Update: Members are advised to rely on the most recent news stories and Bulletins only, as government advice and regulations will continue to change as the COVID-19 situation develops. The advice below was correct at the time of publication. The latest COVID-19 news is available here.
VACC CEO Geoff Gwilym is voicing concern over the Victorian State Government's lack of industry consultation, and the consequent confusion surrounding business restrictions, including Melbourne's Stage 4 guidelines.
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released further permitted workplace information overnight, confirming the Chamber's advice to members as correct, however, it lacks clarity and sound advice as to what the automotive industry is permitted to do under lockdown restrictions. This is simply not good enough when the livelihoods of Victorians are on the line.
“VACC seeks clarification on several points, specifically: Is logbook servicing allowed? Can faulty Takata airbags continue to be replaced? What constitutes ’safety to Victorians at home or at work’? Surely the roadworthiness of vehicles is a crucial safety aspect and, therefore, regular servicing, having windscreen cracks repaired and worn tyres replaced constitutes ‘safety’," said Mr Gwilym.
“VACC is disappointed that the State Government has not consulted the automotive industry during the process. The provided wording is ambiguous and VACC is seeking emergency clarification around the points of the Stage 4 lockdown as they relate to the automotive industry.”
Lack of industry consultation has been particularly galling.
"VACC has been around for 101 years, we've got 5000 people that repair and service cars...nobody is talking to us... nobody is talking to the automotive industry in Victoria," Mr Gwilym said, speaking to Neil Mitchell on 3AW Breakfast.
The result is wide-spread confusion across the automotive industry, with the Chamber working hard to address member queries.
Listen in: VACC CEO, Geoff Gwilym on 3AW Breakfast
“VACC is supportive of government measures to protect the health and well-being of Victorians, but business is suffering greatly and assistance in the form of clarification would greatly help the thousands of automotive businesses remain viable and keep their 111,600 employees employed,” stated Mr Gwilym.
To ensure compliance with government advice, members are urged to always review OHS&E, Industrial Relations and Division Bulletins, which are sent via email and are available on the member-website. The News section of the Chamber website is updated daily, providing COVID-19 related information.
Additionally, members can contact the VACC OHS&E Unit and Industrial Relations Department directly:
OHS&E Unit
P: 03 9829 1265
E: ohs@vacc.com.au
Industrial Relations Department
P: 03 9829 1123
E: ir@vacc.com.au
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For more information
VACC: Auto remains open
Department of Health and Human Services: Business and industry stage 4 restrictions
Victorian State Government: Coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions Victoria