Christmas is a time for reflection on happenings of the past year and hope for a New Year that ushers in economic recovery and health across the nation. It was unthinkable last Christmas, that a virulent virus would infect more than 63 million people globally, cause some 1.5 million deaths and severe financial stress to many of the world’s economies. In this light, we can only reflect on this nation’s good fortune to have the leadership and the financial means to safeguard citizens, industry, and business from the ravages of the pandemic’s onslaught occurring elsewhere.
Here at MTA Queensland’s corporate office, throughout the rigors of the pandemic, our entire focus was to support members. Over 40 daily briefings were provided to members advising on government measures to protect and manage their businesses through the health emergency restrictions. Supplementing the briefings was the one-on-one contacts with members through the ongoing Member Engagement Strategy. This was an important feedback tool on the direct implications for businesses. In the New Year, members can be assured they’ll continue to receive updates through the Weekly Industry Bulletin to keep up-to-date and informed on government and industry decisions and advice.
Advocacy
With the state election resolved and coronavirus currently relatively suppressed, some normality is being restored to the advocacy routine. As is the practice, congratulatory letters were forwarded to Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk on her election success and her ministers with whom we will engage on policy or industry issues. Group Chief Executive Officer Rod Camm has commenced reaching out to the new ministers and staff with portfolios relevant to the motor trades. Congratulatory letters were also sent to the Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli and his shadow ministers’ team with responsibilities that align to the motor trades. A letter of congratulations was sent to all successful candidates at the poll and informing them of MTA Queensland as the peak industry body, its role in the industry and contributions to the state’s economy.
In anticipation of an April 2020 State Budget, we provided to the State Treasurer a submission detailing the Association’s priorities for the next financial year. With the Budget delayed to December 2020, a further submission was forwarded outlining the issues and priorities for consideration.
In recent Weekly Industry Bulletins, members’ attention was drawn to two pending submissions. The first being the response to the Productivity Commission’s ‘Right to Repair’ Issues Paper as detailed in the CEO report in this edition. You can view the issues paper here.
The second, an Australian Treasury consultation document: ‘Options for mandatory adoption of electronic invoicing by businesses.’ We’ll be responding, and Deputy General Manager Member Services Marcello Riotto will consult with industry divisions for their views. It is a matter that members should adopt as part of streamlining their digital systems. By way of background, in 2019, Australia adopted the Pan-European Public Procurement OnLine (Peppol) framework. This is an internationally recognised framework for e-Invoicing and e-Procurement, used by over 30 countries in Europe, Asia and North America. As part of the Federal Budget 2020-21, the Government announced that it will seek to accelerate the adoption of Peppol e-Invoicing, starting with the public sector. The Government will mandate that all Commonwealth Government agencies must be able to receive Peppol e-Invoices by 1 July 2022. The Government will also work with the States and Territories on how state and local governments can also accelerate e-Invoicing adoption.
This paper consults on further actions that the Government can take to accelerate the adoption of Peppol e-Invoicing in the private sector, including options for mandatory adoption by businesses. Such a mandate could be effective at increasing adoption by businesses, but it could also impose a significant regulatory burden on some businesses. The paper also seeks to consult on how a Peppol e-Invoicing mandate for businesses can reduce payment times from large to small businesses.
Deloitte Access Economics estimates that every time an e-Invoice replaces a paper invoice, it can deliver up to $20 in cost savings to the businesses involved. There are some 1.2 billion invoices being exchanged in Australia annually, and 89 per cent of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are still processing paper-based invoices.
The 2021 Events calendar
The first year of the third decade for this century, in terms of events, can be summarised in one word – cancellations. And so, we look forward to 2021 with much optimism. MTA Queensland has three major automotive events planned for the coming year and I encourage members to diarise them. These are special, aimed at bringing members together to inform, enjoy and celebrate.
The first is Carmageddon on 22 July 2021 which was to be held earlier this year but, like many events, as cancelled due to the pandemic. The initial planning indicates this symposium will inform members and stakeholders on current and future technologies and the future of mobility; waste management and recycling innovations; and clean energy as a fuel source. It is envisaged there will be an exposition of hydrogen and electric vehicles from the leading manufacturers and other exhibitors.
The 72nd Annual Motor Trades Golf Tournament, is set for Friday 3 September at the Virginia Golf Club, Banyo. This is popular with members and stakeholders for networking opportunities as well as competing for the prestigious Motor Trades Cup and other prizes.
The Industry Awards Gala will be held on Saturday 20 November at the Emporium Hotel, South Bank. The anticipation is that it will be extra special, in view of the cancellation of this year’s Awards Gala. Members who have made exceptional community contributions and MTA Institute students who have excelled across the year are recognised, as are contributions from the industry’s innovators and stand-out women. The highlight again will be the announcement of the Apprentice of Year. The charity auction is another feature, with all the funds going to Youngcare, the Association’s Charity Partner.
Finally
MTA Queensland’s corporate office welcomes Rod Camm to the leadership role of Group Chief Executive Officer. He inherits the position at a time when industry challenges are significant. Emerging technologies will continue to impact public and private mobility; business operations and systems and skills will have to compete with new demands; and waste management and recycling will be key agenda items to meet the requirements of industry and the community. There will be too, the need to continue to support members as they recover from the pandemic’s continuing impact. We look forward to Rod’s leadership on these challenges and to progressing the Association and the automotive industry into the coming year and beyond.
This Christmas and New Year will be special to celebrate, and to enjoy the freedom to travel to be with family and friends. My best wishes to all members and staff for a joyful Christmas and a New Year that brings good health, happiness, achievement and prosperity.
Until next year, to all, take care and stay safe.
15 December 2020