CEO’s REPORT

Welcome to our January 2023 newsletter.

I trust that your Christmas and New Year went well and that 2023 has started well. Unfortunately, the weather failed to play ball for those of us living in the North Island and our thoughts are with those on the East Coast who have suffered flooding and storm damage.

As we look at the year ahead, perhaps the only certainty is that it will be another challenging year for many. Over the last few years, the security industry has demonstrated its resilience and ability to readily adopt to the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, including the introduction of new services and labour resource pressures. For those who thought however that we may now be looking at some return to normality, the reality is that 2023 will almost certainly be one of the most difficult and challenging that business, and the public in general, have had to face.

The recently released Business Confidence Survey highlighted that approximately 75% of business owners and managers are expecting a significant downturn in the economy this year and close to 20% are currently planning for staff lay-offs or reduced hiring. Factors driving the loss of confidence include continued high inflation, the impacts of the Russia/Ukraine war, government-imposed cost increases for business and the uncertainty of government policy around areas such as Three Waters, Fair Pay Agreements and ROVE (Review of Vocational Education). It can only be assumed the unexpected resignation of Jacinda Ardern as Prime Minister will only heighten some of these concerns and uncertainty.

Whilst these issues require careful planning and management, they also provide a number of opportunities for well managed businesses to grow and thrive and we have no doubt that many of our members can look forward to a successful year ahead.

From an NZSA perspective, we recognise that members may be facing operational and cost pressures and it is important that we continue to strive to provide the best possible value to our members. This includes effective representation with government agencies, providing strong leadership and guidance in further lifting standards, positive promotion of the industry and ensuring that our benefit programmes are targeted at member needs.

As you will see from the following commentary, the NZSA is starting the year with a number of new initiatives that specifically target membership value and we look forward to further launches in coming months.

 

NZSA “Saved a Life” Medal

The NZSA “Saved a Life” Medal award programme and is now live and nominations can be submitted online via our website.

The programme recognises and celebrates those workers within our industry who have saved a life, or lives, through their actions. This follows on from the very successful Covid Guardian Award programme that ran through the lockdown periods.

The nomination process is very straight forward with qualification criteria outlined on the website. Nominations can be for an individual or a team and can be submitted by employers, colleagues, customers or the general public. Recipients will receive an attractive medal and certificate and will also be recognised at the annual NZ Security Awards event through a roll call.

Please support this initiative and ensure that we get the opportunity to recognise the often-unsung heroic work performed by many security workers.

 

Joint Statement – Master Electricians and NZSA (security licensing requirements)

The Master Electricians and NZSA have jointly produced and released a statement that provides guidance to members of both organisations and other stakeholders on the application of the legislation covering registration and licensing and ensuring that ultimately, our customers are provided with consistent and appropriate advice and service.

Click here to read the Joint_Statement_Master_Electricians_and_NZSA.01.

 

Launch of NZSA online learning platform

The NZSA recognises the importance of providing a package of learning materials for the security industry that supplement the NZQA training delivered by training providers and can be found in a single repository.

In the coming weeks we will launch the NZSA online training platform for the use of our members and the wider industry.

Initial learning and training materials to be hosted on the platform include:

• Literacy and Numeracy Modules. Free access for all.
• Electronic Security Good Practice. Preferential rates for members.
• Entry Level Security Technician Foundation Training. Preferential rates for members.

Look out for our formal launch in early February.

 

Fair Pay Agreements (FPA’s)

As you will be aware, the legislation supporting FPA’s came into effect on 1 December 2022.

To date, four applications for FPA’s have been lodged by unions with MBIE. These are:

• Hospitality (General) Unite Union
• Bus and Coach Drivers (2 separate applications) Amalgamated Workers Union
• Supermarket and Grocery Store Workers First Union

You can check the status of proposed FPA’s and see who the employee and employer bargaining parties are, via the Fair Pay Agreement dashboard on the MBIE website.

It is our expectation that Etu will submit an application with MBIE towards the end of February covering the security industry. From the date of submission, MBIE must respond as soon as practicable, but the period is likely to be in excess of 30 working days, particularly if multiple applications are received. Once approved, MBIE will publicly notify its decision and request public submissions.

Following approval to initiate, the initiating union must identify which unions and employers are likely to be covered by the proposed FPA and use best endeavours to notify them of the initiation of bargaining. There is an obligation on the union to provide a form to every employer who is likely to be covered by the application, which they in turn must issue to every covered employee.

Whilst the timelines for the process are specified within the FPA legislation, there is some uncertainty with regards to MBIE’s ability to meet the defined timing and even assuming dates are achieved, we believe it will be mid-year at the earliest that the industry (through the NZSA) are effectively required to become involved in the process.

As the peak body for the security industry, the NZSA has sought expert guidance on these matters and we are very confident that we can provide our members, and all industry employers, with the necessary governance, systems and processes to meet the obligations of the Employer Bargaining Party.

