Latest News
The Supply Chain is Quietly Going Green
The beer trucks pulling up to your store may look the same, but they’re changing under the bonnet.
MGA corporate partner Asahi Beverages has rolled out five new electric Volvo trucks in Perth, delivering Victoria Bitter, Carlton Dry and Balter, and tens of millions of litres of other beverages, to bottle shops and liquor retailers across the city. The fleet, owned and operated by logistics partner Toll Group, is expected to complete more than 36,000 deliveries a year.
FWC Decision on Junior Pay Rates
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has handed down its long-awaited decision on junior pay rates under the General Retail Industry Award 2020 (GRIA), following an application by the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA) to increase wages for employees under 21.
While changes will apply to employees aged 18–20 from December 2026, the final outcome avoids more significant cost increases for independent retailers than originally proposed.
Correctly Managing a Disciplinary Matter
A real-life case study showing how fair process, clear communication, and expert guidance can protect your business.
A serious workplace incident occurred when two employees became involved in a dispute in a staff break room. Employee 1 initiated a physical altercation with Employee 2, resulting in significant physical injury to Employee 2.
NSW workers compensation reforms – key changes ahead
Major reforms to the NSW workers compensation scheme are progressing following the passing of two reform bills by Parliament in late 2025 and early 2026.
While some details and commencement dates are still being finalised, the reforms will change how claims are assessed, the timeframes for insurer decisions, and some employer protections. Understanding the direction of these reforms now can help businesses prepare.
Mitre 10 trials on-demand delivery with Uber Eats, unlocking a new customer channel
Mitre 10 has commenced a pilot program with Uber Eats, offering customers delivery of hardware products to their door in as little as 40 minutes. Early results from participating stores indicate strong uptake and promising signs of incremental growth rather than channel substitution.
Total Tools & Hardware Group Expo
THA had a fantastic few days in Adelaide at the Total Tools and Hardware Group Expo, connecting face-to-face with our hardware members. It was a valuable opportunity to hear directly about the exciting opportunities emerging in the sector — as well as the very real challenges ahead.
