As the industry faces its biggest transformation, VACC’s outgoing CEO reflects on the future of the sector
12 THE ROAD AHEAD
Everything you need to know about vehicle retention and payment disputes in the repair industry
How industry advocacy has helped reshape Australia’s automotive skilled migration landscape 14 NEW YEAR, NEW RULES
What all automotive businesses need to know heading into 2025 16 FUTURE GROWTH
Tasmania is preparing for an exciting future while navigating significant technological changes. 18 SEMA
From workshop to leadership: VACC’s Craig Beruldsen shares his automotive journey.
We wrap up the 2024 Speciality Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show and AAPEX Expo in Las Vegas.
Engineering Excellence: 28 Universities battle it out in the Formula SAE 2024 competition.
26 NEW VACC CEO
VACC’s new CEO Peter Jones brings over 30 years of experience in the automotive and finance industries
38 SRECKO LORBEK
We talk to Srecko Lorbek about the world of luxury cars, an electric future, and building a legacy of excellence.
30 NATIONAL POLICY NEWS
Crucial wins laid the groundwork for businesses to confidently invest in skills, technology and infrastructure
42 AUTOMOTIVE ETHERNET
By 2030 the electrical/electronics system will constitute up to 50 per cent of the manufacturing cost of a car
BUSINESS & SERVICES
48 IN THE KNOW
This issue addresses the Holden Captiva Z22D1 EGR valve and cooler replacement.
56 SERVICE DIRECTORY
Find everything from the latest products to the best business services all in the one place.
58 BUSINESS INDEX
Take advantage of VACC and TACC corporate partnerships and services.
62 THE LAST WORD
From our archives, a page from The Australian Automobile Trade Journal published 100 years ago.
FROM THE EDITOR
As we settle into 2025, the automotive industry stands at a pivotal moment of transformation. The articles in this month’s edition of VACC Automotive paint a vivid picture of an industry not just adapting to change, but actively shaping its future through coordinated action and innovation.
For those willing to embrace this evolution, the opportunities are boundless.
As VACC Automotive takes on a fresh look in 2025, we’re expanding our content to deliver more diverse articles and insights for all our members.
Our lead story this month celebrates a landmark victory for the industry – the inclusion of all core automotive trades in the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). This breakthrough, achieved through sustained advocacy by MTAA and VACC, demonstrates our industry’s ability to effect real change when we speak with one voice.
For businesses that have long grappled with skills
shortages, these new migration pathways offer tangible hope and practical solutions. The recent SEMA Show in Las Vegas reinforced Australia’s growing influence in the global automotive landscape. Our Right-to-Repair framework is now viewed as a template for international markets, whilst our approach to emerging technologies continues to draw attention from industry leaders worldwide. This recognition speaks volumes about our industry’s capacity for innovation and leadership in the face of change.
This policy win and international recognition couldn’t have come at a more crucial time. Our outgoing CEO Geoff Gwilym’s reflective piece captures how our industry stands before one of its most profound transformations. The pace of change we’re experiencing now will compress decades of evolution into just a few years, making access to skilled professionals more critical than ever. The scope of this transformation is evident across every facet of automotive technology. Our deep dive into Automotive Ethernet technology showcases how modern vehicles are becoming increasingly sophisticated digital platforms, with data requirements that would have seemed unfathomable just a decade ago. The evolution from traditional networking systems to fibre optic communications demands a workforce equipped with new skills and expertise – presenting fresh opportunities for businesses ready to invest in tomorrow’s technology.
Encouragingly, we’re already nurturing the next generation of automotive innovators. Our coverage of the Formula SAE-A competition at Calder Park Raceway
DR. IMOGEN GARCIA REID
demonstrates how university students are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in automotive engineering. Their work across internal combustion, electric, and autonomous vehicles provides a glimpse into the diverse future of mobility technology, supported by tangible policy progress like the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard and the $150 million Clean Energy Finance Corporation programme.
For business owners, this period of transition brings both challenges and opportunities. The key to success lies in recognising that change, while sometimes daunting, opens doors to new business models and revenue streams. Whether it’s investing in EV capabilities, exploring autonomous vehicle technology, or developing expertise in advanced diagnostic systems, the businesses that thrive will be those that view transformation as an opportunity rather than an obstacle. The automotive industry has always been dynamic, but 2025 presents us with unprecedented opportunities for renewal. With new skilled migration pathways opening up and technological advancement continuing apace, we’re better positioned than ever to embrace these opportunities. The future belongs to those who are prepared to evolve, learn, and grow alongside our changing industry.
As your industry magazine, we’re committed to bringing you the insights, analysis, and practical information you need to navigate this exciting period of transformation. The stories in this month’s edition showcase not just where we are, but where we’re heading – and with the right people and skills in place, the path ahead is full of promise.
MANAGING EDITOR
Imogen Garcia Reid 03 9829 1247
vaccautomotive@vacc.com.au
SUB-EDITOR
Andrew Molloy
DESIGNERS
Faith Perrett
Gavin van Langenberg 03 9829 1189 creativeservices@vacc.com.au
CONTRIBUTORS
John Caine, Geoff Gwilym, Rod Lofts, Bruce McIntosh, Imogen Garcia Reid, Daniel Hodges, Paul Tuzson
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS
John Eaton 03 9829 1209 | 0407 344 433
jeaton@ourauto.com.au PRESIDENT Craig Beruldsen
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Geoff Gwilym
Official publication of the Victorian and Tasmanian Automotive Chambers of Commerce
650 Victoria Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051 03 9829 1111 ABN 63 009 478 209
VACC adheres to its obligations under National Privacy Principles legislation. Information on products and services contained in the editorial and advertising pages of this magazine does not imply the endorsement of any product or service by VACC. Australasian Automotive is copyright and no part may be reproduced without the written permission of VACC. Advertisers and advertising agencies lodging material for publication in Australasian Automotive indemnify VACC, its directors, board, employees, members, and its agents against all claims
FROM THE CEO
The automotive industry is constantly changing and so too do the businesses that make up the VACC membership. Historically the arrival of the motor vehicle opened up countries and continents, providing freedoms for individuals that could not have been dreamed of in the preceding decades. From that time, and still currently, cars and other forms of automobiles have evolved, along with the business world, tradespeople working in the industry and in our communities. But now we stand before one of the most profound changes the industry has ever faced; in a desire by
GEOFF GWILYM
governments to totally electrify the vehicle fleet. This is no longer a question, and a challenge, just for the automotive industry, it is connected to grid capability, the total renewal of Australia’s poles and wires that transmit power across this great land, and, sometimes overlooked, the capacity to attract and retain the much-needed skills base for future. This is the forefront of the industry and in this massive transition, there will be those that make good, and take every opportunity to exploit a situation of change. Even now, as I talk to members all over Victoria and Tasmania, it is clear to see those preparing their businesses and their skills and capabilities to meet these new and emerging conditions. There are others who have made their own call to stick with what they know and to time their journey towards retirement or a change of business, and the very best to them.
As the automotive industry faces its biggest transformation, VACC’s outgoing CEO reflects on the future of the sector and the opportunities ahead.
