National Collision Repairer May 2025

www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

MAY 2025

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Contents

Latest News

CEO John Murphy john.murphy@primecreative.com.au

05 Product Showcase

COO Christine Clancy christine.clancy@primecreative.com.au

34 Local News Automotive industry news and information from around the country.

HEAD OF SALES Andrew Morrison andrew.morrison@primecreative.com.au

44 Global News Keep up to date with a selection of industry news from across the world.

EDITOR Eugene Duffy eugene.duffy@primecreative.com.au 0412 821 706

49 OEM Snapshot More developments from the world of automotive manufacturers.

Special Reports

16

16 Building cooperation

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Michael Ingram michael.ingram@primecreative.com.au 0423 266 991 PUBLISHED BY Prime Creative Media 379 Docklands Drive, Docklands, VIC 3008 03 9690 8766 www.primecreative.com.au

How AASRA can make life easier.

23 For the love of business Tash Lang shares her experience and passion for helping workshops.

30 Celebration of skill The National WorldSkills competition is coming up in Brisbane.

32 Change needed Premiums are climbing and keeping pace with claims costs.

Regular Features 12 Talking Shop

20

Brothers making it happen.

20 Professional profiles Living proof of the rich pathways automotive can take.

26 Window on safety The long and crucial history of adhesives.

28 Future Leaders Jackie Venn is fast tracking her dream career.

42 Stateside Best line of defence.

52 Custom Corner Designs for the decades.

28

DISCLAIMER

The National Collision Repairer magazine is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in National Collision Repairer magazine is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical, including information and retrieval systems without written permission of the publisher. The editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in National Collision Repairer magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by, the publisher unless otherwise stated. © Copyright Prime Creative Media, 2024 Articles All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format. Head Office 379 Docklands Dr, Docklands VIC 3008 P: +61 3 9690 8766 enquiries@primecreative.com.au www.primecreative.com.au Sydney Office Suite 11.01, 201 Miller St, North Sydney, NSW 2060

Editorial

Part of the transition In the year since the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard was announced, it has had some desired outcomes and some that may have been less predictable. The objective was to lower vehicle emissions, but how it changes the future car parc, and how quickly, are slightly less known outcomes. Either way, it is the collision repairers who can expect these outcomes to be on their doorstep before too long. One of the NVES’s proposed purposes was to facilitate the flow of new, alternative-powertrain vehicles into the Australian market and accelerate one of the most significant automotive transitions in a century. In one regard it appears to have worked. A plethora of new models of low and zero-emission vehicles have come in from opportunistic manufacturers hoping to capitalise on the appetite for new technology and new sustainable power sources. But overall, the uptake by consumers has been slower than expected and figures so far in 2025 show in some areas, like pure EVs, it has almost flatlined. Perhaps when it comes to such a monumental shift as changing the whole nature of the car parc, a slow and incremental change was to be expected. But the pattern also shows the limitations in the proposal and the fact a policy alone won’t overcome some of the issues this transition is facing. Foremost among these barriers is the Australian perception about range in electric vehicles. Drivers may only travel 50 km on average per day but the security of knowing they can do 500km without a recharge, has continually risen as an issue causing hesitation among buyers. The uptake of what might be termed transitional technology, including the surge in hybrid sales and, more lately, the leap into PHEV vehicles that a year ago was negligible, shows that people are open to alternatives if they can be guaranteed that range and flexibility. The scarcity of charging stations and their reliability has merely

exacerbated this consumer trepidation. Mitsubishi, in its advocacy to get NVES penalties postponed, has highlighted a stark contrast between Norway and Australia. While the per capita number of petrol pumps is roughly the same in each country, the difference in charging points is glaring. Even allowing for its smaller land mass, Norway has a charging point for about every 250 people. Australia has one for about every 14,000 people. Norway’s current car parc is 27 per cent electric and its new vehicle sales are close to a staggering 90 per cent electric. It would be easy to get bogged down in the argument about which comes first, the chicken or the egg, but it shows an NVES policy alone won’t make it easy for consumers without a whole-of-vehicle-life consideration. The blind spot for the ‘whole of life’ experience for the vehicle purchaser extends to where it is repaired. Consumers want to know what this means in cost and accessibility to services. For collision repairers, this is an even more pressing issue as they could see the alternative vehicles sooner if they are involved in collisions. So, while one per cent of our car parc may not seem like a lot now, add the growing fleet of hybrids and PHEVs and you have a lot of high -voltage technology that collision repairers will need to deal with imminently in a safe and efficient way. In one way, the gradual transition Australia is undergoing toward new automotive technology has given us the breathing space that is needed, but there is also a lot happening right now which demands preparation and adaptation. Many repairers are embracing the change and developing new skills, processes and equipment to make the advent of an EV appearing on their workshop floor as efficient and profitable as any other vehicle. Once again, the industry has shown, at its best, it is willing to adapt and modernise to the latest innovations the automotive industry develops, and the driving public wants. But this takes investment, training and time. Governments need to show equal flexibility and support in preparing for that future.

Eugene Duffy Editor The National Collision Repairer

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4 www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

Product Showcase

Great gun for a future generation

Image: PPG

Apprentices will love the SATAjet X 5500 shown here by Trevor Duke.

Apprentice spray painters have never had it so good. Thanks to SATA and its local distributor, PPG, they can now access the premium SATAjet X 5500 Apprentice Spray Gun at apprentice friendly pricing. Up until recently, the SATAjet X 5500 has been the company’s flagship model. Although it has now been superseded by the new jet X model, it still represents an extremely high level of spray gun technology and performance. And by offering it to apprentice vehicle spray painters at an excellent price point, it’s providing an unparalleled opportunity for them to reap the benefits as they take their first step on their career path. SATA and its local distributor, PPG, have a long history of supporting apprentice spray painters by offering exceptional equipment at heavily subsidised pricing but the new SATAjet X 5500 Apprentice Spray Gun takes it to the next level, according to Trevor Duke, PPG National Training Manager.

“Stepping up to the SATAjet X 5500 Apprentice gun is a fabulous opportunity for apprentices. Rather than having to spend decent money on just an average gun, they can get their hands on a top end SATA model at what is an excellent price. This is a gun that is leaps and bounds ahead of any other gun out there and that can really help apprentices as they make their way in the trade. “Thanks to its X Nozzle technology, outstanding atomisation and a precise, controlled spray fan, it has the ability to give inexperienced painters a real sense of confidence from the very start. This is also a great point for collision centre owners / managers, given that the aim should be to build an apprentice’s skillset and get them productively painting live jobs as early as possible. As they continue to develop their skills, this leading-edge SATA technology will continue to help them as they go on to tackle some of the more tricky colours on the market. “The SATAjet X 5500 Apprentice

gun also features the digital inlet air pressure gauge built right into the handle. This makes it super easy and precise to adjust and apprentices can also take advantage of the spray gun setup charts which have been created by the local PPG technical team and give setup recommendations for pretty much any product you are spraying.” Along with the SATAjet X 5500 Apprentice gun, SATA’s apprentice support initiative offers a range of outstanding products covering virtually all the significant equipment an apprentice is likely to need. Any vehicle painting apprentice at a training organisation around the country can take advantage by simply getting the appropriate form from their TAFE instructor or a PPG or Protec Territory Manager or by calling the PPG Customer Service Hotline (13 24 24). After filling out the form and getting a teacher to sign it, just return it for processing and items will be freighted to them. The National Collision Repairer 5

Product Showcase

Upskill with PPG training opportunities for everyone to take advantage. When you think about it, upskilling your team makes sense. After attending a PPG training course, technicians typically return more

engaged and more skilled, while the collision centre business reaps the reward of greater productivity and reduced rework. Lock in your training dates now.

New South Wales

Queensland

Victoria / Tasmania

To book or for further details, call 02 9854 6600 • JUN 3rd: Envirobase High Performance, Basics/Low energy cure solutions • JUN 4th: Envirobase High Performance, Advanced/Low energy cure solutions • JUL 8th: Deltron, Basics • JUL 9th: Deltron, Advanced • AUG 5th: Envirobase High Performance, Techniques for use • AUG 6th: Envirobase High Performance, Advanced/Low energy cure solutions • SEP 16th: Delfleet Evolution • SEP 17th: SMART repairs • NOV 11th: Envirobase High Performance, Introduction to colour matching • NOV 12th: Envirobase High Performance, Advanced colour matching

To book or for further details, call 07 3823 8000 • MAY 7th: Matt clearcoat • MAY 27th/28th: Envirobase High Performance two-day intro • JUL 1st: Colour theory • JUN 2nd: SMART repair • JUN 24th/25th: Envirobase High Performance two-day intro • JUL 29th/30th: Envirobase High Performance two-day intro • AUG 5th: Mazda Rhodium White • AUG 26th/27th: Envirobase High Performance two-day intro • SEP 2nd: Mazda Soul Red Crystal • SEP 4th: Mazda Rhodium white • SEP 23rd & 24th: Envirobase High Performance two-day intro • OCT 1st: SMART repair • OCT 28th/29th: Envirobase High Performance two-day intro • NOV 4th: Matt Clearcoat • NOV 25th/26th: Envirobase High Performance two-day intro • DEC 4th/5th: Delfleet Evolution intro

To book or for further details, call 03 8586 0000 • JUN 19th: Envirobase High Performance, Basics / Low energy cure solutions • JUN 20th: Envirobase High Performance, Advanced / Low energy cure solutions • JUL 9th: Matt Clearcoat process • JUL 15th: Deltron, Advanced • AUG 5th: Envirobase High Performance, Techniques for use • AUG 6th: Envirobase High Performance, Advanced / Low energy cure solutions • SEP 16th: Delfleet Evolution • SEP 23rd: SMART repairs • OCT 7th: Envirobase High Performance, Introduction to colour matching • OCT 8th: Envirobase High Performance, Blending pastel colours

For decades PPG has been the largest provider of refinish training across Australia and New Zealand. By investing heavily in creating a regional training network it provides

South Australia

Western Australia For details on upcoming courses, call 08 9256 3920

Image: PPG

For details on upcoming courses, call 08 8346 6870

2025 is a great year for upskilling and the range of courses on offer should not be missed.

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When it comes to the bodyshop pursuit of efficiency and a perfect finish, innovations in coatings are coming in leaps and bounds. The newly launched Cromax 3060S High Efficiency Clear Coat by Axalta Coating Systems, offers the elusive blend of speed, flexibility, and excellent appearance, making it the ideal solution for any type of repair. Axalta has engineered the Cromax 3060S for performance, delivering a seamless application in just two coats with minimal intermediate flash-off time. It ensures a consistently highquality finish, even in challenging conditions like high heat and humidity. It also boasts versatile drying

options, where bodyshops can tailor their workflow: cure in just 15 minutes at 60°C, 30 minutes at 40°C, or opt for energy-saving air drying in 2-3 hours. Axalta ANZ’s Product and Technical Manager Jim Iliopoulos, says whether it is for spot repairs or full vehicle refinishing, it delivers durability and efficiency in its final appearance. “Cromax 3060S is all about giving bodyshops the flexibility and performance they need to maximise efficiency without compromising on quality,” Iliopoulos says. “With its rapid drying options and ease of use, it’s a game-changer for shops looking to improve throughput.” To learn more call 1800 292 582.

Image: Axalta

The ‘clear’ way to efficiency

A clear coat from Axalta Coating Systems that offers speed, flexibility, and excellent appearance.

The National Collision Repairer 7

Product Showcase

Fast, easy steps toward perfection Every good body technician wants the perfect finish, but every business owner has the added concern of how long it takes and what resources go into it. This is where Farécla has focussed its experience and innovation to come up with the G360 Super Fast system delivering the high-quality job workshops expect but also saving time, energy and product. Farécla G360 has been described as a ‘game-changer’ system for the panel finishing process, not only is it fast and easy to use, but the G360 also eliminates the need for P3000, reducing product usage on every job and providing significant cost savings overall. Bodyshop’s want the best possible result from every job and Farécla wants to deliver on this commitment to quality whilst making the finishing process faster, easier and more sustainable. It has taken its expertise in providing complete finishing systems, known and trusted in the workshop across the world, and developed new innovations that remove steps from the finishing process. Farécla compounds use engineered abrasive technology developed in their research and development facility, utilising the highest quality raw

materials to ensure particles quickly, efficiently and permanently remove defects, such as scratches, sanding marks, swirls, holograms and oxidation. Their philosophy is to provide the tools that allow technicians to achieve the best results and use abrasives to permanently remove defects rather than fillers that can give the temporary illusion of a polished finish. But while fillers can fall away through washing and weather, causing defects to return, Farécla’s abrasive technology systems provide a permanent finish and avoid the need for reworks.

What G360 promises Farécla’s testing has also shown that the G360 Superfast system can offer considerable savings in the finishing process. The time product and energy savings offered in every finishing job add up to substantial savings in workshop processes, aiding efficiency and potential profitability. In a repair world where owners are chasing the one per cent advantage in every part of their business, these are numbers that could make a real difference. Farécla’s testing has shown the: • G360 saves bodyshop time – up to 48 per cent faster than

competing systems. • G360 saves you energy – up to 42 per cent less energy consumption. • G360 saves you product – No P3000 required and up to 56 per cent less polish.

How it works • Step 1: High Cut: The G360 Super Fast Compound utilised in the High Cut process eliminates the need to use P3000 sanding discs, a groundbreaking step that offers multiple benefits to the technicians without compromising the outcome. Using the recommended applicator, the G Mop Super High Cut Pad (GMC650), it has a super-fast cutting action permanently removing P1500 sanding marks. It is transparent in use, allowing good visibility for technicians as the scratches are removed. It is also a water-less S U R FACE FI N I SH I N G process that incorporates easy glide S P Eensuring C I Athe L handling I S T S is technology, good for the technician and allowing faster polishing. • Step 2: Medium Cut: During the medium cut stage, the G360 Super Fast Compound is used to give a fast-cutting action. Utilising a recommended applicator like the G Mop Flexible Yellow Compounding C

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G360 Smart Repair & Starter kits (above left) include all necessary products for a complete polishing project from start to finish. WWW.FARECLA.COM NortonAbrasivesAutomotivePacific SALES.AU@SAINT-GOBAIN.COM

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WWW.FAREC NortonAbrasive SALES.AU@SAIN

Foam ensures permanently removing process marks such as swirls and holograms. This step has the same benefits for technicians in being easy to see as work proceeds and delivers great handling for fast polishing to leave an excellent high gloss finish on light colours and prepares dark colours for a fine cut finish.

• Step 3: Optional Fine Cut: If the technician is seeking an ultra-high gloss finish during the fine cut stage the G360 Super Fast Finish is the choice for the perfect result. This G360 Super Fast Finish utilises the G Mop 6” Flexible Finishing Foam and is ideal for dark colours, eliminating swirl marks as the

For more information on the G360 Super Fast System, visit the website at: farecla.com/product-range-g360

G360 Super Fast Polishing System - SMART Repair Kit

G360 Super Fast Polishing System - Starter Kit

G360 Super Fast Polishing System - Complete Kit

KT3024 (66254427035)

KT3036 (66254427034)

KT3018 (66254423797)

The G360 SMART Repair Polishing Kit (KT3024) brings the time, product and energy cost savings to SMART repairers. Included in this kit are a 500g bottle of G360 Compound and a 100ml tube of G360 Finish, along with the latest additions to the Farécla line: premium compounding and finishing foams in our mini applicator range.

The G360 Starter Kit (KT3036) offers trial amounts of all the key elements from the polishing system in one easy-to-order part number. The contents are a 500g bottle of G360 Super Fast Compound and a 100ml tube of G360 Super Fast Finish, offered with one of each of the three 6” pads in the system: the G Mop Super High Cut Pad which enables fast cutting from P1500, and the follow-up G Mop Angled Compounding Foam for use with the same compound to quickly remove any process marks from step one.

This kit includes recent enhancements to the range with the addition of the G Mop Angled Compounding and Finishing foams – offering great visibility and control at panel edges and around awkward areas such as door handles and mirrors, without sacrificing flexibility – and Farécla Clean and Protect – a powerful clean up spray that leaves a lasting protective layer despite being silicone and VOC-free.

FAR_NCR_AD_210x150mm_HR.pdf 1 9/04/2025 2:57:02 PM

gloss level is enhanced. It is also transparent in use and only requires minimal wiping, limiting contact with the finished surface.

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The National Collision Repairer 9

Product Showcase

Images: Logicar

Thinking for the future

The ThinkTool Master is set up to meet the daily calibration needs of auto repair shops.

