CEO Report
Welcome to our September 2023 newsletter.
Our congratulations and best wishes to all the finalists announced last week for this year’s New Zealand Security Awards event to be held on 15 September at Te Pae Convention Centre in Christchurch.
We received close to 130 nominations, just under last year’s record, however there was a noticeable improvement in the quality of the nominations which made the judging incredibly difficult. Our thanks go out to our judges – Ngaire Kelaher, Wayne Black and Allan Wharerau, along with myself, for their time and commitment as it is certainly not an easy task.
It is also important to recognise those nominees who weren’t successful in making the final two or three in each category. To be nominated is a fantastic achievement in its own right and appreciating that several categories have 20 plus high-quality nominees, there will always be high calibre candidates who unfortunately miss out.
FPA (Fair Pay Agreement) update
Whilst the future of FPA’s may be dependent on the outcome of Octobers election, it is important to note that the legislation is in place and where approved applications for FPA bargaining exist, there is a legal obligation on employers of covered employees and other stakeholders (including the NZSA) to comply with the specified process and timelines.
For employers of staff covered by the Security Officer FPA, you should have by now circulated the Etu communications to all impacted staff and have forwarded the MBIE Employee Contact Details spreadsheet with a listing of all covered staff and their contact details back to Etu. If you have yet to action this, it should be expedited or if you have any questions or concerns, you can reach out to the NZSA for guidance.
In coming days, we should receive from MBIE confirmation of the approved bargaining parties to the Security Officer FPA. Once we receive this information, we have a 20-working day window in which to document and confirm inter-party side agreements with each bargaining party. These agreements will lay out details on how the parties will work together once bargaining commences and will include the structure and composition of the bargaining teams.
We will provide further information on this process to our members via the separate FPA mailing data base.
Saved A Life Medal
The latest recipient of the Saved A Life Medal is Josh Beckham, Supervisor for Allied Security.
The awarding of the medal recognised the heroic efforts of Josh in early June when he responded to a call from a security officer who was being assaulted by offenders at a customer site in Tauranga Crossing. Arriving at the site within minutes of the call, Josh ensured the safety of the guard before applying first aid to the guard who had injuries to his eye socket, jaw and throat during the 20-minute wait for ambulance attendance.
During the event Josh was able to give comprehensive first aid, keep the guard conscious, and keep his composure, whilst also alerting the local Operations Manager and the client to the event and providing regular updates.
To see the full story of Josh’s heroic actions, please see the NZSA website.
We also remind our members, and wider public, that nominations can be submitted via the NZSA website.
Sexual Harassment Amendment Act
As highlighted in our July newsletter, the Employment Relations (Extended Time for Personal Grievance for Sexual Harassment) Amendment Bill came into force on 13 June 2023. All new Employment Agreements must now include a reference to the 12-month period for raising a personal grievance for sexual harassment. Existing employment agreements are not required to include such a reference, but the 12-month period for raising a personal grievance for sexual harassment will still apply. The 12-month period begins from the date on which the action alleged to amount to the personal grievance occurred or came to the notice of the employee, whichever is later.
Covid-19 restrictions removed
At 12.01am Tuesday 15 August 2023, all remaining Covid-19 restrictions were removed. Those related to wearing masks in certain healthcare settings, and a mandatory 7-day isolation period if an individual tested positive for Covid-19. The removal of the self-isolation period also concludes the Covid-19 Leave Support Scheme. Employers can still apply for the Leave Support Scheme if the employee’s self-isolation period started before 13 August 2023.
Employers are still obliged to comply with Health and Safety requirements and can undertake their own health and safety assessments related to Covid-19, which can include (after consulting with staff) whether employees are required to wear face masks, or to be vaccinated.
Application for inclusion of Security Technicians on Green List
In our last newsletter we advised that we had applied for the inclusion of Security Technicians on the Green List and were reasonably confident of a favourable response.
The approval list is currently sitting with Government for sign-off and despite communication in July that confirmation was expected “in coming weeks”, nothing has been released to date.
We appreciate that this is an important issue for electronic security providers, and we will certainly communicate the outcome once known.
Security career pathway website
Several years ago, the NZSA created the Security Career Pathway website as a resource for the industry, those looking at the industry as a career option, and other stakeholders including MSD, school career advisors and training providers.
The website provides comprehensive information on a wide range of security roles, including job requirements, training, licensing, indicative pay scales and promotional pathways, and also includes a number of videos featuring staff talking about their jobs and what they find rewarding.
We recommend checking out the website and welcome any feedback, including updates on the information provided, and also additional videos for inclusion.
Constitution update
The new Incorporated Societies Act 2022 comes fully into force on 5 October 2023 however in order to function as intended, it must first be supplemented by the passing of a range of Regulations which at this time are still under consultation and have yet to be finalised.