There is a new class of entrepreneurs that will arrive with new ideas and business models that will challenge what we have known for a long time and in some cases, they will nudge out existing players. That’s business and that’s how change is created. The pace of change is going to be quicker than ever and the rate of transition that we have seen over the past few decades will no doubt occur in a quarter of that time. For the VACC, it too will have to constantly change. The association will have to carefully listen and be alert to what members actually want, and need. The association model has also been in a state of change over the past decade and industry associations that look like clubs won’t last the race. Associations need to be service-focused and stand the same tests as any other business. The journey for me at VACC has been an incredible one. I have had the privilege to work across five different boards and I have met thousands of members, all of which I value and respect. I leave the organisation in the knowledge it has a vital role to play in the industry and it is well prepared and resourced to do this. I thank each and every member for their trust in me and I wish every fortune to the industry of the future.
CONSUMER AFFAIRS
John Caine
Can a Customer demand their goods or vehicle back without payment?
No! The vehicle or goods become the subject of “Repairer’s Lien” until payment is made and the goods are released.
In the automotive repair sector, one of the most challenging situations business owners face is when customers demand their vehicle’s return without settling their bill. However, the law provides clear protection for repair businesses through what’s known as a “Repairer’s Lien”.
Under common law, any business that carries out repairs or improvements to a vehicle has the legal right to retain possession until full payment is received. This fundamental right, however, comes with specific conditions that business owners must understand to protect their interests. The cornerstone of this protection lies in the possessory nature of the lien. For it to remain valid, vehicles
must be stored within your business premises. Critically, storing vehicles in public or unsecured areas could result in unauthorised removal by owners or their representatives. While this wouldn’t invalidate the debt, pursuing payment through civil courts could become a lengthy and costly process.
When exercising your right to retain a vehicle, it’s essential to ensure your pricing structure is demonstrably fair and reasonable. If you’ve provided a written quote, this becomes legally binding. While estimates offer more flexibility, they should accurately reflect anticipated costs. Any significant deviations must be justified and communicated to the customer promptly.
A crucial aspect that repair businesses must consider is the concept of lien extinction. Once a vehicle is released to its owner, the lien ceases to exist. This means if a vehicle returns for additional work, any new lien only covers the current repairs, not previous outstanding balances. In situations where law enforcement
becomes involved, typically in response to disputes, repair businesses should maintain their position firmly but professionally. Police officers may suggest releasing the vehicle to “keep the peace”. However, businesses are within their rights to decline such requests, as this is fundamentally a civil matter beyond police jurisdiction. Understanding and correctly implementing these legal principles is vital for protecting your business interests while maintaining professional relationships with your customers. It provides a clear framework for handling payment disputes while ensuring your rights as a service provider are protected. This article was written specifically for the Victorian automotive repair sector, offering guidance on the legal framework surrounding payment disputes and vehicle retention rights in accordance with Australian legislation. Please note: This article is general in nature and should not be taken as legal advice. For specific situations, businesses should seek professional legal counsel to ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.
Creating positive change for your business and the environment.
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INDUSTRY POLICY
Dr Imogen Garcia Reid
In what industry leaders are describing as a pivotal moment, Australia’s automotive sector has secured a comprehensive victory in the battle against ongoing skills shortages. The Australian Government’s decision to include all core automotive trades in the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) marks a turning point in addressing one of the industry’s most persistent challenges.
The announcement, effective from 7 December 2024, comes as a welcome relief to an industry where three out of four businesses report difficulties filling skilled positions. This landmark reform follows months of strategic advocacy led by the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) in partnership with the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC).
Voice of Industry Heard
The VACC leadership emphasises that this development represents a significant milestone for the automotive industry. The government’s responsiveness to grassroots feedback from members, supported by the Deloitte Access Economics analysis, demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated industry action.
The success story behind this policy shift reveals the power of evidencebased advocacy. A comprehensive Deloitte Access Economics report, commissioned by the industry bodies, laid bare the stark realities facing automotive businesses across the country. The analysis painted a compelling picture of an industry grappling with technological advancement whilst battling a diminishing skilled workforce.
A Complete Package
The new CSOL coverage includes nine essential trades:
• Diesel Motor Mechanic
Automotive Electrician
Panelbeater
Vehicle Painter
Motor Mechanic (General)
Vehicle Body Builder
Vehicle Trimmer
Motorcycle Mechanic
Small Engine Mechanic
Immigration Pathways and Impact
The comprehensive nature of these reforms makes the victory particularly significant. The changes introduce both temporary and permanent migration pathways through the new Skills in Demand Visa and the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa. For businesses long frustrated by bureaucratic hurdles, the changes promise streamlined application processes and reduced processing times. Industry surveys reveal the depth of the challenge these reforms address. With over 75 per cent of automotive businesses struggling to fill skilled positions, and many vacancies remaining open for more than six months, the impact on business operations has been severe. The new pathways offer hope for businesses whilst maintaining high standards of qualification and experience.
Implementation: The Next Steps Industry leadership stresses the importance of implementation and commits to working with all stakeholders to ensure these changes deliver real benefits for members and the broader automotive industry.
VACC and MTAA are already mapping out implementation strategies, including: Development of detailed guidance materials
Regular government consultation
Monitoring of processing times
Ongoing collection of member feedback
Future Outlook
Whilst this victory addresses immediate workforce challenges, industry leaders view it as part of a broader strategy.
The focus remains on building a skilled and sustainable automotive workforce through a combination of migration, domestic training, and industry development initiatives.
As Australia’s automotive sector continues to evolve, with increasing technological complexity and growing fleet sizes, this policy win provides a foundation for future growth. It demonstrates that when industry speaks with one voice, backed by solid evidence, government listens.
For an industry that keeps Australia moving, this breakthrough in skilled migration policy couldn’t have come at a better time.
The road ahead looks considerably brighter for automotive businesses across the nation.
For detailed information about these changes, visit the VACC website.
INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS
Daniel Hodges
As the automotive industry rolls into 2025, employers are provided with an opportune time to take stock of the significant workplace changes that have occurred over recent times which impact how businesses manage their employees. Most notably, 1 January 2025 saw the commencement of the criminalisation of intentional underpayments (including late payments), as well as changes to the length of time (i.e. up to 3 months) an employee can be classified at the introductory Level 1 under the Vehicle Award. However, it is important to remember that these latest amendments form part of a larger collection of significant (and often contentious) workplace relations changes to have taken effect since the election of the Albanese Government.
Whilst change can be daunting, being prepared and proactive can help automotive business owners start the year with confidence and set themselves up for success. Accordingly, now is the perfect time for business owners to review the currency of their workplace relations arrangements to ensure they are starting the year on the right foot. In addition to checking
that payroll systems are up-todate, employee classifications are correct, and all staff members are receiving their proper entitlements, employers are encouraged to take the opportunity to review their employment contracts, as well as workplace policies and procedures, to ensure they are reflective of current legislative requirements. Where changes to policies and procedures need to be made, it is important that affected staff (including management) are consulted and where applicable, trained, to ensure they are well-versed in both their rights and obligations. This can help in avoiding potential issues and ensuring smooth operations throughout the year. Taking a proactive approach to workplace compliance is not just about meeting legal obligations –it also helps to enable a positive work environment for the business as a whole that can focus more energy on growth, innovation, and delivering exceptional service to their customers.