Whether it is repairing on ADAS calibrations, or figuring out the latest scanning tool equipment, every workshop can benefit from upskilling and investing in ADAS calibration equipment. With the future of the automotive industry undoubtedly moving towards advanced automated systems, putting in the groundwork now is essential to

being ahead of the curve. With an increase in safety features in modern vehicles, ADAS calibrations must be completed to ensure cameras, radar and sensors are collecting the precise data to provide exact warnings, braking and steering action at the required times. There are numerous new passenger safety features, some of which include

warnings for Blind Spot, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure.

How Logicar can help Logicar sell a variety of high quality workshop equipment. Ranging from hoists, diagnostic scan tools, air conditioning machines, wheel aligners and balancers, and tyre changers, Logicar house some of Australia’s most trusted brands. The specialised service technician team at Logicar provide installations, servicing, repairs, and after sales support and training. Logicar’s Thinkcar ADAS calibration kit has focused on functionality to ensure it meets the demands of modern technology but is also easy to use. Logicar has taken the best of new automotive technology and adapted it into a calibration system that is flexible, accurate and easy to install.

Logicar ADAS equipment

The Calibration Kit is efficient, and easy to install and use.

10 www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

With Logicar’s Thinkcar ADAS equipment the emphasis is on safety. Accurate and complete calibrations of cameras, radars and sensors on a modern vehicle are an essential part of the repair process. The Calibration Kit is a portable ADAS calibration device developed by Thinkcar. An efficient system, the Calibration

Kit uses five-wire and cross laser instruments to assist in centring and positioning. Thinkcar integrates Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Automatic Vehicle Monitoring (AVM), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSD system) calibration functions. These functions are becoming more prevalent in vehicles. The Calibration Kit furthers repairers’ knowledge and understanding of advancing technology. THINKCAR ADAS supports static calibration by calibrating the main frame and target pattern. It also initiates the learning process through the calibration software in the diagnostic equipment for dynamic calibration.

Advantages of the Thinkcar Kit The Thinkcar ADAS Calibration Kit is a fully portable device that can be folded up for storage or transportation, freeing up valuable space in the workshop when not in use.

It also features universal calibration components and has a range of different elements that can be assembled and added to calibrate different car models. The Kit is compatible with the full range of Thinktool diagnostic devices to meet the daily calibration need of collision repair shops.

Thinkcar ADAS and Thinktool The Thinkcar ADAS Calibration Kit is compatible with the Thinktool expert 399, Expert 394, Expert 391 and the Expert 195 diagnostic equipment. The Thinktool diagnostic equipment ensures that workshops are meeting the daily calibration needs of collision repair workshops. The Thinktool Expert 391 provides a complete function for technicians. These functions include a full vehicle scan, read and clear fault codes, live data stream, actuation tests, special functions, 42 maintenance reset functions and more. The Thinktool Expert 394

incorporates AI and uses intelligent topology module mapping of CAN BUS CHECK with colour coded module statues for faster results. The highend programming capabilities allow the Thinktool Expert 394 to support programming functions for Audi, BMW, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and more. The Thinktool Expert 399 with a 14” screen is a powerful AI driven diagnostic tool. With programming capabilities and the ability to perform diagnoses on two cars at once with spilt screen and dual VCI. The Thinktool Expert 399 supports 220 car makes worldwide, both 12V & 24V passenger, commercial, hybrid, EV vehicles, and heavy-duty trucks. With an industry wide reputation for after sales support, and training from authorised ADAS technicians, Logicar aims to support the customer every step of the way. For more info, contact Logicar on 1300 322 782 or at www.logicar.com.au

Leading Tech In Diagnostics

The National Collision Repairer 11

Talking Shop

Putting the customer first Building a reputation through quality craftsmanship and effective communication is a challenge for any business. The Barberic’s have made it their mission to ensure each customer receives the best treatment possible.

Images: South City Motor Body Works

Brothers Rob and Phillip Barberic own South City Motor Body Works.

Ensuring every vehicle that passes through their workshop is looked after with the greatest attention to detail, the Barberic’s philosophy is to never compromise on quality. Brothers Robert Barberic and Phillip Barberic co-own South City Motor Body Works in Southbank, Melbourne. Inching towards a decade of ownership, the Barberic’s have established a business known for their uncompromising high quality craftmanship. An accountant by trade, Robert is in charge of all the back of house duties, while Phillip takes on the panel beating duties.

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Depending on the extent of damage, Phillip repairs between five to ten vehicles per week. With one employee in the painting department, Phillip and Rob handle the rest of the business as a unified duo. Not in unfamiliar territory, the Barberic’s have a long line of family in the repair industry. Their father, Frank Barberic, was a panel beater for over 60 years. “Phillip was my father’s apprentice, and taught him everything he knows,” Rob says. “I have three cousins and uncles who are all panel beaters too. That’s

where the initial interest in the industry comes from.” Originally from England, the Barberic’s moved to Australia in 2013 after growing tired with the living pressures in their native country. “I did a working holiday to Melbourne in 2007 with the intention of testing the waters,” Rob says. “After my visa expired, I returned to England, but knew I wanted to move back to Australia permanently.” A few years later, both Rob and Phillip made the permanent move to Melbourne and have been enjoying the better weather, and higher standards of living ever since.

The exterior of South City is decorated with street art.

Finding the right shop

Quality and care

After finding their feet in Australia and settling on the idea of buying a repair workshop in Melbourne, it took the Barberic’s a few years to find the right fit for them. “We were looking at Southbank and areas close to Melbourne’s CBD for 2-3 years,” Rob says. “We were looking to target the higher end of the market as it reflects the quality of work we do.” The previous owner of South City Motor Body Works had been operating in the workshop for 30 years before the Barberic’s took over in 2016. “It was one of those workshops where the owner was 78 and looking to retire,” Rob says. “We actually saw the business for the first time on my 30th birthday, and exactly a year later, we completed the payment for the business.” They initially relied on Phillip’s existing reputation and contacts within the industry to get a head start. “We started off on a pretty good run, and it’s been kicking on since then,” Rob says.

The priority for the Barberic’s is always the quality of repair. Followed by a personal approach, they aim to always keep the customers happy. “We have the philosophy; if we do

the right thing, and don’t compromise on quality, then the results will follow,” Rob says. “My brother has the highest standards of work of anybody I know. “I spend a lot of time explaining to

Phillip learned his panel beating skills from his father.

The National Collision Repairer 13

Talking Shop

are equally as happy with their cleaning services as well as the repairs. “We don’t just repair the cars, we also clean the cars inside and out as part of our service,” Rob says. “I always joke with my brother that in the reviews there is more praise for the cleaning of the car than the repairs sometimes.”

Refining processes

The brothers have invested in the South City workshop to meet their high standards.

people what it is we’re doing with their car and why we are charging certain prices.” “If we don’t see the same customers on a regular or repeat basis, we know that we need to improve.”

Glowing reviews With a string of happy customers and nearly 200 five star reviews, their philosophy and commitment to communication has proven to be effective. “We usually ask people to leave a review and be honest about their experience. That’s the best way to improve,” Rob says. “When someone says they found

us on Google, I think excellent, the review system is working. I always say it helps the next customer along.” Rob highlighted how reading reviews where they went the extra mile to help someone makes it all worth it. “Making the extra effort to help someone all comes down to the communication,” Rob says. “Whether it’s explaining the insurance claim process or just in general what is going on with their vehicle we make sure they are aware of what’s happening.” “We are proud that we see this reflected in the consistency of the reviews we receive.” The Barberic’s find that customers

Edging towards 10 years of operating South City, Rob has found that their processes have developed well over the years. “I like to think about the improvement of things like how I would see it on a graph,” Rob says. “At the start of the business, the improvements were quite steep and now we are at the point where it has plateaued a bit.” “I’d say we have reached a point where in terms of processes, and equipment, we are where we want to be.” South City installed a new spray booth last year, and all the welding equipment is less than five years old. “With the paint side of things, we have UV lights, red lights, and new technologies that help with colour matching,” Rob says. True to their philosophy, Rob outlined how at the beginning of their ownership, the customers came before the running of the business.

The workshop as it looked in the 1980’s.

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be doing it for the rest of your life.” “We do all our repairs properly and how it’s supposed to be done.” “We don’t cut corners and we approach each repair and task the same as the last.”

Maintaining the flow

South City’s painter hard at work in the shop.

“If you do things right, you’ll eventually get the rewards,” Rob says. “We consciously decide to spend that extra bit of money on a panel stand that might be more expensive than the other equipment, but you get the value out of its use.” “The goal is to always maintain the high standards, as complacency is always a real danger.”

The philosophy With family in the industry, understanding and identifying the ‘right way’ of doing things comes as a second nature to both Rob and Phillip. “Our father was very pedantic about the quality of work,” Rob says. “Quality is everything. He taught us to never start bodging, because once you start, it’s hard to stop, and you’ll

With no intention of expansion or growing their tight knit team, Rob and Phillip are focussed on becoming a specialised workshop. “In the future we may look at restricting the type of work that we do,” Rob says. “For the business going forward it would be great to be more specialised.” Happy with the location and operations of the business, making small adjustments is on the cards for the coming years. “We have the lease for a few more years, and we plan on being here for a long time to come,” Rob says. “We will keep on keeping on.”

Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Safety Trolley The trolley contains the basic safety equipment and signage requirements of AS 5732:2022 “Electric Vehicle Operations Maintenance and Repair.” Designed to be portable with locking wheels the trolley can be moved to any bay the EV or Hybrid vehicle is being worked on. The technician’s personal protective equipment, emergency equipment and tooling will always be near the potential risk area. Part No. EVSTROLLEY Electrical Factory Outlet Pty Ltd

Electrical Factory Outlet Ph: 07 3209 4333 E: sales@electricalfactory.com.au www.electricalfactory.com.au

The National Collision Repairer 15

Special Feature

Opening the door Since taking over at AASRA in 2024, McFadries believes he has heard one exclamation more than any other from frustrated mechanics and collision repairers; “I just want to fix cars.” This earnest plea to get the job done is made against a background of the mounting volume and complexity of repair information in modern vehicles. “Every manufacturer’s system is different, which continues to frustrate many independents,” he says. “The growing number of brands in the market simply adds to the complexity, exacerbating the issue. In addition to different systems, each manufacturers’ technology is different, further testing technicians’ patience and straining the skillsets to breaking point. But self-education will go a long way to alleviating the pain.” “I’ve been in and around this industry a long time and I know how passionate repairers are about fixing cars and getting it right first time. Access to approved repair procedures is a critical component of this objective.” Following an initial rush, interest in 2023 saw AASRA reach over three thousand members, this number has stabilised but the inflow of enquiries and interest in the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme has been ongoing. “The majority of the calls for help have centred around assisting independent repairers to navigate the ever-growing number of the compliant manufacturer systems, which by the very nature of their own evolution, are all different. At times, independent repairers can become overwhelmed. That’s where AASRA comes to the fore.” McFadries sympathises with the frustration and says AASRA can play a role in helping members help themselves. “AASRA plays a key role in providing advice about the scheme, providing guidance on how to navigate the various manufacturer systems and of

16 www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

Image: AASRA

When the ‘right to repair’ legislation passed into law almost three years ago, the Australian Automotive Service and Repair Authority was appointed by Treasury to oversee the scheme aimed at improving access to repair information. NCR talks to executive officer Joe McFadries about the journey so far and the challenges ahead. the operation of the scheme and are required to report to the ACCC on systemic regulatory or enforcement issues relating to the scheme. However, my role is also to assist manufacturers to ensure they comply with the legislation, which in turn will benefit all stakeholders.”

Cooperation

AASRA executive officer Joe McFadries is leading the organisation through rapidly changing times in the automotive industry.

course recommendations on upskilling the technicians to help futureproof their businesses.

Practical help “In conjunction with the manufacturers, AASRA has uploaded step-by-step ‘how to’ guides on the websites and following these will lead to a successful log in every time.” McFadries stresses AASRA’s wider role is intrinsic to the effective compliance of the Scheme and works to the benefit of all the parties involved. “AASRA’s role as scheme advisor is to oversee the day-to-day operations of the scheme, and as such is the first point of contact for general information about the scheme. We collect information about scheme offers, changes to scheme offers, and the terms and conditions of the supply of scheme information (including the price for supplying scheme information) from data providers. “We provide general advice about

One of AASRA’s significant achievements in the last three years is to win the cooperation of a large proportion of vehicle manufacturers, giving its members greater access to this growing field of information, with participating brands now representing 87 per cent of the Australian car parc. “We work closely with all our participating brands and the feedback I get is that ‘it’s a no brainer’ to be part of AASRA,” he says. “I also work with the pre-existing nonparticipating brands and the plethora of new brands coming into the market, and I’m happy to announce that both Deepal and Geely have recently joined us, recognising the value we add to automotive brands in the Australian market.”

Changing times McFadries says while they have worked hard at AASRA to make the offering more comprehensive; to make the most of it, repairers need a willingness to adapt and learn and for some repairers this can begin with developing some basic computer literacy. “The automotive industry has an older demographic, although it is going through a generational transition,” he says. “However, as long as the baby boomers want to stay in the game, they have some work to do. There is no doubt that the rate of technological change has outstripped many technicians, which we see in the frustration of our members, so the best advice I can give them is to improve

Image: apirom/stockadobe.com

The access to vehicle information is becoming a key part of workshop efficiency.

their computer skills. Vehicles will continue to become more complex, so for these technicians investing some time and energy in personal development is crucial - it really will make life so much easier.” McFadries explains the whole purpose of AASRA is to help repairers access this information in accordance with the scheme but there are limitations to what they can do. “However, it is by definition an information sharing scheme, so we have no involvement in the availability of genuine parts or accessing the manufacturers’ digital logbooks, which I recognise can be frustrating for independent repairers.

A continuing journey While the journey for AASRA began with establishing compliance with the scheme, its longer-term purpose is also to build the entity as a going concern that can continue to serve its members in a changing world.

“The business has continued to deliver value for our members and the industry’s data providers, in addition to consolidating a sustainable business model,” he says. “Key initiatives have included stabilising our member base, attracting a growing number of electric vehicle and vehicle security professional members, and supporting vehicle manufacturers to prepare and deliver compliant Scheme Offers. More recently, we have appointed a highly qualified Independent Chair, who has further enhanced the board’s governance capabilities.” These three years of change have also seen the rise and rise of alternative powertrains, including EVs, PHEVs and hybrids all of which require specific techniques and accreditation to correctly repair. The MVIS legislation requires manufacturers to separate safety information for EV and Hybrid and restrict it to suitably qualified technicians. The accreditation

AASRA offers has become an advantage to the growing number of repairers who need or want to work on these vehicles to keep pace with the changing car parc. “One of the key benefits of being a participating brand with AASRA is that we verify the safety qualifications that ensure that EV and hybrid information will only be released to EV-qualified technicians,” he says. “However, when EV data is inextricably linked to general service and repair information, even technicians who wish to access general repair information, will need to be EV-qualified.”

The road ahead Looking to the future McFadries also sees the accumulation and complexity of vehicle information as an ongoing challenge to repair workshops. He believes repairers will use a range of traditional sources like data aggregators and devices to access The National Collision Repairer 17

Special Feature

what they need, but they may find gaps in trying to keep pace with the rapid rate of change. “Data aggregators have long been the source of manufacturer repair information, but this data is not connected live to the manufacturer and may not cover the entire car parc. “Vehicles also rely on diagnostic tools and software to identify problems and to ensure the problems are resolved. But not all manufacturers’ tools and software are readily available or necessarily cost effective for an independent repairer. “Aftermarket scan tools are available to access a broader range of brands using a J2534 pass through device, greatly improving accessibility,” he says. “However, there are brands that are not yet fully compatible with these

aftermarket tools, particularly when it comes to vehicle security information.”

Safety as priority Despite these difficulties, much of the repair industry is acutely aware of the pressure to stay up to date and the consequences of failing to do so. “Outdated procedures can have catastrophic effect,” he says. “There have been welldocumented, high profile safety incidents in several markets because the repairer has not followed the manufacturers repair procedures. Personally, I do not understand why any business owner or technician would not ensure the repair is done properly. Firstly, they may well be liable for any subsequent incident if it is found the approved repair

procedure was not followed, and secondly, they will have to live with their conscience. This may sound provocative but imagine if it’s your wife or husband or kids that are involved in an accident caused by a repair using a superseded, or a non-approved repair procedure.” McFadries stresses this is why access to evolving information is critical and AASRA’s role is in assisting it to happen. But despite the challenges he remains optimistic about the fundamental drive of the industry to get things done correctly, while the growing cooperation with repairers and manufacturers means the scheme will open the doors to the much-needed information. “With the right intent, I have no doubt we will get there.” t.

