” said Paul.<br />

“We took all our team out to dinner on the Friday night,<br />

and then again on the Sunday night.<br />

“We entertained them with food and drink, but not too<br />

much drink as they had to jump in the car the next day!”<br />

The Adelaide Rally resembles a festival in the way it caters<br />

for spectators and brings the drivers together at the end of<br />

each day.<br />

The Gouger Street party is always a highlight, 2021 being<br />

no exception.<br />

The street is blocked with 130 exotic rally cars, putting on<br />

a show for spectators who are able to take their pick of the<br />

many restaurants along the strip.<br />

Live music and entertainment created a buzz of excitement<br />

on the night – the atmosphere at the East End finale was no<br />

different.<br />

The presentations, displays, children’s activities, and<br />

fireworks drew in massive crowds.<br />

Paul recommends this event to <strong>MTA</strong> members thinking of<br />

entering the rally car scene.<br />

“There’s plenty of time to get organised, and get your car<br />

ready, get all the safety equipment organised,” he explained.<br />

“Lock into either a racing group or a tour group, where you<br />

can get used to what’s involved.<br />

“Personally, I think it’s just a fantastic initiative, a lot of<br />

work goes into the rally, and the atmosphere was electric.”<br />

Luke would like to acknowledge and give thanks to the<br />

large numbers of volunteers whose time and efforts<br />

enabled the event to run smoothly.<br />

Paul added, “I would like to personally thank all the<br />

participants in our inaugural Hyundai branded rally as<br />

well as the NP<strong>SA</strong> for assisting, supporting, and promoting<br />

the Adelaide Rally in 2021, and we look forward to more<br />

collaboration going forward.”<br />

If any members are interested in being part of the Peter<br />

Page Hyundai rally team in <strong>2022</strong>, Paul recommends<br />

registering your interest quickly before the places are all<br />

taken, by emailing info@peterpagehyundai.com.au .<br />

“In simple terms, it’s a great event, promoting car<br />

enthusiasts, but for Peter Page Hyundai, it’s an<br />

opportunity to get your Hyundai N on the road for some<br />

fun and excitement!” Paul said.<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

mtasant.com.au


Business support<br />

every step of the way.<br />

Whether you’re starting, running or growing your business, CommBank, proud Alliance Partner of<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> <strong>SA</strong>/NT can help you do business your way.<br />

Dedicated support for your business<br />

To help you take your business to the next level, <strong>MTA</strong> <strong>SA</strong>/NT members can benefit from direct<br />

access to a dedicated CommBank Relationship Manager and team of banking specialists. They’ll<br />

work with you through every stage of your business life cycle. You’ll also receive 24/7 Australian<br />

based phone support for all your business banking needs.<br />

Business products and solutions<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> <strong>SA</strong>/NT members may be eligible to access the latest innovative business banking<br />

products and solutions with preferential pricing applied, making it easier for you to do business.<br />

These include:<br />

No merchant joining fee<br />

Same day selement every day of the year^<br />

Daily IQ - free business insights tool with<br />

CommBiz and NetBank<br />

Business Loans and Asset Finance<br />

Overdra Facilities and Bank Guarantees<br />

Free business financial health checks<br />

To find out how CommBank can help you do business your way, contact <strong>MTA</strong> <strong>SA</strong>/NT by email<br />

mta@mtasant.com.au or call 08 8291 2000 and they’ll put you in touch with a CommBank<br />

Relationship Manager.<br />

Things you should know: ^‘Same day’ includes eCommerce card sales before 5:30pm (AEST) and EFTPOS card sales before 10pm (AEST) and is available for eligible customers with a<br />

Commonwealth Bank business transaction account and a linked Commonwealth Bank merchant facility. Offers available to referrals made via <strong>MTA</strong> <strong>SA</strong>/NT. <strong>MTA</strong> <strong>SA</strong>/NT may receive a referral<br />

fee from Commonwealth Bank for each successful referral (excludes existing customers). Applications for finance are subject to the Bank’s normal credit approval and suitability of the asset.<br />

Other fees, charges, terms and conditions may apply. As this information has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, you should, before acting on<br />

the information, consider its appropriateness to your circumstances. Please view our Merchant Agreement, Financial Services Guide and Operator and User Guides at commbank.com.au/<br />

merchantsupport. To find out more about Daily IQ, visit commbank.com.au/DailyIQ. Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL and Australian credit licence 234945.


ADVOCACY<br />

13<br />

JULY 1 AMBITION<br />

FOR NEW CODE<br />

In the lead up to the State election, the <strong>MTA</strong> is urging both<br />

major parties to move swiftly to implement amendments<br />

to the Fair Trading Act that mandates the Motor Vehicle<br />

Insurance and Repair Industry (MVIRI) Code of Conduct.<br />

In 2021, the <strong>MTA</strong> achieved a landmark victory when<br />

Parliament passed legislation to introduce enforceable<br />

penalties for breaches of the Code.<br />

“This is a major reform that had the support of all sides<br />

of politics and so we feel it’s reasonable to expect this<br />

to be up and running by the first of July <strong>2022</strong>,” said Kaes<br />

Cillessen, the <strong>MTA</strong>’s Industry and Government Engagement<br />

Manager.<br />

“What remains is for regulations to be drafted by the<br />

government and the offices of the Small Business<br />

Commissioner and Consumer and Business Services<br />

prepared.<br />

“We are expecting schedule of penalties within the<br />

regulations, which will likely be expiation notices and<br />

fines that the Small Business Commissioner can issue<br />

for breaches of the Code of Conduct.”<br />

Under the Fair Trading Act, expiation notices of up to<br />

$6,000 can be issued but in practice, most industry codes<br />

only go up to $4,000. The <strong>MTA</strong> is asking the government<br />

to increase these closer to the $6,000 level.<br />

The only other jurisdiction that has the Code mandated<br />

is New South Wales, but there are no penalties for<br />

breaches. Introducing penalties for breaches makes<br />

South Australia a national leader and means that the<br />

industry is accountable to the highest standards in<br />

Australia for collision repairs.<br />

Where disputes arise between motorists, repairers and car<br />

insurance companies, the Small Business Commissioner<br />

will have the power to mediate and impose penalties.<br />

The changes will address long-standing problems in the<br />

industry that are not in the best interests of consumers<br />

and members. Disputes often centre on:<br />

• difficulties in consumers accessing their repairer of<br />

choice and claims of insurers steering consumers<br />

toward their preferred network of repairers;<br />

• the use of second-hand and/or non-original equipment<br />

manufacturer parts in repairs and related safety,<br />

warranty and liability concerns when using those parts;<br />

• a lack of transparency of information, with consumers<br />

often not being made fully aware by insurers of all the<br />

details related to their repairs and/or insurance policies;<br />

• disagreements over the methodology used by crash<br />

repairers and insurers to assess the repairs needed,<br />

and the cost of said repairs, to restore the motor<br />

vehicle back to pre-accident condition, and the quote<br />

negotiation process; and<br />

• insurers choosing to provide cash settlements to<br />

consumers instead of repairing their vehicles.<br />

“We hope that reforms at both the State and Federal<br />

level will improve the quality of repairs, as well as the<br />

relationship between insurers and repairers, for the<br />

benefit of the motoring public,” said Kaes.<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

mtasant.com.au


14<br />

MEMBER NEWS<br />

NOVITA MIGHTY RIVER RUN<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> member Todd Quigley recently<br />