To help automotive businesses navigate these changes effectively, we have provided several practical steps to consider:
Review your payroll system and ensure that it is compliant with current requirements
Check that all employee records and pay slips are accurate and up-to-date
Ensure payroll staff receive appropriate training and regular updates
• Implement systematic checks to maintain ongoing compliance
Consider conducting regular payroll audits
• Review classification levels for all employees
Review workplace policies and procedures and update as needed in consultation with affected employees.
The start of a new year is also the perfect time to assess overall workplace needs, including whether your organisational structure and staffing levels are appropriate and reflective of current operational requirements.
By utilising available support and resources through the VACC’s Workplace Relations team (03 9829 1123 or ir@vacc.com.au) as your first port of call for any workplace relationsrelated matter, members can take the opportunity to strengthen their operations and ensure a positive workplace environment for all.
Remember, staying informed and prepared is not just about compliance – it is about creating a stronger, more resilient business that is ready to tackle whatever challenges and opportunities 2025 may bring.
TACC UPDATE
Bruce
McIntosh
As State Manager of the Tasmanian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (TACC), I am proud to represent an industry that continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation. Our sector, employing over 7,500 Tasmanians across more than 400 member sites, is actively preparing for an exciting future while navigating significant technological changes.
In our recent pre-budget submission to the Tasmanian Government - a crucial annual process where industry bodies outline their funding priorities ahead of the state budget - TACC has identified key areas where strategic investment could accelerate our industry’s growth and innovation. These pre-budget submissions play a vital role in shaping government spending decisions and policy direction for the coming financial year. Through extensive consultation with our members, we have identified three primary areas where government partnership could catalyse positive change: ZLEV infrastructure support, tyre waste management, and vocational training enhancement.
The transition to zero and low-emission vehicles (ZLEVs) represents both an opportunity and a challenge. TasNetworks
has indicated that power connection upgrades for ZLEV infrastructure could cost individual businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars – a significant investment for many of our members. Government assistance with these costs would accelerate Tasmania’s ZLEV transition and position our state as a leader in sustainable transport.
Throughout 2024, while energy providers have been central to ZLEV transition discussions, we believe frontline businesses – those actually selling, servicing, and repairing these vehicles –deserve a stronger voice in shaping policy. Our independent mechanical workshops and fuel distributors are eager to embrace this transition but require support to adapt their business models effectively. The waste tyre situation presents another opportunity for innovation. Since late 2024, our members have reported significant increases in tyre collection and disposal costs. Access to Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA) accredited collectors has become limited, highlighting the need for local solutions. The 2021 ban on unrestricted tyre exports has created an opportunity to develop Tasmania’s circular economy capabilities.
On the training front, we celebrate having 840 apprentices enrolled in Certificate II and III qualifications at TasTAFE, plus 150
VET students in automotive preparation courses. To build on this success, TACC is calling for an Automotive Training Renewal Fund to modernise facilities, with particular focus on mining-related automotive skills in the North-West Coast and ZLEV training capabilities in Greater Hobart. We’re particularly focused on addressing ‘thin training markets’ in specialised areas such as motorcycle mechanics, engine reconditioning, automotive electrical work, panel and paint, vehicle parts, and outdoor power equipment. TACC is advocating for an innovative funding model that would incentivise registered training providers (RTOs) to deliver training on a per-class basis rather than a perhead basis for certain programmes.
As Tasmania’s automotive sector embraces these opportunities in 2025, TACC is emphasising the importance of coordinated government support. Our industry’s ability to lead in new technologies while maintaining essential services for existing vehicles depends largely on the government’s response to these identified needs.
TACC remains committed to advancing Tasmania’s automotive industry, and with appropriate support for infrastructure upgrades, waste management solutions, and training facility improvements, with this, I am confident our industry will continue to grow and innovate in this evolving automotive landscape.
SEMA 2024: Australia’s automotive expertise in the spotlight
The 2024 Speciality Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show and AAPEX Expo in Las Vegas wrapped up in November, drawing over 100,000 industry professionals.
The event showcased Australia’s growing influence in the global automotive aftermarket sector, highlighting the increasing convergence of traditional expertise with emerging technologies. Australia’s motor vehicle repair scheme emerged as a standout topic at the Right to Repair Forum, earning international recognition for its progressive approach to repair information access. As markets worldwide grapple with similar legislation, the Australian model, which emphasises transparency, accessibility and enforcement, is increasingly viewed as a template for other regions seeking to balance manufacturer interests with consumer rights.
The electric vehicle sector dominated many of the show’s key discussions and exhibitions. Industry analysts
noted persistent challenges facing EV adoption, including significantly higher purchase costs compared to conventional vehicles and ongoing concerns about charging infrastructure. Despite these challenges, multiple new electric vehicle manufacturers have announced plans to enter the Australian market, signalling growing confidence in the country’s EV future.
The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) maintained a strong presence at the show, with newlyelected VACC board member Anthony Schache joining other representatives to engage with international counterparts and explore emerging industry trends. This robust representation underscored the organisation’s commitment to staying at the forefront of global automotive developments. However, industry insiders suggest potential policy changes under a possible Trump presidency could reshape the global EV landscape. This
political dimension adds uncertainty to expansion plans and underscores the complex interplay between global market forces and policy decisions in the evolving automotive sector.
The technical sessions at SEMA also reflected this shifting landscape, with EV Legacy presenting groundbreaking developments in conversion standards. These presentations aligned with the announcement of IMI-certified EV training programmes continuing to roll out in Victoria this July for the benefit of VACC members, in collaboration with AC Training Academy. The scheduling of ATRA transmission seminars also demonstrates the VACC’s commitment to maintaining expertise across both traditional and emerging technologies and specialist sectors.
“What we saw at SEMA this year is a clear indication that the Australian automotive aftermarket is becoming increasingly influential on the global stage,” says Frank Grocl, VACC Automotive Repair
Division Committee Member. “Our right-to-repair framework and approach to emerging technologies are being viewed as benchmark models by many international markets.”
For VACC members, the organisation’s active representation at international events like SEMA provides crucial early access to emerging trends, technologies, training opportunities and connecting with like-minded associations and experts. This engagement allows the Chamber to develop targeted support programmes and technical resources that help member businesses stay ahead of industry changes, particularly in areas such as EV servicing and vehicle maintenance.
The advancement of autonomous vehicle technology provided another glimpse into the industry’s future, with Waymo’s self-driving taxis now operational in Las Vegas and Los Angeles. This real-world implementation has captured the attention of Australian industry leaders, suggesting autonomous vehicles may become a reality in Australian cities sooner than previously anticipated. The increasing sophistication of automotive technology has led to
growing demands for advanced training and equipment. Workshop owners and technicians from across Australia attended specialised sessions focusing on diagnostic tools, software updates and emerging repair techniques. This emphasis on continuous education reflects the industry’s recognition that success requires ongoing professional development.
Looking ahead, Las Vegas is expanding its convention facilities to accommodate the growing automotive aftermarket sector. The expansion plans include dedicated spaces for hands-on training and technical demonstrations, addressing the industry’s growing need for practical, experience-based learning opportunities.