The NZSA will need to re-register under the new Act but given we have a two-and-a-half-year window in which to file our new registration, we believe it is prudent that we wait for the finalised Regulations to be published before we finalise changes required to our current Rules. We do not envisage any significant changes however one obvious requirement will be to re-title our Rules and By-Laws to read Constitution.
Our current planning is that we will work through all necessary changes and amendments early next year and document them fully, with explanation, for our members well prior to the 2024 AGM.
Security company owner jailed
The following information was provided this week as a press release by the IRD.
Unfortunately, we are not aware of any review being undertaken by MBIE into their procurement processes around the awarding of MIQ contracts and the obvious lack of due diligence and vetting.
Rupert Faimoa-Magele, the sole director of Blade Group Limited, was sentenced on 23 August to 3 years and one month in prison on charges relating to evading, or attempting to evade, the assessment and payment of GST, PAYE and Income Tax.
Blade Group Limited predominantly provided security to hospitality venues but during the COVID pandemic, the company also received more than $300,000 for providing security services to three Auckland MIQ hotels. Over 36 months, Faimoa-Magele evaded the assessment or payment of in excess of $1,077,000 in taxes by not filing tax returns, or materially understating the tax payable.
The company was placed into receivership in January 2021 and liquidated in IRD’s application in March 2021. Faimoa-Magele was not ordered to pay reparation as he has no assets or means to pay.
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 / Security Industry updates
Foundation Security Core Skills – new training course now live
Created by Quinton Swanson of Hard Target, this course covers understanding of legislation, tactical communication, body language and projection, weapon awareness, teamwork and tactical awareness.
To register please visit the NZSA Training Hub.
Covid restrictions lifted
From 15 August 2023, there is no legal requirement for people to isolate when they test positive for Covid-19. Covid is still active in the community, so employers and employee’s still need to work together, to keep each other safe and protect public health.
If your employee tests positive for Covid-19, there is no longer the requirement to stay at home. Although you can’t direct people not to come in, you should support employees to isolate inline with health guidance. Having a worker come to work while sick, could put the health of themselves and others at risk, and result in further disruption.
You should encourage your employees to advise if they test positive for Covid-19 and to be considerate and isolate during the period they could be infectious. Some employees may be able to work from home if they are not feeling unwell.
Taking sick leave
Please note: The eligibility for leave support scheme ended on 15 August 2023. You cannot apply for anyone who started self-isolation after 13 August 2023.
Employees can use their sick leave if they are sick with covid or self-isolating. If they do not have any sick leave owing, or not yet entitled, you could:
- Allow them to take sick leave in advance.
- Provide paid special leave.
- Agree for them to take other leave, such as annual or unpaid leave.
You may ask an employee for proof of sickness. Anyone who reports a positive rapid antigen test (RAT) or has had a positive PCR test will receive confirmation text from Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand.
New Zealand Security Awards 2023
The New Zealand Security Awards this year will be held on Friday 15 September at Te Pae Convention Centre, Christchurch.
To book tickets please visit the NZSA website.
We have two accommodation deals, book now to secure your early bird price:
Accor Group – Ibis Christchurch & Novotel Christchurch
Partner updates
Ringa Hora
Introducing Darin Kauwhata, pictured below with his wife Kandra. Darin is the Industry Engagement Lead for Ringa Hora (Services) for the Government, Defence and Security portfolios in Ohu Ahumahi (Workforce Development Councils). Darin’s role, through engagement, is to give a stronger voice to industry, employers, Māori business, iwi and hapū as well as providers. Working collaboratively across the Ohu Ahumahi and the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector to ensure the VET system meets current and future industry needs.
Darin joined Ringa Hora from a background in the New Zealand Defence Force where he had served sixteen and a half years in the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN), initially as an Electronic Technician and later commissioning from the ranks to become an Officer in the RNZN. Darin is enthusiastic about supporting others and carries his personal values of Manaakitanga, Tiakitanga and Aroha to guide him. Darin is excited for the challenge in taking up a role as an Industry Engagement Lead in the Security sector and looking forward to making further connections within the industry and wider communities with the best interests of industry and learners’ forefront of mind.
If you would like to talk chat with Darin, or perhaps know more about Ringa Hora, Darin has passed on his contact details below – please email, text or call, whatever is easiest.
Darin Kauwhata
Mata Herehere | Industry Engagement Lead
Partnership & Engagement
Mobile: 027 962 1000
Work address: Newmarket, Auckland
Waihanga Ara Rau
Waihanga Ara Rau are working on a project to support women into the trades. This will be in the form of an Interactive Equity Map which will be a searchable database of organisations and stakeholders that are committed to supporting and empowering women in the trades.These organisations may offer mentorship programmes, networking events, or other forms of support specifically tailored for women.