took a break from his usual Monday to<br />

Friday to take part in the Novita Mighty<br />

River Run, boating up the Murray River<br />

from Mannum to Berri over five jampacked<br />

days.<br />

The event was a fundraiser for Novita<br />

– a charity which provides support<br />

services and equipment to kids, young<br />

people and adults living with disability<br />

in Adelaide and regional South Australia.<br />

The River Run is Novita’s once-a-year<br />

major fundraiser. This year has been<br />

the event’s most successful yet, with<br />

the participants raising over $700,000<br />

through sponsors, donations, auctions<br />

and registration fees.<br />

Todd, owner of High Quality Car Sales<br />

at Somerton Park, was among the<br />

new participants this year, on board<br />

his own 2013 Supra speedboat, the<br />

‘Knot For Sale’.<br />

“We chose to do it because it goes<br />

to a good cause. It’s for people who<br />

slip through the net – who don’t get<br />

NDIS funding. It’s a second stream to<br />

be able to help people who don’t get<br />

help,” Todd explained.<br />

Todd and his wife Ashley teamed up<br />

with friends from Trimboli Services<br />

and Valley Enterprises to form their<br />

crew of eight.<br />

“We decided that we enjoy the river,<br />

[the event] was right up our alley.<br />

“My wife and I entered the boat<br />

because registrations were about to<br />

cut off, and then one night we just<br />

mentioned it to a couple of friends,<br />

and we all decided it was a good idea.<br />

From there it all just came together.<br />

We stuck together and helped each<br />

other to make it happen,” Todd said.<br />

He and his crew raised an impressive<br />

$41,000 for the event, the highest<br />

amount out of the 32 teams.<br />

His crew started fundraising in March<br />

2021, and are thankful to their long<br />

list of sponsors, which includes some<br />

other <strong>MTA</strong> members.<br />

On day four, the participants stopped<br />

in Renmark to see where these funds<br />

are being put to use.<br />

“You spend about four hours playing<br />

games with kids with disabilities.<br />

“You get to meet the people that it’s all<br />

about, and what the charity is about.<br />

That was probably one of the most<br />

special things – to see where your<br />

money goes,” Todd said.<br />

It was clear that one of the other event<br />

highlights was passing through each<br />

of the four locks between Mannum<br />

and Berri.<br />

“There’s always a big water fight.<br />

When the boats go in and they close<br />

the lock it breaks out into a massive<br />

water fight where people have got<br />

pumps in their boat and big hoses,”<br />

said Todd.<br />

“It’s just having a bit of fun with a lot<br />

of like-minded people on the water<br />

that are just trying to do the right thing,<br />

and help out the less fortunate.”<br />

The Quigley’s highly recommend this<br />

event to other <strong>MTA</strong> members but warn<br />

that registration may be competitive<br />

next year, as this years’ event was at<br />

capacity.<br />

“We were very proud to be a part of it,<br />

and will continue to do so every year<br />

to raise funds for young people living<br />

with disabilities and to help create<br />

a more fulfilling life for them,” said<br />

Ashley.<br />

If you are interested in participating in<br />

or donating to this event, please visit<br />

the event page mightyriverrun.novita.<br />

org.au <br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS


MEMBER NEWS<br />

15<br />

AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET EXPO<br />

THE WORKSHOP OF<br />

THE FUTURE IS HERE ><br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

mtasant.com.au


16<br />

ADVOCACY<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> PETITIONS<br />

PREMIER TO<br />

ADOPT NATIONAL<br />

FRAMEWORK<br />

The <strong>MTA</strong> has called on the State Government to come<br />

into line with the national framework for dealing with<br />

“close contacts” of people who contract COVID-19.<br />

In a letter to Premier Steven Marshall, <strong>MTA</strong> CEO Paul<br />

Unerkov also urged the Government to add the automotive<br />

sector to the list of essential services.<br />

“During November 2020 and July 2021 lockdowns, much<br />

of the automotive industry was recognised in formal<br />

directions as an essential service due to the critical<br />

importance of vehicle repair industry and its supply chain<br />

to maintaining the mobility of South Australians,” he said<br />

in the letter.<br />

“<strong>MTA</strong> members as employers have a strong commitment<br />

to the health and safety of their employees, having<br />

responsibly operated during these lockdown periods, as<br />

well as complying with ongoing public safety measures<br />

in place such as the use of masks in indoor public spaces,<br />

social distancing and the use of the COVID-<strong>SA</strong>fe Check-In<br />

system.<br />

“In a recent survey, 94.7% of South Australian <strong>MTA</strong><br />

members told us that they would like their employees<br />

who are close contacts to be able to safely return to<br />

work, provided they comply with conditions such as a<br />

“In a letter to Premier Steven<br />

Marshall, <strong>MTA</strong> CEO Paul<br />

Unerkov also urged the<br />

Government to add the<br />

automotive sector to the list<br />

of essential services.”<br />

PCR test undertaken, negative rapid antigen tests and full<br />

vaccination status, in line with other industry sectors in<br />

South Australia.<br />

“South Australia has also diverged from the definition<br />

of a close contact agreed to by National Cabinet. The<br />

conflicting arrangements and poor communication are<br />

not only causing confusion for the automotive industry -<br />

they are restricting industry’s ability to trade in an already<br />

challenging environment.<br />

“Our members are regularly advising us that employees<br />

having to isolate as close contacts is having a significant<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

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ADVOCACY<br />

17<br />

impact on their businesses, including site shutdowns,<br />

against a backdrop of pre-existing skill shortages in the<br />

automotive industry.<br />

“Accordingly, the <strong>MTA</strong> strongly urges you to adopt the<br />

national framework in South Australia as a matter of<br />

urgency.”<br />

The <strong>MTA</strong>’s Industry Government Engagement Manager,<br />

Kaes Cillessen, said the situation was “quite dire”. Many<br />

businesses were impacted because staff were being<br />

forced into isolation as casual or close contacts.<br />

“We have seen a growing list of shortages and a clear<br />

need to keep industry and businesses going,” he said.<br />

“National Cabinet adopted a new definition of a close<br />

contact, essentially with a four-hour a benchmark, mainly<br />

in household environments.<br />

“There was some indication that South Australia was<br />

going to be a signatory to that, but ultimately we learned<br />

from <strong>SA</strong> Health that <strong>SA</strong> would act separately from the rest<br />

of the country. It was very confusing and disappointing for<br />

our members.<br />

“There are obviously people who are sick with COVID-19<br />

and need to isolate. But are a lot of healthy people<br />

just forced into isolation for long periods of time and<br />

businesses are shutting down.<br />

“The second issue relates to critical industries, where if you<br />

are a close contact but double vaxxed, asymptomatic and<br />

have a negative test, you could return to work wearing a<br />

mask.<br />

“Disappointingly, South Australia again went with its own<br />

framework, which included some industries but largely<br />

overlooked the automotive industry.<br />

“Once again, <strong>SA</strong> is departing from what we thought was a<br />

consistent national framework.<br />

“In the past there has been a recognition that the<br />

automotive industry, particularly repair and the parts supply<br />

chain, is an essential service to keeping the mobility of<br />

Australians in place.<br />

“So we really strongly urged the Premier to adopt those<br />

national standards in South Australia.”<br />

The Premier responded to the <strong>MTA</strong> acknowledging our<br />

request to expand the list to include the automotive<br />

industry, but disappointingly did not commit to alignment<br />

with National Cabinet’s framework.<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

mtasant.com.au


18<br />

LONG-STANDING MEMBER<br />

RHEMAC<br />

MOTORS<br />

BY LUCY BREWER<br />

Rhemac Motors, located at Gawler, was started in 1969 by<br />

friends David Jewis and John Day. The business initially<br />

specialised in mechanical repairs, led by David, and crash<br />

repairs, led by John.<br />

A little while after the business opened David’s brother,<br />

Des, joined as an apprentice mechanic. In the mid 80’s<br />

John left the business, and took the crash repair section<br />

with him. Around the same time Rhemac Motors added<br />

Engine Reconditioning as a service, led by Des. During the<br />

1990’s David’s sons, Peter and Mark, also joined the team,<br />

ensuring the business would be a family affair for the<br />

foreseeable future.<br />

Mark started as an apprentice in 1994, and has worked his<br />

way up over the years, developing as the business did.<br />

“In the mid 2000s, I started spending more time on the<br />

front counter dealing with customers, and working in the<br />

background on business improvement. Currently, I manage<br />

the engine machine shop and the parts of the business that<br />

go on in the background that no one sees,” said Mark.<br />

Rhemac Motors began as a small workshop but has<br />

broadened its offering over the years. In the 1980s, an engine<br />

machine shop was added and the business developed a<br />

specialisation in performance engine work.<br />

“Over the years, like all businesses, it adapted to suit the<br />

market of the time,” said Mark.<br />

The client range Rhemac Motors handles is extensive.<br />

The business offers services and repairs for the cars of<br />

local residents, as well as engine work for other mechanical<br />

workshops throughout South Australia and interstate.<br />

“We’ve also been an oil and lubricant distributor and<br />

reseller for various brands for many years, servicing a<br />

lot of smaller workshops and wineries in our area and in<br />

the Barossa and Clare Valleys,” said Mark. “We’ve had a<br />

close association with the RAA for many years starting as<br />

an approved repairer, and then becoming a road service<br />

contractor for the Gawler area.”<br />

Rhemac Motors moved shops a decade ago, a process<br />

Mark stated was a career highlight, and marked a new<br />

stage for the business.<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> CEO Paul Unerkov awarding Rhemac Motors with their 50-Year<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> Membership Certificate.<br />

