Motor Trader e-magazine, June 2026

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MEMBER OF MTA QUEENSLAND? CLICK HERE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MOTOR TRADES ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND JUNE 2026 + CELEBRATING WOMEN IN AUTO: ANNE MCCLURE + MTA Q&A: BRIDGESTONE SELECT CAPALABA TYRE & AUTO

MTA QUEENSLAND

INDUSTRY MEETINGS

MTA QUEENSLAND hosts quarterly industry meetings for:

› AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE DEALER ASSOCIATION (NEW CAR DEALERS)

› AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERS DIVISION (MECHANICAL REPAIRERS)

› AUTOMOTIVE PARTS RECYCLERS DIVISION (PARTS RECYCLERS)

› USED CAR DIVISION (USED CAR DEALERS)

› ENGINE RECONDITIONERS ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND (ENGINE RECONDITIONERS)

› NATIONAL AUTO COLLISION ALLIANCE (PAINT & PANEL / TOW TRUCKS)

› QUEENSLAND FARM & INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY DEALERS DIVISION (FARM & INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY)

› QUEENSLAND MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY DIVISION (MOTORCYCLES)

› RENTAL VEHICLE INDUSTRY DIVISION (RENTAL VEHICLES)

› SERVICE STATION & CONVENIENCE STORE ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND (SERVICE STATIONS)

› TYRE & UNDERCAR DIVISION OF QUEENSLAND (TYRES, BRAKES, SUSPENSIONS)

The Agenda topics include:

› robust discussions around the priorities of the Division,

› issues that need to be directly presented to government and submissions,

› skilling needs,

› membership representation,

› technical and educational updates, and

› innovation opportunities.

The industry meetings can be attended in-person at MTA Queensland or online. The meetings are open to members and non-members, but we strongly encourage membership to ensure all member benefits are available.

CLICK

Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland

HEAD OFFICE

Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113

P.O. Box 4530, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113

Tel: 07 3237 8777

Fax: 07 3844 4488

Toll Free: 1800 177 951

Email: publications@mtaq.com.au Website: www.mtaq.com.au

EDITOR

Jonathan Nash

ART DIRECTOR

Marco Ilinic

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

Evangeline Kannis

POLICY

Kellie Dewar, Deputy CEO MTA Queensland

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

Email: jonathann@mtaq.com.au

EDITORIAL

Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement. For more information email the Editor at publications@mtaq.com.au

SUBSCRIPTION RATES

Subscribing to the Motor Trader e-magazine is free. Click here to subscribe

MOTOR TRADER PUBLISHING POLICY

Motor Trader is the official publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland. The role of Motor Trader is to inform members of current issues and legislation affecting the industry. As such it can be regarded as the business magazine for the Queensland motor industry. The role of Motor Trader is not to be in competition with the technical magazines already on the market. It will advise of new vehicles being released and of the latest technology incorporated into them; it will advise of latest technology affecting members in each of the MTA Queensland Divisions; it will keep members abreast of the latest in motor industry training and industrial affairs; and it will keep members informed of the latest technical aids available through MTA Queensland Member Services, which will assist members in staying ahead of the technological revolution presently being encountered within the motor industry. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.

MTA QUEENSLAND ABN: 74 028 933 848

CORPORATE PARTNERS

From the Editor

JONATHAN NASH EDITOR

HELLO AND WELCOME

to the June 2026 edition of Motor Trader.

It has been another busy month for MTA Queensland, with plenty going on across all areas of the Association.

Advocacy remains a key focus, of course, with MTA Queensland continually engaging with authorities on issues that matter. This has included the thorny issue of e-mobility devices, and we have news on page 30 regarding the Queensland Government's efforts to remove illegal e-mobility devices from our roads . Along with the advocacy work, MTA Queensland has been expanding its professional development and training offerings, and this month saw the first Bodyshop Solutions Foundations Course on Estimating held at the Association's training facility. The program provides collision repair professionals with practical skills and knowledge to improve estimating accuracy and consistency. Looking ahead, MTA Queensland is preparing for the rollout of ShiftingGears

forChange , a new leadership and workplace development masterclass program designed to support automotive business owners and senior leaders to build stronger, more inclusive workplaces that attract, support, and retain women in the auto industry.

On the subject of women in the industry, this month's Auto Women feature shines a spotlight on Anne McClure from McClure Refinishing in Townsville.

Anne has become an influential voice in Queensland's collision repair sector and in addition to her work with McClure Refinishing she recently launched Vesta Workwear, a brand dedicated to developing personal protective equipment specifically designed for women in the trades.

Vesta Workwear and Anne's innovative Apex Suit attracted plenty of attention a few weeks ago at the Collision Repair Expo - an event which, incidentally, we have a report from in this edition.

Elsewhere, we take a look at one of the automotive world's most talked-about vehicles, the new Ferrari Luce. Ferrari's entry into the fully electric vehicle market has generated plenty of discussion - some less than flattering - and we take a look at what the iconic Italian company has conjured up. I hope you enjoy this edition and if you have some news you'd like to share, get in touch. I look forward to hearing from you.

Cheers

Jonathan Nash, Editor jonathann@mtaq.com.au

MTA Queensland welcomes its new members

Search for MTA Queensland

RECORD CROWD, WORLD-CLASS INNOVATION: MELBOURNE DELIVERS FOR THE TRADE

80

MTA QUEENSLAND LAUNCHES GROUNDBREAKING TRY A TRADE PROGRAM

6

MTA Q&A: BRIDGESTONE SELECT CAPALABA TYRE & AUTO

CONCEPT CORNER: RENAULT 4 JP4X4

From the Desk of Management

ROD CAMM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MTA QUEENSLAND

AS WE APPROACH the end of the financial year, I encourage all members to take a moment to consider the value of their MTA Queensland membership and how you use it. We are here to help and support you, so please ensure you are making the most of the many services and benefits available.

The automotive industry is, as the data on new-vehicle sales for May 2026 appears to show, racing towards electrification – an astounding 46 per cent of sales for the month were hybrid, plug-in hybrid or battery electric vehicles.

This is additional proof that we we are living in a rapidly changing operating environment and from workforce challenges and industrial relations matters to technological change and evolving regulatory requirements, there is no shortage of issues demanding your attention. MTA Queensland remains committed to providing practical support, expert advice and industry representation on behalf of our members. If you haven't explored the full range of services available through your membership recently, now is an excellent time to do so.

One area to which businesses should be paying close attention is the upcoming introduction of PayDay Super. These changes will significantly alter the way employers manage superannuation payments, requiring contributions to be paid at the same time as wages. Understanding what this reform means for your business now will help ensure you are well prepared when the changes take effect. I encourage members to stay informed and reach out to MTA Queensland's Workplace Relations team if they require support.

I would also like to remind members that nominations are now open for the 2026 MTA Queensland Industry Awards Gala. Our annual awards program provides an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding businesses, apprentices, trainees and individuals who contribute so much to Queensland's automotive industry.

Every year we see inspiring examples of excellence, innovation and commitment, and if you know a deserving business, colleague or industry professional, I encourage you to submit a nomination and help us showcase the very best our industry has to offer. You can find out more HERE.

KELLIE DEWAR DEPUTY CEO | GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES

REPRESENTING OUR MEMBERS is a fundamental pillar of what we do at MTA Queensland and there are a couple of updates on issues that we have been working on for some time. Of particular interest to many members would be the Australian Government's consultation on proposed reforms to the Right to Repair framework. The Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme (MVIS) was introduced in 2022, requiring vehicle manufacturers to provide independent repairers with access to service and repair information. This latest consultation is exploring ways to strengthen things further, including access to electronic logbooks, repair data for tool manufacturers and data aggregators, and approaches to higher-risk repair information.

Notably, there is also discussion on expanding access to repair information for agricultural machinery.

The Right to Repair issue is critical and I encourage members to get involved before the consultation period closes on 3 July 2026. You can do so HERE.

Another issue that members would be following is the Writtenoff Vehicle Scheme. MTA Queensland has been involved in the Queensland Government's review of the scheme and, following feedback from more than 900 stakeholders, the government has announced a package of reforms expected to take effect in 2027. Key changes include the introduction of repair standards for identified high-risk vehicle components, improved consumer awareness and disclosure requirements for written-off vehicles and extending the scheme to cover light vehicles up to 30 years old.

Further consultation will take place throughout the year and we will, of course, continue to engage with government on this. You can find out more HERE.

While advocacy is a vital part of our work, we support industry in other ways, including in training and professional development, workforce solutions and more, and I encourage members to participate in the new ShiftingGearsforChange program.

This program focuses on building capability in inclusive leadership, workplace culture, recruitment and retention strategies. These are challenges faced by every business and creating strong and inclusive workplaces is critical if our industry is to attract and retain talent. The Shifting Gears for Change program aims to help you do just that.

You can find out more and enrol in the program HERE.

If you’re an employer, take action now so you’re prepared for Payday Super. Starting 1 July 2026, employers must pay super contributions each payday. You can start preparing for the changes now.

Some of your steps to complete before 1 July 2026

• Understand what these changes mean for your business

• Review your super and payroll processes

• Check employees’ super fund details are up-to-date

• Communicate changes to your employees

• Check your software supports the changes

• If you’re still using the Small Business Superannuation Clearing House (SBSCH), transition to an alternative clearing house

• Stay informed

MTA |Q&A

Andrew Cronin is the franchisee of Bridgestone Select Capalaba Tyre & Auto, one of the Redland region’s newest automotive businesses which opened in November 2025. With a background in sales and business management - and a lifelong interest in cars - Andrew made the move into industry after nearly two decades in senior leadership roles in the power tool sector. In this Q&A, Andrew chats with Motor Trader about entering the automotive industry and launching a new workshop.

WHAT PRODUCTS AND SERVICES DO YOU OFFER HERE

AT BRIDGESTONE SELECT TYRE AND AUTO CAPALABA?

AC: We are a one-stop shop and do everything from suspension to servicing to tyres.

We are also now doing batteries not only for cars but for caravans, motorhomes and so on - hybrid batteries, lithium batteries, you name it. We get a lot of caravans and RVs coming through, so it makes sense to branch into that area.

We are a full mechanical workshop, and we have a full-time mechanic and an apprentice, both of whom have a lot of experience. Our mechanic, Eric, has worked in dealership-land as well as performance shops and worked on plant

Andrew Cronin, owner of Bridgestone Select Capalaba Tyre & Auto

“WE ARE A ONE-STOP SHOP AND DO EVERYTHING FROM SUSPENSION TO SERVICING TO TYRES.”

and equipment too, and our apprentice, James, has a long history of aftermarket part-fitting at dealership level as well.

WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND? HAVE YOU SPENT YOUR CAREER IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY?

AC: A long time ago, I did work for a Holden dealership in the parts department for around seven years. So, I do have some background in the automotive industry and it's not totally greenfield to me. However, most recently I was in sales management for Makita power tools - which is a great company to work forand looked after Australia and the Pacific Islands region. I did that for 12 years and I was state manager for five years prior to that as well.

The job involved a lot of traveling and, after 12 years, it got to the point where I

had sort of had enough. So I took a few months off, did some renos at home, thought about what to do, and then bought a Bridgestone store!

I've always had an interest in carsI think most people do - but I didn't ever see myself owning a shop. I had at one time thought about getting into the mechanical or even panel beating side of things, but life took a different direction back then. So, it wasn't a long-term goal to have a mechanical workshop, but the opportunity came along and it suited what I wanted to do longer term.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO ENTER THE INDUSTRY WITH A BRIDGESTONE STORE?

AC: I had been speaking to businesses with regards to opportunities they had coming up, but most of them seemed too close to what I had been doing. They were great businesses, but it was too close to where I had been, and my heart wasn't in it. I love the Makita brand, and the team that I worked with there, so I didn’t really want to even stay in that industry.

So, I started looking at different businesses and Bridgestone just ticked the most boxes. Everyone needs tyres, everyone needs servicing and I looked around the network and was introduced to a few of them. Some have multi-store locations, which showed me there's a pretty good franchise model. And so there is the opportunity to expand, to potentially have family come work in the business as well at some stage and, longer term, have a manager in place and potentially step back a little bit if you need to.

And the support from Bridgestone was solid. Andrew, who manages onboarding, has been amazing even to this day, six months after opening. So, the support network is definitely there.

THIS WAS NOT AN ESTABLISHED BUSINESS BUT ONE YOU HAVE BUILT FROM SCRATCH. IT MUST HAVE BEEN A DEMANDING PROCESS?

AC: Bridgestone had this location and were advertising it and that's where our conversation started. It was probably four or five months before we got to the point of opening the doors or starting to put in machinery and equipment.

There are various levels of investment you can put into the business. The biggest is obviously the plant and equipment to make it run. Bridgestone do support getting up and running and they'll give you guidance on

“BRIDGESTONE HAD THIS LOCATION . . . AND IT WAS PROBABLY FOUR OR FIVE MONTHS BEFORE WE GOT TO THE POINT OF OPENING THE DOORS OR STARTING TO PUT IN MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT.”

what the requirements are around quality, branding guidelines and so on. Beyond that, it's entirely up to the owner as far as what wheel alignment hoists and so on that you go for.

IT MUST HAVE BEEN INTERESTING TO STAND IN THIS EMPTY SHOP FOR THE FIRST TIME AS A BRIDGESTONE FRANCHISEE!

AC: It was! And that's when you can draw on the supplier network. We had great support from all our suppliers as far as setting up goes, and that has been ongoing - we just had the battery supplier in today doing training. So, there's a really good support network in the industry for businesses.

I think we did a grand total of $36 on the first day! And we did $48 the second day! . . . We're now starting to get good consistent growth, which is what I like.

IS THE BRIDGESTONE NETWORK OF FRANCHISEES SUPPORTIVE AS WELL?

AC: I haven't met a lot of them yet, unfortunately! I came on board just as they were having their conference and couldn’t leave here to make it . . . but locally we refer customers to each other, we borrow stock from each other, and we just have a chat.

Everyone is facing the same issues so it's good to have that network of people to bounce off.

BEING PART OF THE BRIDGESTONE NETWORK OBVIOUSLY MEANS YOUR BUSINESS ALREADY HAS A WELL-KNOWN PRESENCE. WHAT OTHER MARKETING DO YOU DO?

AC: Bridgestone do marketing and so on but, realistically, they are ‘brand Bridgestone’ . . . and are at multiple locations. You've got to find your point of difference to get people through the door, so we do a lot outside of what Bridgestone do. You've got to brand locally . . . so I advertise at the cinema, I've got stubby coasters at the local sports club, and we do social media. But it’s the service we try to offer every customer who walks through the door, regardless of what the here for, that is our biggest advertisement, because we're getting a lot of repeat customers. Word of mouth is very important.

WHO IS ON YOUR TEAM AND IS YOUR FAMILY INTERESTED IN JOINING THE BUSINESS?

AC: As well as myself we have Eric and James, and then there is my daughter, Isabella, who does some admin and cleaning and so on. She came on with us when we opened but is going to university to become a teacher. My wife will come in eventually.

My son currently works out at the mines . . . and he seems to be loving his new career choice. I keep stirring him up when he’s back to come and do some tyres, but he hasn’t done it yet! But that's the beauty of this business - you can you can have it under management, potentially, or you can have a family member running it eventually, or you can stay doing it until you decide to retire. There are options.

FINDING STAFF IS OFTEN A CHALLENGE FOR AUTOMOTIVE BUSINESSES. HOW HAVE YOU FACED THAT CHALLENGE?