We will continue to keep our members briefed on all further FPA developments.

 

Biometrics review

The Privacy Commissioner has announced he will be exploring a code of practice under the Privacy Act as a way to provide better protection for biometric information and greater clarity about regulatory requirements for organisations that collect and use biometric information.

This will impact onto a number of electronic security providers who utilise biometrics within their security solutions.

The NZSA has been involved in initial discussions on this matter and during the current year will be part of the targeted engagement with organisations and experts with a particular interest in biometrics. We will actively engage with our membership leading into the consultation process to ensure that we have appropriate representation and an understanding of the industry views.

 

Withdrawal of Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF)

In July 2020 the government introduced a new training fund designed to help New Zealand recover from the impacts of Covid-19. The fund supplemented the existing Fees Free policy and targeted trainees in high demand industry sectors.

Through this fund, the government has effectively covered the cost of those trainees undertaking the New Zealand Certificate in Electrotechnology (Level 3) and New Zealand Certificate in Electronic Security (Level 4) through E-tec (our industry training provider) over the last two and a half years.

Unfortunately, the TTAF was withdrawn at the end of 2022 and trainees (or their employer) will now need to pay E-tec directly for their training. The weekly cost for both Level 3 and Level 4 has been set at $49.90 per week, including GST.

It should be noted that the Apprenticeship Boost payment of $500 per month can still be claimed by qualifying employers through MSD and used to offset the training cost. Similarly, the Fees Free policy remains in place and trainees should check their eligibility through the government website Eligibility Criteria feesfree.govt.nz.

We recommend that employers with trainees currently enrolled in the Level 3 and Level 4 programmes should contact E-tec on 0800 030500 or [email protected] and ensure that arrangements are in place and to ensure continuity of training.

 

As always, we welcome all comments and feedback on NZSA or industry issues and activity.

Keep safe and well.

Kind regards,
Gary Morrison
CEO

 

NZSA Saved a Life Medal

 

 

 

 

The NZSA is proud to launch a new award initiative that will recognise and celebrate those workers within our industry who have saved a life, or lives, through their actions.

This builds on the well-received and very successful Covid Guardian award programme that we ran during the lockdown periods.

Nominations for the Saved a Life Medal can be made online on the NZSA website.

The medal will be specific to either an individual security worker or a team, where their actions have directly saved a life, or lives. Examples include:

• Assisting or removing a person, or persons, from life threatening situations
• Providing care to a person, or persons, that has resulting in their surviving life-threatening injuries
• Preventing a person, or persons, from causing life threatening harm to others
• Preventing a person, or persons from causing life threatening harm to themselves
• Identifying and removing risks that if unmitigated, could have caused life threatening harm to others

Nominations must be received within four months of the incident and be supported by evidence such as media reporting, letters of acknowledgement or witness statements.

All winners will be presented with an attractive medal which they get to keep, and their actions will be profiled within the bi-monthly NZSA Newsletter and on NZSA social media platforms.

Recipients will also be recognised in a roll call at the Annual Security Awards event and will automatically be nominated in the appropriate award category for each year.

 

Face masks – NZSA member special

At the start of the pandemic the NZSA secured a stock of face masks from the Ministry of Health to assist our members in securing government approved PPE.

We wish to sell our remaining stock before the conclusion of our financial year and are offering these to our members at a substantial discount, below supplier prices.

The masks are available to order in boxes of 50 and the cost is $10 + GST per box ($0.20 per unit) plus freight, for members only.

If you would like to place an order can you please email us at [email protected] with your requirements.

 

NZSA HR Advisory Service

A reminder to members that SuccessHR are human resource consultants available for any employment support regarding your employees.

Support offered at no expense to our members is telephone communication support eg. disciplinary, performance. You also have access to individual employment agreements. Any additional support would be charged to you accordingly.

For any support or further information please contact:

Susan Beange
Human Resources Team Lead
[email protected]
021 929 528

Emma Johnston
Human Resources Specialist
[email protected]
021 659 456

 

NZSA Membership

We welcome the following new Associate Company Members:

Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland

Dam Security Systems Limited

 

Events

COA Conflict Management Training – Train the Trainer and Refresher Training for Trainers

As the industry peak body, the NZSA has appointed Bespoke Security and Hard Target to deliver the Conflict Management Train the Trainer and Refresher Training programmes around the country. These providers are subject matter experts in their own right and will ensure that those who are approved to deliver the Conflict Management Training meet necessary standards.

The following training is being conducted by Bespoke Security Group in Auckland:

Train the Trainer Training – Auckland – 18 & 19 April – $750 + GST

Refresher Training – 18 April – Auckland – $395 + GST

For further information and to register please email [email protected].

 

Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs)

The Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs) are returning to New Zealand for a second year.

The OSPAs are designed to be both independent and inclusive; providing an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the work of those dedicated companies, individuals and teams who deliver outstanding security products and services.