For Australian automotive professionals, the key takeaway from this year’s SEMA Show is clear: success requires adaptability and a comprehensive approach to skill development. Whether embracing electric vehicle technology, maintaining traditional mechanical expertise, or preparing for autonomous vehicles, maintaining broad technical capabilities whilst staying ahead of regulatory changes is crucial. The strong Australian presence at this year’s show suggests the country’s automotive
sector is well-positioned to meet these challenges, whilst potentially leading the way in areas such as repair rights and technical training.
The conclusion of this year’s SEMA Show marks not just another successful industry event, but a pivotal moment in the global automotive aftermarket’s evolution. As the industry continues to transform, the Australian market’s influence on international best practices and standards appears set to grow, particularly in areas of regulation, training and technological adaptation. For industry veterans like Frank, SEMA presented another valuable opportunity to enhance technical knowledge and prepare both himself and his business for the rapidly evolving automotive landscape ahead.
L-R: John Khoury, Jonathan Larsen, Vice President Standards and Digital Products of Auto Care Association, Bill Hanvey, President & CEO of The Auto Care Association, Frank Grocl, J&F Motors
From Apprentice to President
A conversation with VACC’s Craig Beruldsen
In the sun-baked streets of Mildura, where community ties run as deep as the Murray River, Craig Beruldsen’s automotive journey began.
Now, as the 60th President of the VACC, his story exemplifies the spirit of regional business success. From his early days as a young apprentice to becoming a respected industry leader, Beruldsen’s journey reflects the determination and resilience that characterises Australia’s automotive sector.
We sat down with Craig to learn more about his remarkable journey from the workshop floor to the leadership of Australia’s largest motor trade associations.
Many great stories start with childhood memories. What are your earliest recollections of being around cars?
My father was an insurance loss adjuster who assessed motor vehicles. He would repair total loss accidentdamaged vehicles for our family car – he truly loved his vehicles. I also remember having a Meccano set when I was five years old, and my dad and I would spend hours building cars, lorries, and tanks together. Tell us about your mentor, Mel Schmidt. What key lessons did he teach you?
Mel was a Mildura local who completed his panel beating
apprenticeship at Ron Olson’s panel shop. After working in Melbourne at Lacy’s Panel shop, he returned to start Mel Schmidt Panel Works in 1972. I would work with him after school and during holidays, often late into the night. His key lessons were simple but powerful: work hard and focus on customer service. What motivated you to purchase the business at such a young age?
When Mel had to return to Melbourne, he offered us the business. The reality was stark – if we hadn’t bought Mel Schmidt Panel Works in 1984, I would have been unemployed. My wife and I gathered the funds and secured a loan from Mel, which we managed to pay off over the next four years.
How has being part of a regional community shaped your approach to business?
In a place where nearly everyone knows everyone, your reputation is everything. You need to focus on providing good customer service, being honest with what you do, and delivering quality service and repairs. There’s no room for cutting corners in a regional community. What prompted your active involvement in VACC’s governance?
"Craig's journey reflects the determination and resilience that characterises Australia’s automotive sector. "
After 39 years as a member, I wanted to contribute more and be involved in the organisation’s governance. Being from a rural area, I bring a different dimension to the table – I understand the unique challenges rural members face. When a position opened on the VACC Executive Board, I seized the opportunity. I enjoy being involved with the governance, seeing that VACC is being run well, also the finance of the chamber is being managed correctly. I held the position of secretary for the past two years, which I enjoyed. For the next two years, I will be the President of the VACC. I welcome all members to have contact with me.
Mel Schmidt and his wife Maxine outside Mel. Schmidt Panel Works
Old Mel Schmidt workshop
What led you to expand into towing operations?
I started by driving a tow truck for an independent operator who would bring accident and breakdown work to my workshop. When he sold his trucks to a panel shop that already held most of Mildura’s tow plates, I saw an opportunity. I applied to VicRoads for a towing licence, but was initially knocked back at the RTA tribunal hearing.
Not willing to give up, I engaged a Melbourne barrister. With strong support from the local community and Brian’s (barrister) excellent work, I successfully secured the licence – it was truly a David and Goliath moment. Since then, we’ve acquired three more towing licences from businesses that closed down, and towing has become a significant part of our operation. How do you balance running a business with industry leadership roles?
I have a wonderfully supportive wife and team behind me, which allows me to dedicate proper time to both roles. We’re strategic about the repair work we take on, and the workshop runs smoothly thanks to our excellent employees. Though, being at the top end of Victoria,
finding qualified staff remains one of our biggest challenges. We’re proud of our successful mechanical apprentice programme, and I look forward to working with VACC to explore more opportunities for addressing workforce development across Victoria.
What’s your fondest apprenticeship memory?
During my apprenticeship, I received two awards at trade school – in my second and third years. I was fortunate to work in a shop where I could take on any challenge I wanted to tackle.
What have been your biggest challenges along the way?
My journey from apprentice to VACC President has been a work in progress. The first major challenge came when Mel told my wife and me we were buying the business – I was just 23 years old. In those early days, I worked long hours, starting with just myself and a spray painter, before we could bring on a tradesman panel beater. Finding and retaining qualified staff has always been a challenge, and remains so today. When our landlord decided to sell the premises, we had to take another significant financial step by purchasing our workshop. Through it all, VACC has
been invaluable in supporting our business. Looking back, we’ve been very fortunate with the opportunity to buy the business, and we’re still going strong in 2025. I’d say we haven’t faced too many major challenges – just bumps in the road.
Can you share a story about the industry’s community spirit?
I remember joining a group of Mildura panel shop owners flying to Melbourne for a VACC march against the motor vehicle insurance industry. Seeing our entire body repair industry unite in the streets of Melbourne was unforgettable. It showed what we can achieve when we stand together.
As Craig steps into his role as VACC President, his story serves as a testament to the opportunities that exist in regional Australia’s automotive sector. From those early days working alongside Mel Schmidt to leading one of the industry’s most influential organisations, Craig’s journey embodies the values of hard work, community connection, and unwavering determination. His leadership brings a vital regional perspective to VACC, ensuring the voice of rural automotive businesses continues to be heard across Victoria.
Mel Schmidt Panel Works today
Neway Wheel Repairs is a family owned-and-operated company spanning three generations of knowledge and class-leading experience, servicing the automotive industry with trusted craftsmanship since 1950. We use state of the art equipment to remanufacture your wheels back to OM standard.
Future innovators shine at Formula SAE-A 2024
In the scorching December heat at Calder Park Raceway, the future of automotive engineering was on full display as 28 university teams showcased their Formula-style race cars at the 2024 Formula SAE-A competition. This wasn’t just another racing event – it represented the culmination of countless hours of design, engineering, and teamwork from some of the brightest young minds in mobility technology. The four-day event, organised by the Society of Automotive Engineers - Australasia (SAE-A), transformed the Victorian raceway into a hub of innovation, where engineering students demonstrated their prowess in designing and building open-wheel race cars. What sets this competition apart is its emphasis on engineering design and technical capability over pure racing performance. The paddock buzzed with activity as teams darted between scrutineering, design presentations, and track events. Each car’s journey to the starting line was accompanied by an entourage of dedicated team members, their matching uniforms creating a similar feel to any F1 race. These weren’t just pit crews – they were the designers, engineers, and project managers who had been developing their vehicles over many months leading into the event. Among the standout participants was Taipei Tech Racing from Taiwan’s National Taipei University of Technology. Their meticulously crafted electric vehicle showcased the competition’s international appeal and collaborative spirit. “Being here allows us to exchange ideas with Australian and other international teams, seeing different approaches to common engineering challenges,” shared one of their team members, beaming with pride.
