About Us
Master Plumbers ACT
What we do
Master Plumbers Association ACT is an independent not-for profit organisation that has proudly served the ACT since 1976 – before that as the Master Plumbers and Sanitary Engineers Association of NSW, Canberra and District Branch.
Membership is available to sole traders and businesses who are registered in the ACT, with some having dual ACT/NSW registration. Many of our Members employ other qualified trades people or apprentices.
How we support our Members
For comprehensive information on how we support our Members, please visit the MPA Membership page.
How we assist the Government and protect Consumers
- “Find a Plumber” searchable database – Our online directory makes it easy to find a registered plumbing, drainage and gas-fitting contractor.
- MPA $5,000 Consumer Guarantee – Our Consumer Guarantee ensures consumers are provided with the highest standard of professionalism from our Members. In the unlikely scenario there are concerns about workmanship, consumers are protected through our $5,000 insurance program.
- Code of Conduct – Requires members to adhere to high standards in every aspect of their business practices.
- Mediation – We investigate all consumer complaints about Members who breach our Code of Conduct and mediate where necessary.
- Regulation – Our Members perform quality work that complies with all relevant laws and regulations, unlike unqualified/unethical operators whose work is substandard and often illegal.
- Insurance – All members have public liability insurance, and must show a copy of their insurance details when requested by consumers.
- Waterwise audits – If you live in the Palerang Shire, MPA can provide an approved plumber to conduct a free Waterwise audit of your property.
- Pro bono plumbing assistance – Our pro bono plumbing assistance program works in partnership with Care Inc and supports Canberrans who are struggling financially and have urgent, essential plumbing needs that are impacting on their health and safety. Consumers must contact Care Inc 1800 007 007 to confirm eligibility. Once confirmed, Care Inc will liaise directly with MPA.
Letters show that at a Canberra and District Branch meeting, held at the Yowani Golf Club in July 1975, the members were keen to break away from NSW and form their own independent association. In the ensuing months, negotiations were held with the State office and on the 4th of February 1976, the first meeting of the Master Plumbers and Sanitary Engineers Association of the ACT was held. Mr. George Kent was elected President, with Mr. Ray Butterfield as Secretary.
In August of 1976, the Licensed Drainers Employers Association of the ACT was wound up, with members joining the new Master Plumbers and Sanitary Engineers Association of the ACT.
The members of the old Drainers association were invited to attend the “Associations Wind Up Dinner for members and their wives at the Lobby Restaurant King George Terrace Parkes (opp. Parliament House) on Friday 20th August from 7.30 pm (for dinner at 8.00 pm)”. The A La Carte three-course meal was paid for by the Association and a total of 28 guests were expected to attend the function.
During the mid-80s, the Master Plumbers and Sanitary Engineers Association of the ACT became known as the Master Plumbers’, Drainers’ and Gasfitters Association of the ACT. It became incorporated on the 2nd February 1996.
To be recognised as the leading Association of plumbing, drainage and gas-fitting businesses, dedicated to professional training, industry leadership and ethical standards in the interests of training excellence, industry leadership, an emphasis on environmental protection and sustainability, protection of public health and safety, and upholding highest ethical standards.
MPA’s work importantly brings all groups together to underpin best outcomes for the ACT community & ACT Government through our collaborative endeavours.
Master Plumbers Australia & New Zealand
Representing the interests of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainers in Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, Queensland, Australian Capital Territory, North Territory, and New Zealand.