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National Collision Repairer Promoting businesses, growing the industry www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

Professional Profile

Opportunities in all directions Careers in collision repair can take some interesting turns, but for Fix Auto Operations and Performance Manager, Andrew Huang it’s all about utilising the skills and knowledge he’s gained over the years to support workshops and fine-tune their efficiency.

Andrew has a diverse background including a qualification as a mechanic.

20 www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

role, Andrew supports each franchisee by streamlining day-to-day operations, improving consistency, and driving business growth. Working on new ideas, trialling processes, identifying ‘pain points’, and finding viable solutions to move forward with the independent businesses are parts Image: Fix Network

Big things often grow from small beginnings, and for Andrew Huang, an early passion for the automotive industry has blossomed into a career in collision repair—culminating in his role as Operations and Performance Manager at Fix Auto. As State Manager for NSW, he oversees ten independent repair businesses. In this

of Andrew’s key roles at Fix Auto. “We are a team first and foremost,” Andrew says. “Every shop is unique to its own location, so there’s noone-size-fits-all approach. My job is to help each site succeed, enabling them to perform, profit and position themselves for long-term growth.”

Career pathways Andrew’s love for cars started in small ways but has since grown over the years to include a wide range of interests, from previously owning a small business specialising in performance ECU remapping to track racing his I20N. However, it is in his role at Fix Auto that his passion has truly taken on a new dimension. What started off innocently as helping his neighbour tinker away at cars at the age of 10, has since evolved into the discovery and pursuit of a lifelong passion for the automotive industry. A qualified mechanic, Andrew has worked across various dealerships throughout his career. From Audi to BMW, Andrew has taken every opportunity to grow beyond his role. After a few years working as a mechanic, Andrew moved into the role of service advisor at a BMW dealership for three years. At the time, the dealership had a good relationship with a BMW approved panel shop, Panel One. “The owner of Panel One approached me and asked me to join his team, and I jumped at the chance,” Andrew says. He led the repair workshop for eight years before an opportunity at Fix Auto arose, allowing him to bring with him a wealth of skills and experience that have meshed well with Fix Auto’s

Andrew has a passion for racing.

culture of continuous improvement. “I never thought I’d end up in the collision side of automotive,” Andrew says. “But as it plays out, I’ve now had more experience in collision than I do in mechanics.” Andrew enjoys his behind-thescenes role at Fix Auto, where he continues to thrive amid the industry’s ongoing growth and transformation. “I’m connecting with many new professionals across the industry behind the scenes, and it’s been an incredibly rewarding experience,” he shares.

Praise for the craft Andrew is a great advocate for the collision repair industry and the high standards of repair work set by Fix Auto. A key part of his role is supporting the individual workshops in their pursuit of delivering the highest quality repairs. “I’m often amazed by repairers and

their ability to transform what seems like an unsalvageable situation into a vehicle that looks brand new,” says Andrew. “Some repairers can restore a car to its original quality, as if it’s just rolled off the showroom floor. I have seen cars that are completely wrecked— at first glance, they seem beyond repair. But give the job to the right person with the right experience, and they can restore the car to likenew condition. To witness that level of expertise and skill set is a sight to see.”

All about communication At Fix Auto, Andrew believes open communication is the cornerstone of success. “As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting independent franchisees, we focus on creating an environment where collaboration and understanding drive positive outcomes for all.” “Effective communication with a wide

range of people at varying levels is often the key to achieving shared goals.” Andrew says. “We recognise that many of our franchisees have been operating their businesses for years. For them, their processes have worked well. But by bringing in a fresh perspective, we can help identify areas where processes can be improved,” Andrew explains. “It isn’t about changing what works but finding ways to make it even better. Each shop has its own unique strengths and challenges. By maintaining an open line of communication, we ensure that each franchisee receives the support required to continue thriving in a competitive market.”

Embracing change Fix Network is acutely aware of the changing nature of the automotive industry, and it’s important for shops to be able to pivot and change The National Collision Repairer 21

Images: Andrew Huang

Professional Profile

Andrew is the Fix Auto’s operations and performance manager for New South Wales.

according to where the market is heading. “Our shops are embracing the latest technology,” Andrew says. “As a national network, there’s a big focus on our latest EV/Hybrid accreditation program. My role is to ensure our network complete the EV training program and are equipped to repair electric and hybrid vehicles. As a network, we’re continuously evolving to stay ahead of the inevitable changes shaping our industry.”

Leaning into the Network As part of the Fix Network family of brands, Fix Auto benefits from a strong international presence. This collective expertise and support help individual

22 www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

businesses grow and achieve their best. Andrew’s passion for the industry continues to grow as he becomes more immersed in his role at Fix Auto. He sees the shared knowledge and experience of the network as a significant asset. A key strength of this shared resource is the diversity and depth of the people within the network.

A proud industry “It’s a great industry made up of people from all walks of life,” Andrew says. “It’s always valuable to bounce ideas off the older generations, and to hear how they started

and where they came from.” He believes a career in the automotive industry will guarantee a lifetime of connection and growth. “I really enjoy meeting people and supporting them to improve their business performance,” he says. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know you’ve helped a member of the network implement a change that delivers real results.” The Fix Auto network of franchisees plays a vital role in the bigger picture of keeping Australia moving. “I find it very rewarding to know that we’ve made a difference — not just within individual businesses, but in helping people get back on the road safely and efficiently.”

Women in Repair

Ready and relatable When it comes to helping independent repair business owners grow, few are better equipped than Natasha Lang, Operations and Performance Manager at NOVUS Glass Australia. With firsthand experience building a successful auto glass business from the ground up, Tash brings rare insight, practical hands-on experience, and a deep understanding of what it takes to thrive in today’s fast-evolving repair industry—all of which she now channels into supporting franchisees across NOVUS Glass Australia.

From finance to windscreens Tash’s entry into the auto glass industry began in the unexpected setting of Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, Novus Glass Australia, operations and performance manager Tash Lang has a passion for helping small business.

after a 20-year career in finance and management across multiple sectors. The catalyst? Her husband—an industry veteran—decided to launch his own glass repair business. “It wasn’t until he wanted to open his own auto glass repair business that it all happened,” Tash recalls. “I helped him get started, expecting it to be a sole trader operation. But within six months, it grew beyond what he could manage alone.” With demand rapidly increasing, Tash made the decision to shut

down her own business and jump in full-time—bringing her experience in growing small businesses to the family venture. “We went from one windscreen in the garage to needing a recalibration machine and more space,” she says. “We invested, expanded, and within a short time, we had our own 400square-meter facility. It became one of the largest auto glass businesses in Hawkes Bay.” It was a journey that continued to grow Tash’s passion for helping other small businesses realise untapped potential. “There’ve been many proud moments in my career, but growing our family business—building something meaningful together—stands out. It gave me a deep understanding of the industry and what small business owners face within it.”

Images: Fix Network

Crossing the Tasman, continuing the mission Driven by that same passion for business growth and helping people, Tash eventually took the next step— moving to Australia in which the opportunity arose to join NOVUS Glass Australia under Fix Network as Operations and Performance Manager. “I’m not your typical operations manager. I’ve lived the challenges of being a small business owner in this industry. That’s why this role resonates with me.” Her lived experience makes her a natural fit for Fix Network, whose philosophy centres on empowering franchisees with tools, training, and strategic support. “Too often, business owners get caught working in their businesses, not on them,” she explains. “We have so much talent in this industry—many dream of owning their own operation but need the right support. That’s where we come in.” Tash is particularly excited about Fix Network’s Business Excellence The National Collision Repairer 23

Image: romaset/stockadobe.com

Women in Repair

Program, which helps franchisees identify hidden challenges and implement best practices drawn from national and global benchmarks.

Strength in the network One of the greatest strengths of NOVUS Glass, Tash believes, is the collaborative spirit within the network. “The level of knowledge and talent across the franchise group is outstanding,” she says. “There’s a family feel—franchisees helping each other, reaching out to our corporate team, sharing insights. That culture of support is why we continue to thrive.” She credits this ethos to a leadership team deeply committed to franchisee success—especially NOVUS Glass Australia General Manager Jack Parkinson. “Jack’s knowledge and passion for helping business owners is extraordinary. He’s driven to take someone from being a fitter or employee to owning their slice of the industry. That drive is shared across the whole team. I’ve worked in various sectors—health, finance, lending—but I’ve never been part of a team as dedicated to helping others.”

Navigating change in a fast-moving industry

Tash Lang believes the network is a great support for the auto glass industry as it confronts continuing changes in technology.

24 www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

Having seen the auto glass world from both the workshop floor and the management office, Tash is acutely aware of the industry’s rapid evolution—especially in windscreen technology, sensors, and recalibration. “The technology is changing fast, and we need to stay ahead,” she says. “Our relationships with dealerships, suppliers, and associated groups keep us informed. That’s a real benefit of being part of NOVUS glass—we’ve always got our finger on the pulse.” She recalls discussions at recent industry events about future tech being implemented within the windscreens. “Who knows how far off that is, but we’re already asking the right questions. That’s the strength of the network—we’re proactive, not reactive.” While innovation can be daunting for small businesses, Tash says that’s why Fix Network exists—to offer the knowledge and confidence to adapt. “The pace of change excites me. The expertise of our team now is second to none, and we’re constantly evolving to meet the moment.”

After decades in finance and management, Tash Lang found her place in auto glass and has always had a hands on approach to the industry.

A passion that never feels like work

“I’ve done it all— from chip repairs, Despite the shifting technology, gunning, lifting in windscreens through one thing hasn’t changed: Tash’s dedication to supporting businesses to managing daily operations, IT on their journey. “I’ve done it all— from chip repairs, systems and finances. That makes me gunning, lifting in windscreens through to managing daily operations, IT relatable to the people I now support.” systems and finances. That makes me relatable to the people I now support.” Securing her role at NOVUS Glass feels less like a job, and more of an opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the network.

TASH LANG

“It doesn’t feel like work—it feels like I get to help others reach the place we once dreamed of. That’s

an incredible feeling not just for me, but for the franchisees which is more important.” The National Collision Repairer 25

Window on Safety with Steven Theron

Where it all began The history of windscreen evolution has some fascinating insights, but one of the most critical of these is the crucial role of adhesives in modern vehicles. persists in specific applications like trucks, buses, and utes as they rely on a separate frame for its strength and durability, ideal for towing and off-road use.

1928 Pierce Arrow.

The story begins with a simple, practical need: protection. In the days of horse-drawn transportation, the “dashboard” was precisely that – a board, often made of wood or leather, positioned at the front of the carriage to protect the occupants from mud, dirt, and debris kicked up by the horses’ hooves. Only when we moved to “horseless carriages”, aka automobiles, did we begin to incorporate windscreens, its initial function was to not only keep insects out of your teeth, but also the wind out of your hair and dust out of your eyes. Today, its role goes far beyond that. The windscreen, together with the adhesive used to bond it to the vehicle’s frame is a vital structural element of a vehicle. The architecture of motor vehicles has evolved dramatically, shifting from the traditional body-on-frame construction to the now-dominant unibody design. This transformation has redefined how vehicles are engineered, emphasising the

Image: Gilmore Car Museum

The windscreen as a structural component

structural roles of components like windscreens and adhesives. Until the 1930s, body-on-frame construction was the standard. This method used a separate ladder-like frame to support the vehicle’s body, offering distinct advantages like mass production e.g. Ford utilized this design for efficient assembly in the Ford Model T; and customization where rolling chassis were supplied to coachbuilders allowing flexibility in body styles. Despite its strengths, this approach was heavy and less efficient, prompting a shift toward a more integrated design. By the 1960s, unibody construction emerged as the preferred method for passenger cars. Here, the body and frame are combined into a single structure, delivering benefits like reduced weight, better fuel efficiency, improved handling, and enhanced safety through crumple zones. Today, unibody designs dominate passenger cars, SUVs, and crossovers, reflecting a focus on performance, efficiency and safety. Body-on-frame construction

When securely bonded to the vehicle’s frame, it acts as a shear panel, a concept borrowed from structural engineering. Shear panels resist lateral forces and add rigidity to a structure. In a vehicle, the windscreen performs a similar function by countering the shear forces that attempt to twist or deform the body. This structural role is especially critical in maintaining the integrity of the passenger compartment. During accidents, particularly rollovers, a properly installed windscreen helps prevent the roof from collapsing, serving as a safety barrier that protects occupants. By distributing loads across the vehicle’s frame, it enhances overall rigidity and contributes to the body’s torsional stiffness, which is essentially how difficult it is to twist the vehicle’s body. A vehicle with high torsional stiffness maintains its shape under these stresses, resulting in improved handling, stability, and, most importantly, safety. The vehicle’s body functions as a cohesive unit, effectively distributing loads to protect its occupants.

The role of adhesive in bonding The adhesive that bonds the windscreen to the vehicle’s frame is not a generic glue, but a specialized high modulus, high strength polyurethane adhesive engineered for strength, flexibility, and durability. This adhesive

Window on Safety is brought to you by Sika

26 www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

transforms the windscreen into an integral part of the vehicle’s structure by creating a robust connection between the glass and the frame. The bond must endure a variety of stresses, including temperature changes, vibrations, and impacts, without failing. The adhesive’s properties are carefully balanced. It must be strong enough to transfer forces between the windscreen and the frame, yet flexible enough to accommodate slight movements without cracking. OEM adhesives are specifically designed and tested to meet these demands, tailored to the unique characteristics of each vehicle model—such as its weight, design, and intended use. This precision ensures that the windscreen fully contributes to the vehicle’s torsional stiffness.

The hidden dangers Choosing windscreens and adhesives that do not meet the performance specified by the OEM can undermine the structural benefits these components provide, posing several risks. Here’s why:

3. Warranty and Insurance Implications • Using non-OEM approved parts can void the vehicle’s warranty, leaving owners liable for repair costs that would otherwise be covered. • In the event of an accident, insurance companies may question the use of components that do not meet the OEM specification, potentially complicating claims or reducing coverage. 4. Performance and Comfort Impacts • OEM windscreens are designed to optimize aerodynamics and reduce wind noise, enhancing the driving experience. Non-OEM alternatives may fall short, leading

to increased noise or drag. • Inferior windscreens, or installation with non- OEM adhesives can also cause leaks, rattles, or other issues that degrade the vehicle’s performance over time.

Conclusion The shift to unibody construction has made windscreens and adhesives vital to vehicle safety and performance. The windscreen and the adhesive used to bond it are far more than cosmetic or functional elements—they are essential to a vehicle’s structural integrity. Together, they enhance torsional stiffness, improving safety, handling, and overall performance. Using windscreens and adhesives that a do not meet OEM specifications, introduce unnecessary risks, from reduced structural support to safety hazards and financial repercussions. For more details on Sika solutions for the automotive aftermarket, contact Sika or visit the sika website: www.sika.com/aftermarket Disclaimer: The information provided herein is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as professional guidance concerning the use, application, or suitability of our products. All decisions regarding product use and application should be made in consultation with a qualified professional.

Image: Sika

1. Quality and Incompatibility Issues • Non- polyurethane adhesives can be incompatible with the OEM factory parts and paint systems. • They lack the necessary strength, flexibility, or durability required. A weaker bond compromises the windscreen’s structural contribution and may fail under stress.

2. Safety Risks • In an accident, a poorly bonded windscreen might detach or fail to support the vehicle’s structure, increasing the risk of roof collapse or occupant ejection. This jeopardizes passenger safety. • Many modern vehicles feature advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) with cameras and sensors mounted on the windscreen. Using windscreens and adhesives that do not meet OEM specifications, may not be properly calibrated for these systems, impairing their functionality and further compromising safety.

Modern production demands the highest standards in repairs to maintain the structural integrity of the vehicle.

The National Collision Repairer 27

Future Leader

Flying through Graduating a year early from school, panel beating apprentice, Jackie Venn is one determined 16-year-old.

Images: Jackie Venn

Determined to forge her own path, 16-year-old Jackie Venn is fast tracking her way to her dream career. Born and raised in Canberra, Jackie is currently 15 months into her apprenticeship at Northside Panel and Paint. During her Year 10 schooling, Jackie was introduced to the industry at school when a position to undertake an ASBA apprenticeship as a mechanic was made available. “I was interested in the apprenticeship as soon as I found out about it at school,” Jackie says. “While I was away at camp, my mum contacted my now boss and asked about the paperwork and what the work experience would entail.” A few days later, Jackie had secured a week long work experience at Northside Panel and Paint.

