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ACFA AUSTRALIAN CABINET & FURNITURE ASSOCIATION SUMMER 2024 NEWSLETTERWelcome to the Summer 2024 edition of the ACFA Newsletter! As we approach the festive season, I would like to take a moment to thank each of you for your ongoing support of the Australian Cabinet and Furniture Association (ACFA). Your dedication and engagement have been instrumental in driving the success of our industry throughout the year.2024 has been a year of innovation, resilience, and collaboration within our community. From celebrating the outstanding achievements at the ACFA 2024 Industry Awards to supporting vital industry initiatives, we have witnessed remarkable contributions from our members that continue to elevate our sector.As the year comes to a close, I wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a joyful holiday season. May the break provide an opportunity to rest, recharge, and celebrate the successes of the past year.Even though the year is coming to an end, our Summer Newsletter still has important topics to cover. So please ensure you take the time to read through and contact our Workplace Advise team if you need any assistance. On behalf of the ACFA team, we also extend our heartfelt wishes for a safe and prosperous New Year. We look forward to working alongside you in 2025, continuing to advocate for, support, and grow our industry together.Thank you for being a valued member of ACFA and supporting your association. Kind Regards,Dean Brakell Tribute to Simon HodgsonIt is with great sadness that we acknowledge the unexpected passing of Simon Hodgson in October. Simon was not just a Director of ACFA but a true stalwart of the kitchen and bathroom sectors. His unwavering dedication to the design sectors, his boundless energy, and vision have left an indelible mark on our industry.Simon’s leadership and passion were evident in every endeavour he undertook. Simon represented the industry on numerous committees and boards including the Kitchen and Bathroom Designers Institute (KBDi), the National Kitchen & Bathroom committee for the HIA, and for the past four years as a Director of the Australian Cabinet and Furniture Association (ACFA). Simon inspired countless professionals through his work. Simon spearheaded overseas tours, broadening the horizons of industry members and fostering global connections. As a Director of ACFA, Simon was instrumental in advancing the association’s mission to support and uplift the cabinetmaking and furniture industries. Simon has been instrumental in the early stages of the merger between ACFA & the KBDi. He brought wisdom, integrity, and a collaborative spirit to the table—qualities that will be deeply missed.Simon’s contributions extended beyond projects and roles; he was a mentor, a colleague, and a friend to many of us. His legacy will continue to inspire us to strive for excellence and unity within our industry.Our thoughts are with Simon’s family and loved ones during this difcult time. We honour his memory by continuing the work he was so passionate about and ensuring his vision for the industry thrives.Rest in peace, Simon. Your legacy will not be forgotten.On behalf of the ACFA Board of Directors.

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ACFA AUSTRALIAN CABINET & FURNITURE ASSOCIATION SUMMER 2024 NEWSLETTERThe Summer 2024 edition, themed “The Awards Issue,” celebrates the remarkable achievements within our community.Inside, you’ll nd exclusive coverage of the ACFA 2024 Industry Awards and KBDi Design Awards, showcasing the very best in craftsmanship and innovation. From Glen Scott’s inspiring journey as an industry stalwart to groundbreaking projects redening design and functionality, this issue is packed with insights, inspiration, and recognition for our talented industry.We’re also exploring the evolving dynamics between design and manufacturing, highlighting their interdependence and shared goal of elevating industry standards. With expert contributions, trend analysis, and success stories, Connect Magazine aims to inform, inspire, and unite the vibrant sectors we represent.Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey. Enjoy the rst issue of Connect!The Autumn 2024 edition is due to to be published at the end of March 2025, if you have not yet subscribed to receive either a digital copy or a digital + physical copy, now is the time to do so! EXCITING FIRST EDITION OF THE CONNECT MAGAZINESUBSCRIBE FOR FREE READ THE SUMMER EDITIONVIEW OUR BOARD AND TEAMWelcome to our New Board MembersWe are delighted to welcome three exceptional individuals to the Australian Cabinet and Furniture Association (ACFA) Board. Their expertise, diverse perspectives, and passion for the industry will undoubtedly strengthen our mission to support and elevate the Australian cabinet and furniture sector.Ben LamontNorth Coast CabinetsLismore NSWChris ChmielowiecInterspec Custom JoineryBrookvale NSWMohammad KhanbashiINDETAILSunshine West, VICThe entire ACFA Board represent you, the members, to ensure ACFA delivers on our mission of offering unparalleled access to unlimited industry-specic workplace advice and resources, empowering you with the knowledge and tools to propel your business towards excellence.ACFA supports employers and their apprentices with one-on-one exible onsite training and personalised guidance to achieve their trade certication.Each of ACFA’s Board Members has a short bio available to read on our website.

