As his first year as CEO of Printing Industries comes to a close, Andrew Macaulay says the association has come a long way since the beginning of 2016, but there is still much to be done.
In a letter to members, Macaulay thanked them and the directors for their support and advice over the past seven months since his appointment. "Together we have raised the profile of the print sector in the community, and most importantly, with our legislators. We have taken the first steps towards revitalising our Association," he said.
Macaulay highlighted the Board's focus on the 'three pillars' of key services Printing Industries offers to its members: lobbying and government relations; industrial relations, both transactional services for members and in public policy; and services - increasing its member events Australia wide, and developing key services. "The aim of this strategy is to define purpose and objective, ensuring efficient allocation of resources," he said.
Despite the challenges facing the industry, Macaulay believes it has remained strong. "The environment for print remains under pressure, both from alternative communication channels and from operational pressures. The industry is an exemplar of innovation, and adaptation.
"Operating in a truly free international market, the sector is now the largest manufacturing employer in Australia, yet operates without any Government assistance or protection. The industry’s continued efficiency gains through innovation are something to be very proud of, whilst we are directly exposed to the vicissitudes of global market forces and competitors," he said.
One of the major challenges he identifies is Australia Post. He accuses the government-owned monopoly of an 'assault' on the printing industry. "Australia Post continues to operate in ways that are counterproductive to the mail industry. Ironically, its major single customer is the printing sector, yet this government institution continues to undermine the value of print. Counterintuitively, Australia Post, an organisation whose mission is the delivery of print, is advocating for digitisation of government services," he said.
Under Macaulay, the PIAA has continued to push for a parliamentary review of Australia Post. It has also written to the ACCC, seeking leave to challenge Australia Post's 'arbitrary' price rises; continued to seek co-operative dialogue with Australia Post CEO Ahmed Fahour; advised Australia Post's Mail Industry Working Group of its concerns about mail price management; and made direct advocacy to Senator Mitch Fifield, the responsible Minister.
Staffing was also a major focus of Macaulay's first seven months. "We have now invested in skills, people and resources to provide the association with a springboard for success," he said.
Staffing changes included a refresh of the finance department including appointment of a new CFO and support team. The association also committed to further staffing of offices in Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane as well as at HQ in Sydney.Two new IR staff have come on board in Perth and Melbourne. Additionally, a National Marketing and Communications Manager and National Events Manager will commence in the New Year, to significantly build up member activities.
Macaulay also touched on 'difficult' decisions that were made regarding staff being let go. "We wish departing team members well, and thank them for their contribution," he said.
During 2016, the PIAA engaged in discussions with the Packaging Council of Australia to bring the packaging industry body into the association, which Macaulay expects will be finalised early next year. "We look forward to the more cohesive voice this will give the industry. This activity aligns with one of the strategic objectives identified by the Board," he said.
Other partnerships included a deal with Holmesglen TAFE to conduct print training in Victoria, and Printing Industries is looking for further opportunities to expand its apprenticeship programs to other states with the conclusion of Future Print.
Overall, Macaulay was happy with how 2016 progressed for the printing industry, and looks forward to its future. "As we close the year, I am pleased to report both an increase in membership and in membership activity. There is a stronger engagement with members defining our policy direction and imperatives, and giving imprimatur to our message," he said.