The University of Western Australia’s team, UWA Motorsport, brought an impressive contingent to the East Coast. Their enthusiasm was infectious as they walked industry professionals through their electric vehicle’s sophisticated systems, demonstrating the deep technical knowledge gained throughout the project.
What makes Formula SAE-A particularly valuable is its three distinct categories: Internal Combustion, Electric Vehicles, and Autonomous Vehicles. This diversity reflects the rapid evolution of automotive technology and ensures students are prepared for the industry’s future directions. The autonomous vehicle category, featuring teams like Monash Motorsport and QUT Motorsport, highlights the competition’s commitment to emerging technologies. SAE-A, founded in Melbourne in 1927, has been instrumental in advancing mobility engineering in the Asia-Pacific region. Their vision of promoting technical knowledge transfer and encouraging research and development is perfectly embodied in this competition. “Formula SAE-A is more than a competition –it’s a talent pipeline for our industry,” explains a senior SAE-A representative. “These students aren’t just building cars; they’re developing real-world skills in project management, teamwork, and problem-solving.”
The competition’s impact on Australia’s automotive sector cannot be overstated. In an era where traditional automotive manufacturing has declined, Formula SAE-A demonstrates that automotive innovation is still thriving in Australia. The practical experience and collaborative skills developed through this competition are precisely what the industry needs for its future growth and evolution.
As the sun set on another successful Formula SAE-A event, it was clear that this competition continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of mobility engineering. Whether pursuing careers in electric vehicles, autonomous systems, or traditional automotive engineering, these students are wellequipped to drive innovation in the industry. The real victory at Formula SAE-A isn’t found on the timing sheets – it’s in the development of the next generation of automotive leaders.
HYBRID
VACC names former Nissan Executive as new CEO
The VACC has appointed Peter Jones as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective February 2025. Peter brings over three decades of leadership experience in the automotive and finance sectors to the role, marking a significant development for Victoria's peak automotive industry body. Most recently serving as Managing Director of Nissan Financial Services Australia and New Zealand, as well as Nissan Casting Australia, Peter has established himself as a prominent figure in both the automotive and finance industries. His appointment comes at a critical juncture as the sector grapples with technological transformation, evolving regulatory landscapes, and unprecedented business challenges. Peter's impressive industry credentials include his recent induction into the Australian Finance Industry Hall of Fame in 2024, recognising his outstanding contributions as Board Chair of the Australian Finance
Industry Association. His expertise in regulatory engagement and industry development positions him ideally to advance VACC's mission of supporting and advocating for members.
VACC President Craig Beruldsen expressed strong confidence in the appointment, highlighting Peter’s proven track record in driving organisational growth and strengthening industry relationships. "Peter’s appointment comes at a crucial time as our industry navigates significant technological changes, regulatory requirements, and business challenges," Beruldsen noted.
The new CEO's educational background includes comprehensive qualifications in Accounting, Economics, and Asian Studies, complemented by his graduation from the Australian Institute of Company Directors. This broad expertise positions him well to understand and address the complex challenges facing VACC's diverse membership base across Victoria and Tasmania's automotive sector.
Peter will take the helm during a transformative period for the automotive industry, with his unique experience in both traditional automotive operations and financial services offering valuable insights into the sector's evolution. His appointment follows an extensive executive search process, and he will begin engaging with VACC members at industry events and divisional meetings in early 2025.
The appointment signals VACC's commitment to strengthening its position as the authoritative voice of the automotive industry in Victoria, with Peter expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation's strategic direction and member support initiatives.
Auto industry embraces $40M EV charging infrastructure program
The Australian automotive sector has begun tapping into the Federal Government’s newly launched $40 million support program aimed at accelerating the nation’s transition to electric vehicles.
The Dealership and Repairer Initiative for Vehicle Electrification Nationally (DRIVEN) program, which commenced last month, provides significant rebates for EV charging infrastructure to dealerships and repair shops across the country. Since opening on 22 January, eligible businesses have been actively applying for rebates of up to $2,500 per smart EV charger, with a maximum benefit of $20,000 per site. The program, running until April 2028, is establishing a comprehensive charging network spanning urban, regional, and remote areas of Australia.
The Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA), which advocated for the program alongside statelevel organisations including VACC, has described the initiative as “a major win for the automotive industry.” The DRIVEN program complements the recently enacted New Vehicle Efficiency Standard Act 2024 and supports Australia’s commitment to achieving netzero emissions by 2050.
Under the current guidelines, eligible businesses must hold an Australian Business Number and meet specific industry criteria. Qualified applicants include licensed motor dealers, associated service centres, and automotive repair businesses compliant with Australian Standards 5732:2022 for EV operations, with repair businesses required to employ at least one qualified EV technician.
The program falls under the broader $60 million Driving the Nation Fund, demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting the automotive sector through the electric transition. Beyond infrastructure development, the initiative aims to enhance staff and customer awareness of EV technologies while boosting electric vehicle adoption across the country.
This strategic investment has arrived at a crucial time as the industry adapts to changing market demands and environmental regulations. The program supports businesses in meeting growing EV demand while establishing the necessary infrastructure for widespread adoption, particularly in traditionally underserved regional areas. Applications remain open and will continue until funds are exhausted or the program ends in April 2028.
Automotive Industry Awards 2025: Celebrating Excellence and Innovation
The prestigious Automotive Industry Awards (AIA) has announced its return for 2025, expanding its recognition programme with a new dedicated category for medium-sized automotive businesses in metropolitan areas. This strategic addition completes the awards’ comprehensive coverage of the sector, ensuring businesses of all sizes receive the recognition they deserve.
The awards, open to all VACC and TACC members, showcases seven distinct business excellence categories across Victoria and Tasmania, alongside two esteemed President’s Awards.
The newly introduced Best Medium Automotive Business category specifically caters to metropolitan enterprises with 20-99 employees, adding to the framework of the awards. For smaller businesses, the Best Small
Automotive Business categories (1-19 employees) recognise excellence in both regional and metropolitan areas across Victoria and Tasmania. Meanwhile, larger enterprises with over 100 staff in metropolitan areas, or 20-plus employees in regional locations, can compete for the Best Large Automotive Business accolades.
The President’s Awards continue to celebrate individual and organisational excellence through the Employee and Employer of the Year categories. These prestigious honours acknowledge exceptional contributions to workplace culture, customer service, and industry advancement.
Applications for the 2025 awards will open from 3 February to 14 March, with early submissions encouraged through an exclusive February early-bird incentive.
Businesses entering the awards will be evaluated on multiple criteria, including customer service excellence, workplace policies, staff training initiatives, and innovative marketing approaches.
These awards represent more than industry recognition – they offer businesses a valuable opportunity to benchmark their operations, showcase their achievements, and gain prominence within the automotive sector. Winners will be announced at a gala ceremony on 28 June 2025, at Melbourne’s Palladium Crown. Through these awards, the automotive industry continues to set new standards for excellence, innovation, and professional achievement, reinforcing its position as a dynamic and forward-thinking sector of the Australian economy.