Jackie discovered her love of cars while on work experience.

“I fell in love with it,” Jackie says. “The people, the place, and the cars made me feel at peace, and two weeks later there I was signing a contract for a job that I never knew would become permanent.” “It became such an important moment in my life that I would never change.” From what started as a mechanic apprenticeship, Jackie enjoyed the panel beating side and asked to switch apprenticeship titles. “My love for cars had a big Impact and effect on this decision of being a panel beater,” Jackie says. “From doing work experience for a week I realised that’s where I wanted to be.” Becoming a school aged apprentice was never something Jackie had aspired to be. “When I was younger, I never saw

myself doing an apprenticeship, it was never something I had thought of doing when I looked into the future,” Jackie says. “I actually had my mind set on being a plastic surgeon, but I have found another area that I love.”

Balancing school and apprenticeship At the 15-month mark into her apprenticeship, Jackie has found the process to be enjoyable and straightforward. “Being an ASBA apprentice is quite simple,” Jackie says. “At first it was a little difficult to wrap my head around not being at school as much.” “I felt as though I was missing out on being around friends and fellow classmates in the beginning.” Despite initial hesitations, Jackie would recommend doing an apprenticeship while at school to everyone who may want to give it a go. “Doing both the job and keeping up with schoolwork is quite an experience. I believe others should experience it too,” Jackie says. “As long as you’re keeping up to date with the school work and starting the assignments as soon as you get them you will thrive.” With great determination and time management skills, Jackie has been able to graduate from school a year early. “I am proud to be the first person in the whole school that has finished a whole year early,” Jackie says. “My biggest accomplishment so far is getting into my second year studies at school before my first apprenticeship year had even ended.” So far, Jackie has completed 16 out of 31 units of

NCR recognises the ongoing support of IAG for the Future Leader’s series and their continued support in developing industry skills.

28 www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

Jackie is an ASBA apprentice.

study for her apprenticeship. “I am also really happy with how I have been able to quickly and successfully learn new skills at work,” Jackie says.

Loving the industry Jackie has found a passion for the automotive industry, and has also formed a love of learning new skills and continuous growth. “My favourite part of my apprenticeship is the feeling my mind gets when I know I’ve learnt something new,” Jackie says. “I feel like I am thriving when I’m able to do something by myself without needing someone else checking what I’m doing.” Jackie’s mentor, Lang, has developed her confidence and has been a source of comfort for her growth. “My supervisor Lang has been the most amazing help,” Jackie says. “He has helped my confidence grow within the industry and makes me feel more comfortable within myself and at the workplace.” “He not only helps me with mental challenges, but also with the physical sides of the job. He is always teaching me the best ways to do certain jobs and the alternative ways that you could also try to do it.”

Challenges Learning a new trade while still in school would be a challenging task for most teenagers. Jackie has found a few ways to cope with the change. “The main challenge that I have overcome is being too caught up inside your own mind,” Jackie says. “I would often catch myself overthinking things and being unsure as to whether I am capable of doing something.” “Having enough confidence in yourself to do something for the first time without thinking you’ll fail is also something I have worked on.” Jackie has learned how to move on and trust yourself after making a mistake. “I try to remember that everyone makes mistakes, and I reassure myself that it is normal to not get things on the first go when trying something new for the first time,” Jackie says. Another area that has proved to be challenging for Jackie is feeling as though you aren’t good enough. “It’s tricky because you’re still learning. I’m not going to know nearly as much as everyone else in the workplace,” Jackie says. “I have learned to embrace this rather than let it stop me and second guess myself.”

“I was able to overcome the fear of thinking I wasn’t good enough by really opening up and creating relationships between colleagues.” Since becoming a full-time apprentice after graduating school a year early, Jackie found it challenging to get into a new rhythm and routine. “It was hard realising that I had a new routine that didn’t involve school,” Jackie says. “Making sure I was getting enough sleep and taking care of myself was the key to overcoming this.” Taking challenges in her stride, Jackie has learned to believe in herself. “You’re never going to succeed at something if you aren’t willing to even try,” Jackie says. “Eventually I will be working on the cars alone, so it is so important to have a good understanding of everything and be confident with your skills.” With two and a half years left in her apprenticeship, Jackie’s forward planning means she is already looking to see what the future will hold. “I hope to start a mechanic apprenticeship to expand my skills,” Jackie says. “I also dream of one day opening my own panel and paint shop.” The National Collision Repairer 29

Skills Update

Upskilled and raring to go WorldSkills Australia National Championships is a skills-based competition that can take apprentices to the next level of skill and commitment. Don’t miss it next month.

Autobody repair Professionals in Autobody Repair focus on restoring and maintaining the structural integrity and appearance of vehicle bodies. This role demands precision, attention to detail, and proficiency with advanced machinery and technology. Technicians work on a range of vehicles, addressing issues from minor dents to major structural repairs, ensuring vehicles are safe and aesthetically pleasing.

Automotive refinishing This skill involves painting, refinishing, and maintaining the painted surfaces of various automotive and recreational vehicles. Achieving high-quality finishes requires expertise in colour matching, surface preparation, and application techniques. Professionals in this field emphasise workshop

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efficiency and productivity while adhering to industry standards.

VETiS automotive services Vocational Education and Training in Schools (VETiS) Automotive Services introduces students to the fundamentals of automotive technology. This program aims to equip students with foundational skills in vehicle repair, maintenance, and diagnostics, providing a pathway into the broader automotive industry. WorldSkills Australia offers competitions in these skill areas, providing apprentices, trainees, and students with opportunities to benchmark their abilities against industry standards and peers. For more information, visit WorldSkills Australia’s Transport & Logistics page.

Explore, learn & try • Explore: Step into an immersive career’s expo like no other. The Brisbane Careers and Employment Expo brings careers Kynan Bonanno was one of the outstanding competitors in 2024 that went to WorldSkills in Lyon, France to compete in the car painting section.

Image: Worldskills/MTA NSW

Get ready to experience skills excellence like never before. The 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships and Skills Show is a chance to see Australia’s top apprentices, trainees, and students compete in high-energy challenges that put their talent, precision, and dedication to the test. Come and be part of the audience of over 20,000 to watch which state can claim to have the best future technicians. WorldSkills Australia transport skills include the vital collision repair sector. The Transport and Logistics sector is a critical component of Australia’s economy, encompassing a diverse range of skills essential for the maintenance and operation of various vehicles and machinery. WorldSkills Australia recognises and promotes excellence in these skills through competitions and development programs. Below is an overview of key competencies within this sector:

to life with hands-on experiences, industry showcases, and expert insights to help you find your path. • Learn: Watch the nation’s best talent in action at the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships & Skills Show. Across over 60 different skills and trades, competitors will showcase their expertise, proving why they’re the best of the best. Their dedication, precision, and drive will inspire the next generation of skilled professionals. • Try: Ever wanted to test your skills? Try’aSkill lets you roll up your sleeves and give it a go. Get hands-on with a range of trade and skill-based activities, see what sparks your interest, and get a feel for real-world careers.

Tune into Channel WSA If you’re passionate about skilled trades but can’t be there in person, Channel WSA has you covered. It’s your go-to hub for competition highlights, industry insights, and a Medal Ceremony celebrating skills

Image: Worldskills Australia

While representing Australia in Lyon, Ross Colquhoun won Medallion for Excellence and Best of Nation awards.

excellence from the 2025 National Championships & Skills Show. On Channel WSA, you’ll find live Competition Coverage, tips from industry pros, past champions, and training experts as well as career pathways & success stories from judges and past competitors. Follow Channel WSA on social media, subscribe on YouTube, and don’t miss a moment of the action.

What is WorldSkills Australia? For over 40 years, WorldSkills Australia has been inspiring and empowering young Australians to excel in their chosen trades. Through competitions, training programs, and industry collaboration, WorldSkills Australia helps build a highly skilled, innovative workforce while championing the value of vocational excellence. Since 1981, WorldSkills Australia has supported over 100,000 apprentices, trainees, and students in regional and national competitions—many of whom have gone on to represent Australia on the global stage. WorldSkills programs also address skills shortages, align with national workforce priorities, and reinforce Australia’s reputation for skills excellence worldwide. Register your free entry to the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships and Skills Show with the QR code opposite.

Think you’ve got what it takes Think you’ve got what it takes? Every two years, over 500 WorldSkills Regional Competitions take place across 34 regions in Australia, testing the skills of more than 6,000

apprentices, trainees, and students. Medal winners from these one-day events have the chance to advance to the national level, with the best earning the opportunity to represent Australia internationally. These competitions wouldn’t happen without the support of training providers, employers, local councils, industry leaders, volunteers, and sponsors—all working together to showcase and support the next generation of skilled workers. The 2026 competition cycle runs from February to November 2026, occurring in Training Organisations throughout Australia. While sign-ups aren’t open yet, now’s the time to start preparing for your chance to compete. Keep an eye out for upcoming regional events and get ready to put your skills to the test!

You’re a national champion, what’s next – global stardom WorldSkills International is the pinnacle of skills competition, where the world’s best apprentices and tradies come together to showcase their talent. WorldSkills is about setting global standards for excellence and proving that Aussie tradies are among the best in the world.

Why it matters Every two years, competitors from 89 countries go head-to-head in over 60 skill categories. But WorldSkills isn’t just about medals—it’s about elevating the skilled trades, shaping industry standards, and opening doors to career-defining opportunities.

The road to Shanghai 2026 Australia is gearing up to send its top

tradespeople to the 2026 WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai. Chosen from the medallists of the 2025 National Championships, the next Skillaroos will train for over 12 months, honing their skill to thrive and inspire in 2026. Competing at the international level is a gamechanger— it’s a chance to understand new techniques and trends, gain industry recognition, expand career opportunities, and connect with the best in the world.

Why compete? WorldSkills Australia isn’t just about competition; it’s about transformation. Participants gain unparalleled experience, industry respect, and career-boosting opportunities. Many former competitors have gone on to secure high-profile jobs, contracts, and leadership roles in their fields.

A global movement Partnering with global organisations like UNESCO and the World Bank, WorldSkills plays a key role in strengthening vocational education and training worldwide. When you compete, you’re not just showcasing your skills—you’re helping to drive change on a global scale. The 2025 National Championships & Skills Show will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre between June 12-14.

Scan the QR code or visit worldskills.org.au for more information. The National Collision Repairer 31

Special Feature

Motor insurance premiums have risen faster than inflation in the last five years, a key industry report found and now it wants action to curb the costs. In the last five years, the average motor insurance premium has jumped 42 per cent jump to reach more than $1050 per year. The Insurance Council of Australia’s motor insurance policy paper: A Roadmap for Reducing Rising Premiums says the increase is roughly the same as the claims increase and wants the government to tackle the skills shortage in the collision industry to help ease this pressure. According to the report, the average cost of a comprehensive motor insurance policy has increased by 42.35 per cent since 2019, reaching $1,052 per year in 2024 while average claims costs rose 42.2 per cent since 2019-2024 outpacing inflation. The average claim was $3,658 in June 2019 but jumped to $5,202 by June 2024 – double the rate of inflation, and the report estimates 11 cents was added to a premium price for every extra dollar the average claim rose. The ICA report highlighted the higher costs of vehicle replacement parts, labour and increasing vehicle technology as contributing factors. It says insurers are investing in streamlined repair processes and partnerships with repair networks to control costs.

Premiums going up, not value The report seeks to explain premium rises in terms of resale value. “The key is that the primary driver of insurance costs is repair expenses—not the resale value of the vehicle. Even if your car’s market value is lower than before, parts and labour costs often keep rising. Most claims involve repairs rather than total replacements, so insurers must charge premiums that reflect escalating costs for parts, labour, and related services,” the report says. It quotes the AMA Group’s financial reports to show the average repair

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cost rose from $2,914 in Q1 2022 to $3,662 in FY2024, representing a 25.6 per cent increase over three years. “The underlying cost pressure is attributable to the rising cost of labour, increasing cost of parts as well as increasing complexity of motor vehicle repairs, driven by new technologies.”

Labour a major factor The report also cites ABS data to show the rising costs of labour, with automotive electricians rising almost 55 per cent in five years. Total write offs and fraud were also factors driving up costs with the former rising 20 per cent since 2019, while fraud cost the industry $560 million in 2023 alone. “The rise of credit hire/accident management companies (CHC/AMCs) has led to inflated claims and litigation costs. Separately, fraudulent activities such as staged accidents and multiple simultaneous insurance claims for the same vehicle, cost the industry $560 million in detected fraud in 2023. Insurers have ramped up fraud detection capabilities, data-sharing initiatives, and consumer awareness campaigns to combat fraudulent activities,” the report notes. It also notes inflated towing and storage costs, partly caused by regulatory gaps, in Queensland and

Image: EO7/stockadobe.com

Keeping crash costs down

Western Australia, have also led to inflated claims costs.

Addressing the skills shortage The ICA report has also outlined a number of skills based and regulatory options for government that target these specific areas, which they argue would reduce the total claims cost and take the pressure off premiums. The report highlighted the work the insurance industry currently does to help the vital flow of new recruits including the sponsorship of the ‘Future Leaders of the Industry’ that appears in this magazine to recognise and continue support and development for young people, along with sponsorship of the Australian Collision Industry Alliance to promote careers in the collision repair industry. But it also noted the MTAA figures that collision repair businesses filled only 26 per cent of panel beater vacancies and 29 per cent of vehicle painter vacancies. “These shortages underscore an urgent need for government action particularly in the areas of skilled migration and national skills training policy,” it says.

How the costs of claims can be divided by overall impact.

factor in parts supply when seeking to enter the Australian market, thereby ensuring better support for consumers throughout the lifecycle of their vehicles,” the ICA report says. The report also recommends recognising the automotive sector in federal government supply chain resilience initiatives, so that the manufacturing industry of auto parts is given adequate support for the role it plays in the automotive sector.

The ICA argues motor premium rises are almost the same as the increased cost of claims.

to reverse the figure that only 58.1 per cent of apprentices in automotive trades complete the full four years for qualification, and help build the pipeline of staff for a future industry.

Freeing up the parts supply While the Motor Vehicle Information Scheme (MVIS) created in 2022 requires motor manufacturers to make service and repair information available to independent repairers, addressing anti-competitive behaviour, it does not include parts To overcome restrictions to parts for independent repairs, the report recommends extending it to parts, similar to the legislated access to repair information under Australian Consumer Law. This could have the benefit of potentially driving down repair costs, and ensure independent repairers have the access to necessary parts to perform repairs efficiently and effectively, “An explicit obligation for supply of parts as part of import approvals would compel manufacturers to

1. Regulate towing and storage fees • Support Queensland regulatory reforms to cap storage fees and secondary towing costs. • Ensure effective enforcement and eventual expansion of Western Australia’s Towing Services Bill 2024. 2. Combat insurance fraud • Enhance insurer-law enforcement collaboration to target organised fraud networks. • Strengthen fraud detection and prevention initiatives across the industry. 3. Reform written-off vehicle rules • Amend New South Wales regulations to enable repairable total loss vehicles to be reregistered after stringent safety inspections, to align approach with other states to improve salvage recovery values and reduce claims costs. 4. Regulate credit hire and accident management companies • Implement consumer protections against misleading advertising and inflated costs. • Strengthen oversight to curb excessive legal and hire car charges.

Images: ICA

The ICA wants government to expand skilled migration pathways and training for panel beaters, mechanics and vehicle painters to meet this need. Several steps it outlines include allowing motor trades associations and educational institutions like TAFE to conduct skills assessments, reducing bottlenecks in Trades Recognition Australia. It recommends temporarily lowering or waiving the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levies for key motor trades to ease financial burdens on employers, especially small businesses along with lifting restrictions preventing 482 visa holders in certain trades from working in non-regional areas to allocate resources where needed. For locally grown talent, the ICA wants an extension and expansion of support programs such as Queensland’s Fee-Free TAFE EV skills program and the federal government’s new energy apprentice payment of $10,000 for training to help boost course completion. It argues the support is necessary

Other recommendations in the ICA report:

Labour has continued to be a major factor in rising costs.

The National Collision Repairer 33

Local News

Australia’s leading auto industry bodies are celebrating a win for franchised repairers and motor dealers in their inclusion under government reforms to the franchising code. The federal government has decided it will extend Unfair Contract Terms and Unfair Trading Practices to all businesses regulated under the Franchising Code of Conduct. This includes businesses selling new motor vehicles, motorcycles, farm machinery and tractors as well as franchised motor vehicle repairers. The Government will fund $7.1 million over two years for the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to ensure enforcement and will strengthen the ACCC’s ability to enforce the Franchising Code of Conduct, offering protection and support for local automotive businesses.

