• SmartCraft Technology – Keeps you informed about your engine’s performance
• The Most Intuitive Tiller – Feature packed for unmatched comfort and usability
• Troll Control – Dial in precise troll control speeds on all Tiller models in 10RPM increments
PROVEN RELIABILITY
• EFI Reliable Turnkey Starting –Starts first time and every time
• 3 + 3 = 6 Year Warranty – For real peace of mind
• 18 amp Alternator – Built to handle the demands of marine electronics
POWERFUL PERFORMANCE
• High Displacement – For power and efficiency
• Command Thrust Gearcase – For improved acceleration and maneuverability
The Mercury 40-60hp FourStroke range ticks all the boxes, so see your nearest Mercury dealer to find out more. www.mercurymarine.com.au
FROM THE PRESIDENT
As 2021 draws to a close I would like to thank you for your ongoing support of your BIA. The last two years have been challenging but the Board and staff have continued to work tirelessly, often under quite challenging circumstances, to continue to support and represent our members. The prosperity of our members is always our top priority and our focus in achieving this is to strive to make boating accessible, desirable, safe and with minimal restrictions though our government and stakeholder advocacy, our boating lifestyle promotions, our training and education pathways and our member support.
Our efforts have been rewarded with boating being recognised as a COVID-Safe activity and associated unprecedented growth as other leisure activities have been more restricted. Our efforts with government have seen record investment in boating infrastructure to address the increase in boat usage and demand. Our industry has prospered with more people experiencing the sense of wellbeing that comes from being in, on or around water. Boating is good for people, boating matters and consequently our industry is an important part of the Australian community.
Your Association has faced significant financial difficulties over the past two years with the loss of 85 per cent of the traditional revenue because of the cancellation of boat
shows in 2020 and 2021. For 50 years BIA was supported from the revenues of boat shows and the vulnerability was laid bare though the pandemic. Tough decisions have been made and costs cut to minimise the impact on finances, through staff cuts (the events team and some support staff) and other cost reductions. The remaining team members have dug deep and addressed the increased demand for support from members and the requirements for increased government advocacy, particularly in addressing health order restrictions and increases in infrastructure investment.
This year the BIA reported marine industry turnover was up 11 per cent (to $8.835bn); direct employment was up 9 per cent (to 27,630) with many thousands more in associated businesses; and active boating industry businesses up 5 per cent (to more than 2100).
The Board plans to roll out other initiatives under a new strategic plan through 2022 and we are looking forward to bringing you more exciting news over the coming weeks and months.
We wish you and your family a safe, healthy and happy Christmas and an exciting and prosperous 2022.
All the best for the season.
Darren Vaux
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The BIA Board met on six occasions during the year, all via Zoom online meetings. Standing down at the 2021 AGM was Stuart Myles of Elite Skiboats in South Australia, who also stood down as Chairman of the SA Council: Stuart’s support for the BIA and his fellow members was well-received and he is thanked for his contribution. Andrew Hayes of Hallett Australia returned to the Board, representing South Australia.
BIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2021-2022
DIRECTOR
Darren Vaux
Andrew Fielding
Simon Cook
Miriam Griffen
Andrew Hayes
Empire Marina Bobbin Head
Anchorline Yacht Brokers
Cook Family Enterprises
President
Vice-President/QLD
Treasurer/NSW
Griffen’s Marina SA
Hallett Australia SA
Richard Hopkins EJ Milde SA
Jon Hunt
Michael Jarvin
Nicholas Kitchen
Nathan Nichols
Adam Smith
Hunts Marine NSW
Advanced Marina Management NSW
Yamaha Motor Australia QLD
Cruise Craft Boats QLD
ABC Boating College Sydney
Board elected
BIA STATE COUNCILS
The BIA State Councils continued to meet throughout the year to progress a number of local advocacy issues, projects and member support and boating promotion.
During the year, a number of new Councillors have joined their peers in representing and supporting members; the current representation on State Councils is below, with new Councillors in italics.
NSW STATE COUNCIL 2021-2022
COUNCILLOR
Adam Smith
Simon Cook
Brian Gatt
Jon Hunt
Michael Jarvin
Ned O’Neil
Tracy Souris
Shannon Stocks
Steve Williams
Lorraine Yates
MEMBER COMPANY POSITION
ABC Boating College Sydney Chair
Cook Family Enterprises Councillor
Logix Group Councillor
Hunts Marine Councillor
Advanced Marina Management Councillor
Rose Bay Marina Councillor
Sydney Boathouse Councillor
Shannon Outboard Service Councillor
Standen Marine Councillor
White Bay 6 Marine Park Councillor
A MESSAGE FROM THE NEW SOUTH WALES STATE CHAIR
The boating industry in NSW has experienced highs and lows as part of the roller coaster ride of COVID in 2021, particularly those businesses in Sydney. It’s been quite a ride, to say the least.
I am hoping that you have all been able to make the best of the opportunities presented by the huge increase in popularity that boating has seen in recent times and you’ve been able to capitalise on the current enthusiasm people are showing for being part of the boating lifestyle and the
benefits it affords those lucky enough to experience this. Hopefully, 2022 affords us the opportunity to get together in person once again and we can look forward to member forums, networking and the 2022 Sydney Boat Show to showcase all that the boating lifestyle can offer!
Adam Smith
New South Wales State Chair
QUEENSLAND STATE COUNCIL 2021-2022
COUNCILLOR
Andrew Fielding
Ben Anderson
Brett Bolton
Johan Hasser
Nicholas Kitchen
Sharon McNally
Nathan Nichols
Mike Orsmond
Peter Ruhle
Fabien Vignes
Sonya Wilmen
MEMBER COMPANY
POSITION
Anchorline Yacht Brokers Chair
Mackay Marina Councillor
Coriolis Marine Councillor
Mulpha Sanctuary Cove Boat Show Councillor
Yamaha Motor Australia Councillor
Cumberland Charter Yachts Councillor
Cruise Craft Boats Councillor
Rib Force Inflatables Councillor
Boating & RV Councillor
All Marine Spares Councillor
Coverforce Insurance
A MESSAGE FROM THE QUEENSLAND STATE CHAIR
As I look back over the past 12 months I first can’t believe how quickly it has gone and I am amazed that, as an industry, we are still experiencing unprecedented levels of sales and excellent employment opportunities in all member divisions.
