Page 6 - MPA|NSW_Autumn2019

A word from the President
Robin Ottowa President
Robin
As a new year commences, I wish to thank the MPA staff, board members and a special thanks to Stephen Harris for all his volunteer work helping the MPA and the Group Training Company.
A key achievement this year was our win in retaining licencing within our industry. The impact of dropping licencing would have had a number of negative impacts, not the least of which would be a reduction in the quality of workmanship. A lack of licencing would allow unlicensed operators to enter our industry and threaten the financial viability of our industry members. Enormous thanks are due to those who attended
the meeting with Matthew Kean MP; we greatly appreciate their time and effort in helping our cause. Matthew Kean was
very helpful and basically discounted the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal recommendation within minutes telling us that he’d received 400 submissions against the recommendation. I must also personally thank Ray Hadley for his assistance in being a dedicated and public voice of reason in keeping the licencing.
The MPA will endeavour to further enhance regulation in the Painting and Decorating industry. This will not only recognise the calibre of trained and licenced professionals among our members but will highlight for consumers the importance of engaging with licensed professionals and the confidence of knowing the job will be completed in
a timely and effective manner. Therese’s
report covers this and a lot more and I would like to especially thank her for her hours of work over and above what is expected from our CEO.
This year may bring some challenges if there’s a downturn in the Building and Construction Industry, a continued slide
in property values and the tightening of mortgage regulation by banks, making mortgages more difficult to get. In addition, illegal workers, companies not engaging their staff and contractors properly has been a constant issue. The MPA are working with Government to highlight these fraudulent activities, which creates an uneven playing field, driving our prices down. Rest assured, the MPA are working against any kind of fraudulent activities that directly affect our members and their earning capacity.
Please keep an eye out for our e-bulletins as these will give you helpful information of what is happening in our Industry. Plus, we’ll keep you updated at members BBQ and seminars, these are not only very enjoyable but a great place to network and listen to
a range of speakers. I have been painting for 40 years and without fail, I always learn something new from the speakers and engaging with our members.
Always remember that the MPA can draw on vast resources and experience if you need a hand in your business. If you are having any issues, or you need help with your business please give the office a call on (02) 9758 8877.
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Reports