Perfect storm

28 June 2023

Chances are if you’re reading this, you’re a motorist.

And if you’re a motorist, there’s a strong possibility you’re one of the many Australians that have been left frustrated by long wait times for vehicle repairs.

The cause is two-fold: parts supply shortages thanks to COVID-19, and a lack of automotive workers in the industry – there’s a shortage of about 30,000 technicians in Australia across all repair disciplines.

Let’s focus on the latter.

Basically, we have the work but lack the people to get it done.

One of VACC’s core responsibilities is to lobby government to make automotive trades a priority area and skilled migration was and continues to be a top priority.

So, we are calling out for workers who are trained and ready to go.

However, that’s not going to fix the critical skills shortage long term.

So, we need to look closer to home.

Complementing advocacy work needs to be a continued push to promote automotive to young people.

The 2023-24 Federal Budget announced 300,000 free TAFE positions nationally – here’s hoping automotive will get priority.

Additionally, peak bodies like VACC must invest in more marketing campaigns like AutoCareers and Cool Cars with Dermott and Elise.

There are so many exciting career options in auto – vehicles are only getting more complex, and it’s a whole new world of opportunity.

So, industry is being proactive: government is getting there.

What about you?

If there’s someone in your family or friendship group that is interested in automotive – encourage them to turn their passion into a well-paid, exciting career.

To get started, all they have to do is Google ‘AutoCareers’.

Words: VACC CEO Geoff Gwilym. As featured in the Herald Sun 30 June 2023.