As we headed into 2021 our ability to return to boat shows looked promising and exhibitor interest in the Sydney Festival of Boating was excellent. However, the spread of COVID and State lockdowns forced the BIA to make the decision that events were just not possible. Not an easy choice to have to make for the second year in a row when our association has for five decades held events every year in each member state.
The cancellation of events saw the BIA management and staff shift their focus to three fundamental priorities: to Grow Recreational Boating; to Strengthen Government Advocacy and Support for our members; and to Expand Professional Development and Career Pathways. I can say with the utmost confidence that our team has excelled over the past 12 months and their efforts will benefit our members greatly across the board. The Discover Boating Campaign is up and running, providing exposure for our members to millions of people across all advertising mediums. I would like to thank our major sponsors, Yamaha, Mercury, Suzuki and Quintrex for this assistance.
Excellent relationships have been fostered in all levels of government, with representation on 44 external committees and over 30 formal submissions to government
Councillor
made over the past year on behalf of our members. I would like to thank not only the BIA staff for the considerable achievements in this area but also to my fellow councillors and directors that devote their time and knowledge on multiple committees, task-forces and boards.
Fantastic results in getting school leavers and job hunters into maritime jobs not just in South-East Queensland but in central and north Queensland have been achieved by the BIA this year. The launch of Marine Jobs and the work undertaken by Michael Date with TAFE, employment providers and schools, has proven to be very successful and is renewing interest in maritime careers, in the likes of which, we have not seen for decades. We also saw the first recipients of the Apprentice of the Year awards, with Zoe De Pryck being our Queensland recipient. Congratulations to Zoe, a very worthy winner, and a great advocate for women in marine jobs.
Thank you again to the BIA Management Team and staff for the hard work throughout the year, difficult decisions have been made and excellent results achieved by shifting focus to new and important projects. To the Directors and Councillors, I am always very appreciative of your dedication to the future success of the marine industry and your willingness to volunteer your knowledge and time.
Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year, I look forward to seeing everyone in 2022.
Andrew Fielding
Queensland State Chair
COUNCILLOR
Miriam Griffen
David Binks
Allen Buckley
MEMBER COMPANY
POSITION
Griffen’s Marina Chair
Binks Marine Councillor
Riverdance Houseboat Councillor
Tim Cook Club Marine Councillor
Andrew Craddock
Rob Cuming
Jason Day
Trish Flaherty
Andrew Hayes
Richard Hopkins
Steve Ottaway
Marina Adelaide Councillor
Christies Beach Marine Councillor
Marina Adelaide Councillor
Nautilus Marine Insurance Agency Councillor
Hallett Australia Councillor
EJ Milde Councillor
Marineex Australia Councillor
A MESSAGE FROM THE SOUTH AUSTRALIA STATE CHAIR
After another challenging year, the saying “trim one’s sails” springs to mind as we continue to adapt to ever changing scenarios.
Thankfully there have also been many highlights in SA, with very strong demand for all recreational boating activities and products. We have seen record bookings for Houseboat Holidays and many people travelling to our beautiful coastal and riverine areas to be on or near the water - the perfect places to escape, unwind and be immersed in nature.
Heading into the new year, I encourage everyone to embrace all the Association offers to us, and I am very grateful to my fellow Councillors, Directors and the whole BIA team for their passion and dedication to our industry.
Wishing you all a wonderful festive season with your friends and family, and may 2022 be the year where we can catch up in person and spend less time on zoom
Miriam Griffen
South Australia State Chair
The marine industry in Australia by the numbers 2021 Industry data
Turnover in 2020-21
People are employed directly by the industry, with more than 10,000 contractors also engaged 27,630
2,000 Businesses +
Companies in the marine industry are predominantly smaller businesses, typically employing less than 5 people
Industry profile by sector
The marine industry covers a broad range of sectors, with boat sales, storage, yard services and charter operators leading the way
But
A nation of boaters
2.5 million
Boating is one of the leading pastimes in Australia – 1 in 10 Aussies have a boat licence
More than registered boats plus as many again paddle craft, SUPs, sailing dinghies
Strong growth in non-powered sector outdoor, healthly lifestyle. PWC
85,000
18,000 + new registrations The fleet is growing with now registered 925,000
vessels
BIA AND MULPHA AUSTRALIA JOIN FORCES TO DELIVER NATIONAL BOAT SHOWS
BIA has signed an agreement with Mulpha Australia as its Event Delivery Partner for the major boat shows across Australia.
BIA President Darren Vaux and Mulpha Australia CEO Greg Shaw announced the partnership of the two industry heavyweights in Darling Harbour, home of the Sydney International Boat Show.
Darren Vaux said the industry was primed, following a twoyear hiatus for a return to major boat shows in 2022.
“This strategic alliance is a great fit with enormous potential in the delivery of best-in-class boat show experiences across Australia,” he said. “The BIA and Mulpha Mulpha/SCIBS have a long-term collaborative relationship and their event delivery team are known and respected by the BIA. They have recently expanded their events delivery capability and it makes sense to utilise their resources and expertise for our events instead of carrying these costs internally over the full year. The BIA retains full ownership of our shows and the partnership with Mulpha gives us the capacity to deliver bigger and better events into the future.
“This brings a new, more efficient and risk balanced approach to delivering National Boat Shows through our event delivery partnership with Mulpha, the Owners and operators of Sanctuary Cove international Boat Show.