Images: MTAA/MTA NSW

Franchisees ‘win’ with extra protections

Matt Hobbs (right) and Stavros Yallouridis have backed the changes.

The MTAA and the state-based MTAs have been lobbying at length for the changes to ensure the automotive sector is covered by the protections from unfair contract terms without having to demonstrate that they come within the existing turnover and employee caps that apply to the UCT legislation. Combined with existing Code provisions, such as the requirement to provide a reasonable return on any investment required by a franchisor, this is a significant step forward, the MTAA says.

Government take decisive action to address these challenges,” Hobbs says. MTAA has long called for bipartisan support for franchising reforms, highlighting that industry confidence is key to future investment. “The industry seeks certainty so they can invest with confidence. It is important that these reforms receive bipartisan support to ensure their successful implementation and help Australian businesses make longterm investments for the benefit of all Australians,” Hobbs says. “These reforms are not just about fair practices within franchising but are also a broader effort to address power imbalances in the industry. With this backing from the Government, Australian automotive businesses can face the global automotive industry with a stronger, more equitable foundation. This is a pivotal step forward for the automotive sector and future of Australian businesses.”

Balanced approach

Pivotal step

Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) CEO Matt Hobbs, welcomed the announcement, emphasising that it acknowledges the unique challenges Australian automotive businesses face. “This announcement recognises that Australian automotive retailers need a balanced approach as they deal with large companies who are facing global headwinds and considering their Australian operations. This is a culmination of years of advocacy by MTAA, the state MTAs, and the VACC, and we are pleased to see the

MTA NSW CEO Stavros Yallouridis hailed the announcement as a pivotal step forward for the automotive sector, reinforcing the importance of fair business practices and industry sustainability. “This is a major win for Australian automotive dealers and repairers, who have long faced unfair power imbalances in their dealings with multinational corporations. MTA NSW, alongside our state MTA counterparts and the VACC, have been at the forefront of this advocacy for years,

Advocacy win

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and we are pleased to see our efforts result in meaningful reform,” he says. Yallouridis says the ACCC funding will ensure proper enforcement of the new protections, providing businesses with confidence that the reforms will deliver real change. “The government’s commitment to enforcing these changes with significant funding for the ACCC is crucial to ensuring real accountability and fairness in our industry.”

NVES changes The Government’s will also bring forward the review of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) compliance point — shifting it from the point of import to when a vehicle is sold to a customer — another change supported by MTAA. This change would ensure that car companies cannot push stock onto dealers to meet NVES compliance, thus placing the dealer in a position where they must shoulder financing costs until the vehicles are sold, Hobbs says. “Emissions should be counted when the vehicle is sold. By looking to count the impact of CO2 at the point of sale, the Government will remove the temptation for car companies to push vehicles onto dealers, no matter the demand of consumers, just to hit a compliance number for a particular year. These critical changes will assist businesses to remain competitive and ensure they are not disadvantaged by unfair business practices, encouraging investment and a more sustainable automotive future.”

Brisbane to launch careers hub country to tackle workforce shortages in the collision repair sector. ACIA Board Member Andrea McCarthy says the hub highlighted the importance of collaborative approach to workforce issues: “The collision repair industry is evolving, yet we face a skills shortage. This initiative will connect businesses, training providers, and industry leaders with young people and career changers to showcase diverse career opportunities.” McCarthy says. “The hub will offer hands-on experiences, industry insights, and direct engagement with businesses offering apprenticeships and job openings. Participating companies will gain national exposure and

networking opportunities, showing the industry’s commitment to workforce development.” “This isn’t just about recruitment; it’s about shaping the future of our industry.” The hub will be a pilot program in Brisbane, which the ACIA will assess and potentially take to other expos to promote apprenticeships and employment in Australia. ACIA is also inviting businesses and stakeholders to support this initiative at the Brisbane Careers & Employment Expo. For more information on getting involved, contact ACIA at: info@theacia.com.au Image: ACIA

A new careers hub will be a centrepiece at the Brisbane employment expo in the latest push by the collision industry’s key skills body to win a new generation of talent. The Australian Collision Industry Alliance (ACIA) has teamed up with Kym Jones Exhibitions & Events to launch the Collision & Automotive Hub at the Brisbane Careers & Employment Expo from June 12 to 14, 2025. The hub will be located next to leading trade skills organisation WorldSkills and aims to connect students, educators, and job seekers with businesses and training providers A key aim is to show the many students interested in automotive, there is a lot more to this career than being a mechanic and highlight the diverse and rewarding roles in collision repair. The centralised space will allow students to explore these careers and understand the opportunities available. This is the next step up for the ACIA, which has been attending careers expos in capital cities across the

The hub will bring the many career paths open to recruits into one place.

Axalta acquires well-known brand U-Pol Australia Leading global coatings company, Axalta has acquired well-known repair brand U-POL Australia. U-POL Australia Pty Ltd and its affiliated entities will now operate under the umbrella of U-POL Ltd UK at Axalta Coating Systems, . For close to 30 years, U-POL Australia Pty Ltd and U-POL New Zealand Ltd have been exclusive importers of U-POL products, including the renowned RAPTOR® Coatings brand, into the Australian and New Zealand markets. Their protective products like Raptor and host of other primer and body fill products are beloved and trusted by body repair specialists and dedicated amateur restorers alike. Global Vice President for U-POL Ltd at Axalta, Mike Pentecost welcomed the step. “We believe this change will

strengthen our local U-POL business in the long term, providing greater access to global systems and resources while maintaining our commitment to innovation and outstanding service for our customers.” Axalta says it remains dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition and for business to continue as usual. Daniel Harper, currently the General Sales and Marketing Manager of U-POL Australia, will assume the role of General Manager – U-POL Australia & New Zealand at Axalta. Since joining the company three years ago, Daniel has played a key role in driving growth initiatives and making a significant impact on the business, Axalta says. Pentecost also thanked the founders of U-POL Australia. “The global U-POL team would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the

founders of U-POL Australia. Their dedication and leadership have built a strong business centred on customerfocused products, marketing, and service delivery. It has been a pleasure working alongside the team over the years.” Axalta also notes in a statement, the acquisition would mark an exciting new chapter for U-POL in Australia and New Zealand and would further strengthen its position in the market under Axalta’s leadership. U-POL’s portfolio of high-quality automotive refinishing products and accessories includes fillers, coatings, aerosols, adhesives, and paint-related products, as well as other automotive aftermarket protective coatings. The addition of these offerings will expand Axalta’s addressable market in the mainstream and economy refinish segments. The National Collision Repairer 35

Local News

More support needed for small business

Skills positives There is $77.8 million in the budget to extend the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System for 6 months, along with $2 million allocation for small business training. MTA NSW CEO, Stavros Yallouridis says the budget “misses crucial opportunities” to future-proof the sector. “While we appreciate the government’s focus is on cost-of-living pressures, further support is needed for the many small and family-owned automotive businesses, which our industry is made up of and who form the backbone of the Australian economy,” he says. “The $150 rebate for small business energy bills falls dramatically short of supporting our sector. For energyintensive businesses like automotive workshops, especially in paint and panel, this minimal relief barely scratches the surface of the economic challenges they face. “The absence of direct subsidies or tax incentives for workshop equipment, to service and repair electric vehicles represents a critical oversight. Automotive businesses already have thin margins, and the cost of updating their workshops, installing charging infrastructure, and putting their employees through the necessary skills training is costly and prohibitive. The

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financial barriers are significant and our industry needs support to ensure we can safely and effectively service the next generation of vehicles.”

Some good, some bad Yallouridis says the MTA NSW has welcomed some of the budget’s previously announced measures. “With automotive jobs consistently featuring on skills shortage lists, further investment in the vocational education sector is integral to address the critical talent gap which continues to cripple our industry. We also welcome the $4.7 million commitment to the vocational educational training regulator (ASQA) to counter fraud” “We encourage further investment in the national industry school pathway. Comprehensive workforce development is essential for our future, and without strategic investment, our industry is at risk of being left behind. “While we acknowledge the tight fiscal environment, this budget misses crucial opportunities to invest in our industry’s future. From electric vehicle transition support to skills training, the automotive sector requires more than incremental funding – we need a comprehensive, forward-looking strategy.” “We’re also disappointed that the Fringe Benefits Tax exemption for plug-in hybrids has not been renewed. These vehicles provide an accessible pathway to reduced emissions, particularly for rural communities facing limited charging infrastructure and families grappling with range anxiety and escalating cost of living expenses.

Victorians ‘disappointed’ The VACC also called the budget disappointing, listing some of the good incentives in training but lamenting the failure to update the tax structures in automotive. “While introducing measures that address some industry concerns, such as extending protections from Unfair Trading Practices to franchised dealers and funding for ACCC enforcement

of the Franchising Code of Conduct, the Budget also maintains existing automotive tax structures,” VACC CEO Peter Jones says. “Disappointingly, the Budget only provides modest support for businesses managing the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and operational cost challenges.” The VACC has highlighted the failure to support small business and adapt the tax system including the ‘outdated’ Luxury Car Tax as instances where the government has let automotive down. VACC expressed disappointment over the government’s decision to maintain existing automotive tax structures, including the Luxury Car Tax and Passenger Vehicle Tariff, which are expected to generate nearly $1.55 billion in revenue this financial year. “These taxes were designed when Australia manufactured domestic vehicles and are now outdated. They often apply to more efficient vehicles and those with advanced safety features, ultimately discouraging consumer uptake of better technology,” Jones says “For Victorian automotive businesses, the expanded franchising protections and apprenticeship extension are welcome, though more comprehensive support for EV transition and operational cost pressures would strengthen the industry’s position going forward.” More support is needed for automotive businesses making the transition.

Image: Photocreo Bednarek/stockadobe.com

Motoring bodies will continue to advocate for what they see as key support and legislative changes they want from the federal government. It comes following a mixed emotions to the March federal budget, arguing while there were some welcome elements to help automotive repairers, it is also a missed opportunity at a crucial transitional time. Key omissions for automotive business were further tax exemptions for small businesses, including support for electrification. In other areas, the instant asset write-off tax benefit may end in July. Businesses could claim an immediate $20,000 deduction from their taxes, but this could revert to $1,000 in the new financial year.

Plug-ins pass pure EVs in latest sales figures

Not meeting targets The FCAI believes the electric vehicle transition is not progressing at a pace likely to meet the long-term targets under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES). EVs now make up just 4.9 per cent of total sales reported to FCAI, compared with 9.5 per cent in March 2024 and 6.8 per cent in March 2023, it noted. “We are at a critical point in transitioning to a lower-emission vehicle fleet. But the reality is clear: Australian families and businesses are not shifting in large numbers to EVs,” FCAI chief executive Tony Weber says. “While the supply of EVs is increasing, now with 89 models available in Australia, the demand for EVs is weak. The early adopters have acted but the rest of the vehiclebuying public has not followed. “This is consistent with a number

The BYD Shark has surged in recent sales figures.

Image: Viewfinder/stockadobe.com

Australians are opting for the extra range of plug-ins over pure EVs as the sales of electric vehicles continue to flatline and hybrids continue to grow. The latest FCAI figures indicate the new EV sales continue to stagnate with the first quarter down almost 50 per cent on the same time last year. In March the figures show PHEVs, plug-ins hybrids that also have a petrol motor, passed straight EVs for the first time with 6932 sales against 5374 EVs. These figures do not include Tesla or Polestar models. PHEVs have almost trebled in sales against the same time last year, but these figures may have been boosted by a rush in March with the end of the government’s FBT exemption for these vehicles from 1 April. The BYD Shark, a PHEV, sold 2810 new vehicles in March and has reached sales of 4836 in the quarter, about 40 per cent of the ever-popular Ford Ranger that offers traditional petrol/diesel models. Hybrid models are also up 35 per cent year on year. Overall, the market was slightly down, a decrease of 0.9 per cent on the same period in 2024, with 108,606 new vehicles during March.

of other advanced markets around the world. “The Australian automotive industry has long advocated for an ambitious and achievable emissions standard. Once again, questions must be asked about the government’s modelling and in particular their assumptions about consumer acceptance of new lowemissions technologies.” But the Electric Vehicle Council, which includes both PHEVs and EVs in its count and does include Tesla sales, has argued that the record sales show the NVES is doing exactly what it should be doing by prompting consumers towards low emiossions choices. Electric Vehicle Council figures show more than 15,300 battery electric vehicles (BEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) were sold in March. This was 14.25 per cent of all new passenger, SUV and light commercial vehicles sold in March, more than the 10 per cent market share seen across 2024. Their data shows the first quarter of 2025 was 11 per cent of sales, outpacing market share from this time last year. “Electric vehicle sales in Australia are going from strength to strength, with sales in 2025 already surpassing

figures from this time last year, both in total numbers and as a proportion of overall sales,” Electric Vehicle Council CEO Julie Delvecchio says. “More than 14 per cent of all new cars sold in Australia in March were EVs – the highest monthly market share on record and a watershed moment for the industry. “At a time when cost-of-living has never been more important, more than a quarter of a million Australians are now enjoying the benefits of driving EVs that are cheaper to run, saving around $3,000 every year or even more for those travelling further in our regions and outer suburbs. “It’s now more important than ever that we expand the benefits of EVs to more Australians and ensure car makers keep sending their best vehicles to our shores, not their worst. “Now is not the time to be changing our standards, amending the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard or creating even more uncertainty for Australians – the NVES has already started working and these latest figures prove it.” The Ford Ranger was Australia’s top selling vehicle in March with sales of 4,932 followed by the Toyota RAV4 (4,321), Toyota HiLux (4,081), Mitsubishi Outlander (3,005) and Toyota Prado (2,871). The National Collision Repairer 37

Local News

Who is the driver when a car is automated?

The state of play with AVs Currently automated systems beyond ADAS Level Three are not legal in Australia but have been developed overseas. Australia currently allows Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Level Two standard of automated driving, although ADAS systems have been developed at much higher levels. Level Two is categorised as partial driving automation where features provide a combination of steering and brake/acceleration support to the driver and is not categorised as automated driving by the government. Under the SAE definitions, Level Three means conditional automation under certain conditions – the car can be in control of up to 60km/h, but only on a freeway and the driver must be able to take back control within 10 seconds. There have been protracted legal battles in the US over Tesla’s automated driver system and who is responsible in a crash. Last year Mercedes B-Benz who have been a pioneer in ADAS systems and is rolling out its Drive Pilot software as an optional extra in numerous countries, said for crashes using autonomous settings of Level Three or upwards, responsibility could lie with insurance providers, software developers, and automotive manufacturers rather than the driver.

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Gap in the law

Progress so far

The problem in Australia, according to the CDU report is the legislation sometimes defines the driver as a person and cites the example of police stopping powers in SA and Queensland. “The driver dilemma can be strongly identified in these stopping powers, all of which are addressed to the ‘driver’,” lead author and CDU Senior Lecturer in Law Dr Mark Brady says. “Powers directed to drivers to stop vehicles are problematic when applied to automated vehicles where the automated driving system cannot at law be considered a driver.” Dr Brady wants the legislative change to be vehicle centric and passenger transport legislation should be used as a template to adapt road traffic laws to include automated vehicles. “Passenger transport laws all have explicit objectives about the public interest in safe, efficient, and accessible passenger transport,” Dr Brady says. “These vehicle-centric powers exist where there were significant public policy grounds to stop vehicles, irrespective of the driver’s conduct.” Australian laws do not allow for the use of automated vehicles on public roads, but Australia is in the process of updating regulatory frameworks for the safe operation and use of automated vehicles on public roads.

So far infrastructure and transport ministers have met at the Infrastructure and Transport Ministers’ Meeting and agreed on a national approach to regulating automated vehicles but the form the law might take is still unclear. The department is working with the National Transport Commission and state and territory governments to implement a new law called the Automated Vehicle Safety Law (AVSL) due in 2026. It is being developed in line with the National in-service safety framework for automated vehicles developed by the National Transport Commission. The plans are the AVSL will place the responsibility for the safety of an automated driving system on a corporation and not the human driver. This corporation will need to have the right skills, capacity and capabilities to look after the automated driving system over its operational lifetime. The corporation will be known as the Automated Driving System Entity. The government new Automated Vehicle Safety Law will be supported by complementary changes to state and territory legislation and to existing Commonwealth legislation such as the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018.