AC: I make no secret when talking to potential employees that culture is the

most important part of this business. I will, obviously, treat you well and look after you, but I expect the same. We want to build a culture where people actually enjoy coming to work, and that's how I've always worked. And I look for passion and interest in an employee. You can train technical skills, but you can't train passion or

The Bridgestone Select Capalaba Tyre & Auto team: Eric, James, Andrew and Isabella

commitment or even just the ability to work with other people.

HYBRIDS AND EVS ARE BECOMING MORE COMMON, AND ALL MODERN VEHICLES ARE VERY TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED WITH ADAS SYSTEMS. HOW HAS THIS AFFECTED YOUR APPROACH TO THE BUSINESS AND TO TRAINING?

AC: We see both hybrids and EVs come through the store. As far as tyres go, we're getting a lot of Teslas come through . . . we're selling quite a few tyres for those . . . And we see quite a few hybrid Rav4s too. For servicing, we're not really fully geared up for that side of things just yet.

“. . . I LOOK FOR PASSION AND INTEREST IN AN EMPLOYEE. YOU CAN TRAIN TECHNICAL SKILLS, BUT YOU CAN'T TRAIN PASSION OR COMMITMENT OR EVEN JUST THE ABILITY TO WORK WITH OTHER PEOPLE”

Basic things like coolant, brakes, cabin filters and things like that on certain models we can do but we're not doing a lot of that just yet. Down the track we will

look at training for high voltage, but its not there yet for us.

With ADAS . . . at this stage, it's still not there . . . and there are mobile businesses that come in if you do need calibration. The machinery guys keep us up to date as far as what's going on and it is on the radar. Training is important. The more training we get, the better, including cross-training throughout the whole business. I don't want one expert in every area, I want everyone to be able to do basically everything.

WHEN DID YOU JOIN MTA QUEENSLAND?

AC: Pretty much when we opened up. Bridgestone give you a list of contacts and industry bodies to reach out to and join, and we went through that process.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF JUST STARTING OUT?

AC: Probably embrace as much training, as much learning, as much insight and wisdom you can get from every different direction you can. Don't rely on one source because everyone has a different story and a different skill set that you can draw on and learn from.

MTA Queensland made sure that automotive workshops remain the only place EVs can be serviced and repaired.

Following a review of the Electrical Safety Act, which recommended that only licensed electrical workers service EVs, MTAQ successfully protected the industry’s right to service and repair these vehicles.

Our new EV Ready program is your industry-backed, no-nonsense way to get informed, equipped, and connected — without the noise.

Stand out as a qualified and EV-safe service provider

Demonstrate your commitment to safety, professionalism, and innovation

Future-proof your business

READY TO PLUG IN?

HIGH VOLTAGE, HIGH STANDARDS: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE EV READY?

ELECTRIC VEHICLES (EVS) are rapidly becoming a fixture on Queensland roads, with more than 58,000 EVs registered as of March 2025 - a number that continues to grow each year. As the market shifts, workshops must be equipped to safely and professionally work on these vehicles.

In 2023, the Queensland Government released a Review into the Electrical Safety Act 2002, which included a recommendation that the servicing and repairs of EVs be carried out by licensed electrical workers.

MTA Queensland successfully protected the industry’s right to service and repair these vehicles by demonstrating that automotive businesses already have the capability –including a sufficiently trained workforce, as well as the tools, equipment and electrical safe work procedures - to undertake EV servicing and repairs in a safe and compliant manner.

As a result, the Government has not pursued the recommendation and supports an industry-led compliance framework - a significant outcome for automotive workshops.

AS EV ADOPTION ACCELERATES, WORKSHOPS MUST NOT ONLY KEEP PACE BUT LEAD THE WAY IN SAFETY, EXPERTISE, AND INNOVATION.

INTRODUCING EV READY

In response, MTA Queensland has established EV Ready - a program designed to set a minimum standard for automotive businesses that service and repair electric vehicles. It aims to ensure the automotive industry continues to demonstrate to the Queensland Government that it is the most capable and appropriate sector to perform this work.

EV Ready recognises automotive businesses that are:

• Properly equipped to handle EVs,

• Formally trained to depower and reinitialise EVs,

• Committed to industry best practice.

Businesses that become EV Ready will be acknowledged as safe and trusted providers for EV servicing and repairs.

Participants will receive an official EV Ready sign to display in their workshop, along with digital assets to help promote their accreditation and build trust with customers.

WHY JOIN EV READY?

As EV adoption accelerates, workshops must not only keep pace but lead the way in safety, expertise, and innovation. By joining EV Ready, you will:

• Stand out as a qualified and EV-safe service provider.

• Future-proof your business as the EV market grows.

• Demonstrate your commitment to safety, professionalism, and innovation.

Joining EV Ready is more than just an accreditation - it’s a strategic investment in your business’s long-term success in an evolving automotive landscape.

WHAT IS INVOLVED?

To become EV Ready accredited, businesses must demonstrate they are appropriately trained, equipped, and operating in line with national safety standards for EV servicing.

This includes having at least one technician who has completed nationally accredited training for the depowering and reinitialising of EVs, or access to a qualified provider, along with meeting appropriate Australian Standards, workplace health and safety requirements, having the correct tools and PPE, and maintaining an EV-appropriate workshop environment.

Accreditation is valid for three years and includes an assessment process to confirm compliance. Ongoing accreditation requires businesses to maintain these standards and participate in periodic reviews if requested.

The initial accreditation fee is $280 (+GST) for MTA Queensland members and $675 (+GST) for non-members, with a re-accreditation fee of $90.

HOW TO GET STARTED?

Getting EV Ready is simple. Businesses interested in becoming accredited can begin by completing a short Expression of Interest form.

Once submitted, MTA Queensland will be in touch to guide you through the next steps — including the assessment process, documentation requirements, and any support needed to help your business meet the EV Ready standard.

An extraordinary wave of talented women is making impactful contributions across all levels of the automotive industry — from visionary executives and entrepreneurs leading global brands, to industrious and dynamic owners of businesses across all industry sectors, to apprentices and skilled technicians reshaping workshops from the ground up.

The Behind the Wheel: Celebrating Women in Auto project is dedicated to celebrating the stories and journeys of these remarkable women, putting the spotlight on their achievements, resilience, and innovation, providing a platform that highlights their diverse roles, and encouraging a new generation of women to pursue careers in this dynamic industry.

AS THE COLLISION repair industry navigates a period of change driven by electrification, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), changing repair methods and workforce shortages, business owners are being asked to wear more hats than ever before.

Few understand that better than Anne McClure, Managing Director of Townsvillebased McClure Refinishing. Not only does Anne successfully navigate the demands of the evolving industry as an owner of a collision repair business, she is also an industry advocate, a workwear innovator and a champion for women. She is a Board member of the Australian Collision Industry Alliance (ACIA), the founder of the Vesta Workwear brand that develops PPE for women, and is an award-winner too - she picked up Owner/Manager of the Year at the 2024 Paint & Panel Women in Collision Awards and the MTA Queensland 2025 Women in Industry Award.

.

. . ANNE’S CAREER PATH WOVE THROUGH A VARIETY OF INDUSTRIES

THAT, AT FIRST GLANCE, APPEAR TO HAVE NO CONNECTION TO COLLISION REPAIR, BUT WHICH WOULD EVENTUALLY BECOME THE FOUNDATION FOR HER LEADERSHIP AND BUSINESS APPROACH.

She has, in short, become an influential voice in Queensland’s collision repair sector - something that would have seemed unlikely just few years ago given that the industry was never really on her professional radar. Rather, Anne’s career path wove through a variety of industries that, at first glance, appear to have no connection to collision repair but which would eventually become the foundation

for her leadership and business approach.

“I kind of fell into working in the automotive industry,” says Anne. “I married a man who was a panel beater and by proxy became part of it!

“I've worked in mining, admin and safety, retail, hospitality, and pharmacy for quite a long time too - very much areas that I didn't think would have a lot of input into what I would do in automotive, but actually there are lots of skills that I've taken from all of those roles throughout the years and apply to the day-to-day work we do.”

Anne’s entry into the world of professional collision repair came when the owner of a long-established Townsville collision repair business decided to retire.

Anne and her husband Ben - who had

worked at the shop for years - saw the opportunity to buy the business and McClure Refinishing officially came under their ownership.

This was in 2022 and immediately the couple took on the task of modernising the workshop and retaining its focus on restoration work, custom paintwork and repair craftsmanship while embracing new tech, processes and systems.

While Anne's past work experiences would prove useful, stepping into workshop ownership came with plenty of fresh challenges.

“One of the biggest professional challenges that I faced was coming into the industry completely green!” she says.

“. . . coming into owning a shop and having to deal with insurers and that whole process, customers, hire cars, everything that goes on behind the scenes - that was a really big learning curve for me.

“It's a bit of a trial by fire. You kind of go in and it's sink or swim. You either do it or it doesn't happen.”

Fortunately, while collision repair had never been on Anne’s radar as a career option, exposure to it opened her eyes to its potential and the satisfaction that can come from it.

“I did grow up on a cane farm . . . and I can remember the cars we had from an early age - the old valiant wagons and so on - so cars weren't new to me, but it

Anne McClure, Managing Director of Townsville-based McClure Refinishing

wasn't an industry that I ever considered as a career path. But since joining it, I kind of feel like I've found where I belong . . . I have bounced around a few different industries but this is the one where it really lights a little bit of a fire in me.”

So Anne embraced the challenges of taking on the shop, and her determination, commitment, and past experiences - together with some professional development programs, leadership courses and female-founder initiatives thrown into the mix – helped her to swiftly get a handle on things and start developing the business, and her own career.

EMBRACING CHANGE

Like many collision repair business owners, Anne has witnessed enormous technological change in recent years and the rapid growth of electric vehicles, hybrid technology and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) have fundamentally altered the collision repair landscape. Vehicles that were once relatively straightforward to repair now require specialist knowledge, sophisticated equipment and ongoing technical training.

“Even in the five years that I've been in the industry, we've moved from seeing hybrids and a full EV maybe once a month to now, where every week we've got a couple of people coming in with fully electric vehicles.

“IT'S NOT JUST DIRTY, DUSTY, AND HITTING THINGS WITH A HAMMER . . . WITH ALL THE TECHNOLOGY THAT'S AROUND, IT'S A GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT TO GET HANDS ON.

That requires a different skill set, different set of tooling, and a different knowledge base,” says Anne. “We also have ADAS sensors . . . and with those you can't do traditional repairs in certain areas because that can interfere with those sensors. So that changes the methods we must use, and that means a lot of ongoing training.”

While keeping up with this emerging vehicle tech is essential for any modern repair business, Anne believes it also presents an opportunity as the rise of increasingly complex vehicles is not only transforming the collision repair industry, it is transforming perceptions of the industry too. And that might go some way to tackling one of the automotive industry' sgreat challenges – the skills shortage. In an industry searching for its next generation of technicians, this high-tech evolution may be exactly what is needed to attract young people looking for a dynamic and rewarding career.

Anne has spent many hours trying to get the message that auomotive is a fantastic industry for young people to consider. Through career expos and industry events, she has become an active advocate for promoting collision repair to younger generations and recently became a Board member of the ACIA, an organisation whose mission is to promote the sector as a rewarding career choice and ensure its long-term sustainability.

She believes many students simply do not realise collision repair exists as a career option and this has not been helped, she adds, by the removal of automotive body repair and refinishing programs by some training organisations.

“Kids go to learn about what their trade offerings are, and they might be keen on automotive in general, but they're not even being offered collision as an option . . . ” she says.

While that does not sound encouraging, Anne's experiences at career expos over the past 18 months suggests that maybe the tide is starting to turn. She has, she says, seen increasing interest from young people. She has also noticed a growing number of young women expressing interest in the trades, particularly automotive refinishing and custom paintwork, where creativity and technical skill come together.

“We had one girl who came up to me and she said, ‘I really love art and I really

love cars. I didn't know that they were something that I could put together.’ We tend to find that a lot of young women are interested in the trade, particularly in the painting. It does scratch that creative itch.”

For Anne, that conversation reinforced the importance of showing young people that modern collision repair is far removed from outdated stereotypes.

“It's not just dirty, dusty, and hitting things with a hammer, which is what people think of when they think about collision repair,” she says. “With all the technology that's around, it's a great opportunity for people who want to get hands on . . . we do need to show these young kids that there are options and that they're not just going to go into the trade and stay there until they're 60 years old and ready for retirement. They can move up and progress, go from being a tradesperson to an estimator, potentially

VIDEO: AUTO WOMEN - ANNE MCCLURE

. . and at the MTA Queensland Awards 2025

Anne at the Women In Collision Awards 2024 . . .

A GROWING COMMUNITY FOR WOMEN IN AUTOMOTIVE: BUILT TO CONNECT, EMPOWER, AND ELEVATE.

WHAT WE DO:

Advocate for women across all levels of the industry Promote diversity and career opportunities Host events and mentoring programs

Support career growth through training and scholarships

a shop owner, if that's what they want to do. You can also go the other route and go into assessing with insurance companies. And then there are all the other different areas in the industry - so not just regular vehicles but heavy trucks and industrial and even aviation.”

For Anne, the future of collision repair depends on ensuring young people understand that it is not only a viable career, but a dynamic profession with diverse opportunities for advancement and one where they will find support to develop and grow.

Anne has been practising what she preaches, building the McClure Refinishing team to be 13-strong, bringing on the workshop’s first female staff member, and making the shop Ground Zero for a new venture aimed at making collision repair a more attractive career option for women.

That venture is Vesta Workwear, a project that perfectly captures Anne’s approach to problem-solving as well as her innovative and enterprising thinking.

That company was born from an unexpected challenge - finding the ideal piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) for McClure Refinishing's first female spray-painting apprentice.

“I couldn't find a suit that fit her,” explains Anne. “She's quite petite . . . and there was nothing on the market. When I went to our suppliers and asked for an option, they all just said to wear a men's small . . . and when we did get the small options, she was having to tape herself in around the waist and around the arms, and it just really wasn't the go.

“Coming from working in mining, it kind of beggared belief that there wasn't a safety gear option available for women, especially since we are really pushing to get more women into the trade . . . If we're going to go out there and actually say to these women, ‘We want you in this trade’, why are we not backing that by giving them appropriate equipment?”

Rather than accepting ill-fitting men's PPE as the only option, Anne set out to develop the solution herself - a suit designed specifically for female body shapes.

The process began with an industry survey that revealed widespread dissatisfaction with available options. The response was overwhelming.

“100% of women and shop owners who had female staff and who responded, said they were unhappy with the offerings for their female staff,” says Anne.

With feedback from staff, her own experiences and a practical understanding of garment construction, Anne drew inspiration from other one-piece outfits and included her own concepts to develop what she would name the Apex spray suit. It's a slick, innovative piece of work that includes an articulated back panel; improved mobility and ventilation; plus antistatic materials, and Anne currently has a patent pending for its design.

The development process took about 12 months, and Anne officially launched the suit and the Vesta Workwear brand in April at an event in Townsville before presenting it to a wider audience at the Collision Repair Expo in Melbourne in May.

Vesta Workwear has attracted significant attention and interest since its launch, but it is the memory of the sale of the first suit that Anne recalls most fondly.

Anne and Ben at the launch of Vesta Workwear at the Collision Repair Expo

That order came from a second-year apprentice in South Australia and Anne messaged the buyer to say ‘thanks’ and to let them know that they were the very first customer. She was thrilled with the message she received in reply.

“It said, ‘Thank you for making us feel seen’,” says Anne.