“Boating has proven to be a stand-out leisure-time activity throughout the pandemic and we are very confident that the boating community will embrace the lifestyle focus of the boat show program in 2022 and beyond.”
Mulpha Australia has managed and produced the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) since 2002, which now is in its 33rd year. Over the last two decades, SCIBS has continued to deliver record breaking shows including in May this year where the event was attended by more than 51,000 visitors and injected over $336m into the Queensland economy.
The sole aim of the BIA and Mulpha Australia partnership is to deliver outstanding boat shows for industry and the public, with a significant focus on the boating lifestyle. This collaboration by industry leaders in the sector will enable delivery of innovative and engaging world class events for the benefit of the exhibitors, partners, visitors, and the broader boating industry.
DISCOVER BOATING ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN
The BIA launched its 2021-22 Discover Boating advertising campaign ahead of the expected busy summer season.
The member collaborative campaign is aimed at promoting participation in boating to millions of people across Australia.
Advertising directs viewers to the Discover Boating website which is loaded with information for people new to boating, those returning and those who are already passionate about the lifestyle.
The three-month campaign runs across live and on-demand television, premium online video, online boating lifestyle sites, social media and digital marketing.
Participating members received benefits ranging from logo exposure on TV ads, to newsletter features targeted at the BIA’s consumer database, website listings and social media posts.
The BIA would like to thank its members who are supporting this campaign.
APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARDS
The BIA Apprentice of the Year Award is designed to recognise both the outstanding contribution that apprentices provide to our industry and the importance of developing a strong future for training and careers within the marine industry.
BIA President Darren Vaux said: “The boating industry is rich with opportunities in skills and trades, and the new BIA Apprentice of the Year Awards are a way of recognising the extraordinary talent in the industry.
“We have seen a nine per cent growth in employment across the industry over the past year which reflects the demand and passion Australians have for boating in all its forms across paddle, power and sail.
“Recognising excellence in our apprentices is part of our strategy to support career pathways in a sector that offers a unique opportunity to work on and beside some of the best waterways in the world.”
THE 2021 BIA APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARDS WENT TO:
BIA Apprentice of the Year 2021: Doug Allan (R Marine Sydney)
NSW Apprentice of the Year 2021: Doug Allan
QLD Apprentice of the Year 2021: Zoe De Pryck (Maritimo)
SA Apprentice of the Year 2021: Trae Webb (Christies Beach Marine)
Winners received a trophy, certificate and a $500 voucher for tools.
The marine industry reported in 2021 a turnover of $8.835 billion and directly employed more than 27,000 people. With seventy-five per cent being small businesses, employing local workers and supporting local communities, the role apprentices have in the industry’s future is vital to ongoing success.
Entries for the 2022 Apprentice of the Year Awards open in May 2022.
Doug Allan (left) receiving awards from Adam Smith
MARINEJOBS.ORG.AU
THE NEW INDUSTRY CAREERS CENTRE
Marine Jobs launched in July with the aim of changing recruitment in the marine industry for good.
In a sector where we are challenged to fill positions, the new ‘careers centre’ sets out to assist employers cut through the clutter and broadcast job vacancies to highly relevant talent pools. Making it easier and faster to find quality candidates to fill roles.
Since launch the site has had in excess of 280 jobs posted, almost 20,000 visits and over 65,000 job views.
Promotion of the site has been supported by a paid advertising campaign, as well as the launch of a new careers video that showcases the appeal of working within the sector and the different types of jobs on offer; from boatbuilders to marine mechanics, to superyacht crew, dock staff and marina managers.
Michael Jarvin of Advanced Marina Management said, “Marine Jobs is exactly what our industry needs. I want to employ local people who have a passion for the water. We desperately need more people in the industry at all levels and across all areas. I’ve placed four jobs on the board and got good solid applicants. I will be placing another before Christmas. I guarantee you’ll have success too – whether you’re an employer, or a job seeker!”
Ryan Short, co-owner of Short Marine, said, “In an industry that has proven to be traditionally hard to recruit in, Marine Jobs has been a great place to advertise. We successfully recruited our new shipwright via the site and recently listed jobs for a marine electrician and yard hand and were able to organise interviews with potential candidates within a week!”.
The platform provides a range of career resources, including regular email notifications on new jobs, information on apprenticeships and industry training, writing a resume and preparing for an interview.
BIA members receive ongoing discounts on both job listings and banner advertising opportunities on the website.
Marine Jobs is a collaboration between the Boating Industry Association, Marina Industries Association and Superyacht Australia. The site is powered by a specialist jobs board provider which delivers such online recruitment solutions to over 3000 industry associations world-wide.
MARINE INDUSTRY CAREERS FLYER
BIA has published a new careers flyer which promotes opportunities in the various roles and trades within the boating industry. Members looking to use a simple one-page flyer to promote industry career opportunities when talking with groups such as school students or trainees, can make use of the flyer which is available here
The BIA Member Support team is available to discuss careers promotion opportunities, as required, such as talking at school careers events, show around tours of boating facilities or being involved with online presentations to student groups. More information on this is available here or contact careers@bia.org.au
CAREERS IN THE MARINE INDUSTRY
DISCOVER BOATING MARKETPLACE
BIA launched the Discover Boating Marketplace in mid-September 2021.
The online shopfront allows users to browse products and services listed by BIA members. The aim is to provide the public with a trusted source to find reputable suppliers who they know have pledged to abide by the industry Code of Practice.
Powered by Boatsonline/Yachthub, a leading boat sales listing platform, BIA members with existing accounts automatically see their listings included on Marketplace. BIA members without an account are provided with a free account which sees products only listed on Marketplace.
In its first eight weeks of launch Marketplace saw over 1700 listings, attracted almost 10,000 website visitors and generated more than 1000 enquiries.