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ACFA AUSTRALIAN CABINET & FURNITURE ASSOCIATION SUMMER 2024 NEWSLETTERSeason’s Greetings from First Super, your industry super fund Not already a member?Issued by First Super Pty Ltd (ABN 42 053 498 472, AFSL 223988), as trustee of First Super (ABN 56 286 625 181). Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination available from rstsuper.com.au/pds or by calling us on 1300 360 988. Please read the PDS before making any investment decisions.1300 360 988 | firstsuper.com.auJoin now Content part of First Super’s Annual Partnership with ACFAThe whole ACFA Team would like to congratulate some of our Training Apprentices who have completed their MSF30322 Certicate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology with ACFA (RTO 90432). We’ll be posting more photos on our social media over the coming weeks. Congratulations to our Completing ApprenticesACFA Ofce Closures over December-JanuarySupport During Ofce ClosuresWorkplace Advice & MembershipDuring both of these closures, if you require workplace advice on a range of employment matters including award rates, interpretation, employment issues etc you can call the Head Ofce number, 1300 342 248, which has been set up with the option to be transferred through to the ACFA Workplace Hotline through Business Australia who will be able to assist you with your inquiry, for urgent inquiries that cannot be dealt with by the Workplace Hotline other contact details have been provided within the ‘on-hold’ message. The ACFA Portal will remain available 24/7 for you to download any resources you need. For any non urgent queries, please email [email protected] and the team will respond to your email on their return. TrainingPlease note, that these times may vary for individual trainers. We recommend checking in with your trainer to conrm when your next session is booked and what assistance is available. For general training enquries, please email [email protected]. ACFA Head Ofce will be closed on Friday 13th December for our End-of-Year Staff Christmas Party. The ACFA ofce will be open again on Monday 16th to Friday 20th December 2024 for normal operating hours. The ACFA ofce will close for the Christmas-New Year Break from 4pm COB Friday, 20th of December and reopen at 8.30 am on Monday, 6th January 2025.

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ACFA AUSTRALIAN CABINET & FURNITURE ASSOCIATION SUMMER 2024 NEWSLETTERFriday 7th March 20259am to 4.30pm (Including Network Drinks)Sydney Olympic ParkFOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER ONLINECLICK HERE OR SCAN THE QR DETAILSThe ACFA 2025 Industry Conference is your chance to discover innovative practices, and learn from the leaders shaping the future of our industry. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, this conference is designed to provide you with the insights, strategies, and tools to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace. We are focusing on equipping your business for the future, covering everything from cutting-edge AI solutions and efcient business structures to essential legal insights and the evolving workforce. Each session is designed to provide practical, actionable strategies that will drive growth, improve efciency, and help you stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry.Premium PartnerInvest in your business’s future by being part of this dynamic, forward-looking event. Shaping FutureBusiness SuccessMEET OUR SPEAKERSHarnessing Articial Intelligence to Drive Business SuccessJulian MooreJulian will show how AI can simplify processes, cut costs, and drive growth, ideal for businesses of all sizes. With real examples, he makes AI easy to understand, giving you tools to streamline manual processes and reduce costs.Essential Legal Insights: Consumer Rights, Contracts, and Payment ProtectionAndrew SeatonAndrew brings practical advice on what Consumer Guarantees are, unfair contract terms, Home Warranty Insurance, contracts 101 and the rules that apply to you that determine whether you get paid. This session will help protect your business and you’re set up to get paid fairly and on time.Built to Last: Creating a Business That Thrives Without YouBen FewtrellBen will guide you on building a self-sustaining business, sharing strategies on how to set up your business so you can take a step back and feel condent your business will continue to ourish, even when you’re not there!Perfect for anyone seeking more freedom or planning for long-term stability.Building Tomorrow’s Trades: Attracting and Retaining the Future WorkforceThis session explores what younger tradespeople want from their careers. With insights on culture and retention, you’ll learn ways to attract and keep talent in today’s evolving workforce.In light of labour shortages and evolving work expectations, retention strategies are more critical than ever. This session offers essential insights into the changing workforce, helping attendees understand and engage the next generation of tradies.*with more sessions to be announcedSession Sponsors