“To move an entire workshop and machine shop, with<br />

as minimal impact to business as possible, and get the<br />

chance to set the workshop up from a clean slate was a<br />

massive challenge,” he said. “It took an immense amount<br />

of planning and work, but to see it all come together and<br />

end up with the result we did was fantastic.”<br />

COVID-19 proved challenging for Rhemac Motors with an<br />

initial decline in work. However, Mark has since seen a<br />

significant upside to the pandemic as far as mechanical<br />

workshops are concerned.<br />

“More recently with the restrictions and unpredictable<br />

nature of travel, I believe it’s driven a boom in hobbyist<br />

restorations and rebuilds which has seen us very busy,”<br />

he said.<br />

Rhemac Motors recently celebrated their 50-Year <strong>MTA</strong><br />

Membership milestone, an amazing achievement that<br />

shows their dedication to the <strong>SA</strong> automotive industry.<br />

“The <strong>MTA</strong> provide a valuable range or resources and advice<br />

that we can rely on to help our business in many ways,<br />

including keeping up with current regulations, advocating<br />

for our industry, and training and support that smaller<br />

businesses need,” said Mark.<br />

As for the future (perhaps inspired by the pandemic),<br />

Rhemac Motors is focussed on change: “If our business<br />

isn’t looking to the future and changing to adapt, then the<br />

future will pass us by.”<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

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It all starts<br />

with spirit<br />

With low fees and a history of strong<br />

returns, we back hard-working Aussies.<br />

spiritsuper.com.au<br />

Advice on Spirit Super is provided by Quadrant First Pty Ltd (ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL 284443) and issuer is Motor Trades Association of Australia<br />

Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238718), the trustee of Spirit Super (ABN 74 559 365 913). Read the PDS and TMD at<br />

spiritsuper.com.au/pds before making a decision. Past performance isn’t a reliable indicator of future performance. The value of investments<br />

can rise or fall, and investment returns can be positive or negative.<br />

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20<br />

WORKPLACE RELATIONS<br />

WORKPLACE<br />

VACCINATION<br />

REQUIREMENTS<br />

The purpose of this article is to<br />

provide a guide to Members on how to<br />

navigate COVID-19 vaccination in the<br />

workplace, and to ensure they meet<br />

their WHS obligations. It provides<br />

members with tools on how to<br />

implement such a policy, or determine<br />

whether it is the right step for the<br />

business.<br />

WORKPLACE VACCINATION<br />

OBLIGATIONS<br />

Employers have obligations under<br />

work health and safety legislation<br />

to, as far as reasonably practicable,<br />

reduce the risk of injury or illness<br />

occurring in the workplace. Therefore,<br />

employers must consider what control<br />

measures can be implemented to<br />

reduce the likelihood of the spread<br />

of infectious diseases (eg COVID-19<br />

or influenza) in the workplace.<br />

This may include implementing a<br />

voluntary immunisation program<br />

encouraging employees to get<br />

vaccinated. Consideration may also<br />

be given to whether it is reasonable<br />

and appropriate to implement a policy<br />

requiring employees to be vaccinated.<br />

DIRECTING AN EMPLOYEE<br />

TO GET VACCINATED<br />

Generally, there are three<br />

circumstances where you can<br />

reasonably require an employee to<br />

be vaccinated in order to continue<br />

to attend the workplace:<br />

• where there is a requirement under<br />

a State or Territory law or public<br />

health order<br />

• where there is a term in an<br />

applicable employment contract,<br />

enterprise agreement, or other<br />

registered agreement that requires<br />

an employee to get vaccinated<br />

against a particular disease, or<br />

• if no legal requirement exists,<br />

where the direction to vaccinate is<br />

considered lawful and reasonable.<br />

Information and rules regarding<br />

workplace vaccinations are subject<br />

to change with evolving government<br />

guidance and Fair Work Commission<br />

cases in this area.<br />

LEGAL REQUIREMENT TO<br />

BE VACCINATED<br />

Where a government imposed<br />

health order requires an employee<br />

to be vaccinated, it is important that<br />

they comply with that order, and<br />

that steps are taken to ensure that<br />

they are compliant (such as asking<br />

the employee to provide proof of<br />

vaccination). In most cases, a failure<br />

to comply with a government health<br />

order will be an offence, punishable<br />

by penalties and potentially,<br />

imprisonment.<br />

It is important to notify employees of<br />

vaccination requirements under any<br />

government law or public health order<br />

and follow the relevant guidelines.<br />

Vaccination exemptions may exist for<br />

some employees, such as on medical<br />

grounds. If an employee is exempt,<br />

obtain evidence of their circumstances<br />

and put in place measures to mitigate<br />

the risk of infection transmission.<br />

Where an employee cannot, or does<br />

not wish to comply with a government<br />

direction in relation to vaccination,<br />

there may be consequences for their<br />

ongoing employment.<br />

Please contact the <strong>MTA</strong> Team on 08<br />

8291 2000 to discuss your options.<br />

NO LEGAL REQUIREMENT<br />

TO BE VACCINATED<br />

In the absence of a government<br />

health order, you can implement a<br />

vaccination policy where it is a lawful<br />

and reasonable direction. A direction<br />

may be considered lawful if it is not<br />

contrary to an employment contract,<br />

enterprise agreement, or award, or a<br />

Commonwealth, State, or Territory law<br />

that applies. Generally, a direction<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