It was the response she was hoping for and one which proved the value of the concept - to provide properly fitting PPE for women working in automotive refinishing and other trades and help remove one of the practical barriers that can discourage women from entering or remaining in the industry. Being able to do that, Anne explained in an interview when launching the Vesta brand, is not only the right thing to do for female members of any team, but the logical business decision too.

“I firmly believe that if we can provide the right equipment and tooling, regardless of whether someone is male or female . . . it make’s everyone’s job easier, faster, and more productive. At the end of the day every business end-goal is profit and if you’ve got staff that are being catered for, looked after, and happy, they’re going to be producing. That’s just Business 101.”

TAKING CHANCES

If there is a common thread running through Anne's career, it is a willingness to get stuck in, tackle problems head-on and take a punt on herself and her ability to get things done. Growing up on a South

East Queensland cane farm as one of 11 children meant that hard work and getting on with things was simply a fact of life and these qualities would prove invaluable not only when she and her husband took over McClure Refinishing, but also in the development of Vesta Workwear and in her pursuit of advancing the industry and seeing it include a more diverse workforce.

Today, encouraging more women to consider careers in collision repair is also a passion for Anne, and while she acknowledges that automotive has traditionally been male dominated, she believes the industry is evolving.

“There are still mentalities out there that see it as a male space, but that is changing and changing very rapidly,” she says. “We're seeing a lot more women coming into the industry and doing a bloody good job . . . and there are those little changes that are kind of happening day by day . . . that are making this industry really inclusive for everybody.”

Initiatives such as Auto Women have played an important role in adding some support to that change. Having entered collision repair business ownership without an automotive background herself, Anne says access to advice from other women has been invaluable.

“It's not just a big boys club - we do have a girls club as well,” she says with a smile.

For young women considering a future in collision repair, her advice is simple: 'give it a go'. If you get the chance at school to do some work experience, she says, then do it.

“If you're thinking, ‘I do enjoy cars, I enjoy being around them,’ then give it a shot because it's a week where you get to actually be in that shop, a little bit hands

“WE'RE SEEING A LOT MORE WOMEN COMING INTO THE INDUSTRY AND DOING A BLOODY GOOD JOB . . .”

it or not. And that's what it is at the end of the day - just giving it a shot and seeing what turns up.”

It’s advice that she would give her younger self.

“If I could give advice to my younger self, I would say just take the chance. Just do it,” she says. “That is kind of how I've lived my life anyway, but take those risks, because you're never going to learn if you stay within your comfort zone. You need to push those boundaries to grow, and you never know what you might find and what you might enjoy doing.”

PROJECTS & PASSION

At the heart of the collision repair sector - of the automotive industry as a whole - is, of course, the car itself.

It's pretty difficult to enjoy a satisfying career in any sector of automotive if you don't have some sort of passion for cars, so what car does Anne own and drive, and what car, if money were no object, would take pride of place in her garage? Her answers are firmly tied to family, nostalgia, and a love of the restoration work which is part of her working life.

Her daily driver is a Series II AU Falcon wagon but the pride and joy in the garage

Ben restored for their wedding and which has played a role in other important family moments too.

“All three of my boys were brought home from hospital in that one, so it holds a special place in my heart,” she says.

And as for her dream car?

“If money was no object, I don't know if I have a particular car that I would buy . . . I think I would have a bigger shed and a lot more projects!”

A CAREER WORTH CHASING

As Anne continues to grow both McClure Refinishing and Vesta Workwear - all while advocating for greater diversity and opportunity across the sector - reflecting on her journey supports the idea that opportunities exist for those willing to take a chance and embrace something new, and that the collision repair industry presents challenges and opportunities aplenty.

“Being a part of this industry has been such a fantastic ride,” she says. “Some days it's a roller coaster and some days it's a leisurely Sunday drive. But that's the fun of it and I have really enjoyed it.”

AUTO WOMEN WEBINAR HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF HEALTH, BOUNDARIES AND BALANCE

RUNNING A BUSINESS can be rewarding, but it can also be relentless. Long hours, demanding customers, troublesome staff, and the always nail-biting process of visiting the accountant – stress is everywhere, a seemingly constant companion.

Many see stress as simply part of the job, but there is no doubt that stress can have a detrimental impact on decisionmaking and productivity – not good for any business leader – but, perhaps more importantly can have a real impact on physical health and wellbeing.

At the beginning of June, Auto Women members had the opportunity to learn some practical strategies on getting a handle on stress and their health thanks to a special webinar presentation health and nutrition coach Elle Sproll.

Elle’s session explored how participants can better recognise the signs of stress, create healthier boundaries and develop habits that make everything a little less tense and worrisome.

Elle approaches the subject from a deeply personal perspective. At the age of 33, she was diagnosed with cancer, an experience that fundamentally changed the way she viewed health and wellbeing. The diagnosis sparked a journey to understand what genuine self-care and good health really meant and, ultimately, to sharing her knowledge with others.

"That's the quest that I'm on now," said Elle. "I do try and help people who have gotten sick in some way and need to learn to take care of themselves and help themselves recover. But the thing I'm more passionate about is helping people to understand what it really means to take care of yourself before something really big slaps you in the face."

Before her diagnosis, Elle worked in senior marketing roles within the corporate sector. Today she combines her

PARTICIPANTS IN THE WEBINAR WERE GIVEN SEVEN TIPS TO CONSIDER:

Protect Your Energy – Slow down, manage your pace and take regular breaks throughout the day.

Sleep like it matters – Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep and minimise screen time before bed.

Fuelling resilience – Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole foods, quality protein and staying hydrated.

Move your body – Regular physical activity supports both physical health and mental wellbeing.

Build boundaries – Learn to say no and avoid constantly putting others' ahead of you. Taking care of yourself is not selfish, it is necessary.

Prioritise yourself without guilt – Prioritise self-care and don't feel guilty about it. Think of the oxygen-maskon-a-plane analogy – put your own mask on first!

Upgrade your inner voice – Be mindful of how you speak to and about yourself, and challenge negative thinking.

“. . . THE THING I'M MORE PASSIONATE ABOUT IS HELPING PEOPLE TO UNDERSTAND WHAT IT REALLY MEANS TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF BEFORE SOMETHING

REALLY BIG SLAPS YOU IN THE FACE.”

wellness advocacy work with a return to the corporate world, putting the lessons she has learned into practice. There are many lessons but there are, Elle said, some key ones that everyone can follow.

One of those is the importance of slowing down – which can be tough in a world that always seems to be so demanding of our time.

Elle explained that this was one of the first changes she made after her illness.

"I actually just got up 30 minutes earlier, which then gave me time to get ready, or time to eat my breakfast, or time to spend five minutes sitting in the sun, or time to pat my dog," she explained.

For women, and men, working in the automotive industry, balancing work demands with personal commitments can be difficult and stress feels like just another part of life. It’s a scenario Elle acknowledges and challenges every day.

"You can be successful at work whilst not compromising your health," she said.

That message was at the heart of the webinar and it was an inspiring one.

"Elle delivered an incredibly engaging and thought-provoking session that resonated strongly,” said Kellie Dewar, Deputy CEO of MTA Queensland and co-founder of Auto Women.

“The discussion around managing stress, setting boundaries and prioritising wellbeing provided attendees with plenty of tools they can immediately apply in both their professional and personal lives. Balancing work, family and career can be challenging, especially in the automotive industry, and we’re grateful to Elle for sharing her journey."

YOU DESERVE TO FEEL BETTER THAN THIS

HEALTH COACHING FOR BUSY PEOPLE WHO ARE TIRED OF RUNNING ON EMPTY.

Many people don’ t realise how much stress, exhaustion and burnout they ’ve been carrying until they finally start feeling better

After aggressive breast cancer despite appearing “healthy” on the outside, Elle became determined to understand what truly supports long-term health

Now, through her coaching programs and courses, she helps others learn practical ways to improve:

Without restriction, guilt or needing to overhaul their entire life overnight Because feeling better shouldn’ t be complicated

Elle Sproll

ESTIMATORS BUILD SKILLS AT BODYSHOP SOLUTIONS FOUNDATIONS COURSE

COLLISION REPAIR

PROFESSIONALS gathered in May at MTA Queensland’s training facility in Brisbane for the BodyShop Solutions Foundations Course on estimating - a training program designed to equip participants with the knowledge to produce more accurate, efficient and profitable repair estimates.

Developed and delivered by BodyShop Solutions founder Jasmine DeWys, the course addresses a growing need for structured estimator training and the sold-out workshop saw participants travel from across South East Queensland, and even from Melbourne, to attend.

Built around two key areas - building vehicle and industry knowledge and understanding the complex software systems used to create repair estimates - the one-day Foundations course uses a mix of presentations, practical exercises, videos, role play and other activities to guide participants through the complete estimation process from initial assessment through to invoicing and supplementaries.

Modules cover insurance and claim workflows, estimator and assessor responsibilities, estimation language and industry standards, parts pricing and sourcing, repair methods, materials, customer communication, damage analysis, ADAS technology, scanning and calibrations, and practical estimating exercises using software systems including AudaNet, iBodyShop and PartsCheck.

The mix of those who attended presented a broad range of knowledge

“THEY'LL WALK OUT OF GOING, ‘I KNOW HOW TO PREP MY ESTIMATES PROPERLY. I KNOW THAT I NEED REPAIR METHODS. I KNOW HOW TO BE MINDFUL OF ALLOY REPAIRS’. THEY'RE GOING TO GET A SOLID TOOLKIT.”

and experience and the course was, said Jasmine, very well received by participants.

“The feedback from the group was really positive,” she said. “I even got a few phone calls afterwards from those looking for some one-on-one coaching. They got a lot out of it and want to learn more. So, it was really positive.”

One of the course's major objectives is helping estimators navigate Australia's complex software landscape – a landscape

Jasmine DeWys delivering the first BodyShop Solutions Foundations course at MTA Queensland

which requires knowledge of several systems.

“The Australian estimation software ecosystem is uniquely complicated, and we do use a lot of products just to produce one estimate,” said Jasmine.

The course tackles this via a thorough investigation of the process of using these systems. For an estimator who is early in their career, having the knowledge that enables the efficient use of these software packages is priceless.

“For someone with a couple of months’ experience, who has cut their teeth a little bit but want to put it in a process and make it make sense . . . they will get a lot out of it,” said Jasmine of the Foundation course. “They'll walk out of going, ‘I know how to prep my estimates properly. I know that I need repair methods. I know how to be mindful of alloy repairs’. They're going to get a solid toolkit.”

By the end of the course, participants have a structured and repeatable estimating methodology, practical take-home resources and a strong understanding of cross-system workflows.

And they get a few resources to take with them too.

“A lot of the stuff that we do in the course they actually take home with them on the day, including cheat sheets on elements such as when to wheel on a vehicle, when to blend a panel, when to recalibrate and when you don't have to recalibrate - things that we don't structurally teach in the industry and that, to this point, you just learn on the job. It takes years to learn some of this, but here it comes in a nice little package for them.”

While a newly launched program, the BodyShop Solutions Foundations Course is already proving to be a popular, with Jasmine fielding calls to run the course for individual businesses across the country. And following its success, Jasmine is now developing an advanced estimating masterclass with future training opportunities to be announced in the coming months.

Access to multiple online technical information systems, including the all-new Rego Look-up feature

Access to VACC’s Melbourne-based TechAdvisory Service

Access to VACC’s TechTalk magazine

MOTORTECH DELIVERS POWERFUL TECHNICAL RESOURCE FOR MTAQ MEMBERS

MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERS

can now access one of the industry's most comprehensive technical information platforms, with MotorTech available through an exclusive member offer.

Developed by VACC and powered by HaynesPro, MotorTech provides workshops with 24/7 access to an extensive range of repair and diagnostic resources and support, including:

• Comprehensive repair data for cars, motorcycles, light commercial, and truck

• Wiring diagrams, fault codes, TSBs, and OEM Technical Service Bulletin

• Info by Rego - identify any vehicle in seconds from its registration number

• Repair time estimates for accurate quoting and job scheduling

• Live support from VACC-accredited technical experts

• Tech Talk Magazine - VACC's industry-leading technical journal

One of the platform's capabilities is the Info by Rego function, which provides precise vehicle specifications instantly, reducing the likelihood of incorrect parts purchases and minimising the need for multiple diagnostic attempts. Technicians spend less time searching databases and more time producing, allowing workshops to handle more work.

MotorTech also includes direct access to VACC's Technical Advisory Service, where qualified technicians are ready to help with the toughest and most complex diagnostics. There’s also Tech Online - an online service, repair and diagnostic information database available 24/7.

The launch of MotorTech to MTA Queensland members comes at a time when automotive businesses are facing increasing technical demands as electric vehicles, hybrids and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) become more common. MotorTech keeps you current. New vehicles and data are added every month, and the optional High Voltage module gives workshops the purpose-built EV and hybrid data needed to stay safe and competitive.

. . . MOTORTECH PROVIDES WORKSHOPS WITH 24/7 ACCESS TO AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF REPAIR AND DIAGNOSTIC RESOURCES AND SUPPORT.

With comprehensive technical data, expert support and instant vehicle identification features available, MotorTech can help Queensland workshops spend less time searching for answers and more time repairing.

VIDEO: MOTORTECH FOR MTAQ MEMBERS

A concentrated window into what’s next for the automotive aftermarket. With over 7,000 exhibitors Automechanika Shanghai brings the global aftermarket industry together at scale - parts, repair, diagnostics, workshop technology, digital service tools, EV systems, tyres, body and paint. If you want to understand where products, pricing, and capability are heading in the next 3-5 years, this is where the signal is loudest.

Tour Inclusions & Pricing

The Auto Study Tour to Automechanika Shanghai 2026 is designed to deliver maximum value, impact, and enjoyment – seamlessly packaged into a single, first-class experience.

• 4 nights’ accommodation at the 5-star Westin Bund Centre, Shanghai

• Airport transfers

• Welcome drinks + delegation briefing

• Hosted cocktail event

• Group Gala dinner

• On-ground transport for programmed activities

• Bilingual guide support

• Show registration support

• Tour management and on-ground hosting

On-Ground Package: AU$4,950

MTAQ BACKS NATIONAL DELEGATION TO AUTOMECHANIKA SHANGHAI 2026

BOOKINGS NOW OPEN | ANZ AUTO STUDY TOUR | 1–5 DECEMBER 2026

MTA QUEENSLAND IS supporting a national Australian motor trade delegation to Automechanika Shanghai 2026, in collaboration with its parent and sister associations across Australia.

The hosted Auto Study Tour will run from Tuesday 1 December to Saturday 5 December 2026, aligned with the Automechanika Shanghai show dates Wednesday 2 December to Saturday 5 December 2026 at NECC Shanghai. The show will operate 9.00am – 6.00pm daily, with the final day closing at 3.00pm.

Automechanika Shanghai is one of the world’s largest automotive aftermarket events, spanning parts and components, diagnostics, workshop equipment, digital solutions, EV systems, connectivity, tyres, and body and paint. The most recent published event figures indicate the scale involved, with 7,465 exhibitors, 253,691 visitors, and a total exhibition area of 383,000 sqm.

Rod Camm, CEO of MTAQ, said the initiative is focused on practical value for members.

“This study tour is built for real-world outcomes. Members will get direct supplier exposure, a clear view of what’s coming in workshop technology, diagnostics and EV systems, and ideas they can bring straight back to improve how they operate,” said Mr Camm.

