CEO Update - November 2022

The automotive industry within Australia is facing a fundamental shift in how vehicles will be fueled, repaired and serviced into the future, with the transition to zero and low-emission vehicles accelerating.

With the Australia Government's recently released National Electric Vehicle Strategy Consultation paper in mind, and conscience that we need to ensure our Members are future ready, a delegation consisting of State Association CEOs went on a study tour to understand the changing landscape. This delegation visited automotive industry associations, individual repair shops, dealerships, manufactures, and policy makers across key European countries. The findings will greatly assist in the understanding and preparation of what is required to meet these challenges moving forward for the whole  industry.

To capitalise on our strength as a training provider of choice, we have commenced our electric vehicle safety training courses in November, to Members initially, in preparation for the full electric vehicle skill set training courses being offered in early 2023. An expression of interest has been communicated to Members to take advantage of this first module in Electric Vehicle Training.

As we approach year end, we would like to remind our Members that they will be receiving their 2023 Membership Subscription Renewal. We thank you for your ongoing involvement as we continue working together on issues shaping our industry, in support of Members businesses.

We are particularly pleased to bring you an update on some of the legislative and regulatory reforms currently impacting the automotive landscape, such as Adverse Action and why it's what you do that matters, and what the recently introduced Respect at Work Nill means to you. In addition, ahead of the NSW state election we highlight that we have stated to ramp up our advocacy efforts to bring to the attention of members of Parliament and other decision makers issues within our industry.

In other news, the Hon. Natalie Ward, MLC, Minister for Metropolitan Roads, and Minister for Women's Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence addressed the MTA NSW Board and Governing Council meeting last month to provide an update on State Government investment in transport infrastructure.

We welcome Collin Jennings as our new MTA NSW Head of Government Relations and Advocacy, and our divisional management team provides Member advice on the need to exercise caution when fitting customer-supplied parts.

We reported on Zero and Low-Emission Vehicles following a recent delegation to several European countries who are leading the way with these technologies. We shared with our learnings from their early experiences, where they are now and what it means for the future of the automotive industry in Australia.

In addition, Motor Trades Care, a division of the Motor Traders' Assocation of NSW shined the spotlight on of our oldest Members, JT Fossey and their inspiring journey to a safer workplace as they implement Motor Trades Care's Protect and Care Program.

And from an international perspective we provided Members with a report on Automechanika Frankfurt, where 2804 companies from 70 countries exhibited their products and services across 19 hall levels, in addition to the outdoor exhibition area. The extensive program was very well received by 78,000 visitors from 175 countries. 

We encourage you to contact your local Area Manager or log on to our website, where you will find out so much more information relevant to your Division and business. 

Finally, as the holiday season is nearly upon us, I want to take this opportunity to wish all Members, your employees and your families a safe and happy festive season and we look forward to seeing everyone back relaxed and refreshed in 2023.

As always, we are here for you.

Chief Executive Officer

Stavros Yallouridis