MARINE CARD AND ACCESS MANAGEMENT
In 2021, the Marine Card and Access Management System continued to prove a great success in enabling sites to track compliance with COVID-Safe practices, along with providing the regular roles of managing and monitoring access to marine facilities and sites. To further enhance the AMS, a QR code reader functionality was added in spring 2021, enabling contractors entering sites to log-in and confirm their attendance via the now well-used and commonplace QR code system. This has proven to be a very successful additional tool in the AMS program and the next phase of development is to provide for a vaccination status validation.
These improvements are of assistance should a site be required to identify or rapidly communicate to visiting contractors following an incident, COVID-related or otherwise, or to advise of changes to site access. The QR code system also provides for facilities with multiple access points to more readily and ably manage contractors and other visitors to the site, and will make the installation and implementation of AMS at new marine
facilities a easier process than the current installation of physical equipment.
The Marine Card system itself continues to see good growth year-on-year and there are now over 5000 active Marine Card holders. The Marine Card training program was reviewed and updated during the year and in line with common good industry practice for such online training programs, the renewal for Marine Cards is now set at three years. This ensures not only is the industry more regularly validating and reconfirming it is up-to-date with basic work health and safety protocols and requirements, but also provides for a more regular communication point between BIA and this sector of the industry.
If you require support on utilising any functionality of the AMS,
n s u r a n c e s
F E A T U R E S
G a t e c o n t r o l s y s t e m f o r p e o p l e e n t e r i n g s i t e R e p l a c e s t h e t a b l e t - b a s e d t e r m i n a l f o r v i s i t o r l o g i n a n d i d e n t i f i c a t i o n C o n n e c t s w i t h M a r i n e C a r d d a t a b a s e t o v a l i d a t e c r e d e n t i a l s F a m i l a r G r e e n T i c k r e p l a c e s n e e d f o r w r i s t b a n d
P r o v i d e s r e c o r d o f p e o p l e o n s i t e a n d t h e i r d e p a r t u r e A s s i s t s w i t h m a r i n e f a c i l i t y o p e r a t o r r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s t o e n s u r e s a f e t y o n s i t e
TECHNICAL STANDARDS
AUSTRALIAN BUILDERS PLATE
Following an extensive review and revision process to update and make easier to implement, a new Edition 5 of the Australian Builders Plate Standard was finally implemented by state jurisdictions around the country in mid-2021. The ABP Edition 5 provides boat builders, importers and all parties making changes to the characteristics of a boat, such as boat dealers adding equipment and new gear, with an industry standard that has been improved based on experience of use of the Standard since its first introduction in 2006.
A number of policy changes and technical improvements have also been made. The requirement to apply all relevant elements of a referenced technical standard (concept of full compliance) has been introduced, which means that all tests and assessments listed in that standard are required to be applied, along with outcomes of such assessments. For example, if the outcome of assessment using a referenced technical standard requires that a boat be fitted with level flotation, then this is required to be fitted and the manufacturer is not permitted to declare the boat meets only basic flotation outcomes.
An important improvement provides for the option to define a maximum number of persons OR maximum load, a key issue for smaller boats. This change recognises that the boat has an ability to carry, or support, a load (which is a combination of persons, fitted equipment and carryon gear) and not necessarily only a specific number of individual persons of a standard average mass. This will confirm that the boat owner or skipper has the ultimate responsibility to assess whether the intended loading of the boat is in compliance with the rated capacity.
Related to this is a strengthening of the requirement to affix warning labels to provide clear guidance to the boat owner or skipper that loading, including number of passengers, may need to be varied (reduced) depending on the expected operational area/conditions for an intended voyage.
Clarification of the use of conservative values determined by compliance with the referenced technical standards will allow manufacturers to limit capacities, such as number of persons or engine power, where required, with the potential (subject to compliance with other criteria) of applying any ‘savings’ to other elements of the total load carried.
Information on the new edition of the ABP Standard is available from the ANZSBEG website. BIA Members seeking advice on standards should contact Nik Parker at nik@bia.org.au
AS1799 SMALL CRAFT
During the review of the ABP, it was determined that AS1799 Small Craft, the principal standard for domestic boat manufacturers, was out of step with global industry developments, new assessment methodologies and there were concerns raised around interpretation and therefore application and use. AS1799 was itself then subject to an extensive update during late 2020 and 2021, with BIA chairing the Standards Australia committee to revise the text, with representatives from a number of state maritime agencies, professional institutions and importantly an industry team representing the cross section of local industry – grp boats, aluminium boats, trailer boats and larger cruisers – providing expert input to the work.
A number of technical changes were made to AS1799, including methodologies for assessing the volume of the hull, fundamental to the following core uses of the standard to determine maximum load, maximum number of persons and then engine power. The revision work took account of new data from industry’s use of the standard over a period of 10+ years and new standards text from ISO and the US ABYC standard systems.
Among the changes incorporated into the 2021 edition were:
• Motor weights in Table 2.1 have been revised to match actual equipment available on the Australian market.
• The definition of “static float plane” has been aligned with the definition in latest version of ABYC H-05.
• The concept of “total persons mass” has been introduced in line with Edition 5 of the National Standard for the Australian Builders Plate.
• A new warning label has been added and applies if the open waters maximum persons capacity has not been assessed.
• The open waters stability requirements have been refined.
• The requirements for determining maximum power capacity of outboard-powered boats have been aligned to the latest ABYC requirements; and the circumstances under which testing in accordance with Appendix F is required have been clarified.
• The means by which a boat’s swamped flotation performance may be assessed have been expanded.
The new edition of the standard, AS1799.1:2021 Small Craft General requirements for power boats, is considered the preferred document for demonstrating compliance with the ABP for the Australian boat manufacturing sector and while other standards may be used for such, BIA recommends the use of AS1799 and will be able to support members in its use and application.