This will serve as a valuable tool for women to enter, or advance, in the trades industry as it allows them to explore the wide range of opportunities available to them all in one place and make informed decisions about their career path.
The Interactive Equity Map will be launched in stages according to region. Auckland will be the first region released in September.
ACC – Motorcycle Awareness Month – free Ride Forever courses
From Monday 21 August until the end of October, ACC will be running a number of motorcycle initiatives, campaigns and events to celebrate Motorcycle Awareness Month (MAM).
Motorcycle Awareness Month is all about celebrating getting back on the road and doing the thing all riders love – riding. But with more riders on the road, including commuters, the risks increase. 48% of deaths and serious injuries occur when riding in an urban environment.
Riders are 21 times more likely to be injured or killed on our roads than in a car. This needs to change. So, to make sure they can keep riding forever, ACC are asking riders to get behind 21 For September. It’s 21 simple things all riders can do to get ride ready before they jump on the bike.
If you’re a rider and getting ready for the new riding season, or wanting to make that ride to work safer, be sure to check out the local MAM events coming up in your local area. Or sign up to a Ride Forever course for free using the code MAM23 during September and October.
If you’re an employer of riders, let them know about all the ways they can get ride ready – so they can ride forever. Visit www.motorcycleawareness.co.nz.
MBIE – Climate Action Plan
Create your climate action plan
With the Climate Action Toolbox, you’re 3 steps away from having a positive impact.
- Learn where you can reduce emissions.
- Measure your carbon footprint, set a target and track progress.
Act on your step-by-step plan to reduce emissions—from quick wins you can act on today, to major changes you can prepare for.
For further information please see the Climate Action Plan Toolbox.
NZSA Membership
We welcome the following new Corporate Partner Member:
G D Rutter Limited
and the following new Associate Individual Members:
Helen Smith
Jonas Frey
Events
Simprosium Roadshow
The Simprosium Roadshow is coming soon to Australia and New Zealand.
We have not one, but FOUR events where you can connect, hear advice from local experts and find out what’s in the works at Simpro.
This full-day event will be attended by 100+ trade business owners and leaders sharing their expert insights on the trades.
You’ll enjoy:
🎫 A sponsor expo to meet our expert Simpro partners
🎫 Live demos of Simpro’s newest and upcoming features
🎫 Forming new relationships during breakout sessions Simpro’s Sundowner event
NZSA Members can SAVE 20% on the registration with the code NASA20! Grab your tickets now for a full day of talking and learning everything trades and field services.
We can’t wait to see you there!
🎫 Auckland, New Zealand | 21 September
🎫 Brisbane, Australia | 5 October
🎫 Melbourne, Australia | 10 October
🎫 Sydney, Australia | 12 October
COA Conflict Management Training – Train the Trainer and Refresher Training for Trainers
As the industry peak body, the NZSA has appointed Bespoke Security Group and Hard Target to deliver the Conflict Management 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.
To register your interest please email [email protected].
Please note: the Conflict Management Refresher course includes assessment activity.
NZISF breakfast meeting
Topic: Revenue assurance to assurance: the importance of measurement in computer security, ten years on
In 1995, Netscape rolled out SSL, a protocol that’s crucially dependent for its security on certificates created by third-party CAs, but for the first one and a half decades of its existence no-one had ever tried to measure how effectively these were being handled. When a volunteer-run project by the EFF did finally examine the situation, they found a chaotic mess that still hasn’t been fully untangled. This talk looks at various failures of measurement both in and outside the field of computer security where it’s more widely encountered as revenue assurance, and applies lessons from that field to computer security mechanisms.
When: 8:00am Thursday 14 September 2023 via zoom
For further information and to register please see NZISF.
Member Benefits
Strategic Defence
We are pleased to announce a new partnership with Strategic Defence.
Strategic Defence provides specialist protective products to members of the security industry. These products include stab/ballistic vests, boots, fog-free protective eyewear, hand-held metal detectors, flashlights, and many more. NZSA members qualify for between 10-20% discount. Expert advice, support, and unmatched service.
For more information see the Strategic Defence website.
Guardhouse
We are pleased to announce a new partnership with Guardhouse.
Guardhouse is an end-to-end workforce management system custom built for NZ security companies. Founded in Australia, Guardhouse is Australia’s leading security specific workforce solution, bringing our product innovation and unique workflow optimisation to the NZ market saving our clients both time and money. Our values that drive your success are customer obsessed, developing unique partnerships, simple yet powerful product design and consistent innovation and R&D.
Some of the funcationality includes, Rostering, Time & Attendance, Payroll & Invoicing + integration to accounting and payroll systemts, Welfare Checks, Incident Reporitng, Compliance Management, Company and Site SOPs with digitial signiture, Customer Portal Access, Tours and Patorls module and much more.
For more information see the Guardhouse website and blog.
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
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.
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].
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].
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.