2024 AIA award winners, Original Engine Co.
NATIONAL POLICY NEWS
Automotive industry starts 2025 with major policy wins after unified campaign
For automotive businesses across Australia, 2024 proved to be a watershed year that delivered the policy settings our industry has long advocated for. Through coordinated efforts between the MTAA and state motor trade organisations, the automotive sector secured crucial wins that laid the groundwork for businesses to confidently invest in skills, technology, and infrastructure.
The series of victories secured through sustained industry advocacy culminated in December’s announcement of a $150 million Clean Energy Finance Corporation programme for lowinterest EV loans. For dealerships and workshops investing in EV capabilities, this consumer support arrives at a crucial time, with Australian EV sales exceeding 100,000 units annually.
“This initiative gives our industry the market certainty we need,” noted MTAA CEO Matt Hobbs. “Businesses can now confidently invest in training, equipment, and facilities, knowing there’s strong government support for the sector’s evolution.”
For workshops and technicians, the formal recognition of EV Technicians through a dedicated occupation classification represents a major step forward. Coupled with the inclusion of nine essential automotive trades in the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), these changes give businesses clear pathways for workforce development and skills acquisition. Independent repairers saw their interests protected through the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s first enforcement action under the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme. The $18,780 penalty against Honda Australia sent a clear message about fair access to diagnostic software and technical data – a crucial win for workshops nationwide.
The implementation of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard in January 2025 marks a significant shift for our industry, whilst the upcoming review of the Australian Design Rules (ADRs) promises to streamline compliance without compromising standards.
For businesses adapting to new vehicle technologies, these changes provide a clear regulatory framework to plan against.
The successful outcomes reflect the strength of unified industry advocacy, with state organisations from New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, Northern Territory, Western Australia, and Queensland working alongside the MTAA to ensure local industry voices shaped national policy. This collaborative approach will continue throughout 2025, as significant work remains to be done in areas such as heavy vehicle repair information sharing, franchising reform, and skills development.
opportunities. Whether you’re investing in EV infrastructure, upskilling your workforce, or expanding your service capabilities, the groundwork laid in 2024 provides the certainty needed to move forward with confidence.
“Whilst we’ve achieved significant wins for the industry, our advocacy work continues,” Hobbs emphasised.
“The MTAA and state associations will maintain pressure on government to ensure the practical implementation of these policies serves our industry’s needs.
We’re already preparing submissions on several crucial issues that will impact businesses throughout 2025 and beyond.”
Looking ahead, these developments position workshops, dealerships, and automotive businesses of all types to capitalise on emerging
For business owners and operators across the sector, these changes establish clear pathways for growth and adaptation. As our industry continues its technological evolution, we now have the policy settings needed to support business investment and development.
As we navigate 2025, the Australian automotive sector stands better equipped than ever to embrace change and seize new opportunities. With strong policy foundations in place and ongoing advocacy efforts from the MTAA and state associations, businesses across our industry can focus on what they do best – serving customers and building for the future.
For more detailed information about MTAA’s policy agenda and submissions, visit mtaa.com.au
VACC PARTNERS
for complete waste management solutions
Cleanaway is Australia’s largest waste management provider and proud new VACC partner. With convenient locations across Victoria and Tasmania, we can build customised, competitive waste solutions for your automotive business, including:
General waste
Commingled recyclables
• Paper and cardboard
• Steel/aluminium cans and plastic
Liquid and hazardous waste
• Used mineral oil and oil filters
• Oily water, oily rags and other hydrocarbons
• Grease trap
• Pit and sump cleaning
Workshop and parts waste
Parts washer services
Industrial service capabilities
Call us today on 13 13 39 and mention VACC or visit our website.
OurAuto Insurance. What is Motor Trade Pack Insurance?
As a business owner, insurance for your assets and operational liabilities is a key consideration to be protected from the unexpected.
For the automotive industry, the standard insurance cover available is generally a Motor Trade Pack policy. This broad insurance solution is designed to help cover businesses for the unique risk exposures faced by the industry.
This type of product provides a packaged policy solution which allows a business to obtain cover based on its individual business needs and specific operational risk requirements.
Whilst Motor Trade Pack policies can vary between different insurers, we’ve created a summary of the typical sections incorporated in a Motor Trade Pack policy for the automotive industry.
Material Loss or Damage
Designed to help cover physical loss or damage to your business assets (e.g. building, contents and stock), at your premises from certain sudden, unexpected or unforeseen occurrences (Perils e.g. Fire, Storm Damage).
Noting, Flood Cover is typically excluded from standard products.
Business Interruption
Helps cover loss of income to your business as a result of material damage to your property and can assist with additional increased costs of working.
Glass
Helps cover the costs of replacing internal or external glass that is accidentally damaged or broken (e.g. windows including advertising signs).
Burglary
Helps cover loss of your contents and stock due to theft from forcible and violent entry to your premises.
Money
Designed to help cover your business’s money whilst on your premises and in transit.
Public and Product Liability
If you accidentally injure a third party, such as a client, or damage their property (including vehicles), you may be liable to compensate them for their loss or injury, and any subsequent legal costs incurred.
Customer Motor Vehicle
Helps cover customer motor vehicles on your property that are damaged or stolen.
Accidental damage cover is also available if an incident occurs when moving a vehicle on your
business premises or even test driving on public roads.
Computer Electronic Equipment
Helps cover breakdown of electronic equipment at your premises (e.g. photocopiers, computers, POS).
General Property (Special Risks)
Designed to help cover loss or damage to portable property (e.g. laptops).
Tax Audit
Helps cover Accountant’s Fees in connection with an audit of your business conducted by the Australian Taxation Office.
Machinery Breakdown
Machinery such as hoists are critical to your business. Machinery breakdown insurance can help cover any sudden or unforeseen breakdowns of your equipment that is housed on your business premises.
Professional Risks
Designed to help cover costs and expenses arising from incorrect advice (such as incorrect issuing of a road-worthiness certificate).
The VACC have partnered with Marsh to design better packaged policies; fairer pricing and cover that is inclusive of all businesses regardless of size and risk profile. Marsh has a dedicated Auto broker team, with the expertise to understand your business requirements.
For more information scan the QR code below to learn more.
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A LEGACY BUILT ON PASSION AND PRECISION DRIVING INNOVATION
SRECKO LORBEK
OWNER LORBEK LUXURY CARS
In the dynamic landscape of Australia’s automotive industry, few stories embody the spirit of entrepreneurial vision quite like that of Srecko Lorbek. From his early days as a mechanic to becoming a pioneering force in luxury vehicles and electric vehicles, Lorbek’s journey is a testament to the power of unwavering dedication and adaptability. In this month’s ‘Big Chair’, we get to know more about the driving force behind Srecko.
Lorbek Group of Companies originated over 40 years ago. How has the organisation grown during this time?
I started my business in 1981 as a mechanical workshop in Richmond, working six days
a week. Having grown up on a dairy farm in South Australia and completing my mechanical apprenticeship at South Eastern College in Mount Gambier, those early days taught me the value of hard work and attention to detail.