Members requiring further information on AS1799 should contact Nik Parker at nik@bia.org.au
ABP AND AS1799 EDUCATION
To support members in the use of both the ABP and AS1799 standards, BIA provides guidance notes on particular topics from time-to-time, as required. One of the most significant elements of the ABP standard is the plate that goes on the boat, the intent of which is to advise boat owners and operators of the characteristics and capabilities of the boat. Of particular importance is the understanding of the interpretation of the engine mass symbol used on the plate.
The engine symbol is used to identify the outboard engine power rating and the outboard engine mass. The mass of the engine is often confused, by boaters and manufacturers, as being the dry mass of the primary propulsion outboard engine(s) itself. The mass to be displayed alongside the symbol is in fact the combination of the engine, batteries, portable fuel tanks (and contents) and control equipment associated with the engine.
BIA’s note on ABP plate interpretation of information provides detailed guidance for members and ultimately their customers/boat owners.
TRAILER STANDARDS
On July 1 2021 a 12-month transitional period began for implementation of the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) 2018 to replace the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989. The RVSA better reflects the significant changes in global and domestic vehicle markets and improvements in vehicle technologies over the last few decades.
The new regulations and standards will impact ALL manufacturers, assemblers and importers of Low ATM Trailers (Trailers). This applies even if you import a boat with a trailer under it; you are now deemed the manufacturer of the trailer under the boat. If any of these scenarios describes part of your business, please read on with attention as the clock is ticking and there is a need to take action early to ensure compliance and the ability to continue to trade after 30 June 2022.
The RVSA will provide industry businesses a level playing field, create a barrier to entry for newcomers and startups, improve the safety and compliance of Trailers being manufactured and arm federal government regulators with greater enforcement powers to assist in stamping out noncompliant and more importantly, unsafe Trailers making it onto Australian roads.
BIA has provided members with access to online briefings and webinars on the new standard and regulations and has also negotiated support for BIA members from the Caravan Industry Association which has developed a comprehensive assessment tool
Further information is available here or members with specific questions should contact George Bolton at george@bia.org.au
LIFEJACKET STANDARDS
BIA informed a Standards Australia revision of AS4758 for lifejackets. The revision was based largely around improving consistency in markings, servicing requirements for inflatable models and testing procedures to allow for lifejackets to be put through in-water tests with a person wearing wet weather gear.
The Australian Recreational Boating Safety Committee requested the revision in a bid to improve performance of lifejackets made to AS4758 and also the key safety information provided to the public especially related to wear and servicing.
ADVOCACY
Advocacy is one of the three fundamental priorities of the BIA and the main aims are to promote:
• access and infrastructure
• support for business
• private investment
• safe and responsible boating
• environmentally sustainable outcomes
BIA was busy over the past 12 months in all these areas with heightened activities across the member States. Your advocacy contact is Neil Patchett on neil@bia.org.au
SUBMISSIONS & POLICY
An important part of BIA advocacy work is to represent the interests of members in submissions to all levels of government. Each is an opportunity to promote the boating industry and participation in boating. BIA delivered 33 submissions since June last year to governments, often targeting multiple ministers and/ or department heads on issues ranging from infrastructure and access to safety and better regulation. For 2022, BIA intends to expand its efforts in this area by reaching out more frequently to members for input across the myriad of issues likely to arise. The experience and knowledge of members is invaluable in getting the best results. Submissions completed can be viewed here
WHATEVER LIES AHEAD...
THouSAnD REASonS, onE pARTnER
MEMBERSHIP AND BUSINESS SUPPORT
MEMBERSHIP PROFILE 2021
Membership numbers at the end of 2021 are 650 consisting of 628 full financial members and 22 life members. 2021 brought further challenges to the boating industry and a number of members did not respond to the invitation to renew membership in 2021. However, there has been a very encouraging pick-up in new members.
MEMBERSHIP BY STATE
The state-by-state breakdown of members shows 324 located in NSW, 203 in Queensland, 81 in SA, 2 in NT and 18 reporting a head office based in another state.
BLW Marine Management QLD
BoatSmart HQ NSW
Book My Boat NSW
Castaway Houseboat SA
Charter Fleet Marine QLD
Davis Marine Brokerage NSW
Delalane VIC
Dockyard SA
GlassBottom NSW
Hemisphere Marine NSW
Jetboard Australia QLD
Laing Simmons Young Property NSW
Lake Macquarie Mobile Marine NSW
Li'l Miss Champagne Houseboat SA
Luxury Marine NSW
Marine Care QLD QLD
Marineware QLD
Moby Motorsports QLD
Mountain Boats ACT
Narrabeen Boat Hire NSW
North QLD Boat Brokerage QLD
Platinum Yacht Management QLD
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
During 2021 BIA has welcomed 44 new members from across the three principal states of BIA membership. These new members demonstrate the continuing growth and success of the boating industry in Australia and the appreciation of the importance of being a member of the national industry association. A further 4 applications remain in processing.
NEW MEMBERS WELCOMED IN 2021
Absolute Bliss
Adelaide Boat Sales
AEI Marine Insurance Brokers
Aluvan Welding & Fabrication QLD
Bird Electrical Marine NSW
Blacker Marine QLD
Plaztek QLD
Point of Sail QLD
R Marine Dillon NSW
Robuk Engineering QLD
Rockdale Mattress factory NSW
Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron QLD
Saltwater Solutions QLD
Marineex Australia SA
Sullivan Marine Brokerage NSW
Suzuki Australia Marine VIC
SWS Pacific NSW
True Blue Houseboat SA
Viano Corporation NSW
Water Makers Australia NSW
Wormald NSW
Wow Factor Houseboat SA
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM 2022
A new membership program is being introduced in 2022, with a change to how the subscription is assessed and the benefits which your membership attracts.
The new program is designed to provide members with a high level of service, support and direct benefit, plus ensure this is sustainable by providing for a substantial part of the ongoing core funding requirements of the BIA to be met by the membership subscription.