HOSTED TOUR DESIGNED FOR REAL OUTCOMES

The tour has been structured as a hosted program, designed to help delegates get more value from the show than a self-guided visit. It includes a guided orientation at the start of the event, time set aside for supplier meetings, education sessions and networking, and hosted group functions to bring the delegation together.

SHANGHAI EXPERIENCE, CURATEDNOT LEFT TO CHANCE

The program is also designed to deliver a high-quality Shanghai experience alongside the professional content. Hotel and hosted functions are planned around carefully selected venues, providing a genuine taste of the city’s food, culture and atmosphere, without requiring delegates to navigate the planning burden themselves.

PROGRAM AT A GLANCE

• Tue 1 Dec: Arrivals, transfers, hotel check-in, welcome drinks and delegation briefing

• Wed 2 Dec: Show Day 1 - guided orientation, themed exploration, meetings and hosted evening cocktail event

• Thu 3 Dec: Show Day 2 - independent or hosted supplier meetings, education sessions and networking (evening at leisure)

• Fri 4 Dec: Curated programme day - optional technical visits, hosted meetings, market immersion or additional fair activity, followed by a group dinner and debrief

• Sat 5 Dec: Departures (delegates with later flights may choose an optional final morning at the fair)

PRICING AND INCLUSIONS

Package pricing is AU$4,950 per delegate (excluding flights) and is GST-free. The package includes four nights’ accommodation, airport transfers, welcome drinks and briefing, a hosted cocktail event, a group dinner, on-ground transport for programmed activities, bilingual guide support, show registration support, and on-ground tour management and hosting. Flights, travel insurance, visa costs (if required), and personal expenses are the responsibility of each delegate and are not included in the package.

For enquiries or to request the booking pack, contact: Patrick Tessier OAM | Auto Study Tours +61 412 685 857 | patrick@ autostudytours.com.au

MTA QUEENSLAND

WELCOMES NATION-LEADING E-MOBILITY LAWS TO IMPROVE SAFETY AND PROTECT BUSINESSES

MTA QUEENSLAND has welcomed the Queensland Government’s nation-leading e-mobility legislation to remove illegal e-mobility devices from Queensland roads. The reforms are a significant step forward in improving public safety and protecting legitimate businesses across Queensland.

Designed to significantly improve public safety by targeting illegal, high-powered and non-compliant devices that have increasingly appeared on Queensland roads and pathways, the new framework will provide stronger powers to remove illegal devices from the community, helping to ensure only compliant products that meet safety requirements are sold and operated.

The laws, which will begin taking effect from 1 July 2026 with full reforms in place by 31 August 2026, follow the Parliamentary Inquiry into e-Mobility Safety and Use, in which MTA Queensland made a comprehensive submission calling for stronger product standards, tighter import controls, and real enforcement powers.

“This is an important outcome for the safety of all Queenslanders,” said MTA Queensland CEO Rod Camm.

“We have seen the very real harm that illegal, high-powered devices cause in our communities. More than 6,000 injuries were recorded at Queensland emergency departments between 2024 and 2025, with the majority involving noncompliant devices. These laws will help put a stop to that.”

From 1 July, key reforms include:

• Police powers to seize and destroy illegal devices

• A ban on e-bikes and scooters capable of exceeding 25km/h unassisted, with 12km/h speed limits applying near pedestrians

• Higher penalties for speeding, failure to wear a helmet, careless riding, illegally carrying passengers, and riding Personal Mobility Devices on prohibited roads

• Parental accountability for children under 16 riding illegally MTA Queensland has long advocated for reforms that protect businesses doing the right thing. The Association said the influx of non-compliant imports has created an uneven market, undermining reputable dealers and putting consumers at risk.

MORE THAN 6,000 INJURIES WERE RECORDED AT QUEENSLAND EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS BETWEEN 2024 AND 2025, WITH THE MAJORITY INVOLVING NON-COMPLIANT DEVICES.

“For too long, high-powered and non-compliant devices have been entering the market unchecked, undercutting legitimate businesses and misleading consumers about what can legally be used on public roads,” said Mr Camm.

“These reforms are about restoring confidence – for consumers, for industry, and for regulators. When unsafe products are removed from the market and enforcement is real, reputable businesses can compete fairly and consumers can trust what they are buying.”

MTA Queensland commends the Government for acting on the evidence submitted during the Parliamentary Inquiry and moving quickly to implement these reforms.

“The next phase is critical. We now need to see strong enforcement on the ground, clear guidance for retailers, and national alignment on safety standards,” said Mr Camm. “MTA Queensland stands ready to continue working with the Government to ensure these laws deliver real-world results for all Queenslanders.”

MEMBER

WORKPLACE RELATIONS

Unlimited support through our expert team of Workplace Relations Advisors, helping you navigate any staffing issues and ensure you are paying the correct award rates.

INSURANCE REVIEW

Insurance review conducted through our expert Corporate Partner will ensure you have the best cover for your automotive business, at the right price.

EFTPOS COMPARISON

Complimentary EFTPOS comparison to ensure you are getting the best deal from your payment terminals, potentially saving money on every transaction.

WH&S AUDIT

Complimentary Workplace Health & Safety audit conducted by our experienced industry Corporate Partner to ensure all employer responsibilities are met.

ENERGY AUDIT

Up-front energy audit to determine the most cost-effective utility provider for your business. Available in select locations.

STATIONERY DISCOUNTS

Exclusive member business pricing on a select range of everyday office supplies, print, furniture and tech accessories.

TRAINING DISCOUNTS WITH MTA INSTITUTE

Discounted professional development and training on a select range of courses. Delivered through MTA Institute (RTO No. 31529), the largest independent provider of automotive apprenticeship and training in Queensland.

ADVOCACY TO GOVERNMENT

Industry representation and advocacy to government on the big issues affecting your business and sector.

PUBLICATIONS/RESOURCES

Publications and resources that keep you ahead of the competition, including Motor Trader e-Magazine, the Weekly Industry Bulletin, and a self-service Member Portal.

EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF MEMBER BENEFITS HERE.

CORPORATE PARTNERS

DRIVEN PROGRAM OPENS DOOR TO NEW FUNDING FOR EV CHARGING

AUTOMOTIVE DEALERSHIPS,

SERVICE centres and EV repairers are being urged to find out more about a new funding opportunity under the Federal Government's Dealership and Repairer Initiative for Vehicle Electrification Nationally (DRIVEN) Program.

The DRIVEN Charger Grant Stream is making $20 million available for the installation of new public electric vehicle

THE INITIATIVE RECOGNISES THE ROLE THAT DEALERSHIPS, SERVICE CENTRES AND REPAIRERS WILL PLAY AS AUSTRALIA CONTINUES ITS SHIFT TO ELECTRIFIED TRANSPORT.

charging stations at eligible automotive businesses across Australia.

The initiative recognises the role that dealerships, service centres and repairers will play as Australia continues its shift to electrified transport.

The Grant Stream aims to deliver new charging stations at automotive premises, encourage the installation of charging stations in regional areas, support businesses interested in hosting public chargers, and facilitate partnerships between automotive businesses and EV charging operators.

Eligible businesses can apply as a lead organisation to deliver new public charging stations through the Business Grants Hub or by registering their interest in hosting charging infrastructure at their premises.

To help businesses with more info on the program and application process, two online information sessions will be held on 23 June and 9 July 2026:

To register for the Tuesday, June 23, 2026, session, CLICK HERE

To register for the Thursday, July 9, 2026, session, CLICK HERE

Interested businesses are encouraged to review the grant guidelines and frequently asked questions available through the Business Grants Hub website.

Applications for the DRIVEN Charger Grant Stream close at 5pm on Friday, 28 August 2026.

UNFAIR TRADING PRACTICES CONSULTATION A WELCOME STEP FOR AUTOMOTIVE

SMALL BUSINESSES

THE MOTOR TRADES Association of Australia (MTAA) has welcomed the Australian Government's consultation on extending unfair trading practices protections to small businesses, describing it as an important step toward fairer commercial settings for the thousands of automotive businesses facing significant power imbalances in their dealings with larger counterparts.

Treasury's consultation paper, released today, seeks feedback on whether the proposed general prohibition on unfair trading practices should be extended to protect small businesses, and whether additional protections are needed for business-to-business dealings.

MTAA Interim Executive Director Peter Jones said the consultation directly addresses issues the automotive sector has been raising for years.

"Automotive small businesses regularly face unfair conduct in their dealings with larger businesses, whether that is insurers dictating unfair repair terms, suppliers imposing unilateral contract changes, or franchisors exercising superior bargaining power," Mr Jones said.

"These are not isolated incidents. They are systemic issues where a small number of large players hold significant power over thousands of small, family-owned businesses.

"For years, MTAA has been documenting the ways in which power imbalances between large corporations and small automotive businesses result in unfair outcomes. This consultation recognises that the existing legal framework has gaps, and we welcome the opportunity to provide further evidence."

Mr Jones said the automotive sector provides a clear case study for the types of harm the consultation is seeking to address, including threats of commercial retaliation, interference with rights and remedies, withholding of payments, unilateral changes to agreements, and unfair pressure placed on businesses that rely on a small number of major commercial relationships.

"Our members have told us about insurers refusing to pay fair repair rates, suppliers imposing unreasonable commercial conditions, manufacturers threatening to

THIS CONSULTATION RECOGNISES THAT THE EXISTING LEGAL FRAMEWORK HAS GAPS, AND WE WELCOME THE OPPORTUNITY TO PROVIDE FURTHER EVIDENCE.

terminate dealer agreements when concerns are raised, and businesses being pressured to accept contract changes that leave them worse off," Mr Jones said.

"Many small businesses simply absorb these losses because they cannot afford to take legal action or risk losing the commercial relationship they depend on."

MTAA said the consultation is relevant to a broad crosssection of the automotive industry, including repairers, service providers, parts suppliers, dealerships and other automotive businesses that are often required to negotiate with significantly larger commercial entities.

MTAA supports extending the proposed general prohibition to small businesses acquiring goods or services as consumers and will advocate for strong protections in business-to-business dealings where bargaining power imbalances exist.

The association will lodge a submission to the consultation drawing on evidence from across its membership.

Bunnings Trade has MTA QLD members covered.

Bunnings Trade and MTA are delighted to announce a partnership which gives you the opportunity to join the Bunnings Trade PowerPass program or link your existing PowerPass account to access a range of exclusive benefits.

Business Solutions

From build and fit out, to maintenance and cleaning - we've got you covered. And if we don't stock it, we'll do our best to find it.

Account Management Tools

Manage quotes, invoicing and transactions online through our PowerPass portal app.

Customised Pricing

Through PowerPass, we'll add you to your organisations price list that's better than the baseline.

Quick, Easy & Flexible Fulfilment

With locations near you, we offer convenient payment, pick-up and delivery options.

To opt in, scan the QR code

*Terms and conditions apply. See trade.bunnings.com.au/powerpass for full details

QUEENSLAND’S AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY SHIFTS GEARS WITH FREE ACCESS TO LANDMARK LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

MTA QUEENSLAND is proud to announce the opening of enrolments for Shifting Gears for Change, a fully subsidised, four-part masterclass program designed to help Queensland automotive business owners and leaders build stronger, more inclusive workplaces that attract, support, and retain women in the industry.

The program, made available at no cost to participants through government funding, delivers practical leadership and workforce development strategies across four live online masterclasses, tackling one of the most pressing challenges facing the automotive industry today: workforce sustainability.

MTA Queensland CEO Rod Camm said workforce capability remains one of the industry’s greatest challenges, and businesses must be proactive in creating workplace cultures that attract and retain skilled people if they are to remain competitive and continue growing.

“The automotive industry is facing critical workforce challenges – skills shortages, high turnover, and fierce

“FOR BUSINESSES LOOKING TO GROW, REMAIN COMPETITIVE, AND SECURE THEIR FUTURE WORKFORCE, CREATING AN INCLUSIVE, SUPPORTIVE AND HIGH PERFORMING WORKPLACE IS NO LONGER OPTIONAL – IT IS IMPERATIVE.”

competition for talent. For businesses looking to grow, remain competitive, and secure their future workforce, creating an inclusive, supportive and high performing workplace is no longer optional – it is imperative”.

Creating positive workplace cultures and broadening recruitment pathways are increasingly recognised as practical ways businesses can strengthen workforce capability and improve long-term performance. For an industry experiencing ongoing skills shortages, attracting and retaining talent from a wider range of backgrounds presents a significant opportunity.

A real example of an opportunity to improve our industry is evident with women representing just 20 per cent of Queensland’s automotive workforce, and less than 3 per cent of technical and trade roles. The industry is underutilising a significant portion of the available talent pool. Shifting Gears for Change is designed to help business leaders better understand and address the barriers that can impact attraction, retention, and career progression for women, while creating stronger workplace outcomes for all employees.

Across four 90-minute live online masterclasses, participants will explore inclusive recruitment and workplace entry practices; pay equity and workplace structure; workplace culture and behaviour; and leadership, mentoring and long-term retention. Each session combines expert facilitation, interactive discussion, and practical takeaways that can be implemented immediately within businesses of any size.

Two cohorts will be available in 2026, with all sessions delivered online to minimise disruption to business operations.

“Attracting talented people is only part of the equation – retaining them is where businesses create lasting value,” said Mr Camm.

“Shifting Gears for Change provides a roadmap for automotive businesses looking to future proof their workforce, strengthen leadership capability, and build workplace cultures where great people want to work, contribute, and stay.”

This Industry Skills Solutions Program is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government.

A masterclass program for automotive leaders committed to strengthening their workforce and creating workplaces where women can thrive.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Shifting Gears for Change is a masterclass program designed to support automotive business owners and senior leaders to build stronger, more inclusive workplaces that attract, support, and retain women in the automotive industry. This program provides practical guidance and leadership strategies to help businesses foster inclusive workplace cultures, improve recruitment pathways for women, and strengthen staff retention.

Through expert-led learning and real-world insights, participants will gain the tools and confidence to implement meaningful workplace changes that benefit both their teams and their businesses.

Level Leaders at all levels

Gender All genders

Ideal for For individuals or groups

Duration 4 x 90-minute masterclasses

Fees Fully subsidised through the Queensland Government

Delivery Online masterclass Program Commencing 2026

Masterclass topics:

> Inclusive Recruitment and Workplace Entry

> Pay Equity and Workplace Structure

> Workplace Culture and Behaviour

> Leadership, Mentoring and Retention

FIND OUT MORE & ENROL TODAY

INDUSTRY FORUM TARGETS TRAINING COLLABORATION AND IMPROVEMENT

REPRESENTATIVES FROM INDUSTRY, training organisations, government and workforce development bodies came together at Brisbane's Glen Hotel on June 4 for the second Automotive SAS (Skills Assure Supplier) Provider Forum, an event that is part of an ongoing initiative to enhance the quality of training delivered to automotive apprentices and employees.

The Automotive SAS Provider Forum initiative was established to build stronger engagement between industry, the vocational education and training (VET) sector and government. It is hosted by MTA Queensland - which was selected by the Department of Trade, Employment and Training to work with the automotive industry through the Industry Skills & Jobs Advisor (ISJA) program - and is a platform for attendees to share ideas, discuss industry needs, explore developments and research on VET training, contribute feedback on training package developments, and share knowledge and experience with decision makers.

The latest forum was opened by Brad Flanagan, chair of the Industry Reference Group (IRG) and General Manager Industry & Skills at MTA Queensland, who gave an overview of the current status

of Queensland's automotive industry, including on the labour market and business sentiment, noting also the effect that incentives, the recent budget, and the astonishing sales of electrified vehicles may have on the industry landscape.

