July finds many of our members and colleagues subject to stay-at-home directions until 19 August and whilst I’m pleased most of regional Victoria has avoided heightened restrictions I’m conscious of their impact on families and individuals, particularly those with responsibility for home-schooling.
This is a testing time and we appreciate your support as we endeavour to remain focused on our advocacy and professional development obligations to IPWEA members.
On the advocacy front, we are continuing to engage with Consumer Affairs Victoria around Regulations to the Professional Engineers Registration Act, a draft of which is expected to be released for comment within the coming months. We’re also engaging with Local Government Victoria in relation to the Asset Plan requirements of the Local Government Act with which IPWEA is well-placed to assist. Periodic Legislation Updates will be prepared for members during the coming months.
In terms of CPD, our Pitchinar and Management Snacks programs provide the technical and ‘soft’ skills so important for career success. Our first Pitchinar was well-attended with the next one – Beating Corrosion in Steel Structures – on 12 August and our Management Snacks commence on 30 July with a focus on Collaborative Leadership.
I encourage you to make time for personal and professional growth so you’re ready to meet the needs of your communities when life becomes a little more familiar.
In the meantime, recent advice from Victoria’s Chief Health Officer recommends people living in metropolitan Melbourne or Mitchell Shire wear a face mask when they leave home if it will be difficult to maintain a 1.5m distance from other people. The importance of sourcing appropriate products cannot be over-stated – particularly for outdoor workers – and I commend the Respirator Buying Guide published by a range of peak industry bodies.
Please be mindful of isolated colleagues at this time and note that support is available from the Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service (1800 512 348), www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au or an Employee Assistance Program.
Matthew Hill | President, IPWEA Victoria