The membership program is reviewed periodically, to ensure it continues to meet the needs of members and is delivering support for the work of the BIA, with the last review in 2019 focusing the membership program closely on boat show participation and exhibitor discounts.
It is important members recognise that the BIA is there for the industry throughout the year, and not just during boat show periods, and equally for all members of the industry, and not just those that exhibit.
Balancing the needs of different members, both from different segments of the industry and sizes of businesses, requires that the membership program has a range of subscription levels that reflects these differing criteria and needs.
A subscription program related to business size based on number of employees provides the most flexible way of achieving this.
NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS
For the 2022 membership year, subscriptions will be based on five tiers.
Number of employees is the full-time equivalent number of staff in the business, or across the group where multiple marine businesses are owned and operated as a single company, for example marina groups. A full-time equivalent employee is taken to be one employed for a 38-hour week, or a combination of individuals working fewer hours aggregating a total of 38 hours per week.
Note: for businesses with a presence in non-boating industry sectors, the employee numbers relate only to those engaged within the boating industry.
Owning a boat should be a lifelong pleasure.
The process of buying a boat should be easy if done right.
Members of the Boating Industry Association pledge to abide by the Associations Code of Practice.
When buying a boat from a boat broker, look for the BIA logo. BIA members can be found at www.bia.org.au or by calling (02) 9438 2077.
Life on the water is great. The process for buying a boat should also be.
Members of the Boating Industry Association pledge to abide by its Code of Practice that also incorporates its Code of Ethics. To make sure a business carrying the BIA logo is a current member, check for their details at
www.bia.org.au
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR BUSINESS
For member businesses employing up to 20 people, the change in the membership program will see subscriptions increase by around 12 to 15 per cent over the similar tier subscriptions leveed at the end of 2019. The subscription in tiers one to three will accommodate around 85 per cent of BIA members, with around half of all BIA members expected to be in tier one.
For those larger member businesses, the increase in subscription in tier four will be more substantial, but still equating to a subscription of around only $7 per day; for the largest corporate members, the subscription will be closer to $10 per day.
You can view the full list of benefits in the Member Brochure here, and the 2021 Member Report Card here
To discuss any membership matter, please email to membership@bia.org.au or contact one of the team in your state.
WELCOME DAVID JAMES
BIA is pleased to introduce David James as the new membership officer for NSW. David will be well known to many members, having spent 40+ years in the marine industry, starting as a mast builder and rigger in Drummoyne and close to 20 years with industry wholesale supplier RW Basham (now RWB Marine).
David is a keen sailor and has spent his life on and around boats.
David’s role is to be out and about meeting with members across NSW, ensuring they are supported in their needs as a member, providing information and
guidance from the BIA team and importantly feedback to help inform advocacy and member program development. In his first month David has already visited 30+ members and will be booking calls throughout the weeks ahead.
David can be contacted at david@bia.org.au or on 0484 910 368
BUSINESS SUPPORT
STANDARD DOCUMENTS
BIA members have access to a range of standard documents that have been prepared to support members in various business sectors, including; new boat sales, brokerage boat sales, consignment sale, second-hand boat warranty, marina berthing, provision of goods and services. These documents are regularly updated, as required, and Members are encouraged to make use of standard documents as these have all been reviewed by BIA’s legal partner to therefore provide best advice and support for members should there be any cause for a complaint.
Standard documents may be found at the my BIA member portal at bia.org.au/member-centre/forms-contracts
WORKPLACE ADVICE LINE
BIA members have complimentary access (4 calls per year) to the Workplace Advice Line, provided by Business Australia, an important service providing members with access to a specialist legal team of HR and workplace legislation advisors. The Advice Line is an invaluable support for members, particularly to keep abreast of recent changes to awards, rulings on staff entitlements and specific changes to employment rules introduced by the Fair Work Commission. Business Australia supports BIA members with a range of other business support programs available to access either on a complimentary or paid-for basis. More information is available at businessaustralia.com. The Workplace Advice Line may be accessed at 13 29 59; members are requested to quote their BIA Membership number to access the service.
BIA MEMBER SERVICES
WORKPLACE ADVICE LINE
Whilst every successful business needs people, many BIA Members feel concerned and exposed to risk when dealing with the employment of staff and contractors.
Through a long-standing partnership, all BIA Members enjoy access to the Workplace Advice Line, connecting to a team of specialist consultants and lawyers at the NSW Business Chamber.
This important member benefit is available free of charge to all BIA members who belong to the National BIA; comprising of NSW, SA, Qld & NT. Accessed by dialling the Advice Line on 13 29 59, callers will be asked to confirm their current financial BIA Membership number, and trading name.
As a free member service, BIA Members accessing the Workplace Advice Line can be confident and secure in their employment and industrial relations decisions. As is Gloria Wong from McConaghy Boats:
“McConaghy Boats is a medium-sized employer with operations in Australia and China – different worlds from an employment perspective!
As we strengthened our local team throughout 2015, I relied on BIA’s Workplace Advice Line to cross-check employment and leave conditions, wage rates, and occasional disciplinary action. The Advice Line helped us to be confident that McConaghy Boats is playing fairly, whilst protecting our rights and business interests”
At BIA, we know that accurate, timely advice can make a big difference to your business. If you’re in doubt on employment or industrial relations issues, don’t think twice about making use of this free BIA Member benefit.
Please call the Workplace Advice Line on 132959
A member benefit for BIA members of NSW, Qld, SA & NT
Our experienced Workplace Advisors can assist with detailed support and guidance on the current General Retail Industry Award, Manufacturing & Associated Industries & Occupations Award, Clerks Private Sector Award, and Vehicle Manufacturing, Repair, Service and Retail Award – the most common Awards covering our industry.