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ACFA AUSTRALIAN CABINET & FURNITURE ASSOCIATION SUMMER 2024 NEWSLETTERACFA continues to advocate for the cabinetmaking, furniture, joinery and design industries by engaging with stakeholders and contributing to critical discussions. Below is an overview of our recent efforts:Participation in Secure Jobs Better Pay (SJBP) RoundtablesACFA participated in roundtables as part of our role on the ACCI Workplace Policy Committee. These discussions provided valuable insights that helped shape industry submissions on key issues, including:• Fixed-term contracts, and• The prohibition on job advertisements with pay rates that contravene the Fair Work Act.As part of our industry advocacy, we encouraged members to share their experiences with the SJBP amendments through the bulletin Your Voice Matters - Help Us Advocate for Your Business. Members submitted case studies highlighting the practical impacts of these changes on their businesses.These case studies, collected through member collaboration, helps support lobbying efforts to inuence policy decisions.ACCI Workplace Policy Committee Meeting in CanberraACFA represented members at an ACCI Workplace Policy Committee Meeting in Canberra, where we contributed to the Secure Jobs, Better Pay Review discussions. Topics explored during the sessions included:• The prohibition of pay secrecy• Addressing sexual harassment in connection with work, and• Flexible working arrangements.Our advocacy efforts in Canberra demonstrate our commitment to ensuring members’ voices are heard on issues affecting workplace practices and compliance.Industry Advocacy UpdateSecure Jobs, Better Pay (SJBP) ReviewIn partnership with the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), ACFA contributed to a submission on the Secure Jobs, Better Pay (SJBP) Review. This submission highlights the real impacts of the SJBP legislation on businesses within our industry. By collaborating with ACCI, we ensure that the concerns and experiences of our members are effectively communicated to policymakers.NSW Home Building Compensation (HBC) Scheme ReviewACFA participated in the NSW Government’s review of the Home Building Compensation Scheme by providing feedback and completing the survey.To support industry engagement, we issued a Member Bulletin Have Your Say on the Home Building Compensation Scheme Review, encouraging members to share their input. This feedback is vital for driving improvements to the scheme and ensuring fair outcomes for businesses.Timber Waste & Unused Resource SurveyIn support of sustainability and innovation, ACFA distributed the Member Bulletin Timber Waste & Unused Resource Survey - Share Your Insights to Help Shape a Circular Economy in Timber Products. The survey collects data on unused engineered wood product (EWP) offcuts to better understand timber waste and explore opportunities for reuse and recycling.By participating, members are contributing to a stronger circular economy for timber products, reinforcing our commitment to environmental sustainability.Advocating for Our IndustryACFA is dedicated to representing our members’ interests through active engagement and collaboration. Our recent efforts, including the joint submission with ACCI, demonstrates our commitment to inuencing policies that affect the cabinetmaking, furniture, joinery and design sectors. We will continue to work diligently to ensure that our industry’s voice is heard.Read our Member Bulletin with Link to Survey