The keynote speaker at the forum was Dr Rocco Guarnaccia, Head of Vocational Education and Training at VETASSESS, one of Australia's largest vocational skills assessment and recognition organisations. His research has focused on

the sustainability of commercial training providers and identifying the elements that make a successful VET organisation. In part, his presentation explored what makes successful training organisations work, and he explained to attendees that providers who prioritise quality teaching and industry engagement are more likely to achieve long-term success than those driven primarily by profit.

Following Dr Guarnaccia, Wayne Lee, the Automotive ISJA provided attendees with an update on several ISJA projects. Among these was a proposed series of Automotive and Mining VET Engagement Workshops for North and Central Queensland, aimed at discussing emerging skills needs and training opportunities; as well as proposals for Government funding for Heavy Commercial Vehicle Skill Set for Light Vehicle Technicians, and the Battery Electric Vehicle Diagnose and Repair Skill Set.

Also shared were preliminary findings from the latest ISJA automotive VET data analysis. The research showed automotive apprenticeships account for a healthy 22 per cent of all traditional trade commencements - traditional trades being automotive, engineering, electrical, construction, and furnishing - in Queensland. The sector also leads traditional trades in female apprenticeship participation, accounting for 28 per cent of female commencements. Strong results were also recorded for First Nations apprentices, apprentices with a disability and school-based apprenticeships, although overall apprentice commencements have declined since 2021-22.

Forum attendees then heard from Emma Burgess Anderson from the

VIDEO: MTAQ AUTO SAS FORUM

Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance (AUSMASA) with updates on the Jobs and Skills Council project; as well as from Tracy Ellul, Tania Pilkinton and Filippa Ross from the Department of Trade, Employment and Training.

In the afternoon, there was an engaging panel discussion examining New Energy Vehicle incentives and apprenticeship training plans. Facilitated by Wayne Lee, the discussion brought together Scott Lawler from Apprenticeship Support Australia; Nathan Yeark from TAFE Qld; and Marcello Riotto, Director of Strategy and Capability Growth at the MTA Institute.

The panel considered the role of available incentives, the range of automotive apprenticeships which are potentially eligible for the New Energy Incentives, and requirements for businesses to qualify for incentives, amongst other incentiverelated topics.

The forum concluded with reflections on the day from Bill Thanas, Assistant State Secretary Queensland/NT Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union and the Deputy Chair of the Industry Reference Group.

As automotive technology, repair methods and workforce requirements continue to evolve, forums such as this play an important role in helping industry

“WE'RE HAVING THEM EVERY SIX MONTHS AND GETTING ALL THE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT-FUNDED AUTOMOTIVE RTOS TOGETHER WITH THE WHOLE IDEA OF US WORKING TOGETHER TO RAISE THE STANDARD OF TRAINING.”

and training providers work together to deliver the skilled workforce needed for the future.

According to Wayne Lee and other attendees, the forum was a success, and they will continue to be held as industry works on improving the quality of training delivered to the automotive workforce.

“We're having them every six months and getting all the Queensland Governmentfunded automotive RTOs together with the whole idea of us working together to raise the standard of training,” he said. “We've got great training happening right now in the automotive industry, but we think all of us collectively, by working together, we can even raise it higher.”

The next Automotive SAS Provider Forum is scheduled for December.

Scott Lawler from Apprenticeship Support Australia, Nathan Yeark from TAFE Qld, Automotive Industry Skills & Jobs Advisor Wayne Lee, and Marcello Riotto from the MTA Institute

2026 INDUSTRY AWARDS

The 2026 Industry Awards Gala will be the most spectacular evening in Queensland’s automotive calendar - a black-tie celebration at one of Brisbane’s premier venues, bringing together the best of our industry for a night of recognition, entertainment and celebration.

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

Awarded to a member business with 15 or less staff (full or part-time) who demonstrates excellence and best practice in all aspects of business, including customer service, training and employee development, and marketing activities.

INNOVATION AWARD

Awarded to an individual or business that is supporting or implementing innovation in the automotive/mobility industry.

LARGE BUSINESS AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

Awarded to a member business with 16 or more staff who demonstrates excellence and best practice in all aspects of business, including customer service, training and employee development, and marketing activities.

WOMEN IN INDUSTRY AWARD

Awarded to a female leader or business achieving success by their commitment to driving change in the automotive/ mobility industry.

COMMUNITY AWARD

Awarded to an individual or member business who is a role model in their community and this is evidenced by their actions.

NOMINATIONS CLOSE 31 JULY 2026

Winners will be announced at the Industry Awards Gala on Saturday, 28 November 2026, at The Star Casino, Brisbane.

MERCEDESAMG PUSHES EV PERFORMANCE CAPABILITY WITH NEW GT

MERCEDES-AMG HAS UNVEILED the all-new electric GT 4-Door Coupé, an absolute banger of an EV that pushes the limits of what can be termed ‘high performance.’

Built on the new AMG.EA highperformance electric architecture, the four-door sports car sits on a drivetrain that features three axial flux electric motors - two at the rear and one at the front – that deliver up to 860kW (1169hp) and 2000Nm of torque in its flagship GT 63 4-Door Coupé form. Not surprisingly, this sort of grunt enables some absolutely, buttockclenching performance. The GT 63 can,

Mercedes-AMG says, accelerate from 0-100km/h in 2.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 300km/h with the optional Driver’s Package. Active Aerodynamics, via venturi flow plates in the underbody and rear diffuser, add to the performance output.

At the core of the new GT 4-Door Coupé is a Formula 1-inspired 800-volt battery system developed using expertise from the Mercedes-AMG ONE hypercar and Mercedes-AMG High Performance

THE GT 63 CAN, MERCEDES-AMG SAYS, ACCELERATE FROM 0-100KM/H IN 2.1 SECONDS AND REACH A TOP SPEED OF 300KM/H WITH THE OPTIONAL DRIVER’S PACKAGE.

Powertrains in the UK.

The tech allows for some extreme charging capability. Mercedes-AMG claims the EV can recharge more than 460 kilometres of WLTP driving range in just 10 minutes thanks to ultra-fast 600kW DC charging capability. A 10-80 per cent charge can apparently be completed in a claimed 11 minutes.

INSIDE THE GT 4-DOOR COUPÉ, THERE’S A DESIGN THAT COMBINES ELEMENTS OF MOTORSPORT AND GRAND TOURING COMFORT AND TECH.

Despite its electric drivetrain, AMG says the new model retains the character expected of the brand. A new AMGFORCE S+ mode recreates the sensation of driving a V8-powered AMG through simulated gearshifts, immersive acoustics and haptic feedback systems.

Along with the advanced active aerodynamics, the new model has semi-active roll stabilisation suspension, rear-wheel steering and sophisticated AMG RACE ENGINEER software designed to maximise agility and customisation for both road and track driving.

Inside the GT 4-Door Coupé, there’s a design that combines elements of motorsport and grand touring comfort and tech.

A digital cockpit features a 10.2-inch instrument cluster and a 14-inch multimedia touchscreen angled toward the driver. A14inch passenger display is also available.

Also here are haptic rotary driving controls integrated into the centre console. The performance theme also sees the fitment of AMG Performance seats.

The GT 4-Door Coupé debuts the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience infotainment system with Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration.

Production of the new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé will begin in summer 2026 at Mercedes-Benz’s Sindelfingen plant in Germany.

VIDEO: MERCEDES-AMG GT 4-DOOR COUPÉ | WALKAROUND WITH CHIEF ENGINEER OLIVER WIECH

MTAQ MEMBER SIGNAGE

THIS IN THE Ferrari Luce, the car which opens a new chapter in the history of the Prancing Horse as the company’s first fully electric production vehicle.

Combining a rather radical design, absolutely stellar four-motor performance, and cutting-edge tech in a luxury grand touring package, the four-door, five-seat, Luce is something never before seen from the iconic Italian company.

The first thing to consider is, of course, the design. Few new cars have sparked quite as much activity and scrutiny and the Luce has not received universal acclaim. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, of course, but the Luce is not as sleek and potent-looking as one might expect from a company that has created some of the auto industry's most iconic highperformancemodels.

The Luce's design was developed in collaboration with the Lovefrom creative collective, led by former Apple design chief Jony Ive and industrial designer Marc Newson and the result is a sleek, aerodynamic form that is most definitely is eye catching. There's a shell-like glasshouse that extends below the belt line and floating aerodynamic wings at the front and rear wrap around that glasshouse. There is halo-style rear lighting that

WHILE THE LOOKS OF THE LUCE HAVE STOLEN THE HEADLINES, WHAT MAKES

IT MOVE IS PRETTY INTERESTING TOO . . .

Ferrari says pays homage to iconic models including the 360 Modena and 458 Italia. The Luce also debuts the largest wheel diameters ever fitted to a series-production Ferrari road car, measuring 23 inches at the front and 24 inches at the rear.

While the looks of the Luce have stolen the headlines, what makes it move is pretty interesting too.

Power comes from a four-motor all-wheel-drive system using Ferrarideveloped electric motors derived from the company’s F80 hypercar and motorsport programs. The system produces a whopping 772kW and 990Nm of torque, enabling the EV to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 2.5 seconds and 0-200km/h in 6.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 310km/h. Those are proper supercar numbers! Ferrari says the independent four-motor setup allows torque vectoring and wheel-bywheel control.

The powertrain system operates on an 800-volt architecture paired with a 122kWh battery developed and built in-house at Ferrari. The company claims

THE POWERTRAIN SYSTEM OPERATES ON AN 800-VOLT ARCHITECTURE PAIRED WITH A 122KWH BATTERY DEVELOPED AND BUILT IN-HOUSE AT FERRARI.

driving range exceeds 530km, while ultra-fast charging capability allows up to 70kWh to be replenished in just 20 minutes using 350kW charging infrastructure.

Inside, the Luce adopts cabin styling focused on simplicity, craftsmanship and driver engagement. The interior combines premium leather, recycled

anodised aluminium and Corning Gorilla Glass across the dashboard and interface surfaces. Precision-machined aluminium controls, physical switches and multifunction digital displays aim to blend analogue feel with digital functionality.

The steering wheel itself is machined from 100 per cent recycled aluminium and incorporates Ferrari’s torque-control paddles, allowing drivers to actively adjust acceleration intensity and regenerative braking characteristics.

On the steering wheel, the five-position Manettino and the three-position e-Manettino sit side by side. The latter defines power, torque curve, type of traction, and maximum performance, while keeping the level of regeneration

unchanged in all ‘Drive’ positions.

In ‘Range’ mode, power is limited to 320 kW, operation is predominantly rear-wheel drive, top speed is 260 km/h. In ‘Tour’ mode, available power rises to 460 kW, all-wheel drive is always active, and top speed remains 260 km/h. In ‘Performance’

VIDEO: WELCOME THE FERRARI LUCE

mode, maximum power reaches 725 kW, all-wheel drive is permanent, and the car reaches a top speed of 310 km/h. The fiveposition Manettino, ranging from “Ice” to “ESC Off”, introduces a new “Dry” position that Ferrari says is ideal for everyday driving.

Samsung-developed OLED displays dominate the cockpit, while Ferrari’s new Vehicle Control Unit integrates powertrain and chassis systems, updating vehicle responses 200 times per second. The Luce also introduces a new connectivity ecosystem through the MyFerrari Luce app, providing remote battery preconditioning, charging management and route planning.

. . . THE LUCE PROJECT INCLUDES MORE THAN 60 NEW PATENTS THANKS TO THE DECISION TO ENGINEER, DEVELOP AND MANUFACTURE THE MAIN COMPONENTS OF THE EV IN-HOUSE.

Ferrari has always been synonymous with engineering excellence, and the company says that the Luce project includes more than 60 new patents thanks to the decision to engineer, develop and manufacture the main components of the EV in-house.

While the Luce signals Ferrari’s move into the high-performance EV segment, the company says it will remain committed to a 'multi-energy' strategy.

IONIQ 6 N DEBUTS AS HYUNDAI’S LATEST HIGHPERFORMANCE EV HERO

HYUNDAI HAS LAUNCHED the new IONIQ 6 N in Australia.

Powered by a dual-motor all-wheeldrive setup, the IONIQ 6 N produces 448kW and 740Nm in standard operation, rising to 478kW and 770Nm when the N Grin Boost –the feature that maximises the performance of the battery and motor for a certain period – function is activated. Hyundai claims the sedan can sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.2 seconds using N Launch Control, before reaching a top speed of 257km/h.

The front motor delivers 166kW and 350Nm, while the larger rear motor contributes 282kW and 390Nm. Energy comes via an 84kWh battery. With Hyundai’s 400V/800V multi-charging architecture enabling ultra-fast charging, the company says charging from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 18 minutes. WLTP driving range is rated at 487km.

HYUNDAI CLAIMS THE SEDAN CAN SPRINT FROM 0-100KM/H IN 3.2 SECONDS USING N LAUNCH CONTROL, BEFORE REACHING A TOP SPEED OF 257KM/H.

A whole bunch of tech helps the IONIQ 6 N be the performance monster it is. The upgraded N e-Shift system simulates close-ratio gear changes, complete with virtual shift jolts and matching audio effects through the N Active Sound+ system. Drivers can also fine-tune torque distribution, regenerative braking and drift characteristics through features such as N Drift Optimiser, N Torque Distribution and N Pedal mode.

Hyundai says that track capability has been enhanced through the N Battery feature, which optimises

battery temperature and output for drag racing, sprint laps or endurance driving scenarios. N Track Manager allows drivers to create custom circuits, record lap times and analyse driving performance in real time.

N-specific Pirelli P Zero 5 tyres.

Aerodynamic additions including a swan-neck rear wing generate up to 100kg of downforce while maintaining a low drag coefficient of 0.274.

Inside, the cabin sees lightweight N sports seats, Alcantara and leather trim, customisable N steering wheel controls and immersive ambient shift lighting.

Hyundai says the IONIQ 6 N delivers exceptional cornering precision through advanced, low roll-centre suspension geometry, technology such as stroke-sensing Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS) dampers, an e-LSD, and 20inch forged alloy wheels wrapped in

Safety technology includes Hyundai SmartSense systems such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Highway Driving Assist 2, while Bluelink connected services and over-the-air software updates are also available. The IONIQ 6 N is priced from $115,000 before on-road costs.

VIDEO: IONIQ 6 N WORLD PREMIERE

RECORD CROWD, WORLDCLASS INNOVATION AT COLLISION REPAIR & AFTERMARKET EXPOS

The 2026 Collision Repair Expo and Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo closed its doors after three landmark days at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, and the numbers tell the story.

WORDS: LARA WILDE | PHOTOS: LARA WILDE & COURTESY OF AAAA

WHEN

THE DOORS of the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre swung open on Thursday 14 May, the automotive trade descended on the city's iconic riverside venue in numbers that set a new benchmark for the Southern Hemisphere's biggest automotive industry gathering. By the time the final session wrapped on Saturday afternoon, the combined 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo and Collision Repair Expo had drawn 15,000 visitors across three days, setting a new attendance record for the event. For the Queensland industry stakeholders who made the trip south, it was three days well spent.

Organised by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) and operating under the theme ‘Driving What's Next’, the co-located expos once again proved their worth as a truly important gathering on the automotive trade calendar. Exhibiting more than 400 brands covering tools, workshop equipment, diagnostics, technology, parts, accessories and business solutions, the event

ORGANISED BY THE AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET ASSOCIATION (AAAA) AND OPERATING UNDER THE THEME ‘DRIVING WHAT'S NEXT’, THE CO-LOCATED EXPOS ONCE AGAIN PROVED THEIR WORTH AS A TRULY IMPORTANT GATHERING ON THE AUTOMOTIVE TRADE CALENDAR.

delivered free world-class training, live demonstrations, networking opportunities, and hands-on learning designed to help workshops and technicians stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry.