Additionally, the Workplace Advice team can advise on matters such as:
Disciplinary and termination procedures
Redundancy or change in employment status
Employment contracts & conditions
Public holidays
Leave entitlements, loading and holiday pay
Long service, parental, and personal leave
Skilled migration
Workers compensation
Apprenticeship/ traineeship conditions
Taxation and income deductions
Overtime and out-of-hours work
BIA MARINE INSURANCE
INSURANCE PROGRAMS
BIA members for many years have had support for their business insurance needs via the BIA Marine Insurance program, operated by Network Steadfast Insurance Group. This program provides members with access to specialist marine insurance brokers, armed with a portfolio of bespoke insurance products that ensure members’ businesses and employees are most appropriately covered for all activities within the boating industry. These insurance programs are regularly reviewed by the broker to ensure they reflect current industry needs and stakeholder and community expectations of insurance.
To support members further, BIA Marine Insurance offers a complimentary health check service whereby the team will be able to review and provide feedback on a member’s complete insurance portfolio. The Health Check will give you confidence that your business is properly covered and will provide a professional opinion on how competitive your insurance premiums are. To arrange a Health Check for your business, please contact marine@networksteadfast.com.au
TRAVEL INSURANCE
With travel starting to return and border controls being eliminated, BIA members will be pleased to hear that the long-established and well-regarded BIA Travel Insurance program has been retained and improved for 2022. All members will benefit from the insurance, which extends to include all directors and employees of member businesses as follows:
• Automatically Covers ALL Australia Wide Business Travel
• Allows Cover for ALL Overseas Business Trips declared prior to departure
• Provides Cover if insured traveller contracts COVID-19 and
- Incurs overseas medical expenses,
- incurs additional travel expenses because they are unable to catch return flight,
- loses deposits or incurs additional expenses because they are unable to board flight.
Each BIA Member will receive Complimentary Overseas Business Travel Insurance on 2 declared trips (1 person each trip) and additional trips can also be insured at a cost of $50 per traveller to be charged by BIA in addition to membership fees.
Full information about the BIA Travel Insurance program is available here.
INSURANCE
COVER FOR PROFESSIONAL SKIPPERS & CREW
BIA Marine Insurance provides members with a range of industry-specific insurances and advice on a wide range of associated issues. In this note, BIA Marine Insurance Account Manager, James Finucane, addresses a topic that has gained renewed interest recently.
As marine industry specialist insurance brokers we are often approached by professional skippers requesting either Professional Indemnity or Public Liability Insurance.
Professional skippers need Public Liability Insurance to cover claims relating to third party bodily injury or property damage (including damage to vessels under their control). A Professional Indemnity insurance policy is not the preferred policy as it is only intended to cover third party financial loss claims arising from professional advice.
Traditionally, we have advised skippers seeking Liability insurance that they should arrange to be covered under the boat insurance policy of the vessel they are skippering. The Liability cover under most boat insurance policies can be extended to include cover for “others in charge of vessel with Your permission”.
What has changed?
Most boat insurance policies exclude a few occupations from their “others in charge of vessel” Liability cover. These excluded occupations are usually limited to Boat Repairers, Marinas, and other similar occupations that work on or store boats. This means that the boat insurer will not cover those parties for their liability if the vessel is damaged, or if someone is injured, while the vessel is under their control.
Recently, one of the largest Marine Hull insurers in Australia added “Professional Skippers & Crew” to this list of excluded occupations. This means that this insurer will no longer cover professional skippers and crew for their liability if the vessel (or any other vessel or property) is damaged, or if someone is injured, while the vessel is under their control.
Who is Affected?
Professional Skipper & Crew
A separate Public Liability Insurance policy for professional skippers and crew is currently not available in Australia. This is because any damage to the vessel or injury to passengers, while the boat is in the control of a professional skipper, could be alleged to have been caused by their negligence. Skippers could be held responsible for almost any damage or injury, and insurers are unwilling to cover this risk on a standalone basis.
The right Liability insurance protection for skippers and crew remains under the insurance policy of the vessel that they are skippering.
Boat Owner
Some professional skippers require boat owners to sign a waiver, agreeing that the skipper cannot be held liable for any damage or injury occurring whilst they are skippering the vessel. If the boat insurance policy does not cover the professional skipper, the boat insurer will often seek to hold the skipper liable in the event of damage or injury. If the insurer is prevented from doing this by the waiver, they may refuse to pay the boat owner’s claim. This can leave the boat owner exposed to an uninsured loss.
Boat owners who engage professional skippers and crew should only insure their vessel with an insurer who can cover those persons.
Solution
Only one insurer currently excludes professional skippers and crew from their “others in charge of vessel” Liability cover. Most other insurers cover them, as they accept that the on-water risk of any boat is generally improved when the boat is under the control of a professional skipper and crew.
Any boat owner who intends to engage a professional skipper and crew, whether for the occasional hosting of an event or on a regular basis, needs to review their marine hull insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate protection for both the boat owner and the professional skipper and crew.
If you require assistance or advice to arrange the right insurance policy for your vessel (or a vessel that you are skippering), BIA Marine Insurance, delivered by Network Steadfast, is available for all members, or if preferred, members are recommend to contact their own insurance broker, ensuring that such is familiar with this particular insurance.
James Finucane may be contacted at jfinucane@networksteadfast.com.au
Network Insurance Group
LIFEJACKETS.ORG.AU
BIA together with the Australia New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group continues to develop the website lifejackets.org.au, the national website dedicated to providing boaters across the country with a single source of reliable information regarding inflatable lifejackets.
The site offers access to resources and tools that are designed to help people make an informed decision relating to the selection of lifejackets for their needs, and the care and servicing of inflatable lifejackets. These include a lifejacket selector tool, educational videos on conducting pre-wear checks and inspections, a retailer and service centre store locator, as well as the ability to register to receive maintenance tips and service reminders via email.