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ACFA AUSTRALIAN CABINET & FURNITURE ASSOCIATION SUMMER 2024 NEWSLETTERRising Applications to the Fair Work Commission Highlights the Need for ACFA Membership SupportWith recent legislative changes broadening the Fair Work Commission’s scope, the importance of compliance has never been clearer. The Commission’s latest statistics for 2023–24 reveal a signicant increase in applications across key areas. Here’s a quick look at the current landscape:• 40,190 applications lodged, a 27% increase from 2022–23, reecting heightened vigilance and enforcement.• Unfair dismissal applications led the way, comprising 37% of all lodgements with a total of 14,772.• General protections involving dismissal applications made up 14%, with Supported Wage System Agreements closely behind at 13%.• Workplace bullying and sexual harassment accounted for 987 lodgements—showcasing the increased scrutiny around these areas.These gures highlight the real cost of non-compliance. Not only nancially but also in terms of reputation. As an ACFA member, you’re already taking proactive steps to stay compliant and protect your business. Your membership provides you with the latest legislative updates and expert advice on workplace matters, ensuring compliance remains straightforward and manageable.Through your ACFA membership, you have access to our comprehensive Member-Only Portal, featuring over 600 resources tailored to support your business. The portal includes:• Downloadable casual and apprentice employment contracts• Award snapshots specic to our industry• FAQs and fact sheets• Detailed employer guides - essential tools for staying compliant and informed• Customised employment contracts - for tailored needs, our Workplace Advice Team can create specic employment contracts, giving you peace of mind that your documentation is compliant• And much more, all included in your membership.Our resources simplify complex requirements, making it easier to navigate employment standards, minimise risk, and ensure your business is prepared for any workplace challengeVisit the ACFA PortalWith the right software and support, projects run smoothly, saving time, cutting costs, and boosting reputations from start to nish.Prima Architectural Joinery, one of Melbourne’s top commercial joinery companies, relies on PYTHA 3D CAD to deliver high-end projects. After trying various CAD software, Prima found PYTHA’s customisable features and intuitive interface unmatched. According to Operations Manager Pat Mollica, PYTHA’s ease of use allows skilled tradespeople to quickly adapt and produce bespoke designs with condence.PYTHA enhances communication across project teams, translating 2D plans into detailed 3D visuals for client approvals and streamlining construction documentation. This clarity prevents errors, improves production efciency, and ensures seamless project execution—from concept to completion.For Prima, PYTHA is more than just a design tool—it’s a partner in delivering quality results every time.Read other success stories here and explore how our software can transform your business. Or reach us at [email protected] or 02 8515 0285Leading manufacturers do more with PYTHA Content part of Finlease’s Annual Partnership with ACFAPRIMA ARCHITECTURAL VICTORIAThis drawings is copyright. Other than for the purposes of and subject to the conditions prescribed under the copyright act, no part of it may in any way form or by any means be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted without prior written permission of Prima Architectural (Vic) Pty Ltd. A.B.N 40140766669CLIENT:A-65ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING No:14/03/2023CIDRAWN:CHECKED:JC05REV:PRIMA SHOP DRAWING No:14/03/20234/05/2023REVISED:FINISHING SCHEDULE:SCALES:PROJECT:AS SHOWNCC/L NUMBER:MET08 Metal Curtain - Brass (By Others)MET09 Powdercoat Interpon D2525 Flat Matt Medium Bronze Pearl Code: YY23NA2PKBK Paint – 2 Pack Colour: Dulux – Black Finish: Satin2PKSL Paint – 2 Pack Colour: Dulux – Shallot Leaf Finish: SatinSKT02 Powder Coated Aluminium Colour: Dulux - Monument Finish: Satin STN01 Natural Stone Supplier: Signorino Stone: Taj Mahal Finish: HonedJC05TITLE:TOLERANCES:0.0 0.5 0.00 0.2ALL LEVELS AND MEASUREMENTS ARE TO BE CHECKED AND VERIFIED. PRIMA ARCHITECTURAL (VIC) PTY LTD33 TULLAMARINE PARK ROADTULLAMARINE, VIC 3043, AUSTRALIA.TEL No: - 61-3-9330 87002-2UNLESS OTHERWISE STATEDALL DIMENSIONS IN mm:IF IN DOUBT ASK BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH ANY WORK.2DO NOT SCALE DRAWINGS, WORK TO CALCULATIONS.primaRecess=3525150150 AV Screen=3225Recess=14802060AV Screen=1360609003002400100201380881194060040200200MET08 MET08MET09MET09 MET09MET09TMV01 TMV01AV SCRE ENBy OthersExtent of AV Screen in extended 100mm deep recess in Arch2PKBK nish topanel behind screenSTN01Segmented andVein MatchedSTN01 STN01STN01STN01STN01SKT02SKT02 SKT02MET09 MET09SKT02SKT02Li up Flap with Brush SealFCLFFLOpenMET01OpenColumn boxed out - 40mm cavity for cabling accessLi up Flap with Brush Seal Denotes Shadowlineto Joins - TypicalExtent of 100mm deep recess in Arch818.81809.5100205012805020861195050R580R60011602700MET08MET08 MET08 MET08 MET08MET09MET09STN01 STN01 STN01 STN01 STN01STN01 STN01STN01STN01STN01Open MET01 OpenSKT02SKT02 SKT02 SKT02 SKT022PKSL Paint FinishBeyond2PKSL Paint FinishBeyond2PKSL Paint FinishBeyondAVScreenELEVATION "E1"SCALEJC051:25ELEVATION "E2"SCALEJC051:25MET09MET09LED LightBy OthersSTN01MET08STN012PKBK2PKSLFramingFramingSECTION "S1"SCALEJC051:25SECTION "S2"SCALEJC051:25SECPLAND10Content part of Pytha’s Annual Partnership with ACFA