There are thirteen award categories and nominations must be submitted by 7 February 2023.

For further information please see the OSPAs website.

 

Women in Compliance Conference 2023

Wednesday 29 March 2023 – Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington

Facilitated by Rosemary (Rosie)Killip, Director, Owner and CEO, Building Networks NZ Ltd

If you work with building and fire rules at any level this conference is for you.

This includes, administrators, sales people, facilities coordinators, facility managers, building trades and designers, BWOF agents and consultants, and of course local authorities staff.

This conference is an opportunity to:

• Step back from the day to day grind
• Connect with other women from across the industry
• Learn new skills, update or refine others
• Plan your next career steps
• Gain some technical knowledge
• Be encouraged and inspired

For further information and to register please see the website.

 

NZISF breakfast meeting

Topic:  ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Security Standard Upgrade: what it means to you and your business

As the world becomes more connected and the threat of cyber incidents increases, it’s essential for businesses in New Zealand to stay informed about the latest updates to the ISO27001 standard. The new ISO27001:2022 version brings significant changes to reflect cyber risk management in today’s climate, including 11 new control groups in Annex A.

When: 8:00am Thursday 9 February 2023 via zoom

For further information and to register please see the NZSA website.

 

Member Benefits

Building Networks Compliance Guidance
Building Networks are the leading authority on building compliance and they are offering a 20% discount for members: Building Networks website.

For industry news, updates, tips and opinions from the frontline, sign up to the Building Networks newsletter or visit their YouTube channel.

 

First Aid and Refresher Training
Life Care Consultants have extensive experience with first aid training in the security industry and are offering NZSA members a 10% discount on all first aid and refresher training.

For further information please email Russell Taylor [email protected].

Mobilcard
NZSA have an agreement with Mobilcard offering members fuel discounts

Key Benefits:

• Up to 16 cents per litre (including GST) discount off the pump price for all diesel and petrol purchased at a discounted Mobilcard acceptor sites. Minimum discount of 12 cents per litre (including GST).
• Available at 330+ sites nationwide. View www.mobilfuelfinder.co.nz to find an acceptor site near you.
• No card or transaction fees.
• No need to manage receipts for tax purposes, all managed under one account.
• Costs can be tracked easily with one monthly invoice. You can also have online access to multiple reports including the fuel consumed by individual vehicles.
• PIN number and purchase restrictions for added security.
• You must be a member of the NZSA to qualify for this offer.

A vehicle consuming 100 litres per week using a discount of up to 6 cents per litre = $6 discount per week.

A vehicle consuming 100 litres per week using the NZSA MOBILCARD discount of up to 16cents per litre = $16 discount per week

For a company fleet of 20 vehicles that’s potentially an annual saving of over $10,000 per annum.

The discount level is dependent on volume of fuel used per annum.

For further information please email [email protected].

 

simPRO
simPRO is a leading operations management solution for service, maintenance and project contractors. Connect the office to the field, delivery exceptional customer service and gain invaluable insights with automated processes, streamlined workflows and in-depth business reporting.

NZSA members are eligible to receive a 20% discount on initial implementation costs of simPRO and for the month of November two months free!

For further information visit the simPRO website.

 

NZSA Speak Up Line
The NZSA Speak Up Line is free to members and provides access to a confidential service where staff can report issues such as bullying, sexual harassment, poor employment conditions, illegal practices such as theft or drug dealing and other matters of concern that may be occurring in the workplace and not being reported.

Phone                 0800 775 775

Online reports     www.integrityline-nz.org/nzsa

The NZSA will provide posters, business-sized card to go into wallets, stickers and introductory letters for your staff. They are designed for members to include their own corporate branding prior to distribution.

The service is particularly valuable where employees may be reluctant to speak up or report matters due to fears that by doing so it may affect their employment or risk further victimisation.

It is also important to note that such services meet government procurement requirements around providing a voice for staff.

This service is provided by Crimestoppers who obviously have considerable experience in handling sensitive calls in a confidential manner. They log the calls or online reports and forward to the NZSA for further investigation if required. The staff member can remain anonymous if they wish to do so.

Register for the NZSA Speak Up Line by emailing [email protected]. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us.

 

Keeping your team up to date

Like many organisations we are constantly looking for ways to ensure we can communicate effectively with our members and their teams. The best way to stay up to date on NZSA and industry news is via our newsletter. The more people from each company who receive our newsletter, the higher the chance of updates being communicated within the industry.

With this in mind, we welcome you to send us any company contacts who would like to receive our newsletter and we will add them to our distribution list.

Please email any contacts to [email protected].

 

NZSA member referral – strength in numbers

NZSA’s membership has grown strongly over the past year and each new member not only strengthens the Association and the security community, it also enables us to provide you with more benefits and services and a greater voice for the industry. So help grow your community and strengthen your Association by referring a prospective new member.

To refer a prospective member please email details to [email protected]. For details on member benefits please see the NZSA website.