AAAA Chief Executive Officer Stuart Charity, himself honoured at this year's event for two decades of service to the industry, captured the mood on the floor.

"The 2026 Expo exceeded every expectation and has taken this event to another level entirely," he said. "The show

floor was buzzing for three straight days, exhibitors invested in spectacular displays, and the level of engagement, networking and business activity was exceptional."

If any single theme dominated conversations across both expo halls this year, it was the accelerating integration of advanced vehicle technology into everyday workshop operations. ADAS calibration, EV servicing capability, and sophisticated diagnostics were not fringe topics, they were the main event.

Several international trainers travelled to Melbourne for the event, including diagnostic experts Steve Smith from the UK, Scott Hicks from the USA, and Keith and Liz Perkins from the USA, giving attendees the opportunity to better understand ADAS technology and calibration processes, sensor systems, and vehicle diagnostics. For collision repairers

IF ANY SINGLE THEME DOMINATED CONVERSATIONS ACROSS BOTH EXPO HALLS THIS YEAR, IT WAS THE ACCELERATING INTEGRATION OF ADVANCED VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY INTO EVERYDAY WORKSHOP OPERATIONS.

in particular the ADAS conversation carried direct commercial urgency: workshops that cannot correctly calibrate safety systems after a structural repair face growing liability exposure, and the Expo's dedicated training zones addressed this head-on with practical, floor-level demonstrations.

The Diagnostic Discovery Zone proved one of the standout additions to this year's layout, presenting real-world diagnostic workflows and techniques in a hands-on format that resonated strongly with technicians hungry for practical upskilling. Alongside it, the ADAS Training Zone returned with live calibration demonstrations and expert-led sessions covering sensor systems and the documentation requirements that keep workshops both compliant and protected.

For the collision repair sector specifically, the Lowbake spray booth was once again a drawcard, combining live demonstrations of the latest paint systems and refinishing techniques with sessions on improving throughput and finish quality. The booth served as a focal point for body shop operators keen to evaluate new refinishing chemistry and equipment side by side.

New product launches and the latest innovations in workshop equipment, electrified drivetrain technologies,

The brand-new Diagnostic Discovery Zone proved one of the standout additions to this year's layout

performance products and business systems from Australia's leading suppliers and global brands ensured Expo visitors were, as Mr Charity noted, somewhat spoiled for choice.

MTA Queensland member Anne McClure, from McClure Refinishing, made the journey from Townsville to showcase her recently launched Vesta Workwear brand and its first product, the Apex spray-painting suit designed specifically for women. Visitors to the stand included shop owners, stockists, tradesmen and women, trainers, and distributors.

“During the manufacturing and development process, we decided that

being an exhibitor at the Expo was a nonnegotiable event to raise awareness of the brand and put the product in the hands of industry,” said Anne. “The event has been very worthwhile for us and we will be back again for sure.”

The Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards Breakfast, sponsored by RYCO Group and held on the opening morning, set the tone for the event, celebrating the companies delivering the industry's most creative new products, programs and campaigns. Among the standout recipients, FMP Group took out the Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product award in the Electrical category for its

Anne McClure from McClure Refinishing in Townsville was at the Collision Repair Expo to showcase her Vesta Workwear brand and the Apex spray-painting suit designed for women

Bendix brand, a home-grown success story that underlines the calibre of innovation coming out of Australian manufacturing. Adelaide-based Redarc Electronics was recognised with the Automotive Business Sustainability Award.

On Thursday evening, the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards Banquet brought together hundreds of industry leaders to celebrate outstanding achievement across manufacturing, exports, business leadership, workplace culture, education and community impact. Redarc would prove successful again in the Excellence in Manufacturing Award.

John Blanchard Junior from CoolDrive Auto Parts received the prestigious Outstanding Service to Industry Award, while Doug Steindl from Zeder Corporation was recognised with the Kim Aunger Young Achiever Award. Chelsea Lawson was awarded the Women at the Wheel Award, a timely recognition as the industry continues its efforts to broaden its talent base, and Clint Flower received the Automotive Education Excellence Award.

Three respected industry leaders were inducted into the AAAA Hall of Fame: Steve Broad, Shayne Quaile, and Allan Gray OAM, acknowledged for their decades of dedication and lasting impact on the Australian automotive aftermarket.

One of the most crowd-pleasing features

“THE SHOW FLOOR WAS BUZZING FOR THREE STRAIGHT DAYS, EXHIBITORS INVESTED IN SPECTACULAR DISPLAYS, AND THE LEVEL OF ENGAGEMENT, NETWORKING AND BUSINESS ACTIVITY WAS EXCEPTIONAL.”

of the combined Expos was the Flying Spanners Apprentice Challenge, sponsored by Burson Auto Parts. Automotive apprentices from workshops and Registered Training Organisations across the country competed head-to-head in timed, real-world mechanical tasks, with Brandon Booth from Bomaderry in NSW emerging as the 2026 champion.

For MTA Queensland members, the 2026 Expos delivered a clear-eyed view of where the industry is heading, practical training to navigate the transition, and meaningful connections with the suppliers and peers who will shape the next chapter.

The message from Melbourne was unambiguous. ADAS competency is a commercial necessity; EV servicing capability is coming faster than many anticipated; and the businesses that invest in their people, their equipment and their customer relationships are the ones walking away from expos like this with genuine competitive advantage.

"The Expo brings the industry together like nothing else," said Mr Charity, "Connecting workshop owners, technicians, collision repairers, manufacturers, suppliers and industry leaders face-to-face to share ideas and invest in the future of the industry."

The next Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo and Collision Repair Expo will be held in 2028.

MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVE RESONATES WITH NZ COLLISION REPAIRERS

THE ‘DON’T SHUT THE BONNET ON IT’ mental health initiative has been showcased to collision repair professionals from across New Zealand at the Collision Repair Association (CRA) Conference in Melbourne.

Held at The Langham hotel alongside the AAAA Collision Repair Expo, the conference brought together more than 200 collision repair business owners and industry professionals from New Zealand.

As part of the conference program, Ben Chesterfield – Manager of Car Craft Accident Repair Centres Queensland, Chair of MTA Queensland’s National Auto Collision Alliance Committee and a driving force behind the initiative – delivered a presentation highlighting the partnership between MTA Queensland and TradeMutt, the social impact workwear brand known for its eye-catching shirts and mental health advocacy.

Together, the organisations developed the custom automotive-themed TradeMutt shirt - emblazoned with the slogan ‘Don’t Shut the Bonnet On It’ across the back – which is designed to encourage people working in the automotive industry to start conversations about mental health.

During the session, Ben highlighted the importance of reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and the role that open conversations can play in creating safer, stronger and more supportive workplaces.

The presentation struck a chord with delegates and generated strong and overwhelmingly positive feedback.

“I had a bloke come up to me later at the Collision Repair Expo and ask if I could repeat the last sentences from my presentation because he wanted to write them down,” said Ben.

“I told him that they were ‘Express it, don’t suppress it’; ‘Changing lives one conversation at a time’; ‘Make the invisible impossible to ignore’; and ‘Don’t shut the bonnet on it’.”

Another attendee told Ben they had been very moved when he had asked delegates how many people in the room had been affected by mental health issues in some way.

. . . BEN HIGHLIGHTED THE IMPORTANCE OF REDUCING THE STIGMA SURROUNDING MENTAL HEALTH AND THE ROLE THAT OPEN CONVERSATIONS CAN PLAY IN CREATING SAFER, STRONGER AND MORE SUPPORTIVE WORKPLACES.

“Pretty much everyone put their hand up,” he said.

For Ben, the initiative is personal and driven by a desire to see the automotive industry better support its people.

“Somebody told me at the Collision Repair Expo that the shirts aren’t very flattering,” he said. “I replied that he was right, they’re not, but then I turned around so he could see the back and he realised why. He said, ‘Oh, I get it,’ and I said, ‘So it’s worked, hasn’t it. It started a conversation’.

“That’s exactly what the shirts are supposed to do.”

Ben Chesterfield at the Collision Repair Association (CRA) Conference in Melbourne

NOW AVAILABLE

MITSUBISHI EXPANDS TRITON RANGE WITH NEW RAIDER FLAGSHIP

MITSUBISHI’S NEW AUSTRALIANENGINEERED Triton Raider flagship dual-cab ute is set to arrive in dealerships this month.

Developed in partnership with engineering specialist Premcar, the Triton Raider is based on the updated 2026 Triton GSR and undergoes a second-stage manufacturing process aimed at enhancing off-road capability and ride control for Australian conditions.

Mitsubishi says the Raider has been extensively engineered with revised suspension tuning forming a key part of the package. Premcar developed a unique front and rear damper setup, including an internal rebound spring in the front dampers designed to maximise suspension control and improve wheel composure on rough surfaces.

Ride height has been increased, with a 25mm lift at the front and 15mm at the rear, while front and rear tracks also increased by 20mm overall. The Raider rides on Bridgestone AT002 all-terrain tyres fitted to heavy-duty 18-inch ROH Assault alloy wheels finished in Brushed Bronze.

Brushed Bronze is also adopted to colour the ‘Sandstorm’ side decals, with Raider badging applied to the rear tailgate.

Other pieces, sourced from Mitsubishi Motors’ global catalogue, include the ‘Dark Warm Grey’ front garnish, while the Mitsubishi Genuine Accessories catalogue yielded the upgraded side protection bars and sports bar, with the addition of unique red inserts.

. . . THE TRITON RAIDER IS BASED ON THE UPDATED 2026 TRITON GSR AND UNDERGOES A SECOND-STAGE MANUFACTURING

PROCESS

AIMED AT ENHANCING OFF-ROAD CAPABILITY AND RIDE CONTROL FOR AUSTRALIAN CONDITIONS .

The strengthened underbody protection is also finished in red, with Raider identifying lettering, while the chrome grille emblem contrasts with the black grille and under garnish.

Four colour options are available at launch: White Diamond, Black Mica, Blade Silver and Graphite Grey.

Inside, the cabin builds on the high-spec Triton GSR with black leather trim, orange stitching and bespoke Raider branding throughout the interior.

The Triton Raider is priced from $74,990 driveaway.

Mitsubishi Triton Raider

HONDA PRELUDE RETURNS TO AUSTRALIA WITH HYBRID POWER

THE HONDA PRELUDE has returned to Australia, with the iconic sports coupe’s returning as a grand touring hybrid coupe.

Available in one trim level, the sixthgeneration Prelude is powered by Honda’s latest e:HEV two-motor hybrid powertrain, pairing a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with dual electric motors and a 72cell lithium-ion battery pack. The system produces 135kW and 315Nm.

Honda says the hybrid system automatically switches between EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive modes to maximise efficiency and performance depending on driving conditions. The Prelude also introduces a new ‘coasting’

mode, allowing the car to glide with minimal regenerative braking.

A highlight in the new Prelude is the S+ Shift system, which Honda says simulates the feel and sound of a traditional performance transmission despitethe Prelude not using a conventional multiratio gearbox or CVT. Controlled through steering wheel paddles, the system recreates throttle response, rev matching and other characteristics that, the company says, enhances the 'joy of driving.’

The Prelude’s chassis borrows from the Honda Civic Type R, including its dualaxis front suspension setup designed to reduce torque steer and improve steering precision under hard cornering. There’s

Stopping performance comes from a bespoke Brembo brake package paired with lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels and specially tuned Continental tyres aimed at balancing grip, comfort and reduced cabin noise.

also a multi-link rear suspension system, adaptive dampers and specially tuned electric power steering.

Technology is another major focus. The Prelude features Google Built-In connectivity with integrated Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play Store functionality, alongside wireless smartphone integration and the new Honda Connect Gen2 app with Digital Key capability. A 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster changes graphics depending on the selected drive mode and S+ Shift operation.

Safety equipment includes the latest Honda SENSING suite featuring adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, collision mitigation braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and traffic jam assist.

The new Prelude also incorporates Honda’s G-CON collision structure technology and 10 airbags, including front knee airbags and rear side airbags.

The new Honda Prelude is priced from $65,000 driveaway.

Honda Prelude

GWM INTRODUCES AUSTRALIAN-TUNED TANK

500 HI4-T PHEV

GWM HAS ANNOUNCED a series of Australian-specific upgrades for the 2026 Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV, introducing its new AT-1 localisation program aimed at improving ride, handling and overall usability for local customers.

Central to the AT-1 package is a revised suspension and steering calibration developed specifically for local conditions. GWM says the changes include upgraded damper tuning and revised steering settings.

In addition to the dynamic updates, the latest model now gains a new 220V power outlet in the rear cargo area, enhancing the vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.

CENTRAL TO THE AT-1 PACKAGE IS A REVISED SUSPENSION AND STEERING CALIBRATION DEVELOPED SPECIFICALLY FOR LOCAL CONDITIONS. .

GWM said the AT-1 updates reflected the company’s ongoing focus on refining its products to better meet the expectations of local buyers seeking premium comfort, advanced technology and genuine off-road capability in an electrified package.

The updated MY2026 Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV applies to vehicles built from March 2026 onwards. The regular driveaway price for the AT-1-equipped model is $79,990.

Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV

MG EXPANDS EV RANGE WITH NEW MGS6 ELECTRIC SUV

MG MOTOR AUSTRALIA has expanded its electric vehicle lineup with the new MGS6 EV, a mid-size electric SUV.

Available in two variants - the Essence rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and the Essence all-wheel-drive (AWD) – the new model joins MG’s comprehensive EV range which includes the MG4, MGS5 EV, IM5, IM6 and Cyberster.

The MGS6 EV Essence AWD produces 266kW from a dual-motor drivetrain and can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.1 seconds. The rear-wheel-drive variant develops 180kW and completes the sprint in 7.3 seconds.

Driving range is rated at up to 530 kilometres WLTP for the RWD model and 485 kilometres for the AWD version. Both variants support rapid charging, allowing a 10-80 per cent recharge in 38 minutes using a 150kW DC fast charger. The SUV also features a heat pump, One Pedal Mode and adjustable regenerative braking technology. Measuring 4708mm

long and riding on MacPherson front and multi-link rear suspension, the MGS6 EV IS rated for 750kg unbraked and 1500kg braked towing. It offers 581 litres of boot space, expanding to 1,690 litres with the rear seats folded. That space is complemented by an 86 litre frunk in the MGS6 EV Essence RWD and a 67 litre frunk in the MGS6 EV Essence AWD. Fitted are 20 inch alloy wheels with low wind resistance caps.

DRIVING RANGE IS RATED AT UP TO 530 KILOMETRES WLTP FOR THE RWD MODEL AND 485 KILOMETRES FOR THE AWD VERSION. BOTH VARIANTS SUPPORT RAPID

CHARGING,

ALLOWING A 10-80 PER CENT RECHARGE IN 38 MINUTES USING A 150KW DC FAST CHARGER.

Inside, the cabin features heated and ventilated vegan leather seats, ambient lighting, an 11-speaker sound system and dual digital displays consisting of a 12.8-inch touchscreen and 10.25-inch driver display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a head-up display and integrated connected services are also included.

Safety technology includes MG Pilot driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, active emergency braking and a 360-degree camera system. The MGS6 EV is now available in MG dealerships with pricing seeing the MGS6 EV Essence RWD at $49,990 drive away and the MGS6 EV Essence AWD at $56,990 drive away.