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ACFA AUSTRALIAN CABINET & FURNITURE ASSOCIATION SUMMER 2024 NEWSLETTERIf you’re a cabinet maker or a joiner, you know that your work requires precision, skill, and attention to detail. Unfortunately, even the most careful craftsman can run into unexpected problems on the job. That’s why it’s important to have the right insurance coverage in place. Cabinet Makers Insurance Brokers is the best insurance broker for the joinery industry, and here’s why:• Specialised Expertise• Comprehensive Coverage• Competitive Pricing• Personalised Service• Claims Management SupportIf you’re in the joinery industry, you need insurance coverage that’s tailored to your specic needs. Cabinet Makers Insurance Brokers is the right t for the joinery industry. Don’t leave your business vulnerable to unexpected risks – contact Cabinet Makers Insurance Brokers today to get the coverage you need.Contact the CMIB TeamContent part of CMIB’s Annual Partnership with ACFAVisit www.lincolnsentry.com.auEXCLUSIVE TO LINCOLN SENTRYACHIEVE AN INSPIRED LOOK WITH EASEIt doesn’t get much easier than with the new range of high quality LED lighting from Modar®. QUALITY CABINET LIGHTING MADE EASYContent part of Lincoln Sentry’s Annual Partnership with ACFARead our Member BulletinChristmas Party ChecklistChristmas Party Letter to EmployeesChristmas Party StaffCommunication TemplateWhat you need to consider before sending out the staff Christmas Party Invitation Planning a Christmas party for employees can be a festive and enjoyable way to celebrate the holiday season. However, as an employer, it’s essential to be aware of several key considerations and responsibilities to ensure the event is safe, inclusive, and adheres to company policies and legal regulations.Before dusting off the Santa hat, have you considered your responsibilities in protecting staff and the business?Remember, the legal rights and obligations of both employers and employees continue to apply during work Christmas parties, just as they do during normal working hours.To reduce the risk of waking up to a case of employer negligence, here are seven steps that you should follow:To assist ACFA members we have created a checklist to help employers manage their risks and templates are available as a guide on how to inform staff of company policy. Staff Christmas Party ResourcesDownload the Christmas Party Resources on the Member Portal

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ACFA AUSTRALIAN CABINET & FURNITURE ASSOCIATION SUMMER 2024 NEWSLETTERSIGN UP TO THIS COURSEACFA Energy partner Choice Energy, is here to help members combat rising energy costs in a number of different ways, having helped several members already save tens of thousands on their energy bills.As the energy market continues to increase, it’s so important to assess if solar is a viable option for your business, and if it can save you money from day one. Swift Signs in Campbelleld, wanted to see if solar would work for them. Through a tailored solution, we were able to do the following;• Install a 25kw solar system• Projected savings per annum $10,500• Cash-ow Positive from day one • Covers 70% of daytime usage• Over $300,000 savings projected over lifetime of the systemIt’s so easy to get your business assessed for solar, or if you do have solar, make sure the rates you are paying are fair market value. Upload your bill or contact Alex Townsend on 0435 080 646 or at [email protected] reliance on an aging and unpredictable energy market:UPLOAD BILL HERENational Asbestos Awareness Week WebsiteMachine ChecklistsACFA SOP SamplesSevered ngers lands repeat offender $100,000 ACFA Forklift ResourcesFailure to ensure the means of entering and leaving a workplace ACFA works to share information with our members as a reminder to keep you and your business protected and prevent accidents before they happen.Regularly reviewing your Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) policies and procedures is paramount to maintaining a safe and compliant work environment. This ongoing process ensures that your organisation stays aligned with current regulations, identies potential hazards, and adapts to evolving industry standards. It not only safeguards the well-being of your employees but also mitigates risks, enhances efciency, and demonstrates your commitment to a culture of safety and continuous improvement.ACFA’s Workplace Advice Team are here to help:Stay alert to the dangers of asbestos this National Asbestos Awareness WeekGain a deeper understanding to make educated decisions to ensure the best outcome for the growth of your business!

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ACFA AUSTRALIAN CABINET & FURNITURE ASSOCIATION SUMMER 2024 NEWSLETTERACFA ensemble for our members with value-adding offers from our industry partners as well as related suppliers to help your business maximise its operations.Our team work to introduce new opportunities for our members which provide great benet and cost savings. REMINDER OF OFFERS AVAILABLEView Member Offer details for Dell TechnologiesView Member Offer details for Choice EnergyView Member Offer details for The Good Guys CommercialView the CoursesAs part of ACFA’s ongoing commitment to supporting your business and ensuring compliance with workplace laws, we are excited to announce the relaunch of our Positive Duty Training Courses on the ACFA Online Learning Hub. These courses have been redeveloped to offer a more interactive and user-friendly experience for both employers and employees, with enhanced video, audio elements, and knowledge checks to ensure a comprehensive learning journey.Why is Positive Duty Training Important?Under the new laws, all employers and employees are legally required to undertake training on sexual harassment and Positive Duty requirements in the workplace. It is essential that businesses not only comply with these legal obligations but also actively foster a safe and respectful work environment. This is a Legal Requirement for all Employers /ManagersCourses start from $55 (inc GST) for ACFA MembersMeeting your legal responsibility with Positive DutyRead our Member Bulletin

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ACFA Newsletter

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