Image: inthasone/stockadobe.com

In a sign the law is failing to keep up with automated vehicle technology, a new study finds problems over identifying who is legally the driver. The study by Charles Darwin University (CDU) examines how road traffic laws are specific to human drivers, and how this legislation has limited application to automated vehicles (AVs), which can drive without human input. The authors from CDU, Queensland University of Technology and the University of Newcastle found most legislative powers in Australia to stop vehicles are subject to a human driver and whether they are violating road traffic laws.

The study highlights how the law is not keeping up with automotive technology

Image: WorldSkills

Championing excellence in vehicle refinishing

Axalta Coating Systems is gearing up to support the latest cohort of young apprentices at the WorldSkills National Championships in Brisbane in June 2025. The World Skills competition plays an important role in fostering excellence in a wide range of trades skills including spray painting and panel beating, highlighting role models of commitment and skill for the wider industry. Axalta is celebrating an 18-year partnership between WorldSkills Australia, Axalta is principal Category Partner for Automotive Refinishing and a long-term supporter of WorldSkills Australia that spans back to 2007.

Prime Creative Media the publisher of The National Collision Repairer has also signed up as a media partner to WorldSkills Australia. Axalta has been fully focused on supporting each competitor in their preparation, whether it is in colour matching to mastering matt clears, each interaction with competitors has been designed to help them reach their potential and foster their skills development. “Our passion for the industry, and our desire to support the next generation of talent, is what drives us at Axalta,” National Training Manager Paul Polverino says.

“Through this partnership, we aim to inspire young professionals to build rewarding careers by providing access to cutting-edge technology, industry expertise, and hands-on experience.” Axalta’s trainers are hosting skill development sessions at their facilities nationwide for the participating apprentices in preparation for the National Championships in June. These hands-on workshops cover touch-up repairs, panel preparation, design making, colour matching, plastic repair, masking, and buffing/polishing. As the countdown to Brisbane begins, Axalta eagerly anticipates witnessing the talent, creativity, and dedication that competitors will bring to the Automotive Refinishing category. “As a pioneer in automotive coatings, we are committed to supporting initiatives that shape a skilled, inclusive, and sustainable workforce for the future.” Paul says. “Brisbane 2025 will showcase the rising talent of our industry, and we look forward to seeing participants embrace challenges and showcase their mastery of advanced refinishing techniques.”

Rising costs ‘threaten’ crash towing viability Victoria’s peak automotive body wants a better fee structure to apply to crash towing as it is hit by rising land and labour costs along with congestion and new technologies. The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce is responding to the Essential Services Commission’s (ESC) draft decision on accident towing, storage and salvage fees. The VACC argues the proposed fee structure in the draft threatens the industry critical to the repair sector’s sustainability as it is undermined by the rising costs of land and labour, time lost through Melbourne congestion and the need to invest new storage capacities for damaged EVs.

The VACC submission contains data showing labour costs in the transport industry have grown by 26 per cent since 2021, industrial land rents have risen by 64 per cent, and insurance premiums have grown by 22 per cent. Melbourne’s increasing road congestion creates additional challenges for operators, extending the time required to reach accident sites and return to depots. This congestion directly impacts operating costs and efficiency while requiring operators to maintain 24/7 readiness regardless of traffic conditions. Storing damaged electric vehicles creates a new hazard, as they must be treated differently to traditional

internal combustion vehicles, requiring specialised facilities and safety protocols to mitigate fire risks. The VACC is proposing the ESC adopts a different approach to its benchmarking methodology: • A cost-of-service approach that would directly consider the actual costs faced by Melbourne operators. • Consideration of the recently implemented fee structure used in Western Australia for the Perth and Peel region. • A fee structure that appropriately reflects the fixed operational costs of providing accident towing services would support the sustainability of this essential industry. The National Collision Repairer 39

Local News

New aftermarket veterans to join AAAA board

Images: AAAA

The aftermarket’s leading body has appointed two new members to its board, as it expands to 12 positions. Repco’s Peter Rogers will replace long-serving Board member Adam Pay, Managing Director of mycar on the enlarged Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association board. It also welcomed AMOTIV Managing Director and CEO Graeme Whickman as a new director on the enlarged board.

The AAAA noted that Peter Rogers previously served on the AAAA Board for over 10 years and brings a wealth of experience and insight from his extensive career and leadership within Repco Authorised Service. AMOTIV owns a portfolio of market-leading companies specialising in high-quality automotive products and solutions, covering 4WD accessories and trailers, automotive lighting power and

Peter Rogers (left) and Graeme Whickman will join the new enlarged board.

electrical, powertrain and undercar. The AAAA said Graeme Whickman brings a unique industry perspective, given his previous role as President and CEO of Ford Australia, as well as a 20-year career with Ford in senior roles across the world. AAAA Chairman Wayne Bryant also thanked Adam Pay for his contribution to the Board and the broader automotive industry. “We extend our sincere thanks to Adam Pay for his decade of outstanding service—his strategic insight and dedication to the industry will be greatly missed “His deep industry knowledge, strategic insights, and commitment to supporting the sector have left a lasting impact, and the AAAA wishes him all the best for his future endeavours,” Bryant says. “We are delighted to welcome Peter Rogers and Graeme Whickman to the AAAA Board. Peter’s deep industry experience and Graeme’s strong leadership and global perspective will be invaluable as we navigate the evolving automotive landscape.”

ACIA scores major win with OEM giant’s support The collision industry’s key skills advocacy body has scored a major win by signing up Australia’s biggest automotive brand. The Australian Collision Industry Alliance (ACIA) has signed Toyota Australia up as a platinum partner. Toyota, the biggest seller of new vehicles in Australia for more than 20 years, will join over 40 industryleading companies already part of its membership, that includes many of the major collision repair groups and industry suppliers. Toyota has helped shape the modern Australian car parc and what repairers see in the workshop, not only with popular models like the Camry and Hilux ute but in its leading

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position in driving the upsurge in hybrid technology. Toyota Australia vice president Jack Hobbs says the partnership was about fostering a sustainable automotive ecosystem and supporting the growth of the Australian repair industry. “A strong repair network is vital for Australia, and Toyota recognises the important work that the ACIA does in this space. By joining as a Platinum Partner, Toyota and ACIA can work together to grow the industry, increase opportunities and better serve our customers across Australia.” ACIA director Rob Bartlett says the platinum partnership is a welcome addition to the support for the ACIA’s valuable work.

“Toyota’s decision to join as a Platinum Partner highlights the importance of collaboration across all sectors of the industry,” he says. “Together, we can address the critical challenges facing the collision repair sector and create a sustainable future for the industry.” The ACIA has commissioned academic research into workforce shortages, an aging workforce, and shifting industry perceptions of the collision industry, along with maintaining high profile positions at careers expos and other events to spread its message. For more information about ACIA, visit: theacia.com.au

Expansion of heavy repairs sqm under roof, with a reconfigured layout designed to improve workflow, vehicle access and throughput. Usable workshop space has also increased by 35 per cent enabling higher repair volumes. The facility also includes two Hi-Bake truck spray booths with integrated Wallman systems and modern doublesided preparation wall, allowing parallel job staging and reducing bottlenecks in the repair process. Some its other features have been designed to ensure it can achieve end-to-end in-house repair capability, including laser chassis alignment, fibreglass repair, fabrication, and auto electrical services — minimising delays and ensuring consistent quality. As part of the Wales Perth upgrade, the business is now actively seeking to fill 20 new production roles, including opportunities for apprenticeships

and skilled trades in the region. Wales General Manager Martin Dickinson says the expanded workforce will support increased site efficiency and vehicle throughput. “The unveiling of Wales Perth is more than a new name — it’s a bold step forward in how we deliver quality, speed, and service to our customers,” Dickinson says. “This rebrand unifies our national presence and reinforces our commitment to keeping Australia’s heavy vehicle industry moving.” “With the Perth launch now complete, Wales Heavy Vehicle Repairs continues to strengthen its national footprint — building a reputation as Australia’s leading provider of heavy collision repair services across four states.” “Because at Wales, Heavy is Our Duty.” Image: AMA Group

The heavy repair division of the AMA Group continues to push on with new milestones, the latest being a custom developed centre in Perth that is opening up new employment opportunities. Wales Heavy Vehicle Repairs has unveiled its rebranded and upgraded Wales Perth site, after a transformation from the Parins facility and is now actively looking for 20 new staff. It is part of an expansion in services in the heavy repair division it hopes will lead to a 20 per cent increase in turnover. While the wider AMA Group has undergone a raft of changes over the last year, the Wales division has repeatedly reported growth in its operations. The rebranding of the Parins site is also part of the company’s plan to consolidate and unify AMA Group’s heavy vehicle operations under a single national banner that now reaches across key locations in NSW, QLD, VIC, and WA. The aim of the upgrade in Perth is to deliver faster turnaround times, greater repair capacity, and a superior customer experience. Wales Perth Site has over 10,000

The Wales Heavy Vehicle Repairs Parins site is now up and running.

AMA Group looks to continue momentum Australia’s largest repair group, AMA Group has a new chief in Ray Smith-Roberts who will take the role of Managing Director, following the departure of CEO Mathew Cooper. Cooper took over the company after the departure of Carl Bizon in late 2023 and then oversaw a period of change and rehabilitation as the company sought to strengthen its specialties and improve its financial position. The period in which Cooper led the group also saw some major changes at the company, including an overhaul of the board and the establishment of several specialised business divisions including Tech Right and Track Right. The AMA has also secured a Motor Repair Services Agreement (MRSA)

with insurer Suncorp reaffirming the company’s commitment to working to serve Suncorp’s customers, it says. The deal has also locked in the use of Capital SMART and AMA Collision network capacity, with a target of twelve new locations and an additional 40,000 annual repairs over the next four years. “It has been great to see the way the Capital SMART team has worked together with Suncorp to implement changes which are delivering better customer outcomes and improve operational efficiency,” Cooper said in a statement on that agreement. “We are pleased now to have reaffirmed our AMA Group partnership with Suncorp as we continue to grow

our network and deliver the best service possible to Suncorp’s customers.” The Board thanked Cooper for his contribution as CEO over the past 16 months in its statement. The AMA Group ASX release noted that the next stage of AMA’s turnaround is to focus on further improving the performance of its operations, specifically the AMA Collision business. It said the appointment of Ray SmithRoberts, who has deep operational experience, will oversee the next phase of the development of the group. Smith-Roberts successfully operated a number of AMA Group businesses, and from 2011 to 2019 he was also an executive director of the Company, it notes. The National Collision Repairer 41

Stateside with John Yoswick

Best line of defence Stateside takes a look at some low-cost ways to prepare for or prevent cybersecurity disruptions to your collision business. stopped, and we had to pull people off of projects. And it took us months to clean that up.” It demonstrated how deep the connection there is among shops and suppliers, she says, and it prompted Caliber to look more closely at all of its dependencies and planning what it would do “if another CDK happened.” “It’s not just about protecting Caliber, but how do we react when something outside of Caliber happens,” Denison says. Think about what your company would do, she suggested, if, say, your estimating system provider had a similar issue and went down for days or weeks. “What would you do to continue to bring revenue into your locations,” Denison says. “So, thinking through all those pieces of the chain from revenue and suppliers, and either getting secondary suppliers, which is really hard, or thinking through: How

do you keep people working? How do you keep getting people paid? Having transparency with your vendors becomes super important. That’s why we’re working with [our vendors] to understand their communication plan. Then, at the moment we hear something from them, what would then be our actions? How would we tell our stores? And then how do we tell operations: This is what our plan is. We’re going to have to go to paper and pencil for a while. And it’s hard to think through, but we prepare.” She compared it to preparing for a hurricane or wildfire or other natural disaster. “You know what you would do in that instance, and I think this is exactly the same,” she says. “What would it do to business continuity if something happened for your paint distributor or any of your vendors? How would you react? And do you have somebody next in line to take up that slack?”

Image: Andrey Popov/stockadobe.com

Collision repair shops of all sizes in the US last year likely felt the impact of a cyberattack – albeit indirectly. Two such attacks on CDK Global last summer hindered parts and body shop operations at thousands of new-car dealerships around the country – also affecting independent collision repairers trying to order parts from those dealers, a good example of how cybersecurity at shops goes beyond having your own systems and data secure. “CDK was like a fifth level supplier to us. It was not on our radar, but it had such a big impact,” Ashley Denison, chief information officer for Caliber Collision, the largest repair chain in the United States, acknowledged during a recent panel discussion on data security. “Our shops couldn’t order parts. We had to make sure that [our systems] were safe and secure and had no direct connectivity, but our operations were

Cyber-attacks can have wide ranging and long-lasting impacts on a business.

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Denison recalled the first time Caliber had a third-party come in to run an exercise to assess the company’s plans and procedures for a hypothetical emergency. “They tell us the scenario and they say, ‘What are you going to do,’” Denison says. “And all of us turned to our computers. They’re like, ‘You’ve already failed.’ All our communications plans, all our numbers, everything was stored in a document on the network. So we had failed from that very first line. So it’s about thinking through those things. Things as simple as: Do I have [Caliber CEO] David Simmon’s cell phone number saved in my phone so that if something happened, I could get in touch with him and I’m not reliant on the Caliber infrastructure to do it.” The CDK cyberattacks taught the company it didn’t know which management system each of its dealer suppliers use. “Our supply chain had a ton of work to get done immediately, and they did a phenomenal job, but we could have been 24 hours sooner to a solution if we’d just known that,” Denison says.

Images: John Yoswick

Simple step could have sped up response

Spencer Colemere (above) and Ashleigh Denison are two industry leaders who have ideas about low-cost preventions to minimise disruption.

Basic protective steps don’t cost much In terms of your own company’s cyber security, Spencer Colemere of Cisco says there are a few basic things to do that are free or inexpensive. “The first is to have a password policy,” Colemere says. “Require passwords. Ask people not to write down their passwords on a notepad. Installing and using a password manager is a good idea. Another approach is multifactor authentication. Most applications now have multifactor authentication built in. So there’s a lot of easy, free things we can do that are built into applications today. We just we need to take the time to turn those switches on.” Making sure all software is regularly updated is another good step, Colemere says. “There are all these vulnerabilities in software that people can use and can exploit,” he says. “So we need to make sure we’re patching those, and keeping the software up-to-date. There have been a lot of exploits in the last couple years where people find a back door through a

vulnerability [in software] that was fixed a year ago that the company didn’t ever update.” Denison, too, pointed to lowcost steps collision repairers can take such as making sure they are using the built-in tool options within Microsoft products. “We all have Windows machines, because that’s what our software runs on, so use all the tools [in that software] that you already have today, the tools Microsoft brings to the table that you’re already paying for but just might not know to use, before you start spending a ton of money,” Denison says. “Make sure that the investment you already have, you’re using to the fullest.” Colemere also offered some precautions about artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. “Are your employees going to thirdparty applications, like ChatGPT, as part of their work,” Colemere asked

repairers to consider. “If you go to ChatGPT, if you’re exposing anything to OpenAI or ChatGPT, they can now see that and train on that data. So we have to be careful both in the AI we’re building for our business to make sure that’s safe and secure, but also about employee usage of third-party AI, making sure they aren’t exposing our intellectual property to these thirdparty applications.” Beyond all these basic steps, Colemere says, as a company gets larger, it likely will need to bring in experts to implement tools to help detect and prevent cyberattacks. “I don’t know if I have the best answer in terms of when you make that next leap of investment,” Colemere says. “It’s really a risk decision that the organization needs to make: How much risk do you want to expose yourself to? And at what point do I start investing to mitigate or reduce that risk?” The National Collision Repairer 43

Global News

Repair videos demand caution

Image: rafaelnlins/stock.adobe.com

While some advice for driving was useful, vehicle repairs may be better left to the experts.

With the rising costs of repair, a study has shown that more drivers are turning to TikTok for advice and tutorials on car repairs. According to Auto Trader, #CarTok has become a booming niche, with it now featuring over 876 million videos around tips and hacks and interior trends for vehicles. With a growing number of #CarTok videos, the UK’s largest automotive marketplace, Auto Trader, analysed over 100 TikTok videos to determine whether the advice given should be followed or met with caution.