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WORKPLACE RELATIONS<br />

that an employee provide their<br />

employer with proof of vaccination<br />

will be lawful.<br />

The more difficult question will be<br />

whether a direction to vaccinate is<br />

reasonable. Whether it is a reasonable<br />

direction will need to take into account<br />

all the relevant circumstances, which<br />

will include:<br />

• the nature of the workplace<br />

(is there a possibility that<br />

employees can come into contact<br />

with the disease, for example<br />

interacting with members of the<br />

public or working in close proximity<br />

to other employees?)<br />

• the employee’s circumstances,<br />

including the nature and risks<br />

of the duties they perform in an<br />

environment which may be prone<br />

to infection spread or where close<br />

contact with vulnerable people is<br />

required<br />

• the effectiveness of other<br />

measures to successfully mitigate<br />

the risk of infection spread (such<br />

as PPE), and<br />

• whether the employee has a valid<br />

reason for refusing the vaccine.<br />

To establish the reasonableness<br />

of a direction to get vaccinated,<br />

undertake a risk assessment and<br />

consult with employees. If you cannot<br />

direct an employee to be vaccinated,<br />

consider encouraging employees<br />

to be vaccinated (for example, by<br />

arranging for a workplace vaccination<br />

program, or providing paid leave for an<br />

employee to obtain a vaccination).<br />

Before implementing any vaccination<br />

policy, contact the Workplace<br />

Relations Team on 08 8291 2000 for<br />

specific advice on your circumstances.<br />

RISK ASSESSMENTS<br />

AND MEETING YOUR<br />

OBLIGATIONS<br />

When considering whether to<br />

implement any vaccination policy,<br />

conduct a risk assessment in<br />

consultation with your workers<br />

assessing the risk and likelihood of<br />

infection in the workplace in light of<br />

your operations, public health advice,<br />

and regulatory guidance.<br />

Vaccination, whether encouraged<br />

or mandated, may be a reasonable<br />

control measure to address infection<br />

transmission risks. However, other<br />

controls may still be required to<br />

adequately address health risks<br />

and meet your health and safety<br />

obligations. Alternative control<br />

measures include providing Personal<br />

Protective Equipment (PPE), practicing<br />

hand hygiene, and implementing<br />

a detailed Infection Control Policy.<br />

These should especially be considered<br />

if your risk assessment identifies<br />

vaccination as a reasonable control<br />

measure but it cannot be implemented<br />

for whatever reason.<br />

A further alternative to vaccination<br />

could be to require an employee to<br />

return a negative pathology test for<br />

a particular disease. A direction to<br />

take a test still needs to be lawful<br />

and reasonable, connected to the<br />

employee’s employment and nature<br />

of their workplace, and necessary for<br />

an employer to know the employee’s<br />

fitness to work.<br />

REQUESTING PROOF OF<br />

VACCINATION<br />

You may request evidence that an<br />

employee has received a vaccination,<br />

such as a copy of the employee’s<br />

Immunisation History Record or<br />

the COVID-19 certificate issued by<br />

Medicare / MyGov. An employee<br />

may refuse to provide evidence if the<br />

request is not related to a mandatory<br />

vaccination. Review the Office of the<br />

Australian Information Commissioner<br />

website to ensure you are aware of<br />

any privacy obligations.<br />

COST OF THE<br />

VACCINATION<br />

There may be terms in the applicable<br />

award, enterprise agreement or<br />

employment contract regarding costs<br />

associated with vaccinations which<br />

must be met.<br />

21<br />

REQUIRING VACCINATIONS<br />

OR PROVIDING<br />

IMMUNI<strong>SA</strong>TION PROGRAM<br />

If vaccination is imposed as a term<br />

of employment, then you must pay<br />

the cost of the vaccination, especially<br />

in respect of existing employees.<br />

If the vaccination is supplied to the<br />

public free of charge, then ensure<br />

that the employee receives the<br />

vaccine during paid work hours<br />

(or paid as appropriate if it needs to<br />

be done outside work hours) while<br />

covering any practitioner fees and<br />

associated costs.<br />

RECOMMENDING<br />

OR ENCOURAGING<br />

VACCINATION<br />

If vaccination is not mandated in<br />

the workplace, then you do not need<br />

to cover the cost of the vaccination<br />

or provide paid time off for the<br />

employee to receive it. You may,<br />

at your discretion, consider other<br />

ways to support the employee being<br />

vaccinated such as:<br />

• agreements to access paid annual<br />

leave<br />

• flexibility in work hours or location,<br />

and<br />

• paid time off.<br />

MAKING VACCINATIONS<br />

A CONDITION OF<br />

EMPLOYMENT<br />

Making vaccinations a condition of<br />

employment may be reasonable but<br />

can carry high risk. Particularly where<br />

an employee does not want to (or<br />

cannot) be vaccinated, there is a risk<br />

of workplace dispute, unfair dismissal,<br />

general protections or discrimination<br />

claims being raised. Given these risks,<br />

it is important to seek advice before<br />

implementing or seeking to enforce<br />

any vaccination policy.<br />

More questions? Call the <strong>MTA</strong> team<br />

on 08 8291 2000 or email wr@<br />

mtasant.com.au for specific advice<br />

on your employment and health and<br />

safety responsibilities in relation to<br />

vaccinations in the workplace.<br />

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mtasant.com.au


22<br />

LONG-STANDING MEMBERS<br />

Southgate<br />

Automotive <br />

25-YEAR<br />

MEMBER<br />

Jeremy Scott presents Peter Altman, of<br />

Southgate Automotive, with a 25-Year <strong>MTA</strong><br />

Membership certificate.<br />

75-YEAR<br />

MEMBER<br />

Kincraig<br />

Motors <br />

Peter Roberts presents Reginald Pallant, of Kincraig<br />

Motors, with a 75-Year <strong>MTA</strong> Membership Certificate<br />

at the South East Zone Meeting.<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

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NEW MEMBERS<br />

23<br />

NEW MEMBERS<br />

Abdullah Bakhtyari - Affordable Tyres<br />

Adam<br />

Nicholson<br />

Northpoint<br />

Murraylands <br />

Supreme<br />

Garage <br />

Evan Kim<br />

Scott Holland<br />

Complete Automotive<br />

Service <br />

Georgios<br />

Nikolau<br />

Headlight<br />

Restoration<br />

Adelaide <br />

Kevin Xe<br />

BDK<br />

Automotive <br />

Alexander and<br />

Falon Perkins<br />

Down South Crash<br />

Repair <br />

Olivia<br />

Stapleton Pitt<br />

DB Motors <br />

Adelaide RV <br />

Paul Back<br />

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mtasant.com.au


24<br />

CONSUMER & BUSINESS SERVICES<br />

INTERSTATE WORK<br />

OPPORTUNITIES<br />

MADE EASIER<br />

DINI SOULIO, COMMISSIONER<br />

FOR CONSUMER AND BUSINESS<br />

SERVICES<br />

Businesses and workers operate<br />

with much greater flexibility these<br />

days. They’re able to work remotely,<br />

conduct transactions with customers<br />

online, and to move across state and<br />

territory borders (where permitted<br />

under COVID-19 restrictions). The new<br />

Automatic Mutual Recognition (AMR)<br />

scheme helps to facilitate workplace<br />

mobility by automatically recognising<br />

interstate licences and registrations.<br />

This saves workers from having to<br />

apply and pay for a new licence in<br />

another state or territory.<br />

Car dealers wanting to work in<br />

South Australia<br />

From 1 <strong>February</strong> <strong>2022</strong> second-hand<br />

vehicle dealers will be able to work in<br />

<strong>SA</strong> using their current dealer’s licence<br />

from another state or territory. For<br />

example, a licensed dealer in <strong>SA</strong> can<br />

employ a suitably licensed manager<br />

from interstate to work here, and<br />

a wrecker who holds an interstate<br />

licence as a second-hand dealer<br />

can sell vehicles in <strong>SA</strong>. However it<br />

is important to note that AMR only<br />

applies to individuals, not companies.<br />

If a dealer’s home state (i.e. their<br />

principal place of residence or work)<br />

becomes <strong>SA</strong> they will need to apply<br />

through existing mutual recognition<br />

arrangements to obtain a new<br />

substantive licence in <strong>SA</strong>.<br />

Interstate dealers who wish to work<br />

in <strong>SA</strong> must notify Consumer and<br />

Business Services (CBS) before<br />

commencing any work in <strong>SA</strong>. The<br />

online notification form will be<br />

available from CBS from 1 <strong>February</strong><br />

<strong>2022</strong>. There is no fee for notification.<br />

Interstate dealers will need to meet<br />

the same legal requirements as <strong>SA</strong><br />

dealers while they are working in <strong>SA</strong>.<br />

Upon notification, CBS will provide<br />

interstate dealers with a factsheet<br />

highlighting certain requirements in<br />

<strong>SA</strong> – e.g. contract requirements, duty<br />

to repair defects, and cooling off rights<br />

for purchasers.<br />

Car dealers wanting to work interstate<br />

All states and territories, other than<br />

Queensland, have agreed to join the<br />

AMR scheme. If you are a licensed<br />

second-hand vehicle dealer in <strong>SA</strong><br />

and wish to work in another state or<br />

territory you will need to check:<br />

• if AMR has commenced for<br />

second-hand vehicle dealers in<br />

that particular state or territory<br />

• that you are eligible for AMR<br />

• if the licensing authority in that<br />

state or territory requires you to<br />

notify them before commencing<br />

any work in that state or territory<br />

– if so they will provide an online<br />

notification form. There is no fee<br />

for notification.<br />

Bear in mind that this arrangement<br />

is only available where <strong>SA</strong> remains<br />

your home state. If you move your<br />

home state you will need to apply<br />

through existing mutual recognition<br />

arrangements to obtain a new<br />

substantive licence in that state or<br />

territory.<br />

Eligibility<br />

You will not be eligible for AMR if you:<br />

• are disqualified or suspended from<br />

carrying on business as a secondhand<br />

vehicle dealer or have been<br />

refused a dealer’s licence<br />

• are subject to disciplinary, civil or<br />

criminal action or know you are<br />

under investigation<br />

• have conditions placed on your<br />

home state licence as a result of<br />

disciplinary or court action.<br />

Important safeguards<br />

AMR incorporates safeguards to<br />

maintain standards when people are<br />

working in another state or territory.<br />

For second-hand vehicle dealers, this<br />

means that you must:<br />

• hold a dealer’s licence in your home<br />

state or territory<br />

• only work within the scope and<br />

conditions of your existing licence<br />

or registration<br />

• obey the local laws in the<br />

jurisdiction you work in, otherwise<br />

you may face disciplinary action,<br />

licence suspension or cancellation,<br />

and be excluded from AMR<br />

• meet public protection<br />

requirements that relate to your<br />

occupation.<br />

Other occupations<br />

Other CBS-regulated occupations that<br />

will be covered by AMR include:<br />

• Builders and tradespeople<br />

• Plumbers, gas-fitters and<br />

electricians<br />

• Gaming machine technicians<br />

• Real estate professionals and<br />

conveyancers<br />

• Security and investigation agents.<br />

Further information<br />

For more information about AMR<br />

please visit www.cbs.sa.gov.au/news/<br />

automatic-recognition-licences .<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

