Media Release 12 October 2020

WA Master Plumbers encouraged by State Budget, for now

The Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association of WA (MPGA) says that although the economic outlook presented in the 2020 WA State Budget is encouraging for industry, it also highlights some areas of concern. 

CEO Murray Thomas has pointed out that if the predicted rebound occurs, it will not necessarily create the long-term certainty the industry needs.

Mr Thomas said, “There is no doubt the various WA Government training support measures announced in previous months and the Australian Government's apprentice wage subsidy are great incentives to hire and train more staff.”

“However, our industry will only be in a position to employ more apprentices and tradespeople if licensed plumbing contractors can confidently predict a steady long-term demand for their services.” 

“That is why we are keen to engage with the Government to discuss policies for stimulating consumer spending on maintenance and repair work.” 

Mr Thomas explained, “Most of our industry is made up of small to medium-sized local businesses, many of which are family-owned. Their income largely depends on maintenance and repair work, so they get hit hard when residential clients decide to postpone expenditure.” 

“This isn’t just an industry problem. It is a broad social and economic problem because neglected plumbing can create serious health and safety risks. There are environmental considerations too, because even simple things like leaking pipes or dripping taps can add up to a huge wastage of water.”

Mr Thomas added that MPGA is currently engaged in constructive discussions with the Government on this and other matters.