Tell us about the Lorbek Group of Companies’ service offerings. Lorbek Prestige has expanded into Lorbek Electrical Automotive with GET Electric, an EV charger supply business. The market’s shift towards EVs, coupled with progressive
BIG CHAIR
government initiatives like FBT exemptions on EVs, made this expansion a natural progression. When an iconic manufacturer like Ferrari expands into EVs, it sends a clear signal to the entire industry about where we’re heading. This transformation isn’t just about selling cars anymore; it’s about embracing and leading the future of sustainable automotive solutions.
What are Lorbek’s core values and how have they developed since its origins?
Our core values are built on my perfectionist nature. My personal mantra is ‘Do it once, do it properly’, embracing what the Japanese call Kaizen – continual improvement.
We’re always asking ourselves, ‘How can we keep getting better?’ This philosophy extends beyond just vehicle sales to every aspect of our business, from customer service to facility management and team development.
The vision for Lorbek has always been to be the most recognised used Luxury Car brand in Australia. What is the key to achieving your goals?
We see first-time clients as joining the family. My personal objective
isn’t to sell just one car – it’s about building lasting relationships that spans generations, serving our clients, their families, and friends for years to come. This approach has created a community of passionate motoring enthusiasts who trust our expertise and share our commitment to excellence.
What are some of your proudest achievements?
Building the Lorbek brand as an enduring symbol of customer confidence is my proudest achievement. Each morning, driving into our Port Melbourne showroom, I feel grateful for what we’ve created. The showroom represents a testament to decades of dedication to quality and customer service. We have come a long way since the first workshop in Richmond. In your time in the industry, how has the luxury car market changed?
The transformation has been remarkable. In the 1980s, Aston Martin
“The best advice came from my parents: ‘Never give up.’ As the child of immigrants to Australia, those words carried special meaning and helped shape our success today”
might sell 10 vehicles a year in Australia; now they have dealers in every capital city. Look at Porsche – they’ve expanded from just the 911 to offering SUVs and four-door saloons. The industry has also embraced social media, with clients now comfortable purchasing expensive vehicles through FaceTime video calls –something unthinkable years ago.
This digital transformation has revolutionised how we connect with customers and showcase our vehicles. If I had suggested this years ago with industry colleagues, they would have asked “are you feeling ok”?
Why did you decide to join the VACC committee?
I first joined the VACC to gain industry insights and understand their vital work in protecting consumer rights. Being part of a VACC committee has allowed me to contribute to shaping
industry standards and ensuring the automotive sector continues to evolve responsibly and ethically. What is the future for Lorbek Group of Companies?
Beyond establishing GET Electric, we’re breaking new ground with Victoria’s first XPeng dealership. The delivery centre has just been completed in the eastern end of our Port Melbourne facility.
This expansion represents our commitment to embracing new technologies and meeting the evolving needs of our customers in the electric vehicle space. What’s the best piece of advice you have received?
The best advice came from my parents: ‘Never give up.’
As the child of immigrants to Australia, those words carried special meaning and helped shape our success today. This
resilience has been crucial during challenging times and has influenced how we approach every aspect of our business.
From a small workshop in Richmond to a dedicated luxury automotive facility, Srecko Lorbek’s story exemplifies how vision, determination, and adaptability can transform a passion into an industry-leading enterprise.
As the automotive world continues its electric evolution, Lorbek Group of Companies stands ready to drive innovation into the future, maintaining the same commitment to excellence that began over four decades ago.
The journey from mechanic to industry leader serves as an inspiration for future generations of entrepreneurs, proving that with dedication, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to quality, any dream is achievable
AUTOMOTIVE ETHERNET
Like any sixteen year old – it’s growing rapidly
iStockthe-lightwriter
WORDS Paul Tuzson
IN times past, the amount of data flowing within vehicles was limited. Individual electronic control units (ECUs) created ‘packets’ of information that could flow over existing vehicle networks very successfully. The reason packets of data were, and are, used is that dividing digital data into separate packets that are sent individually makes the most effective use of a network. Packet is a term commonly used in networking but a packet is actually encapsulated in a frame and it’s the frame (containing the packet) that’s sent across an automotive Ethernet network. Packets/ frames obviously contain the data to be sent but they also contain other sections of binary data that tell the network things like where the packet begins, where it ends, the source of the packet, the destination, the length, error checking information and other pieces of information required for successfully processing the data. So, CAN, MOST, FlexRay, LIN and other packet switched automotive networking technologies were able
to handle the relatively limited amounts of data involved in earlier automotive networking. Of course as automotive electronic and digital technology grew, network technologies capable of handling increased data loads had to be developed. Current and emerging automotive technologies have reached the point at which comparatively enormous increases in data carrying capacity (bandwidth) are required to keep up. Automotive Ethernet is the answer.
Examining the bandwidths of the various automotive networking technologies shown in Figure 1 is informative. Nothing compares with Automotive Ethernet. Plotted graphically, the capacities of most earlier automotive networking technologies don’t even show up. Even so, CAN became the most widely implemented. It was first used in automotive applications
in the mid-eighties and its capacity has increased ever since, but it has reached its limit. General Ethernet technology has been around even longer, since about the mid-seventies which begs the question, why was it only introduced in automotive applications about sixteen years ago?
While ordinary Ethernet networks for general computing have to be reliable, networks for automotive applications have much more stringent technical requirements in some ways. Automotive safety critical systems can’t afford to fail and they must receive the data they need very quickly and reliably. Also, automotive networks must have strong resistance to electromagnetic and radio-frequency interference (EFI/ RFI) from not only external sources, but also from other electrical components within the vehicle itself. Such resistance in general Ethernet technology is not strong enough for automotive applications
glass versions (left top). The Ethernet runs on both copper and optic fibre. This ubiquitous networking technology is making its way into cars (left bottom)
Ethernet technology uses twisted pair wires. We’ve covered the EFI/RFI resistance of twisted pair wires in previous articles. Ordinary Ethernet cables use four such twisted pairs in each cable but this is unsuitable for automotive applications because of weight and cost. One reason CAN has been dominant in automotive applications is because it consists of just one twisted pair of wires. FlexRay also runs on single twisted pair wires. Despite the fact that these three technologies all use single twisted pair wires only Automotive Ethernet is full-duplex, which means that data can be both sent and received simultaneously. Obviously, this means that Automotive Ethernet is able to transfer more data. CAN and FlexRay are only half-duplex, so data only travels in one direction at any time. The term node is common in networking technology and it refers to anything
FlexRay High-Speed
10BASE-T (Ethernet)
CAN XL
100BASE-TX (Ethernet)
MOST 500
1000BASE-X (Ethernet)
1000BASE-T (Ethernet)
MOST 1500
10GBASE-T (Ethernet)
connected to a network. ECUs, sensors, actuators, infotainment systems are all nodes. The overall pattern of physical connections between nodes on a computer network is known as its topology. CAN and FlexRay are both bus topologies; that’s to say every node on each type is connected to every other node by single twisted-pair wires. Although Automotive Ethernet also runs on a single twisted-pair, it is not generally a bus technology, however it can be. Some years ago an Automotive Ethernet standard known as 10BASET1S running on a bus technology was introduced. This standard was developed because it can result in reduced cabling compared with other Automotive Ethernet standards, with cost and weight reduction benefits. It’s been said that an automotive engineer will sell his grandmother to save a kilogram or dollar. Most often, automotive Ethernet ECUs are connected to other components, called switches, basically in the form of a star, although sometimes nodes can be connected to each other directly, in the form of a ring. Switches can also be connected to other switches to create wider networks. One of the advantages of connecting individual nodes to switches
independently is that the data packets transmitted by a node are for just the destination node. This means that there’s no possibility of data packets colliding with each other and causing transmission faults. On bus networks like CAN and FlexRay such collisions can, and do, occur. When a collision occurs on a CAN network the nodes involved wait an extremely short amount of time and then re-transmit. On FlexRay networks, packets can only be sent at scheduled times but this is a somewhat less than optimal solution, even though the time periods we’re talking about are measured in milliseconds. Don’t get us wrong, these popular networking technologies have worked well for years but automotive Ethernet with connections made through switches just doesn’t have the packet collision problem. Because of its bus topology 10BASE-T1S does introduce the problem of collisions on automotive Ethernet. It solves this by means of scheduled transmission times like FlexRay. This system is called Physical Layer Collision Avoidance (PLCA). In networking you’ll often see the abbreviation PHY which means physical layer. So, nodes have PHYs that send data onto the twistedpair wires. With PLCA a PHY can only transmit when it’s scheduled to do so.