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25<br />

Asta McCormack<br />

Superannuation Adviser<br />

Advice<br />

Get the right advice<br />

about your super<br />

Our Superannuation Advisers are here to help you<br />

get the most out of your super. No matter how<br />

simple or complex your needs, we offer the right<br />

advice at the right time.<br />

Common questions we answer include:<br />

• How do beneficiaries work and who should I nominate?<br />

• How does the government co-contribution work?<br />

• How can I boost my retirement savings?<br />

• What is the best investment option for me?<br />

• What does my insurance cover me for?<br />

• What are my transition to retirement options?<br />

• What are the benefits of a pension account?<br />

Your local Superannuation<br />

Adviser:<br />

Asta McCormack<br />

M 0406 375 230<br />

E asta.mccormack@spiritsuper.com.au<br />

spiritsuper.com.au/advice<br />

Our Superannuation Advisers are fully qualified to give<br />

general and intra-fund advice about super and your<br />

Spirit Super account. General and intra-fund advice<br />

is offered at no additional cost — it’s all covered by<br />

your Spirit Super administration fees.<br />

Advice on Spirit Super is provided by Quadrant First Pty Ltd (ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL 284443) (Spirit Super Advice), which is wholly owned by Motor<br />

Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238718), the trustee of Spirit Super (ABN 74 559 365 913). A<br />

copy of the Financial services guide for Spirit Super Advice is available at spiritsuper.com.au/financial-services-guide or by calling us on 1800 005 166.<br />

You should consider the Product disclosure statement and Target market determination available at spiritsuper.com.au/pds or by calling 1800 005 166<br />

before deciding if the fund is appropriate for you.<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

Get in touch today to book an appointment<br />

in person or over the phone.<br />

mtasant.com.au


26<br />

CAREERS<br />

INTRO TO AUTO<br />

The <strong>MTA</strong> has received positive feedback to date for the<br />

new initiative in its school pathways program, aiding in<br />

combatting the skills shortage in the automotive industry.<br />

Run by <strong>MTA</strong> School Pathways Coordinator, Andrew Parkes,<br />

Intro to Auto is a workshop designed as a direct response<br />

to feedback from schools, providing students with a first<br />

taste of the industry, but also equipping them with skills<br />

for life. So far, Andrew has visited Wilderness School, Para<br />

Hills High School and hosted a couple at the <strong>MTA</strong> itself.<br />

“The three-hour workshop is tailored to students in years<br />

10-12 who either have a general interest in automotive,<br />

or who are simply looking to get their Ps and become<br />

independent drivers in the near future,” he explained.<br />

There are plenty of hands-on activities to keep students<br />

engaged.<br />

“We teach them to check crucial levels, properly maintain<br />

their vehicle and safely change a tyre,” said Andrew.<br />

The highlight of the workshop is undoubtedly the<br />

virtual reality demonstration, where students are able<br />

to experience a simulation of painting a vehicle and are<br />

scored on their abilities.<br />

During the workshop, Andrew talks them through his<br />

journey in automotive, and draws upon his years of industry<br />

experience to answer questions and provide guidance to<br />

those looking to break into the industry.<br />

For those students with career aspirations outside<br />

automotive, the workshop allows them to walk away<br />

with the knowledge and skills needed to be a safe and<br />

independent driver for life.<br />

If you or someone you know is interested in attending one<br />

of the free workshops, or if you would like to recommend<br />

the workshop to a school near you, please contact Andrew<br />

Parkes on the details below.<br />

Andrew Parkes<br />

aparkes@mtasant.com.au | (08) 8241 0522<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

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CAREERS<br />

27<br />

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Paying Your Staff Correctly<br />

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As an <strong>MTA</strong> member, you’ll save more than $100 on your chosen training course.<br />

You’ll also have access to our online resources, like downloadable templates to implement straight<br />

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If you’d like to know more, visit our training portal at www.mtasant.com.au/training<br />

or contact our team on: 8291 2000 or wr@mtasant.com.au<br />

<strong>MTA</strong>152.1MAY21<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

mtasant.com.au


28<br />

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT<br />

2021’S MAJOR CHANGES<br />

TO CASUAL EMPLOYMENT<br />

IN AUSTRALIA<br />

Early in 2021, the Fair Work Act 2009<br />

(Cth) (FW Act) was amended, making<br />

significant changes to the workplace<br />

entitlements and obligations for<br />

casual employees in Australia.<br />

These changes came into effect on<br />

27 March 2021.<br />

Here are the key things you need to<br />

know about the changes to casual<br />

employment that happened last year:<br />

OVERVIEW OF CHANGES<br />

The FW Act has been amended to<br />

include a:<br />

• Definition of a casual employee<br />

• Right for long-term casual<br />

employees to request to convert<br />

to permanent employment<br />

• Requirement that casual<br />

employees be provided with<br />

a Casual Employment Information<br />

Statement<br />

DEFINITION OF A CASUAL<br />

EMPLOYEE<br />

Recent court decisions gave rise<br />

to some uncertainty for employers<br />

as to whether an employee who<br />

was understood to be engaged<br />

on a casual basis, could be found<br />

to be a permanent employee (and<br />

entitled to the benefits of permanent<br />

employment, such as paid leave).<br />

The FW Act has now been amended<br />

to provide some clarity as to the<br />

definition of a casual employee.<br />

Now, if a person is offered<br />

employment without a “firm advance<br />

commitment to continuing and<br />

indefinite work”, and the employee<br />

accepts the offer on that basis, then<br />

the person is titled a casual employee.<br />

Significantly, the assessment<br />

of whether a person is a casual<br />

employee occurs on the basis of the<br />

offer of employment, not on the basis<br />

of any subsequent conduct of either<br />

employee/employer party.<br />

In determining whether the offer of<br />

employment makes no “firm advance<br />

commitment” of regular work, only<br />

the following considerations will be<br />

regarded:<br />

• Whether the employer can elect to<br />

offer work and whether the person<br />

can elect to accept or reject work;<br />

• Whether the person will work as<br />

required according to the needs of<br />

the employer;<br />

• Whether the employment is described<br />

as casual employment; and<br />

• Whether the person will be entitled<br />

to a casual loading or a specific<br />

rate of pay for casual employees<br />

under the terms of the offer or a<br />

fair work instrument.<br />

It is important that all members review<br />

the terms on which casual employees<br />

are engaged, to ensure that you are in<br />

the best position to defend any claims<br />

by casual employees.<br />

RIGHT TO CASUAL<br />

CONVERSION<br />

Another key update to the FW Act is<br />

the inclusion of a casual conversion<br />

procedure. While a right to request<br />

conversion to permanent employment<br />

has been in some awards for some<br />

time, the National Employment<br />

Standards now include an entitlement<br />

for all casual employees to request<br />

to become permanent (full-time or<br />

part-time, consistent with the casual’s<br />

regular pattern of hours) should they<br />

meet certain eligibility criteria.<br />

Importantly, under the amended Act,<br />

employers, other than small business<br />

employers, now have an obligation<br />

to offer casual conversion to eligible<br />

employees (or advise the employee<br />

why it is not reasonable to make such<br />

an offer).<br />

Employers must offer to convert<br />

a casual employee to permanent<br />

employment if the employee:<br />

• Has been employed for 12<br />

months; and<br />

• During the last 6 months, has<br />

worked a regular and systematic<br />

pattern of hours without significant<br />

adjustment.<br />

However, there will be no obligation<br />

on employers to make an offer if there<br />

are “reasonable business grounds” not<br />

to. In such instances, the employees<br />

cease to hold the right to request<br />

conversion for the next 6 months.<br />

Further, should an employee refuse an<br />

offer of conversion, they lose the right<br />

to convert for the next 6 months.<br />

Where an employer determines not<br />

to make an offer of conversion, they<br />

must give notice of the decision to<br />

employees within 21 days of when<br />

the right to be offered conversion<br />

occurred, or the employee retains a<br />

residual right to request conversion.<br />

To ensure compliance with the FW<br />

Act, members are encouraged to<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