Marine Contractors Insurance Package
TRANSPORT FOR NSW PARTNERSHIP IN SAFETY
In partnership with Transport for NSW, the BIA manages the Lifejacket Retail Partnership Program in NSW. The aim of the program is to assist retailers to educate boaters on boating safety and the importance of wearing and servicing lifejackets via signs and other helpful tools. By displaying safety information in retail centres, customers are more likely to accept and act on the messages if they’re thinking about their activity on (or around) the water. Over the 2020-2021 boating season, nearly 100 retailers across the state were sent a range of boating safety material to display in their stores.
“It’s great to see involvement from a range of boating retailers spanning paddle, power and sail in the program. A key objective of this program is promoting the importance of choosing the right lifejacket as well as providing the opportunity for customers to register their inflatable lifejacket to receive annual servicing reminders,” says John Hardwick, Acting Chief Centre for Road Safety and Centre for Maritime Safety.
“It is fantastic to get access to materials that reinforce what we tell our customers at both a commercial and retail level”, Jane Hookey, Australis Canoes.
While lifejacket safety remains a priority, over the years the program has expanded and now includes the promotion of the following boating safety topics: Making the right decision, Alcohol, Cold Water, Weather, Keeping a proper Lookout, Towing, Paddling and Speed. Program material may include weather and judgement messaging placed at retailers close to boat ramps, or paddle safety messages reinforced in kayak hire outlets.
Any retailer is welcome to join the program. For information on how to get involved, contact Kim Fox kim@bia.org.au
Introducing the all new Australian Made 406MHz GPS Personal Locator Beacon from GME, the MT610G
This Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is GME’s most compact and lightweight design ever and offers an impressive 7 year battery life and a 6 year warranty to provide you with a emergency distress signal and ensure you remain safe and connected, wherever life takes you.
The MT610G has been designed, engineered, and manufactured in Australia, to provide the outdoor adventurer with an affordable IP68 Ingress Protection rated, GPS PLB solution that is both easy to use and compact enough to be stored anywhere.
gme.net.au/plb
GPS PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACON MT610G
SOCIAL MEDIA
The BIA recognises that social media provides a significant opportunity and channel through which to reach and influence the public.
As part of our ongoing commitment to promote members, the industry and boating lifestyle, we are always looking for content to share across our ‘Discover Boating’ social media platforms.
Members are welcome to share their news with us, whether it be product related, business news or community related - such as boating information for your area.
We also invite you to follow our pages, and share content from our pages to your own.
DISCOVER BOATING –PROMOTION OF THE BOATING LIFESTYLE
FACEBOOK facebook.com/DiscoverBoatingAustralia
INSTAGRAM instagram.com/discoverboatingaustralia
BOATING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION –INDUSTRY NEWS AND MEMBER UPDATES
FACEBOOK facebook.com/BoatingIndustryAssociation LINKED IN linkedin.com/company/3634296
Whether you are an owner/operator of a commercial marine site, work for an employer or a contractor in the industry, we all want to work in a safe environment. The Marine Card program provides an industry-wide approach to improve safety awareness and performance, streamline compliance and promote a culture of commitment to WHS in our industry.
There are three parts to the Marine Card Program
1. Online WHS General Induction
Our online WHS General Induction designed specifically for the boating industry, focusing on risks and hazards found in our complex working environment and helping workers to understand their legal responsibilities and contribute to a safer workplace.
2. marinecard.org.au
A dedicated website designed to aid the exchange of vital WHS information between Contractor and Marine site.
3. Access Management System (AMS)
An automated Access Management System designed to streamline and simplify Contractor access and compliance management at Marine Industry worksites.
Innovative, simple and right for our industry, the Marine Card Program supports employees, sole traders, contracting businesses and workplace controllers to meet their legal obligations and make our industry safer for everyone.
MARINE CARD, DO YOU HAVE YOURS YET?
The Marine Card is now held by over 5,000 people in the recreational marine sector. As a business running a site or an individual visiting one, this is a start to ensuring you are on the way to meeting your WH&S obligations.
To obtain your Marine Card, you must successfully complete the online Marine Card Induction.
Find out more at: marinecard.org.au or email info@marinecard.org.au
The Marine Industry Insurance Specialists
Marina Operators Liability
Boat
Marina Structures
Pollution
Professional
Our team works with marine industry clients who build, repair, sell and store boats. Our strong relationships with marine industry specialty insurers assists us in placing insurance for over 400 marine industry clients across Australia.
Our dedicated claims team also do the work for you if you have to make a claim, advocating for you and saving you time.
Business support every step of the way.
Whether you’re starting, running or growing your business, CommBank, proud Alliance Partner of BIA can help you do business your way.
Dedicated
support for your business
To help you take your business to the next level, BIA members can benefit from direct access to a dedicated CommBank Relationship Manager and team of specialists who will work with you through every stage of your business life cycle. You’ll also receive 24/7 Australian based phone support for all your business banking needs.
Business products and solutions
BIA members may be eligible to access the latest innovative business banking products and solutions with preferential pricing applied to make it easier for you to do business. These include:
• No merchant joining fee
• Same day settlement every day of the year^
• Daily IQ - free business insights tool with CommBiz and NetBank
• Business Loans and Asset Finance
• Overdraft Facilities and Bank Guarantees
• Free business financial health checks
To find out how CommBank can help you do business your way, contact BIA on 02 9438 2077 or email info@bia.org.au and they’ll put you in touch with a CommBank Business Banking Specialist
ABOUT US
The Boating Industry Association (BIA) is the peak body in Australia that represents the interests of recreational and light commercial boating industry. The BIA is an advocate for the boating lifestyle and supports safe, responsible and enjoyable boating.
Our mission is to support and represent the interests of the boating industry and boating participation across the nation.
Boating is a way of life for many families in Australia, the largest island in the world with more than 35,000km of coastline. It is estimated that 5 million people participate in some form of boating each year. The vast majority of which occurs in family runabouts along with small sail and paddle craft.
BIA TEAM
Nik Parker Co General Manager (Membership & Programs) nik@bia.org.au