Approach with caution The #CarTok niches it found should be met with caution include 81 per cent of car cleaning videos that could lead to more damage to your vehicle According to Auto Trader, after analysing a sample of car cleaning related videos on TikTok, it found that 81 per cent contained tips which should not be followed as they could damage your vehicle. Many of the ‘hack’ videos used household items like toothpaste or coconut oil to remove marks, while others advised drivers to use items such as a mop to clean the exterior of their car. While drivers might find using common household objects to clean their cars appealing, Auto Trader advises people to always use

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specialist products to avoid potential damage from harsh chemicals or unsuitable objects. The analysis found 90 per cent of car repair videos should be met with caution. According to Auto Trader, TikTok searches for “car repairs” reach a wide audience, 365,000 searches each month, as an increasing number of drivers are turning to TikTok for help with their vehicles. Many of the car repair videos analysed were from mechanics showing how to professionally fix damages such as car scratches or how to perform a car service. While these videos offer practical advice, these hacks shouldn’t be followed if you are inexperienced as it could lead to more damage in the long run, it notes.

What is helpful But of the #CarTok niches with the most helpful advice, it also found 72 per cent of car maintenance tips are helpful to drivers. Many drivers may not understand the preventative maintenance checks they can do regularly to spot any issues ahead of time, with drivers increasingly turning to TikTok for advice on car maintenance. Auto Trader’s research found that 72 per cent of car maintenance videos are helpful to drivers. Many

of these TikTok videos were created by professionals offering accurate, detailed and useful advice. Some tips included how to check your shock absorbers, prepping your vehicle for colder weather conditions and how to check your oil and tyre pressure. 68 per cent of driving tips videos are helpful, especially for learner drivers. TikTok is known for its short form content, allowing complex information to be condensed into more manageable chunks. Many of the videos around driving tips are targeted towards learner drivers. 68 per cent of these videos offer practical advice for learner drivers and are often created by driving instructors. They provide practical tips ahead of your driving test or how to know when you’re ready to take your test. Auto Trader’s editorial director, Erin Baker outlined how TikTok is becoming one of the go-to search engines, offering inspiration and education content from experienced creators. “But drivers should be wary as many videos on TikTok are intended to shock audiences and to gain traction and engagement,” Baker says. “We found that a staggering 59 per cent of the videos offer advice that is not recommended to drivers and could potentially leave your vehicle with more damage if followed.”

ADAS crash records ‘needed’ A leading consumer advocate in the US is pushing to close the information gap on how ADAS systems are involved in collisions. While the US currently has laws requiring OEMs and autonomous vehicle companies to report serious crashes in vehicles equipped with driving automation technologies and ADAS systems, the group argues these can be underreported. While Australia has scheduled AV laws for 2026, it will be looking with interest to the US scene where automated driving is much more advanced and numerous crashes have underscored wavering public trust. Consumer Reports wants the current program to be continued and strengthened, to help track safety

trends, identify risks, and develop sensible rules to protect the public This current program overseen by the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) collects data about crashes in cars with active driving assistance that combine lane centring and speed control— or automated driving systems to develop performance standards for the technology. Leaders in automated car companies are looking for a boost to enhance the safety of the sector. “Without robust crash reporting requirements, we’d lose an important tool for understanding and improving the safety of new driving technologies,” says Cooper Lohr,

Image: Ta/stock.adobe.com

Crashes when ADAS systems are operational can be under-reported.

senior policy analyst for transportation and safety at Consumer Reports, “The reporting requirement is a key piece of that puzzle, providing oversight and consumer transparency for technologies that are still so new and whose impacts we’re only beginning to understand. “Rather than doing away with this program, the Department of Transportation should focus on strengthening, streamlining, and improving it to ensure it works better for everyone.” “Specifically, crashes must be reported that happen during or after these systems are used and that involve a hospital-treated injury, a fatality, a vehicle tow-away, an airbag deployment, or a vulnerable road user such as a pedestrian or bicyclist.” “This information can provide crucial insights into how these emerging technologies perform in real-world conditions and help identify safety risks before they lead to widespread harm. However, many companies deploying driving automation technologies have drastically underreported crashes, leaving regulators and the public with an incomplete understanding of safety performance on the roads.”

Innovation and trust added to accolades PPG’s history as an industry innovator has again been recognised with the global coatings giant adding Fortune magazine, and Newsweek lists to their accolades. PPG has once again been acknowledged with the global paints, coatings and specialty materials company appearing on Fortune magazine’s ‘America’s Most Innovative Companies’ list. In total, over 40,000 people participated by completing online survey panels where employees could score their own company. After evaluation by a panel of 2,500 experts, the 300 companies with the best overall score were listed. PPG ranked No. 49 in the product category, where product innovation included the evaluation of a company’s

products and services, covering attractiveness, design to usability and uniqueness. Overall, PPG place No. 194, with the total score being derived from an analysis of the company’s intellectual property portfolio and the opinion of experts, customers and potential customers. PPG Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, David Bem outlined how the team at PPG view innovation. “With more than 1,320 granted U.S. patents and 41 per cent of sales from sustainably advantaged solutions, we view innovation as the lifeblood of our growth strategy,” Bem says. “We are constantly evaluating the needs of our customers and developing industry-leading innovations that support their sustainability and productivity ambitions.”

In addition, for the second straight year, PPG has been recognised on Newsweek’s respected list of Most Trustworthy Companies in America. To make it more relevant, a holistic approach is used to identify trusted companies who are performing exceptionally well on a national level. The three primary pillars of judging were: customer trust, investor trust and employee trust. Newsweek partnered with market researcher Statista to conduct an independent survey sample of about 25,000 US residents, who evaluate companies based on these three areas of trust. PPG’s place on the prestigious ‘Most Trusted Companies in America 2025’ list recognises the companies high scores in terms of customer, investor and employee trust. The National Collision Repairer 45

Global News

Surging tech use raises cyber risk

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vehicles, accelerate time to market, and enhance customer experience,” Cheng says. “A proactive, multi-layered approach to cybersecurity across all levels of the supply chain will help the automotive industry stay ahead of evolving threats and thrive in pursuing the unprecedented opportunities ahead.”

EV charging It is believed EV charging infrastructure will emerge as a hotspot for cyberthreats with the growing EV charging networks targeted for data theft, system hijacking, and other cyberattacks. The report notes users expect fast, reliable, and secure charging solutions but currently the EV charging network was an intricate web of interdependent players, including service providers, charging operators, e-roaming platforms, and grid operators. Protocols like Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) while widely adopted still lacked comprehensive security measures, leaving systems exposed. It also listed emerging risks ranging from unauthorised port access to sophisticated exploits that disrupt communication via radio frequencies. These posed risks including power grid destabilisation and data theft through charging stations. “Researchers have uncovered flaws in protocols using tools like V2GEvil, demonstrating how hackers could manipulate charging systems and even broader grid infrastructures.”

Each new use of connected technology poses new challenges to cyber security.

AI integration AI integration will introduce new risks of unauthorised commands, data breaches, and other cyberattacks. While AI will enhance vehicle functionality, it will also open pathways for cyberattacks via thirdparty integrations. AI systems in vehicles introduce both access and data vulnerabilities, opening new attack vectors for cyberthreats. These include Voice Assistance Systems where the dependence on voice recognition gives rise to novel threats such as prompt injection attacks.

Core AI risks Onboard AI deployment can mean expanded attack surfaces, where Directly deploying AI models onto in-vehicle hardware ensures low latency and responsiveness for critical functions. However, chip-based AI accelerators can expose vehicles to hardware-specific vulnerabilities, the report found. Platform standardisation will expose millions of vehicles to systemwide vulnerabilities. Interconnected supply chains will lead to more instances of vulnerabilities, potentially affecting millions of devices and vehicles across ecosystems. Autonomous vehicles will face risks like sensor manipulation where cyber attackers could deceive decision-making systems, causing accidents, disrupting traffic flow, or disabling or rerouting critical fleets for malicious purposes.

Image: Kenishirotie/stock.adobe.com

A new US report into the impacts of cyber-attacks in automotive estimates their damage bill runs into tens of billions of dollars from 2022 through 2024. VicOne, a leading cybersecurity software and services company, investigated the damages from ransomware, data breaches, and operational disruptions across the automotive industry in the US VicOne’s Shifting Gears report found automotive vulnerabilities reached an all-time high in 2024 when more than 77 per cent were found in onboard or in-vehicle systems and the advance of connected vehicles was adding to the challenges. “With software-defined vehicles (SDVs) revolutionising mobility, AI redefining the in-vehicle experience, and electric vehicle (EV) charging reshaping driver behaviour, the automotive industry is shifting into overdrive as it moves toward new frontiers. But where does automotive cybersecurity fit within this rapidly evolving landscape?” the report noted. It listed the standardisation of platforms, the rising use of AI, selfdrive vehicles and the operating systems and charging infrastructure for EVs as the four key areas of existing and emerging challenges for cyber risk. “While technological advancements drive efficiency and innovation, they also introduce new risks that the automotive industry might not be prepared for — or indeed even be aware of. A single breach can have far-reaching consequences, disrupting entire networks and exposing vulnerabilities across the automotive ecosystem. This reality underscores the urgent need for robust, collaborative defence strategies to safeguard vehicles, infrastructure, and data in an increasingly connected world,” the report found. VicOne’s CEO said Max Cheng said awareness of the risks was the first step toward protecting the industry from disruption. “We are amid a transformative era of mobility, as innovations such as AI are helping automakers differentiate their

Image: NanzXy/stock.adobe.com

Growth in recycling parts and materials

Efficient reuse of parts and materials will be key to reducing waste.

As the automotive industry moves towards a more sustainable future, integrating recycled materials into manufacturing processes is emerging as a pivotal strategy. According to GlobalData, the industry’s commitment to sustainability is poised to reshape market dynamics significantly. In Australia about 850,000 motor vehicles reach this point every year in Australia, generating around 1.36 million tonnes of waste and although 70 per cent is recycled, much of the residue goes into costly and potentially damaging landfill. The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries and the Motor Trades

Association of Australia last year developed a strategic pathway for boosting automotive recycling through a product stewardship scheme and higher material-recovery rates. GlobalData found in its study of the automotive sector in the region, it was witnessing a considerable shift in its approach to material sourcing and production processes. Manufacturers are increasingly prioritising the use of recycled and sustainable materials, driven by consumer demand and regulatory pressures, it found. “This transition represents a strategic pivot that could redefine competitive advantages in the market. By incorporating recycled materials, automakers can reduce carbon footprints, lower production costs, and enhance overall operational efficiency. “The emphasis on lightweight materials, such as recycled plastics, contributes to improved fuel efficiency while aligning with broader goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.” GlobalData automotive analyst, Madhuchhanda Palit outlined how leading automotive manufacturers are actively engaging in substantial sustainability initiatives. “Companies such as Toyota, Mazda,

and Honda have begun integrating recycled plastics into their vehicle production,” Palit says. “Ford, for example, incorporates recycled plastic water bottles into the seat cushions of its cars. Similarly, Jaguar features a fabric crafted from nylon waste sourced from ocean debris.” According to GlobalData, collaborations between automakers and recycling firms are fostering a circular economy. These collaborations are facilitating the end-of-life components repurposing into new products, minimising waste and maximising resource efficiency. “As manufacturers adapt to these sustainable practices, we may observe a transformation in consumer preferences, with buyers increasingly favouring brands that prioritise environmental responsibility. This shift could drive demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, further accelerating the transition toward sustainability,” Palit says. “In conclusion, the automotive industry’s commitment to incorporating recycled materials into manufacturing processes is set to reshape the market landscape significantly.”

New energy rebound expected Despite international tariff turmoil and a period of slowing sales, experts predict the new energy vehicle market will continue to rebound as economic conditions improve globally. The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) at the forefront of this change. The new energy vehicle (NEV) market is dynamic in nature and is poised for growth as economic conditions improve and technological innovations continue to emerge in 2025, GlobalData predicts. The analytics company believes the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) market in Europe and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region experienced a period of stagnation in 2024; however, a robust rebound is projected for 2025.

Automotive Analyst at GlobalData, Madhuchhanda Palit, outlined how the positive outlook is supported by declining interest rates and the introduction of more competitive vehicle offerings. “In particular, government policies in China, including the purchase tax exemption extension until 2027 for NEVs, are expected to invigorate the market, with BEVs poised to play a dominant role in both the short and long term,” Palit says. “Government incentives, such as tax rebates and subsidies, play a crucial role in encouraging the adoption of EVs, as seen in the success stories of Norway and Denmark,” he says. “In the US, the ongoing dilemma about policy change might create tricky and unfavourable conditions for

domestic automakers and establish market dominance for Tesla.” Technological advancements are pivotal in driving the market forward. Toyota’s launch of the world’s first hydrogen hybrid vehicle and CATL’s unveiling of the “Freevoy” supercharging hybrid battery exemplify the industry’s commitment to innovation. These developments, along with the standardisation of hybrid technology by automakers like Toyota and Honda, are making new energy vehicles more accessible and appealing to consumers. The expansion of charging infrastructure and government incentives further supports the growth, addressing range anxiety, and increasing overall awareness of the benefits of NEVs among consumers. The National Collision Repairer 47

Training Update

Aligning skills & repair capability Key to the value of training is its relevance, and this is why I-CAR Australia is linking industry needs with future-ready training.

Strong industry connections drive smarter training “Our goal is to stay connected to every corner of the industry—so we can ensure the workforce is equipped for what’s on the road now, and what’s coming next,” says I-CAR Australia COO Jason Trewin. I-CAR Australia maintains active relationships with key industry groups, including: • OEMs: aligning training with current repair procedures and structural technologies • Insurers: to meet compliance, liability, and repair quality requirements • Individual Workshops and Collision Groups: to deliver training that fits real-world needs • Refinish companies and equipment suppliers: Ensuring that the entire industry has a voice • RTOs and Trainers: to support national access and delivery • Government Skills Councils: including AUSMASA (Mining and Automotive skills Alliance) and as a representative on its SWAP (Strategic Workforce Advisory Panel) to influence future workforce policy

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Introducing the updated ProLevel training program To further strengthen its support of a skilled, modern workforce, I-CAR Australia has commenced a full refresh of its ProLevel training program, beginning with the Estimator role. This updated training framework is designed to reflect the complexity of today’s vehicle repair environment and the increasing importance of each team member’s role in delivering complete, safe and quality repairs.

Stage one: New estimator pathway released The first phase of the ProLevel update focuses on the Estimator, a role that has evolved into a technical and strategic linchpin within repair Image: Bonsales/stockadobe.com

As the collision repair industry navigates rapid changes in vehicle design, safety technology, and repair expectations, the need for accurate, timely, and role-specific training has never been greater. I-CAR Australia plays a critical role as the connector— linking industry stakeholders with training solutions that are relevant, responsive, and ready for the future. Whether it’s responding to the rise of electric vehicles, ADAS calibration, advanced materials, or insurer-led repair standards, I-CAR ensures the right training reaches the right people, at the right time.

I-CAR Australia COO Jason Trewin. Image: I-CAR

facilities. The new Estimator pathway features: • 19 new or updated courses • Deep focus on: • Repair planning & documentation • Damage analysis • ADAS & EV considerations • OEM procedure sourcing & usage • Blueprinting best practices • Training aligned to industry, insurer and OEM expectations • Available through online, virtual, and face to face platforms. • Counts toward Gold Class™ and Platinum Individual credentials This refresh ensures Estimators are fully equipped to support accurate repair outcomes, reduce cycle times, improve customer experience, and protect business liability.

The estimator: the cornerstone of a successful collision repair process In today’s fast-evolving automotive repair industry, the Estimator plays a mission-critical role—one that directly impacts repair accuracy, customer satisfaction, profitability, and compliance. Gone are the days when estimating simply meant writing up damage. Today’s Estimator must be part technician, part customer service professional, part compliance officer, and part production planner.

Why the estimator role is so vital I-CAR Australia’s updated Estimator training pathway includes 19 new or refreshed courses tailored to today’s repair realities—supporting accuracy, compliance, and professionalism from start to finish. “In many ways, the Estimator is the heartbeat of a collision repair facility,” Trewin says “Their skill and knowledge determine how the repair begins—and often how it ends.” 1. First Point of Technical Accuracy: The Estimator is the first line of defence in ensuring repairs follow OEM procedures. Their ability to assess damage accurately— including hidden or structural

impact—can determine whether a vehicle is repaired safely or falls short of manufacturer expectations. 2. Blueprint for the Entire Job: Every successful repair starts with a precise and complete estimate. This document becomes the roadmap for the technician, refinisher, and parts team—guiding decisions that affect cycle time, material usage, and quality outcomes. 3. Compliance and Liability Control: Insurers, OEMs, and regulatory bodies are placing greater pressure on repair accuracy and documentation. Estimators must understand how to integrate repair standards, ADAS considerations, EV safety, and OEM positions into every assessment. 4. Communication Hub: Estimators are the critical link between the workshop and the customer, insurer, and supply chain. Their ability to clearly explain repair timelines, manage expectations, and document progress affects the overall customer experience and brand trust. 5. Business Performance Driver: A well-trained Estimator can minimise supplements, reduce rework, streamline production, and protect margins. They are integral to the financial and operational success of every modern repair business.