New vehicle sales

ELECTRIFIED SALES SURGE AS CONSUMER PREFERENCES SHIFT

AUSTRALIANS ARE RAPIDLY changing the type of vehicles they buy, with new-vehicle sales data published by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) revealing that May was a blockbuster month for electrified vehicles.

Zero and Low Emission Vehicles (ZLEVs) - battery electric vehicles (BEVs), hybrid vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) - accounted for 46 per cent of new vehicle sales during the month.

BEVs accounted for a record 20 per cent of all new vehicle sales from all sources during May 2026, marking the highest monthly market share recorded to date. Topping that was the news that the Tesla Model Y, with sales of 5605 for the month, became the first BEV to top the sales list.

The Ford Ranger (4474 sales) was in second place on the list with the Toyota HiLux (4005), Toyota Rav 4 (3865), Hyundai Kona (2291), Hyundai Tucson (2287), Omoda Jaecoo J5 (2172), Chery Tiggo 4 Pro (2123), Isuzu D-Max (1916), Ford Everest (1876) filling out the other spots in the top 10.

VFACTS data from the FCAI showed Australians purchased 100,206 new vehicles during May, with overall sales declining by 4.8 per cent compared with May 2025.

FCAI chief executive Tony Weber said the results demonstrated the pace of consumer adoption of loweremission technologies in response to an international shock.

“The shift is particularly evident in the SUV segment, where consumer preferences are changing rapidly. Today’s SUV buyer is increasingly choosing hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric options,” he said.

In the dominant SUV segment, EVs were up 167 per cent compared with May 2025 and plug-in hybrids increased by 377 per cent, while sales of petrol SUVs declined by 31 per cent and diesel models fell by 41 per cent over the same period.

Toyota remained Australia’s leading brand during May with 16,342 sales, followed by BYD (8,211), Ford (7,195), Hyundai (7,007)

ZERO AND LOW EMISSION VEHICLES

(ZLEVS) - BATTERY ELECTRIC VEHICLES (BEVS), HYBRID VEHICLES AND PLUG-IN HYBRID VEHICLES (PHEV) - ACCOUNTED FOR 46 PER CENT OF NEW VEHICLE SALES DURING THE MONTH.

and Kia (6,761). Emerging brands continued to record strong growth, reflecting increasing competition across the market.

BYD increased sales by 155 per cent compared with May 2025, while Omoda Jaecoo recorded growth of 729 per cent and Geely increased sales by 416 per cent.

QUEENSLAND’S ELECTRIC SHIFT

In Queensland, ZLEVs captured nearly 40 per cent of all new vehicle sales across the state.

Data revealed 8,313 ZLEVs - comprising battery electric (BEV), hybrid, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models - were sold in Queensland during May 2026, representing 39.8 per cent of total new vehicle sales for the month. Year-to-date, ZLEVs account for 34.3 per cent of all new Queensland vehicle sales in 2026.

MTA Queensland CEO Rod Camm said the figures represent an accelerating shift in consumer behaviour amid growing global events.

“What we’re seeing in these numbers is not a temporary fluctuation – it's a fundamental reshaping of our industry and what Queenslanders are seeking to drive,” said Mr Camm.

“Nearly two in every five new vehicles sold in Queensland last month featured an electrified drivetrain. That’s a remarkable shift, and it reflects the growing confidence consumers have in the technology, the expanding range of

models available, and the very real pressures that volatile fuel costs are placing on household budgets.”

Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) alone accounted for 13.1 per cent of the Queensland market in May, representing 2,728 sales and a 131.6 per cent increase on May 2025. PHEV sales grew even more drastically, up 170 per cent year-on-year to 1,781 units (9 per cent of the market), while hybrid sales rose 8 per cent to 3,804 units.

The SUV segment continues to drive electrification, with 6,705 electrified SUVs sold in Queensland last month, comprising over 50 per cent of all SUV sales for the month.

“The choice for Queensland consumers has never been

broader,” said Mr Camm.

“Whether it’s an affordable small SUV, a family hybrid wagon, or a high-specification electric vehicle, the market has matured considerably. The question for many buyers is no longer whether to go electric, but which electrified vehicle suits them best.”

Despite the buoyancy in ZLEV sales, the broader Queensland new vehicle market remains under pressure. A total of 20,885 new vehicles were sold in the state during May 2026, down 8.9 per cent compared to May 2025. Year-todate, Queensland sales of 102,035 are 2.1 per cent behind the same period in 2025.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

TO MORE THAN 25,000 PEOPLE DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN THE MOTORING INDUSTRY (WEBSITE OR E-MAGAZINE OPTIONS)

Workplace relations

ANNUAL WAGE REVIEW

2026: PRACTICAL GUIDANCE FOR AUTOMOTIVE EMPLOYERS

BEN SWAN DIRECTOR WORKPLACE RELATIONS

WHAT HAS CHANGED?

The Fair Work Commission has issued its Annual Wage Review 2026 decision. The key outcome for automotive industry employers is that most modern award minimum wage rates will increase by 4.75% from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2026.

For MTA Queensland members, the main awards likely to require attention are the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020 and, for clerical, payroll, reception and administrative roles where applicable, the Clerks - Private Sector Award 2020. Employers should not assume that an above-award salary, loaded rate or annualised arrangement remains compliant simply because it was compliant last financial year. The new rates may also affect overtime, penalty rates, leave payments, casual loadings and any set-off calculations used in employment contracts.

FOR MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERS, THE MAIN AWARDS LIKELY TO REQUIRE ATTENTION ARE THE VEHICLE REPAIR, SERVICES AND RETAIL AWARD 2020 AND . . . THE CLERKSPRIVATE SECTOR AWARD 2020.

NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE: IMPORTANT, BUT USUALLY NOT THE MAIN RATE FOR MEMBERS

The National Minimum Wage will increase to $1004.90 per week, or $26.44 per hour. The Commission made clear that the National Minimum Wage has limited practical operation because it applies only to employees in the national system who are not covered by a modern award or enterprise agreement.

Most automotive employers should therefore focus on the applicable award classification and the employee’s actual duties. A mechanic, apprentice, vehicle salesperson, parts interpreter, service adviser, cleaner, driveway attendant, console operator or clerical employee may sit under different provisions. Getting the classification wrong can quickly flow through to underpayments.

C13 AND C14 CLASSIFICATIONS: WATCH THE BOTTOM OF THE AWARD STRUCTURES

This year’s decision does more than apply a general percentage increase. The Commission has begun a structural adjustment to the lowest award rates. The lowest modern award rate for ongoing employment will now be at least $1004.90 per week or $26.44 per hour. An entry-level rate that applies for no more than the first six months of employment will be at least $978.10 per week or $25.74 per hour.

This change is part of a staged process to phase out C13 rates as the lowest ongoing award classification and move the system towards the C12 rate as the lowest ongoing rate. The Commission indicated that this will occur in three stages, with later stages expected to be considered in future reviews. The Vehicle Award was specifically identified as one of the modern awards with C13 classifications among the top 10 award-reliant awards. Employers using entry-level or lowerlevel classifications should check whether any employee is affected by the new minimum floors.

ALLOWANCES AND PAYROLL SETTINGS

Employers should also review allowances. Wage-related allowances, such as allowances calculated as a percentage of the relevant standard rate, will adjust when the standard rate changes. Expense-related allowances are handled differently - the Vehicle Award and Clerks Award contain CPI-based adjustment formulas for items such as meal, tool, laundry and vehicle or travel allowances. This means employers should use the updated award determinations and MTAQ Wage Guides rather than applying a flat 4.75% increase to every allowance.

Employers should check payroll templates, rostering systems, apprentice rates, junior rates, casual rates, overtime formulas, penalty rates, leave loading, annualised wage reconciliations and any salary offset arrangements. A small payroll error repeated over a full year can become a larger compliance issue.

WHY DID THE COMMISSION LAND AT 4.75%?

The Commission described the decision as a balancing exercise. It considered inflation, the needs of low-paid employees, the performance and competitiveness of the economy, business conditions, gender equality and workforce participation.

The Commission noted that award-reliant employees’ real wages remain below where they were before the post-pandemic inflation spike. However, it also pointed to uncertain economic conditions, including higher inflation, recent interest rate rises and disruption to oil supplies arising from the Middle East conflict. The result was a wage increase designed to prevent award-reliant employees from falling further behind in real terms, while avoiding a larger increase that the Commission considered difficult to justify in current conditions.

The structural adjustment to C13 and C14 rates gives the lowest-paid employees a higher increase than the general 4.75% adjustment. This is intended to provide extra support at the bottom of the award system while preserving broader award relativities for higher classifications.

WHAT SHOULD EMPLOYERS DO NOW?

Automotive employers should act early. The practical steps are to identify the award and classification for each employee, apply the new rates from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2026, update allowances, and check whether any annualised salary or above-award payment still leaves the employee better off overall. Employers should keep a written record of the review, including the classifications applied and the basis for any set-off or salary assessment.

MTA Queensland members should refer to the updated MTAQ Wage Guides through the MTA Queensland Member Portal and seek advice if unsure about award coverage, classifications, apprentices, juniors, casual employees, or salary arrangements.

The information in this article is general and does not constitute legal advice. For more information, or any other workplace relations advice and assistance, contact MTAQ on 07 3237 8777.

WHAT IS THE VALUE OF MEMBERSHIP?

EVENTS & PROGRAMS

• Golf Day

• Auto Women

• Carmageddon

• Industry Awards Gala

INSTANT VALUE

• Workplace Health & Safety Audit

• Workplace Relations Consultation

• Insurance Review

• EFTPOS Comparison

• Energy Audit

BESPOKE MEMBERSHIP FEE

SKILLS

EXTENSION & TRAINING

• MTA Institute (RTO31529) provides leading industry training

• Online industry courses

• Webinars

UNLIMITED WORKPLACE SUPPORT SERVICES

INDUSTRY REPRESENTATION TO GOVERNMENT

MTA Institute News

MARCELLO RIOTTO DIRECTOR, STRATEGY & CAPABILITY GROWTH

AS HYBRID ELECTRIC vehicles (HEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accelerate into the mainstream, the capability of the workforce will directly influence how quickly - and confidently - this transition succeeds.

Manufacturers are responding to consumer demand for cleaner, more efficient transport and are introducing BEVs, HEVs and PHEVs, slowly shifting away from internal combustion engines. Yet, while sales are growing, a critical gap remains: the industry’s readiness to service, repair, and support these advanced vehicles.

This is where targeted, accredited training becomes essential.

Why should accredited training be chosen over nonaccredited? Accredited training - particularly that delivered by a regulated Registered Training Organisation - is strongly preferred over non accredited training because it guarantees quality, consistency, safety, and industry recognition.

The MTA Institute (MTAI) has been at the forefront of preparing technicians for this shift since 2012. Through nationally accredited programs in HEV and BEV inspection, servicing, and safety, the MTAI equips professionals with the practical skills needed to work confidently with high-voltage systems, diagnostics, and emerging technologies.

Importantly, BEV and HEV systems are not just an evolution, they’re a transformation. Working on these vehicles involves complex and potentially dangerous electrical systems that cannot be mastered through informal, on-the-job learning alone. Without proper training, workshops risk turning away customers, limiting growth at a time when opportunity is expanding.

BUSINESSES THAT INVEST IN UPSKILLING THROUGH MTAI ARE POSITIONING THEMSELVES TO CAPITALISE ON INCREASING ELECTRIFIED VEHICLE ADOPTION.

Businesses that invest in upskilling through MTAI are positioning themselves to capitalise on increasing electrified vehicle adoption. They gain access to the knowledge required to safely service vehicles, comply with new industry regulations, and build customer trust in a high-growth segment.

By embracing this specialised training, industry can not only keep pace with change but lead it. Be sure to visit MTAIAutomotive Industry Courses and Training and explore all the products on offer.

Beyond capability, accredited training also strengthens market positioning. Initiatives such as EV Ready from MTA Queensland demonstrate how businesses can translate training into visible customer confidence. The program recognises workshops that are properly trained, equipped, and committed to safe EV servicing, helping them stand out as trusted providers in a rapidly growing market.

Apprentice of the Month: May 2026

The MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month is proudly sponsored by CareSuper

APPRENTICE:

NATHAN PICOT

APPRENTICESHIP:

AUTOMOTIVE SALES (PARTS INTERPRETING)

WORKPLACE:

TVH AUSTRALIA

NATHAN PICOT

IS the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for May 2026.

The third-year Parts Interpreting apprentice works for TVH Australia in Brisbane and the award reflects not only on his commitment and work ethic, but also the depth of knowledge and leadership he brings to his workplace. At 45 years of age, Nathan is proving the value of continuous learning and professional development.

His automotive journey began in 1996 when he started a light vehicle apprenticeship straight out of school with his father's business, C&G Mechanical, a South East Queensland operation specialising in forklifts, wool bale presses, agricultural equipment and other industrial machinery.

From there, Nathan completed his light vehicles apprenticeship and also his heavy commercial vehicle training with global supply-chain logistics business Brambles before embarking on a long career working on forklifts and industrial equipment. Roles with Crown Equipment, Adaptalift, Spitwater and Komatsu Forklift followed, giving him extensive experience as both a technician and field service specialist.

Today, Nathan works for TVH Australia, a global supplier of replacement parts and accessories for material handling, industrial and agricultural equipment.

It has been an interesting career journey and the move to Parts Interpreting represents a natural progression for someone who has always enjoyed the challenge of finding the right solution.

"We get calls from forklift companies, people that own excavators, tractors - we touch on basically anything to do with industrial, agricultural and small earthmoving equipment," said Nathan.

His role involves researching parts catalogues, identifying the correct components, preparing quotations, managing warranty and

returns processes and providing technical advice to customers across Queensland.

That technical knowledge stems directly from his years spent on the tools.

When customers call with fault codes or equipment issues, Nathan is often able to draw on his practical experience to point them in the right direction, helping minimise downtime and ensuring they receive the correct parts.

His broad background has also made him a valuable resource within the business. Working as part of an eightperson team, Nathan can assist colleagues with technical enquiries and help identify additional components that may be required when preparing quotes.

The Parts Interpreting role suits someone with an inquisitive nature and Nathan has long had that characteristic.

"It stems back from an early childhood thing. I used to be fascinated with things like refidexes and flicking through them, and looking at books and researching," said Nathan.

He added that along with appealing to his analytical mind, the role was satisfying because it enabled him to help people solve problems.

"Absolutely. One hundred per cent," he said when asked if helping customers motivates him. "Getting the gratitude from those people . . . it really does make your day."

With a career that will see him soon complete his third apprenticeship, Nathan may not be done even then with his professional development and he credits TVH Australia for providing a supportive environment in which to continue that journey.

"There is certainly a lot of support and guidance for the team," he said. "We also get along really well, which is another big thing."

Looking ahead, while he is content in his current role, Nathan remains open to further developing his career.

“I'm happy to be where I am at the moment, but, maybe further down the track, who knows? I could go and do other business courses to maybe just future-proof myself.”

His recognition as MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for May 2026 highlights the value of lifelong learning and demonstrates that apprenticeships can be just as rewarding for experienced industry professionals as they are for those just starting their careers.

• Are you employing an apprentice who is excelling in the workplace?

• Do you have a high-achieving apprentice colleague?

If the answer is ‘yes’, then nominate them for the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month Award.