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CASUAL EMPLOYMENT<br />

29<br />

review your current arrangements<br />

with casual employees to determine<br />

if they are entitled to convert to<br />

permanency. Also, look at designing<br />

and implementing processes to<br />

ensure compliance with the new<br />

casual conversion obligations.<br />

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT<br />

INFORMATION<br />

STATEMENT<br />

The other key amendment to the FW<br />

Act is that there is now an obligation<br />

to provide casual employees with<br />

a Casual Employment Information<br />

Statement, created by the Fair Work<br />

Ombudsman, before or as soon as<br />

practicable after the commencement<br />

of their employment (this is to be<br />

provided in addition to the Fair Work<br />

Information Statement).<br />

Remember to: ensure you are<br />

providing all new casual employees<br />

with a copy of the Casual Employment<br />

Information Statement (in addition<br />

to the Fair Work Information<br />

Statement) upon commencement<br />

of their employment. Copies of the<br />

Casual Information Statement can<br />

be downloaded from the Fair Work<br />

Ombudsman’s website.<br />

A CASE STUDY: WORKPAC<br />

PTY LTD V ROS<strong>SA</strong>TO (2021)<br />

392 ALR 39<br />

In August this year, the High Court<br />

of Australia delivered a landmark<br />

decision whereby it was ruled that<br />

the primary test in determining the<br />

“casualness” of an employee is by<br />

considering the express terms of<br />

a written employment contract. Mr<br />

Rossato, who had worked regular and<br />

predictable shifts, claimed he was not<br />

a casual employee for WorkPac on<br />

this basis. He sought to be paid for<br />

various entitlements, such as annual<br />

leave, public holidays, and periods of<br />

personal and compassionate leave<br />

he had taken during the course of<br />

his employment. WorkPac sought a<br />

declaration that Mr Rossato had been<br />

a casual employee for the purposes<br />

of the FW Act, and as such, was not<br />

entitled to such payments.<br />

In finding against Mr Rossato, The<br />

Court determined that the test for<br />

casual employment is based on<br />

whether there was a “firm advance<br />

commitment” in the enforceable terms<br />

of a contract of employment, and as<br />

such, unenforceable “understandings”<br />

about the relationship between the<br />

parties should be rejected. Further, the<br />

Court found that predictable patterns<br />

of work are not inconsistent with<br />

casual employment.<br />

This decision provided much clarity<br />

for both employers and employees<br />

regarding how casual employment<br />

is defined. This case, combined with<br />

the recent amendments to the FW<br />

Act, is envisaged to resolve much of<br />

the ambiguity which was previously<br />

surrounding casual employment.<br />

What is clear from the Rossato case<br />

and the recent changes to the FW Act,<br />

is that it is critical that employers have<br />

clear written terms of engagement<br />

with their casual employees.<br />

Members are encouraged to utilise<br />

the resources available from the <strong>MTA</strong>,<br />

and seek advice, to ensure that their<br />

business is best protected from any<br />

future claims.<br />

ANY FURTHER<br />

QUESTIONS?<br />

If you have any further questions<br />

about the topics raised in this article,<br />

please contact the <strong>MTA</strong> WR Team on<br />

8291 2000 for further advice.<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

mtasant.com.au


30<br />

SKILLS<br />

<strong>2022</strong> HYBRID AND ELECTRIC<br />

VEHICLE COURSE DATES<br />

NOW AVAILABLE<br />

Upskill now and avoid missed income opportunities for<br />

your business by getting up to speed on hybrid and electric<br />

(HEV/BEV) vehicles.<br />

The <strong>MTA</strong>’s Registered Training Organisation offers<br />

the only introductory HEV/BEV course held in South<br />

Australia at the Skills and Careers Centre, Royal Park<br />

(RTO No. 2293).<br />

The automotive industry is currently experiencing rapid<br />

change with the increasing HEV/BEV uptake.<br />

As this technology only becomes more prominent,<br />

your workshop will need technicians with the specialised<br />

skills to meet the service demands of the community.<br />

Preparing your staff for this rapid change is critical to<br />

the future of your business!<br />

Held over two-nights, this introductory course equips<br />

industry professionals with the skills to depower and<br />

reinitialise HEV and BEV systems, including a working<br />

competency of safe work practices, vehicle specific<br />

requirements, policies, procedures and more.<br />

Units<br />

AURETH101 Depower and reinitialise battery electric<br />

vehicles<br />

AURETH011 Depower and reinitialise hybrid electric<br />

vehicles<br />

Participants who successfully complete the course<br />

will be awarded a Statement of Attainment.<br />

Held over two nights, the advanced course expands upon<br />

the above short course and takes participants through<br />

further practices.<br />

This advanced course is a must for businesses and staff<br />

wanting to confidently work in this growing field.<br />

Units<br />

AURETH101 Depower and reinitialise battery electric<br />

vehicles<br />

AURETH002 Service and maintain battery electric vehicles<br />

AURETH103 Diagnose and repair high voltage rechargeable<br />

energy storage systems in battery electric vehicles<br />

AURETH107 Diagnose and repair system instrumentation<br />

and safety interlocks in battery electric vehicles<br />

AURETH110 Diagnose and repair high voltage rechargeable<br />

energy storage systems in hybrid electric vehicles<br />

AURETH011 Depower and reinitialise hybrid electric<br />

vehicles<br />

AURETH012 Service and maintain electrical components<br />

in hybrid electric vehicles<br />

NEW DATES AVAILABLE!<br />

To learn more about the accredited Core and Elective Units<br />

and view all <strong>2022</strong> dates, visit the course page here .<br />

If you’re ready to book or have questions regarding course<br />

delivery and accreditation, call us on 8241 0522 or email<br />

mtatraining@mtasant.com.au .<br />

mtasant.com.au


Have your say!<br />

Come and network with other like-minded<br />

members to discuss what matters to you<br />

Divisional Meetings<br />

Farm and Industrial Machinery Dealers Association 4 th FEB Click here to register for online meeting<br />

Automotive Dealers Association 11 th FEB Click here to register for online meeting<br />

General 2 nd MAR Click here to register for online meeting<br />

Automotive Dismantlers 3 rd MAR Click here to register for online meeting<br />

Body Repair Specialists 15 th MAR Click here to register for online meeting<br />

Licenced Vehicle Dealers 17 th MAR Click here to register for online meeting<br />

Towing Services 24 th MAR Click here to register for online meeting<br />

Commercial Vehicle Industry Association 7 th APR Click here to register for online * meeting<br />

*Or at <strong>MTA</strong> House 81 Greenhill Rd, Wayville<br />

Zone Meetings<br />

Barossa, Light & Lower North 1 st FEB Click here to register for online meeting<br />

Riverland 15 th FEB Click here to register for online meeting<br />

Upper North 22 nd FEB Click here to register for online meeting<br />

Far North 24 th FEB Click here to register for online meeting<br />

Eyre Peninsula 9 th MAR Click here to register for online * meeting<br />

*Or at Port Lincoln Hotel, Port Lincoln<br />

South Coast 23 rd MAR Click here to register for online * meeting<br />

*Or at Beach Hotel Seaford, Seaford<br />

South Coast (Kangaroo Island) 29 th MAR Click here to register for online * meeting<br />

*Or at Aurora Ozone Hotel, Kingscote<br />

Hills & Murraylands 5 th APR Click here to register for online * meeting<br />

*Or at Murray Bridge Hotel, Murray Bridge<br />

Having trouble registering? Click here<br />

Are you staying up-to-date?<br />

Make sure you’re following us on social media so you<br />

don’t miss out on social-only content!<br />

Motor Trade Association of <strong>SA</strong>/NT<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> Apprenticeships<br />

<strong>MTA</strong>170.1JAN22


32<br />

BACK IN THE<br />

DAY WITH <strong>MTA</strong><br />

FEBRUARY 1992<br />

We’ve dusted off the archives and stepped back in time<br />

thirty years to take a look at what was making news in<br />

our <strong>February</strong> 1992 edition of the Motor Trade Journal.<br />

SIGN OF THE TIMES<br />

• Average price of petrol: 68.3c<br />

MEMBER SERVICES<br />

• Bathurst 1000 Winners: Jim Richards and Mark Skaife<br />

in a Nissan Skyline BNR32 GT-R<br />

• Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix Winner: Mick Doohan<br />