What’s Next Following the Estimator update, I-CAR will continue to modernise the ProLevel training pathways for: • Structural Technicians • Non-Structural Technicians • Refinish Technicians • Production Managers Each pathway will reflect modern role expectations, new vehicle technologies, and real-world repair practices. These updates will be finalised over the next coming months.

Connecting capability with innovation With this evolving training framework, I-CAR Australia continues to serve as the link between: • Vehicle innovation and technician knowledge • Industry expectations and training delivery • Policy development and workshop capability By keeping one hand on the pulse of the repair floor and the other in national planning discussions, I-CAR ensures its training is fit-for-purpose, future-proofed, and aligned to realworld needs. For more on I-CAR Australia’s ProLevel training and industry partnerships, visit i-car.com.au or follow us on LinkedIn. Experience, skill and knowledge in the estimating process can be a lynchpin to successful repairs.

The National Collision Repairer 49

OEM News

Mini takes on big safety challenge Small cars and new EV models continue to climb in the safety rankings with Mini Cooper’s E small car the latest to achieve a five-star rating. ANCAP, the leading safety assessment body in Australia, awarded all the Mini Cooper E variants available here a five-star rating, after it performed well across each of the key assessment areas. In its assessment, ANCAP says the structure of the Mini Cooper E remained stable providing adequate protection of the driver chest and lower legs In the frontal offset (MPDB) test. “Protection of the front passenger lower legs in this test was also

adequate, with good protection for all other body regions of the driver and front passenger. A mix of good and adequate results were seen in the full-width frontal test, with good results seen for all critical body regions in the oblique pole and side impact tests.” They also found the Mini Cooper E showed good all-round levels of performance in avoiding or minimising serious impacts with other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists through its lane support and autonomous emergency braking systems. AEB Backover was not available on the test vehicle therefore testing of this system was not conducted.

Image: ANCAP

The new Mini Cooper E rated well in several safety tests.

In evaluating the level of protection provided to child occupants when seated in the second row, the Mini Cooper E offered a mix of good and adequate injury protection when seated in appropriate child restraints. In ANCAP’s child restraint installation assessment of the Mini Cooper E it was found that for some ISOFIX child restraints, the visual indicators were obscured due to limited access between the child restraint and the side of the vehicle. This meant that the child seats were unable to be successfully installed and were not awarded points. “The five-star rating achieved by the Mini Cooper E is a positive result,” ANCAP Chief Executive Officer, Carla Hoorweg says. “One word of caution for those considering using the Mini Cooper E to transport young children is the difficulty in being able to see the ISOFIX visual indicators on some child restraints.” “It’s important to note that when using ISOFIX child restraints in Australia that in addition to the top tether, ISOFIX attachments are successfully installed and tensioned such that the visual indicators are green.” “Our independent testing helps identify these nuances, ensuring parents and caregivers have the information they need to make safe and informed choices.”

Major overhaul as Nissan refocuses Nissan has undergone a major change of its global leadership as it aims to refocus on growth and profitability. The changes follow a rocky financial position in 2024, with declining sales and major job cuts for the Japanese auto giant and the on-again/ off again relationship with Honda. Late in 2024 it was announced the company would enter into talks to merge with Honda as a subsidiary; to solve some its issues but the terms of the merger could not be agreed on and was rejected. The combination of events led to an overhaul of Nissan’s senior executive and since then the companies have

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continued to work on joint projects like their EV partnership. In March, Van Espinosa, Nissan’s the chief planning officer, was appointed as the representative executive officer, president, and CEO, succeeding Makoto Uchida. Espinosa has since told media he is open to considering all options and would continue to work with Honda on their many mutual projects like the development of next generation EVs. Guillaume Cartier, chief performance officer and chairperson of the Management Committee for AMIEO, also now has an expanded role that includes global

marketing and customer experience. Eiichi Akashi, currently corporate vice president (CVP) of the Vehicle Planning and Vehicle Component Engineering Division, became chief technology officer and executive officer, succeeding Kunio Nakaguro. Nissan Motor Co said the changes to its senior management were aimed at achieving the company’s short- and mid-term objectives while positioning it for long-term growth. In addition to Nakaguro, Sakamoto and Uchida, Asako Hoshino, Chief Brand & Customer Officer Hideaki Watanabe, Chief Strategy & Corporate Affairs Officer also left the company.

Emerging Chinese brand BYD has made no secret of its ambitions in Australia.

Chinese newcomer BYD is celebrating 40,000 vehicles sold in Australia after a rapid uptake that has beaten rival Tesla in sales growth. BYD, an EV specialist, launched two-and-a-half years ago under Australian distributor EVDirect with the Atto 3 electric SUV and is now making considerable inroads into the market as Tesla sales plummet. Media reports indicate Tesla took ten years to reach the same point and after a surge in 2022 and 2023 that saw it dominate the market, its sales have continued to decline, despite

Image: rafaelnlins/stock.adobe.com

BYD celebrates milestone

being Australia’s biggest seller of EVs. BYD’s sells the Dolphin, Seal, Atto 3 and Sealion 7 electric cars in Australia. Its plug-in hybrid models the Sealion 6 and Shark 6 have also caused surprises, with the rise of its hybrid ute causing a massive upswing in PHEVs so far in 2025. Almost two thirds of the 3281 vehicles in February 2025 were the Shark 6 ute. “What we’re providing Australian customers is a choice they haven’t previously been able to enjoy,” EVDirect chief executive

officer David Smitherman told media. The brand said it expects to deliver “more than 40,000 vehicles in Australia” in 2025 alone. One of the largest of the wave of new brands from China coming in anticipation of the NVES, BYD has made no bones about its intentions to be a major player in the car parc including plans to become the bestselling new-car brand in Australia by the end of the decade. Its energetic launch of brands and new outlets has been matched by its market anticipation, launching the first full EV under $30,000 last year and more recently capitalising on the Australian love affair with utes but with models that aren’t petrol guzzlers. Executives for the company have also been reported in the media last year with ambitions to reach the top five brands in Australia this year. This would mean BYD would need to sell about 70,000 cars annually, outselling the likes of Tesla, Subaru, Isuzu, MG, Volkswagen and Mitsubishi.

Another major OEM has looked to the Americas to lead its Australian operations, with Honda being the latest to appoint a senior executive. Honda Australia appointed Jay Joseph as its new President and CEO from April 2025. Joseph will be responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and operations of Honda’s diverse portfolio in Australia, encompassing the Automotive, Motorcycles, Power Equipment and Marine divisions. In a statement the company says, Joseph brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success from his 27-year tenure at American Honda where his career spans across various critical functions, including product planning, regulatory compliance, sales, marketing and, most recently, leading Honda’s efforts in next-generation technologies. Joseph began his career with the business in Acura Public Relations and product planning before transitioning to the product regulatory

office, where he focused on product safety and regulatory compliance. He then moved into automobile sales, overseeing dealer communication, training, and technology. Returning to Auto Operations, Joseph led product planning, market research, and vehicle quality assurance. He has served as vice president of marketing & CX, managing marketing, public relations, and customer experience initiatives for both Honda and Acura, before leading the Connected, Automated, Shared, Electrified (CASE) & Energy business unit, spearheading Honda’s efforts in electrification and new energy solutions. “I am incredibly excited to understand and engage with the Australian consumer and work with our Honda Centres,” Joseph says. “Australia presents an opportunity for growth and innovation, and I’m honoured to lead the business into

Image: Honda

New head for Honda Australia

Jay Joseph comes with extensive experience at American Honda.

the future of electrification, while building on Honda’s 76-year legacy of engineering innovation and customer satisfaction.” Yoshitaka Okamoto, the former President of Honda Australia, will assume a new leadership position within Honda in the motorsports division in Japan. The National Collision Repairer 51

Custom Corner with Cliff Chambers

Designs for the decades IT TOOK the automotive industry half a century to make significant advances in design, but once models like the Volkswagen Beetle, BMC Mini and Citroen DS appeared, the quest for change was on in earnest. From the 1950s until the 1990s, we saw new models that trampled over established boundaries, finding them in all genres of the automotive world. Sedans, performance cars, economy

cars and off-road models all delivered improvements to engineering, style and efficiency. Cars that were able to successfully combine performance with frugality made showrooms across the world engaging places to be. Today the need to devise something exceptional by way of dynamics or style is less pressing. The quest for advancement remains, but now it is focused on designs that can be

operated effectively on anything except a fossilbased fuel. Very likely when someone, many years into the future hands out awards for design excellence during the 2030s-60s the honours will go to creators of some advanced new battery that would convert solar energy. For now, though, here are some significant designs from decades past you might recognise.

1950s BMC MINI DURING THE 65 years since its design stunned the automotive world, no manufacturer as made a small car that uses space more effectively than the Mini. Turkish-born Alec Issigonis designed the Mini in response to UK panic over oil shortages after the Suez Canal blockage, fulfilling his desire to produce a compact model with front-wheel drive. Now, with BMC’s blessing, Issigonis finally got to produce the car he envisaged, with a transverse engine, a cabin to comfortably seat four adults and clever fold-down boot-lid to extend luggage space. Australia saw its first Minis in 1961, their arrival destroying local demand for economy models like the Fiat 500 and Goggomobil and making life tough for VW’s top-selling mall car. Local assembly saw the Mini adapt well to local conditions, with features like wind-up windows and dual fuel tanks. These in Cooper S versions were capable of 500km between fuel stops and dominated the 1966 Bathurst 500 Mile production car race. Minis of all kinds continue to increase in value. The Cooper S has done best, with prices for excellent Mark 1 cars briefly reaching $100K and now back to around $80K. Early versions of the basic 850 are expensive as well, with most now over $30,000.

1960s JAGUAR XJ6 JAGUAR’S XJ6 changed every rule of large car design and one night in 1989, its brilliant chassis changed the course of at least four lives. The car was mine; a 1971 model Series 1 XJ6 carrying four people when forced off a narrow western Sydney road by another car overtaking on double lines. The road shoulder was narrow and rough, bordered by large trees that would have brought the car to a sudden and probably fatal stop. As driver I had little time to react and few options. The best was to keep the car roughly straight, while the XJ’s four disc brakes slowed progress and the astonishing independent suspension smoothed the ruts that would have tossed most other cars into the forest. When released in 1968, Jaguar’s XJ6 was lauded as the best Saloon Car in the world. It won almost every award, though when it was released here in 1970 Wheels had given Car of the Year to the Renault 12. Very few Series 1s survive. Many were repowered with V8s in the’90s, ruining ride quality and seeing disappointed owners consign now worthless cars to the tip. Those that survive can remain viable for decades, thanks to a network of specialists supplying virtually every part an XJ restorer might need.

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1970s RANGE ROVER DURING THE 1960s, demand for recreational 4WDs increased, but anyone heading into the wilderness needed to accept the limitations of the agricultural all-wheel drive. Jeep’s Wagoneer offered some comfort but struggled in genuinely rough terrain. Toyota and Nissan’s 4WD wagons offered legendary off-road ability, with seats and suspension capable of causing kidney damage on rough roads. Enter British designer Spen King, with a concept that’d inspire creators of Sport Utility Vehicles for future decades. The Range Rover launched in 1970 combined permanent 4WD and all-coil suspension for a cushioned ride and unrivalled off-road ability. Sitting above the compliant suspension was a stylish three-door aluminium body with carpets, sound deadening and comfy seating. Under the bonnet was Rover’s 3.5-litre V8, allowing the Range Rover to reach 155km/h and cruise at 130. A four-speed manual was standard, with a Chrysler threespeed auto an option from 1982. Launched to Australia in 1972, the $7500 Range Rover was $2000 dearer than a 3.9-litre LC FJ55, but quieter and more comfortable. Early 3-door Range Rovers have experienced wildly divergent pricing in the past decade. Some vendors tried to convince us that scarcity should see near-perfect examples sell for over $100K, however, prices have settled below $50K – and a lot less if you find a keen vendor.

1980S AUDI QUATTRO THE 1980S was a decade when fuel consumption and safety were viewed more importantly than performance, but Volkswagen offshoot Audi found a way to combine all three. Audi had designed its 2.2-litre five-cylinder engine in the 1970s with the intention of producing six-cylinder power with four-cylinder economy. In 1979 it released a turbocharged version and a year later came the Quattro; a modified version of the Audi 80 coupe with allwheeldrive, a central differential and 147kW. Rally versions used a slightly downsized engine to qualify for the 3-litre class and were said to produce upwards of 225kW. With these, Audi won World Rally Manufacturers’ Championships in 1982 and 1984. More significant was the Quattro’s influence on passenger car design and the added safety. All-wheel drive could be offered in markets with challenging climates and difficult driving conditions. During the 1980s Audi would sell huge numbers of AWD cars in Europe, Britain and the USA. More than 11,000 would be road-spec versions of the Quattro and more potent Quattro Sport. Compliance costs ensured that Quattro coupes were never officially sold in Australia, although several were privately imported. Survivors rarely reach market and any that do will likely cost upwards of $100K.

1990S SUBARU WRX IN THE same way that Audi’s Quattro shocked the institution of European rallying, Subaru’s ‘mini-Quattro’ introduced urban populations to an influx of fast, brash and affordable turbocars. WRX stood for ‘World Rally eXperimental’ and it was indeed intended to replace the larger and heavier Legacy (Liberty) as Subaru’s frontline rally car. Into a car weighing 1220kg went the same 2.0-litre turbocharged ‘boxer’ motor as in the heavier Legacy, plus a five-speed trans, all-wheel disc brakes and all-wheel drive. When here in 1994, the WRX sedan cost $39,990 and visually wasn’t overly exciting. The interior was bland as well, but buyers didn’t care. This was an accessible car that could hit 100km/h in 6.7 seconds and make performance cars worth many times more look slow. In the years before WRX, Subarus were not ‘cool’. The WRX with its impudent image backed by multiple local and world rally victories changed all that. Between 1994 and 2000 Australia became home to thousands of WRXs and demand in the used market was strong. By 2015 fervour had faded, with sedans $10K and Hatchs $2000 less. Recent years have seen prices increase again, with outstanding early cars reaching $30K. Anyone who bought their WRX new in the ’90s though, won’t yet have clawed back the original purchase price.

IMAGES: BMC/JAGUAR/AUDI/LAND ROVER/SUBARU The National Collision Repairer 53

WorldSkills with Trevor Schwenke

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Building the future, together At WorldSkills Australia, we believe skills are the backbone of a thriving economy. From the steady hands of a bricklayer laying the foundations, to the sharp focus of an auto technician under the bonnet, or the precision of an electrician wiring a system to perfection — skills are what keep our country moving forward. But skills don’t develop in isolation. They’re nurtured, refined, and elevated through collaboration. And at the heart of that collaboration is industry. For over 40 years, WorldSkills Australia has championed excellence in vocational education and training. Through skills competitions, training camps, and leadership development programs, we support the next generation of tradespeople to reach their full potential. But we don’t do it alone. We can’t. Our success is built on partnerships with TAFEs, RTOs, governments, communities, and, most critically, with industry. We know that to truly prepare young Australians for the future of work, we need to be in lockstep with those who are shaping it. Industry knows where the demand is, what skills are evolving, and what excellence looks like on the job. When industry

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partners with WorldSkills, they help shape the standard. They become part of a national movement to lift capability, instil pride in the trades, and inspire the next generation to pursue excellence. Right now, more than ever, we need that collaboration. Skills shortages, shifting technologies, and changing workforce needs are reshaping our landscape. The best way to navigate that change is by working together, by investing in people, in training, and in partnerships that have real impact. That’s why we’re inviting industry to be part of this story. Whether through sponsorship, mentorship, or simply engaging with the incredible young talent coming through the WorldSkills network, there are many ways to get involved. This isn’t just about competitions. It’s about cultivating the future workforce; one that is resilient, adaptable, and equipped to meet the demands of modern industry. At WorldSkills Australia, we’re building that future. And we’d love you to build it with us. By partnering with us, you’ll play a direct role in shaping skills development in Australia. Your support enables us

Investing in the skills of automotive technicians secures the industry for the future.

to engage in vital research, promote skills excellence, build careers, foster international collaboration, and deliver world-class skills competitions and leadership programs. Together, we can create lasting impact— empowering individuals, strengthening industries, and securing Australia’s future workforce.

Trevor Schwenke CEO, WorldSkills Australia

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