• Are they training with MTA Institute? CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

MTA Institute Graduates

CONGRATULATIONS

TO THE MTA INSTITUTE’S LATEST GRADUATES

THE MTA INSTITUTE is the largest independent provider of automotive apprenticeships and training in Queensland and it is always a proud moment when its

APPRENTICE

QUALIFICATION

students complete their trade qualification. Congratulations to everyone who was issued a qualification in May 2026. It's a fantastic achievement!

Benjamin Feather Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology

Jackson Craig Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Clinten Cook Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Lachlan Jones Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Ryan Norris Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Jesse Thompson Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Andrew Coombs Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Jamie Elliott Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Benjamin Pugh Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Mitchell Woodley Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Lachlan Bidstrup Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Robert Cahill Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Simon Truffa Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Aaron Powell Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Kylie Kennedy Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Jessie Dagg Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Andy Vuong Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Aidan Mackaway Certificate III in Automotive Underbody Technology

Jesse McNally Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Luke Iles Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Jesse Bowen-Dix Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Max Podjursky Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Connor McMahon Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Decy Jones Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Peter Heinemann Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Joshua Murphy Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Seth Hunt Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Samuel Cufari Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Blaze Wells Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Elijah Maihi Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Nicholas Snow Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Ashton Koski Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Dylan Evans Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Lachlan Dowsett Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Matthew Ransom Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Zander Kebbell Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Lachlan Smith Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Spencer Joyce Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Reece Hanslow Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Joshua Zirbel Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Cody Hodder Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Corey Catania Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Tallas Hannay Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Janusz Wiadrowski Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Andrew Stokes Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Omer Sari Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Joshua Ross Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology

Thomas McCall Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology

Luke Huxham Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology

TRAINER

Terry Palfrey

Derrick Pratt

Jens Puder

Samuel Lawson

Adrian Renton

Keith Minchin

Keith Minchin

Bruce McLeish

Adrian Renton

Gareth Hartley

Andrew Elson

Antony Joslin

Jason McCann

Gareth Hartley

Patrick Cranitch

Keiran Charters

Patrick Cranitch

Derrick Pratt

Wayne Fitzgerald

Scott Buckley

Steve Adams

Steve Adams

Gareth Hartley

Lindsay Hollyman

Sol Layland

Sol Layland

Andrew Keys

Steve Adams

James Dixon

Derrick Pratt

James Westerman

James Dixon

Keith Minchin

Simon Verkroost

James Dixon

Stephen Blaauw

Simon Verkroost

Keith Minchin

Terry Palfrey

Grahame Phillips

James Ortiz

Scott Buckley

Andrew Keys

Scott Buckley

Jens Puder

Stephen Baker

Turlough (TeeKay) Khabibulin

Sol Layland

Turlough (TeeKay) Khabibulin

HELP FINDING STAFF?

At MTA Queensland, our Industry Initiatives Team works alongside automotive businesses across Queensland to help them grow, diversify, and future-proof their workforce.

Whether you’re looking for entry-level staff, eager new apprentices, or to establish longterm workforce planning in your organisation, we deliver tailored, practical solutions to help your business thrive – and ensure the industry stays competitive, diverse, and future-ready.

Providing tailored solutions to small and medium employers, helping to address challenges, diversify their workforce, and support productivity growth.

Collaborating with Industry and Government to create sustainable career pathways into the automotive industry.

Promoting automotive careers to young people and job seekers through events, engagement programs, and hands-on industry experiences.

MTA QUEENSLAND LAUNCHES GROUNDBREAKING TRY A TRADE PROGRAM

MTA QUEENSLAND HAS delivered Queensland’s first career exploration program to immerse secondary students in five distinct automotive trades simultaneously – combining collision repair, light vehicle, heavy vehicle and electric vehicle technology streams under a single, industry-backed program for the very first time.

A cohort of Year 10 students from The Industry School spent five days moving through professional workshop environments, working with industrygrade tools and techniques across each stream – gaining the kind of direct, practical exposure that has historically been unavailable to students at this stage of their education.

Delivered by the MTA Institute (MTAI) as Queensland’s largest private provider of automotive apprenticeships and training, and funded through Auto Skills Queensland (ASQ) – a coalition of the state’s peak automotive industry bodies – the program represents a landmark

THERE IS NO OTHER PROGRAM IN QUEENSLAND THAT GIVES STUDENTS HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE ACROSS THIS RANGE OF AUTOMOTIVE TRADES IN A SINGLE WEEK.

moment in Queensland’s approach to automotive workforce development.

MTA Queensland CEO Rod Camm said the program sets a new standard for how the industry engages with the next generation.

“There is no other program in Queensland that gives students hands-on experience across this range of automotive trades in a single week,” said Mr Camm.

“We designed Try a Trade to be different by intention. Not a presentation, not a tour – real tools, real workshops, real skills. Because the best way to inspire the next generation of automotive professionals is to show them exactly what this industry looks and feels like from the inside.”

Traditional school-based career exploration programs in the automotive space have long focused on light vehicle mechanics – leaving vast and rewarding areas of the industry invisible to students choosing their futures. MTA Queensland’s Try a Trade program was built to change that. The decision to incorporate Automotive Refinishing (Paint) and Automotive Body Repair (Panel) alongside mechanical and emerging technology streams is what makes this program without precedent.

Collision repair trades demand a rare combination of technical precision, structural knowledge and creative skill – yet they are consistently absent from career education at the secondary level. For the students who rotated through panel and paint last week, it was an industry-first experience: professional training in disciplines they had never had the opportunity to encounter.

Equally significant is the inclusion of Electric Vehicle Technology as a dedicated stream. As Queensland’s roads continue to electrify at pace, demand for EV-trained technicians is accelerating well ahead of supply. By embedding this stream in a program designed for Year 10 students, MTA Queensland is building awareness – and appetite – for EV careers at exactly the right moment.

“From paint and panel to electric vehicles, these students have experienced a cross-section of our industry that many qualified tradespeople haven’t encountered,” said Mr Camm.

“THIS IS INDUSTRY-LEADING BECAUSE IT HAS TO BE. THE AUTOMOTIVE WORKFORCE WE NEED IN 10 YEARS DOESN’T EXIST YET – AND PROGRAMS LIKE THIS ARE HOW WE BUILD IT.”

“This is industry-leading because it has to be. The automotive workforce we need in 10 years doesn’t exist yet – and programs like this are how we build it.”

The program’s reach and credibility are reflected in the coalition that stands behind it. Auto Skills Queensland (ASQ) – which funded the program – brings together the state’s most influential automotive industry bodies, including the Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA), representing Queensland’s heavy transport and logistics sector, the Institute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers (IAME), the professional body for automotive engineers and technicians, and the Construction & Mining Equipment Group (CMEIG), the voice for all construction and mining equipment manufacturers, importers, dealers, and attachment suppliers. Their collective endorsement positions Try a Trade not as a standalone initiative, but as a program the entire industry has invested in.

“When industry comes together like this to invest in the next generation, it sends a powerful message to students: there is a place for you in this industry, and we are actively building it for you.”

MTA Queensland’s Try a Trade program is a direct expression of its commitment to leading that transformation – ensuring Queensland’s future workforce is not only skilled, but inspired.

“Workforce development doesn’t begin when someone signs an apprenticeship agreement,” said Mr Camm. “It begins with a moment in a workshop when a student picks up a tool for the first time and thinks: I could do this. I want to do this. MTA Queensland is committed to creating those moments – because that’s where the future of our industry begins.”

Solve your labour shortage with Automotive

Jobs Queensland... your direct line to a wider pool of active job-seekers

GET PEOPLE HERE HIRE THE PEOPLE YOU NEED

Automotive Jobs Queensland is a jobs marketplace where Queensland automotive employers can find, attract and hire local and international job-seekers with greater ease and impact.

Powered by WorkinAUS, whose market-leading technology matches thousands of local and international jobseekers to employers each month, Automotive Jobs Queensland makes it easier for automotive employers to connect with talent and fill roles.

Find the talent you need now, with streamlined hiring tools, industry-first compliance tools and features such as video to attract more talent to your job ads.

FEATURES

APPLICANT TRACKING SYSTEM (ATS) INTEGRATION – post directly to WorkinAUS from your ATS

MULTI-POSTING – post to WorkinAUS and other national job boards, including Workforce Australia, in a single step, backed by easy labour market testing (LMT) reports

AI INTEGRATION - save time writing your job post by inputting key criteria for the AI Job Writing Tool to create a job ad in seconds

BUILT-IN VIDEO – record simple, authentic job profiling videos with the help of the teleprompter tool

A SIMPLE WORKFLOW – manage each step, from posting to application processing, via a simple dashboard

A COMPANY JOB BOARD – create your own video-enabled job board featuring your logo, brand colours and more

30 days per ad

Stay while you love it

Exit when you need

Options include: Pay as you go Subscription Enterprise account

MTA QUEENSLAND ANNOUNCES 2026 VET TRAINER SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

TWO AUTOMOTIVE PROFESSIONALS are set to advance their careers in the training sector, with MTA Queensland announcing the recipients of its 2026 Round 1 VET Trainer Scholarship. Congratulations to Rowan Brunjes from ASR Collision Specialists and Maud-Ellen Berge from SEQ Campers!

The VET Trainer Scholarship provides trade-qualified automotive professionals with the opportunity to undertake a fully funded TAE40122 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, valued at over $3,000. Launched in 2021 to help address the industry's skills shortage, the scholarship has now supported 18 individuals towards their goal of becoming qualified automotive trainers.

Rowan Brunjes is a qualified Automotive Refinishing Technician with over 12 years of experience in the smash repair industry. Now serving as Production Manager at ASR Collision Specialists in Smithfield, Rowan has built a reputation for excellence in his trade and a genuine commitment to developing the next generation of automotive professionals. In addition to managing workflow and maintaining quality standards, Rowan has spent several years mentoring apprentices on the workshop floor, teaching not only the technical skills of the trade but the work ethic, accountability, and pride that define a respected tradesperson.

“I AM INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL TO RECEIVE THIS SCHOLARSHIP AND TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO FORMALISE MY PASSION FOR MENTORING AND TRAINING.”

"I am incredibly grateful to receive this scholarship and to have the opportunity to formalise my passion for mentoring and training,” said Rowan. “Having come up through the trade myself, I know firsthand how much of a difference the right guidance can make to a young apprentice's career. I look forward to building on the experience I have gained as a Production Manager and using this qualification to make a real and lasting contribution to the next generation of automotive professionals."

Maud-Ellen Berge brings a remarkable breadth of experience to her role at SEQ Campers in Marcoola, where she

has been part of the sales team for over six years. Holding an MBA, a Master of International Business, and a Master of Philosophy in Ethics, as well as qualifications across parts interpretation, caravan sales, and servicing, Maud-Ellen is deeply committed to opening pathways for others.

A former Auto Women Executive Ready Scholarship recipient, she has continued to build her leadership capabilities alongside her work at SEQ Campers and is eager to use the VET Trainer Scholarship to bring her skills to the next generation - particularly women entering the automotive industry.

Rowan Brunjes

“I am thrilled to receive this scholarship and to have the opportunity to further develop my skills in training and assessment,” said Maud-Ellen. “The automotive industry has given me so much over the years, and I am eager to give back, particularly by helping to create pathways for more women to enter and thrive in this industry. I look forward to putting the knowledge gained through this qualification to work for both SEQ Campers and the broader automotive community.”

MTA Queensland CEO Rod Camm said the two recipients exemplify the kind of passionate, experienced professionals the scholarship was designed to support.

"MTA Queensland is dedicated to advancing the careers of individuals in the automotive industry, and to date we have supported eighteen individuals through our VET Trainer Scholarship program. Rowan and Maud-Ellen both bring exceptional experience, a clear commitment to their trade, and a genuine desire to give back. As the automotive sector continues to face skills shortages, it is crucial that we invest in motivated professionals like these two, who are ready to help train the next generation."

Through the scholarship, Rowan and Maud-Ellen will undertake their TAE40122 Certificate IV in Training and

“I AM THRILLED TO RECEIVE THIS SCHOLARSHIP AND TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO FURTHER DEVELOP MY SKILLS IN TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT.”

Assessment fully funded - equipping them with the skills and knowledge to design, deliver, and assess training in the vocational education and training sector.

The VET Trainer Scholarship is available twice a year to trade-qualified professionals working in the Queensland automotive industry.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

TO MORE THAN 25,000 PEOPLE DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN THE MOTORING INDUSTRY (WEBSITE OR E-MAGAZINE OPTIONS)

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION

Maud-Ellen Berge

MTA QUEENSLAND CONNECTS JOBSEEKERS WITH EMPLOYERS ON THE GOLD COAST

MTA QUEENSLAND RECENTLY brought together students, job seekers and local businesses at a Meet and Greet event on the Gold Coast, the purpose of which was to help create connections and career opportunities within the industry.

The event attracted more than 20 young people who were able to meet automotive employers from across the region, and it provided attendees with insights into the

MTA QUEENSLAND HAS HELD A NUMBER OF MEET AND GREET EVENTS AND THEY FORM PART OF THE ASSOCIATION’S STRATEGY TO ADDRESS WORKFORCE SHORTAGES AND PROMOTE REWARDING CAREERS IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY.

wide range of career pathways available within industry while also enabling employers to engage with potential future employees.

MTA Queensland has held a number of Meet and Greet events and they form part of the Association’s strategy to address workforce shortages. Through face-to-face conversations, students are able to learn more about apprenticeships, traineeships and the potential for employment, while employers get to highlight their businesses and discuss the skills and attributes they are looking for in new staff.

These events, delivered through the Industry Workforce Advisor program and funded by the Department of Trade, Employment and Training, play an important role in supporting young people and those looking to enter the workforce by providing practical information and direct access to industry. Many young people have been able to use the Meet

and Greet events to take on roles and apprenticeships with local businesses.

Following the success of the Gold Coast event, MTA Queensland will host additional Meet and Greet functions in Brisbane North during August and Brisbane South in September.

This project is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government.

VIDEO: MTAQ MEET AND GREET EVENT ON THE GOLD COAST

Concept corner

FRENCH CARMAKER RENAULT

has unveiled a new concept vehicle with the all-electric Renault 4 JP4x4 Concept making its global debut in May in Europe.

A modern interpretation of the iconic beach buggy, the new concept combines retro styling with cutting-edge electric tech and off-road capability.

Renault describes the JP4x4 Concept as a ‘chic, modern beach car, an adventure-seeking leisure vehicle with a free, summery vibe.’

RENAULT DESCRIBES THE JP4X4 CONCEPT AS A ‘CHIC, MODERN BEACH CAR, AN ADVENTURE-SEEKING LEISURE VEHICLE WITH A FREE, SUMMERY VIBE.’

The concept has Emerald Green bodywork that contrasts with an orange interior, while its design has a distinctive, outdoor-focused look. Practical touches include a drop-down tailgate and

surfboard and skateboard storage.

Inside, the Renault 4 JP4x4 Concept features retro-inspired bucket seats combined with modern textile finishes and a floating centre console.

It is built on the same platform as Renault 4 Savane 4x4 Concept, unveiled in 2025. Ground clearance is 15 mm higher than on the standard version of Renault 4 E-Tech electric. It keeps the 18-inch wheel size but with special Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+ 225/55 tyres and specific “JP4” wheels, while the front and rear

INSIDE, THE RENAULT 4 JP4X4 CONCEPT FEATURES RETRO-INSPIRED BUCKET SEATS COMBINED WITH MODERN TEXTILE FINISHES AND A FLOATING CENTRE CONSOLE.

tracks are 10 mm wider on either side.

The Renault 4 JP4x4 Concept features a second electric motor on the rear axle for permanent all-wheel drive.