(Honda)<br />

• Top selling car: Ford Falcon 57,832 sales<br />

• ARIA Top Single: Achy Breaky Heart – Billy Ray Cyrus<br />

(seven weeks)<br />

A NOVEL APPROACH<br />

Always an innovator in the motor trade, Jack Henderson,<br />

a director of South Pacific Motors in Christchurch, has<br />

decided on a novel approach to market Japanese imports<br />

by establishing a salesman-free zone. In other words, there<br />

is to be a used car yard but never a salesman patrolling it.<br />

After a lifetime in the business, Henderson agrees that<br />

some shoppers do get turned off by salesmen, and the time<br />

is ripe to set up a yard without them.<br />

“In my experience, the car shoppers know just about as<br />

much as the salesman… shoppers will feel free to inspect<br />

the entire range of cars… free from tension building<br />

salesmen looking over their shoulder, and disconcerting<br />

them with a seemingly never-ending stream of chatter,”<br />

Henderson said.<br />

GOODYEAR CHAIRMAN<br />

STANLEY GAULT ADVOCATES<br />

RETREADABLE TIRES<br />

In a recent interview with the Editor of Modern Tyre Dealer<br />

magazine, Stanley Gault, Chairman and CEO Tyre & Rubber<br />

Company said, “Currently, there is concern about the<br />

environment and the scrap tyre problem.”<br />

“We’re responding by accelerating the development of a<br />

breakthrough product, an environmentally sound, highmileage<br />

tyre.”<br />

A TWO-STROKE FOR<br />

FORD’S NEW GHIA ZAG<br />

Ghia’s concept design for a sub-compact leisure<br />

vehicle for the 21st century – Zag – powered by a<br />

revolutionary two-stroke engine, is exciting interest<br />

in the motor industry.<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS


MEMBER SERVICES<br />

33<br />

BUSINESS PARTNERS INDEX<br />

APPRENTICE HOSTING<br />

P: 8241 0522 |<br />

adminroyalpark@<br />

mtasant.com.au <br />

EFTPOS FACILITIES<br />

P: 13 22 21<br />

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE<br />

P: 8215 6799 |<br />

accesssa.com.au <br />

ENVIRONMENTAL ADVICE<br />

P: 8291 2000 | wr@<br />

mtasant.com.au <br />

OFFICE SUPPLIES<br />

officeworks.com.au/<br />

mtasa <br />

PARTS BUYING<br />

P: 1800 EASIER<br />

(1800 327 437)<br />

WORKPLACE COMPLIANCE<br />

P: 8291 2000 | wr@<br />

mtasant.com.au <br />

<strong>MTA</strong> Group Training Organisation<br />

When you host an apprentice through the <strong>MTA</strong>, you don’t<br />

have to worry about advertising, interviewing, medical<br />

checks or being the legal employer for the Contract<br />

of Training. We shortlist based on the criteria you set,<br />

meaning we’ll find you an apprentice that is right for your<br />

business. Forget WorkCover, payroll tax, annual leave,<br />

sick leave, training fees, wages and super - we’ll take<br />

care of that. And there’s more - <strong>MTA</strong> Field Officers also<br />

conduct regular workplace visits and contacts to ensure<br />

you and your apprentice have the support you need.<br />

Commonwealth Bank<br />

The <strong>MTA</strong> offers ultra-competitive EFTPOS transaction<br />

rates for members through our partnership<br />

with Commonwealth Bank. Please contact the<br />

Commonwealth Bank to find out the latest deal.<br />

Access Programs Employee<br />

Assistance Program<br />

Services to <strong>MTA</strong> members at the sessional rate of<br />

$135 (plus GST) without any retainer. Five convenient<br />

locations: Adelaide, Bedford Park, Elizabeth, Salisbury,<br />

Noarlunga. Phone appointments are also available.<br />

GreenStamp<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> members can benefit from environmental<br />

compliance advice, briefings, training and on-site<br />

assessments. GreenStamp is an accreditation program<br />

that recognises and promotes businesses which have<br />

implemented sound environmental practices.<br />

Officeworks<br />

The Officeworks partnership gives business pricing only<br />

available to <strong>MTA</strong> members on a wide range of office<br />

essentials, by signing up to a 30 Day Business Account,<br />

as well as free delivery across South Australia including<br />

regional areas, excluding large or bulky items.<br />

Capricorn<br />

Capricorn Society Limited is the largest independent<br />

automotive parts buying co-operative in Australia,<br />

providing the majority of parts and services to<br />

mechanical workshops, service stations and crash<br />

repairers throughout the country. Call toll free to find out<br />

how you can save your business both time and money.<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> Audits<br />

The <strong>MTA</strong> can provide WHS & HR workplace inspections<br />

and provide recommendations and support to fill the<br />

gaps required.<br />

PRINTING & GRAPHIC DESIGN<br />

P: 8179 9907 |<br />

orders.mta@laneprint.<br />

com.au <br />

<strong>SA</strong>FETY SIGNS<br />

P: (08) 8266 3600 |<br />

sossafetysigns.com.<br />

au <br />

SUPERANNUATION<br />

P: 1800 005 166 |<br />

spiritsuper.com.au <br />

UPSKILLING TRAINING<br />

P: 8241 0522 |<br />

adminroyalpark@<br />

mtasant.com.au <br />

<strong>MTA</strong> Print<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> Print is your one stop shop when it comes to<br />

your printing needs – we are more than just business<br />

cards! We are small run digital & offset specialists, with<br />

services including motor trades stock stationery, forms<br />

& products ($27 trade plate covers), an in-house graphic<br />

designer for your logos, printing, digital advertising<br />

and social media, special product sourcing (you ask,<br />

we find), books, pads, sequential numbering and<br />

perforation for invoice books, job cards, flyers, stickers<br />

(service & lube as well), booklets and training manuals.<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> members get a 20% discount on all products.<br />

SOS Safety Signs<br />

No matter the size of your workplace, safety signs are<br />

vital for ensuring the safety of your employees. Whether<br />

you are directing them where to go, restricting certain<br />

areas or alerting them to hazards, SOS Safety Signs has<br />

all your signage needs covered.<br />

Spirit Super<br />

Spirit Super is the national industry-based super fund<br />

that has proudly served the motor trades and allied<br />

industries for over 25 years. We make administering<br />

super simple and efficient. It’s what makes us the<br />

preferred choice of over 40,000 employers. Call 1800<br />

005 166 or visit spiritsuper.com.au/Employers/supportfor-your-business<br />

You should consider the PDS in<br />

making a decision.<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> Registered Training Organisation<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> offers Upskilling courses to upgrade the skills of<br />

qualified automotive technicians. Courses include Air<br />

Conditioning, Forklift, Hybrid & Battery Electric Vehicles,<br />

Recognition of Prior Learning, SRS Airbags, and Wheel<br />

Alignment. Members receive a discounted price on<br />

courses.<br />

WORKPLACE RELATIONS & IR TRAINING<br />

P: 8291 2000 |<br />

wr@mtasant.com.au <br />

<strong>MTA</strong> Training<br />

<strong>MTA</strong> offers courses designed to help manage people,<br />

ensure compliance, navigate the complex regulatory<br />

environment & tackle difficult workplace issues.<br />

Courses include WHS & Safe Work Compliance,<br />

Show Me the Money (Debt recovery in your business),<br />

Worker’s Compensation - The good, the bad and the<br />

ugly, Bullying - Behaving badly, Electrical Testing &<br />

Tagging, Emergency Warden (Fire Warden Training),<br />

HVNL (Chain of Responsibility), Employment Contract<br />

Essentials, Tough Talks, Workplace Relations, Paying<br />

your Staff Correctly, Refund, Repair or Replace<br />

(Australian Consumer Law) Training, Performance<br />

Management, Misconduct & Discipline and Christmas<br />

Essentials. Members receive a discounted price on<br />

courses.<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

mtasant.com.au


34<br />

A FREE ADVERTISING SECTION FOR <strong>MTA</strong> MEMBERS<br />

CLASSIFIEDS<br />

June <strong>2022</strong> Motor Trade magazine: Email your listing of no more than 50 words to<br />

Madelaine at mraschella@boylen by Friday 20 May <strong>2022</strong>.<br />

SERVICES<br />

CARAVANNING & CAMPER TRAILER NEEDS<br />

Refurbishing a new or old caravan? Need<br />

parts or advice? Want to book a service<br />

or repair? Looking for a new or used van?<br />

Contact Dario Caravans & Repairs Ph: 08<br />

8277 4388 or email: info@dariocaravans.<br />

com.au . We are here to help with all your<br />

Caravanning & Camper Trailer needs.<br />

HAIL DAMAGE? We are a fully qualified<br />

Paintless Dent Repair business. We can<br />

quote and repair your hail damage.<br />

Approved quoting/repairs for RAA, Shannons,<br />

CommInsure, Seniors Insurance (Hollard<br />

Insurance) and more. Call Two Wells PDR<br />

and Restorations – Michael 0409 555 700<br />

twpdr@bigpond.com .<br />

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY<br />

PETER PAGE AUTOMOTIVE is a family<br />

owned and operated, multi-award-winning<br />

motor vehicle dealership specialising in the<br />

sale and servicing of new and used. With the<br />

unprecedented growth in our service<br />

business, we are seeking applications for a<br />

suitably qualified Site Manager, Service<br />

Advisor, Senior and Apprentice Technicians.<br />

These are full-time roles based at our new AC<br />

Delco Portside Service centre in Queenstown,<br />

scheduled for opening early in <strong>2022</strong>. Please<br />

send your resumes to Colin Baker colinb@<br />

peterpage.com.au .<br />

SERVICE TECHNICIANS AND ACCESSORY<br />

FITTERS WANTED. Australian Motors is<br />

seeking Service Technicians and Accessory<br />

Fitters to work across our four reputable<br />

brands; Mitsubishi, Mazda, Suzuki, Isuzu UTE.<br />

Please email your resume and cover letter to<br />

Chelsea at cvalente@australianmotors.com.<br />

au .<br />

POSITION AVAILABLE for a Qualified<br />

(or possibly a 3rd year apprentice) Technician<br />

for our busy workshop in Saddleworth <strong>SA</strong>.<br />

Must be able to work with others or on your<br />

own. Good sense of humour is essential<br />

and a driver’s licence is preferred. Genuine<br />

applicants only. Phone 08 88474185 or email<br />

resume to sworthmotors@bigpond.com .<br />

QUALIFIED DIESEL MECHANIC WANTED<br />

Casual or full-time option available. Please<br />

contact 08 8465 7380 or pipli@pipli.com.au .<br />

ADELAIDE VEHICLE CENTRE is seeking sales<br />

trainees due to expansion. Please contact<br />

David Vincent at avcsales@bigpond.com .<br />

WSB DISTRIBUTORS has exciting<br />

employment opportunities for Agricultural<br />

Diesel and Service Technicians at<br />

Jamestown, Saddleworth and Karoonda.<br />

To apply, send your resume and cover letter<br />

to hr@wsb.com.au .<br />

REDARC are seeking an experienced<br />

auto-electrician looking to progress from the<br />

workshop to a career at REDARC, working at<br />

the forefront as part of our customer service<br />

team responsible for providing the legendary<br />

support that keeps our customers exploring.<br />

To learn more contact us at people@redarc.<br />

com.au .<br />

WANTED TO SELL<br />

ALTERNATORS $45 HEADLIGHTS $42 DISC<br />

BRAKE ROTORS $28 RADIATORS $77 DOORS<br />

$103, TAILLIGHTS $41, GAS STRUTS $14.<br />

Cheapest Parts in <strong>SA</strong>. 7 Days a Week.<br />

Lonsdale, Elizabeth and Gillman. Stock list<br />

online at upullit.com.au .<br />

FOR <strong>SA</strong>LE: 22-tonne air over hydraulic truck<br />

jack, very little use and surplus to requirements.<br />

Way below cost of new $400. Call Adelaide<br />

Brake & Mechanical 08 8349 9934.<br />

WHYALLA BUSINESS FOR <strong>SA</strong>LE. Natrad<br />

Franchise. Radiators, air-conditioning,<br />

mechanical services and repairs. Including<br />

log book services to all makes and models.<br />

All enquires, call 0428 844 605.<br />

THE DIRT OFF ROAD CAMPERS has<br />

Adelaide’s best and largest range of premium<br />

off-road hybrid vans. Multi-award winning<br />

dealer. More details go to www.thedirt4wd.<br />

com.au or visit our showroom at 26 Light<br />

Cres, Mt Barker <strong>SA</strong>.<br />

Holeshot Auto Supplies - Mobile Van Sales to<br />

Workshops ranging from - Consumables,<br />

Fasteners, Clips, Jlm Additives Specialising<br />

in Diesel, Uniwipers, Tools, Abrasives and<br />

More. Call Roc on 0422 290 817.<br />

WANTED TO BUY<br />

WRECKING PLUS MORE. One of South<br />

Australia’s largest auto recyclers. We recycle<br />

most makes and models from the 60’s to<br />

current. Always buying wrecked, defected,<br />

end-of-life vehicles, cars, trucks, buses, utes,<br />

4x4 and SUV. Locations at Greenacers,<br />

Lonsdale, Port Wakefield and Port Augusta.<br />

Contact pw@wreckingplusmore.com.au or<br />

call 8369 1111.<br />

NIS<strong>SA</strong>N & DATSUN DISMANTLERS. We<br />

have/want NIS<strong>SA</strong>N Pulsar * NIS<strong>SA</strong>N Tiida *<br />

NIS<strong>SA</strong>N Skyline * NIS<strong>SA</strong>N Micra * NIS<strong>SA</strong>N<br />

Bluebird * NIS<strong>SA</strong>N Pintara * NIS<strong>SA</strong>N Silvia *<br />

NIS<strong>SA</strong>N Maxima DATSUN 1000, 1200, 120y,<br />

SUNNY 1600 180b, 200b, 240k Bluebird &<br />

Stanza models in all body types *NIS<strong>SA</strong>N<br />

4X4, van and utes. Wrecking late model<br />

NIS<strong>SA</strong>N Xtrail, Daulis. FREE CAR PICK UP.<br />

Grand Auto Wreckers - NIS<strong>SA</strong>N & DATSUN<br />

SPECIALISTS www.grandauto.com.au or<br />

call 8382 6066.<br />

U-PULL-IT PAYS CASH FOR CARS – We want<br />

cars in any condition: crashed, damaged,<br />

scrapped, running or not running. FREE<br />

REMOVAL - Call Justin on 0408 782 480<br />

for an instant cash price and same day<br />

collection, visit upullit.com.au/sell-your-car .<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS


FOLIO PLACEHOLDER<br />

The <strong>MTA</strong> is your Apprentice<br />

Recruitment Solution<br />

35<br />

The <strong>MTA</strong> is making apprentice hiring easy for automotive<br />

businesses so you can get on with running your workshop.<br />

Portside Mitsubishi Service Manager, Dylan Morris said, “It’s easy taking on a <strong>MTA</strong> apprentice.<br />

Portside finds if we get apprentices through other avenues, they just aren’t as good.”<br />

FLEXIBILITY<br />

VALUE<br />

$<br />

PEACE OF MIND<br />

Our hosting fees will cover your apprentice’s superannuation, annual and sick leave,<br />

personal development, safety gear and tools, counselling services, wages and payroll tax.<br />

You don’t even pay the apprentice while they’re at<br />

Trade School or on Leave either.<br />

If you are looking for a well-supported automotive apprentice, the <strong>MTA</strong>’s GTO can assist you.<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS<br />

Contact Jason Polgreen, GM Apprentice Employment Services,<br />

by calling<br />

8241 0522 or emailing jpolgreen@mtasant.com.au<br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

<strong>MTA</strong>135.2SEP20


36<br />

MOTOR TRADE<br />

ASSOCIATION INFO<br />

MOTOR TRADE ASSOCIATION<br />

CHAIR / Frank Agostino<br />

CEO / Paul Unerkov<br />

GM APPRENTICE CAREERS / Jason Polgreen<br />

GM AUTOMOTIVE SKILLS DEVELOPMENT /<br />

Darrell Jacobs<br />

Official publication of the<br />

Motor Trade Association<br />

L1, 81 Greenhill Rd, Wayville<br />

P (08) 8291 2000<br />

Toll Free 1800 882 046<br />

www.mtasant.com.au <br />

mta@mtasant.com.au <br />

PUBLISHING INFO<br />

BOYLEN<br />

Advertising / sales@boylen.com.au<br />

Layout / Madelaine Raschella Elliott<br />

P (08) 8233 9433<br />

boylen.com.au <br />

mtasant.com.au<br />

BACK TO CONTENTS

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