Group 2 – Switches can be used to create networks within networks. Each is isolated from the other by a switch, which limits traffic and prevents collisions between data packets
Automotive Ethernet standards are identified partially by their data rates. The leading number indicates the data rate in megabits per second (Mb/s). That’s megabits, not megabytes; a byte consists of eight bits. So for instance, 10BASE-T is the earliest and slowest version of automotive Ethernet and transmitted data at a rate of 10Mb/s. CAN XL (Controller Area Network Xtra Long) ended up having a higher data rate than 10BASE-T automotive Ethernet, but even when CAN XL (20Mb/s) was implemented, 100BASE-TX had already exceeded the CAN XL data rate considerably. The word BASE following the data rate indicates baseband signalling as opposed to broadband. The difference is that baseband uses the entire bandwidth to transmit a single signal while broadband transmits
Figure 2 – The speeds of most automotive networking technologies just don’t rate against automotive Ethernet
Figure 1 – Relative speeds of automotive networking technologies
Group 1 – A star topology. This is the most common type for automotive Ethernet
multiple signals simultaneously at different frequencies. Baseband is better suited for shorter distances i.e. automotive.
The T stands for twisted-pair wires and other letters and numbers that follow indicate specific Ethernet standards. Other networking technologies are similar. Again, refer to Figure 1. In 10GBASE-T the 10 refers to gigabits as does the G in GBASE. A gigabit is one thousand megabits. Besides high data rates, another advantage of automotive Ethernet is that the wires are electrically isolated from
currently capable of speeds covering 2.5, 5, 10, 25 and 50 Gb/s, much faster than anything else in automotive networking. These speeds are known collectively as Multi-Gig automotive Ethernet. There has been some discussion about the need for speeds as high as 50 Gb/s but the old
about 4.2 billion addresses (232). When it was implemented in 1981 it was thought to be enough, but now that its capacity is exhausted it’s apparent how shortsighted that decision was. The new IPv6 standard has the capacity for 2128 or more than 3.4×1038 addresses. That’s 340,282,3
the components they connect by means of either capacitive or inductive isolation. This also helps isolate components from ground plane EMF interference. Increasingly, though, automotive Ethernet is being implemented in fibre-optic cables. This obviously eliminates the possibility of EMF/RFI interference. Fibre-optic networks are an enormous benefit for data integrity and also improve data rates. It must be said, though, that both CAN and FlexRay can also run on fibre. Up to this point we’ve been talking about copper based automotive Ethernet. 1000BASE-T (1Gb/s)is fairly common but speeds of up to 10 Gb/s are becoming possible on full-duplex single twisted pair wires. Fibre-optic automotive Ethernet is
maxim ‘build it and they will come’ seems as relevant in automotive engineering as in anything else. Direct uncompressed data streams from cameras, V2X systems, radar, Lidar and autonomous vehicles will likely consume about as much bandwidth as we can produce. OE and Tier-1 manufacturers are showing active interest in such high speed networking. In fact, lessons from the past demonstrate that it’s much better to overestimate future requirements than underestimate them. For instance, the original Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) addressing standard is capable of storing
Group 3 – 10BASE-T1S automotive Ethernet does run on bus technology
The VW Tayron has automotive Ethernet Technology VW DCC Pro active damper technology is the sort of feature controlled by automotive Ethernet
The all-new BMW M5 contains automotive Ethernet technology (below)
Infotainment and driver controls in the all-new BMW M5 are exactly the sorts of systems that utilise automotive Ethernet (above)
66,920,938,463,463,374,607,431,768,211,45 6 of them. There isn’t even an SI name for a number that big. Indeed, there is only an estimated 7.5×1018 grains of sand on Earth. Clearly, high data rates are the way of the future but copper based networking does have a significant advantage over fibre, which is PoDL (Power over Data Line). This is pronounced, badly, like poodle, the dog. PoDL technology allows power for nodes to be supplied over the same twisted-pair wires that transmit data. This is different from POE (Power Over Ethernet) which uses separate twisted-pair wires in a cable to carry the current. Even so, in our opinion, fibre based networking is the future in cars and everywhere else, particularly as copper becomes increasingly expensive. On average, consumer electronic devices like laptops and tablets aren’t expected to last for more than two or three years before they’re replaced. Cars are different. The average length of ownership of a new car is in the order of fifteen years.
So, a car is expected to run reliably for at least that long. This is challenging because a car is a very harsh environment. Heat and cold with related expansion and contraction are always present along with constant vibration. And even the smallest amount of dirt in a fibre-optic connector can ruin the integrity of a network. Fibre-optic cabling is durable enough to survive the aforementioned conditions admirably. Testimony to this is the fact that tried and tested C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft are retrofitted with fibre-optic cabling when they’re refurbished. The F-22 Raptor, F16, F-18 and aircraft in the Joint Strike Fighter Program like the F-35 all contain MILSPEC fibre-optic cabling in absolutely life-critical applications. Think about landing on an aircraft carrier. Fibre-optic cabling can also operate reliably in much broader temperature ranges (-55°C to 165°C) than those found in automotive applications. All things considered, it will prove durable enough in automotive
applications, even though it won’t be MIL-SPEC because of the expense. Working on fibre-optic automotive networks will call for new skills. But despite the stringent requirements of fibre-optic systems, this kind of work is already done every day by technicians in general computer networking. Also, some of the diagnostic techniques and equipment in current use in that industry are pretty impressive. Fault diagnosis and line/connector integrity checking will never be the same again. The longer a fibre-optic path, the lower its data-rate will be. There are already fibreoptic applications in data centres and other mainstream environments that are passing data at 200Mb/s over ten metre lengths. Fortunately, cars are shorter than that, although trucks and busses are a different story. So, as we mentioned, automotive networks burdened with massive bandwidth requirements are a definite part of our future. Fibre-optic based automotive Ethernet technologies will inevitably be at the core of such an automotive future.
As fibre-optic automotive Ethernet technology becomes more widely adopted, economies of scale will feed into the production cost of the technology more strongly and reduce costs for car manufacturers. This is critical because margins for car manufacturers are only going to become tighter. It’s said that by 2030 the electrical/electronics system will constitute up to 50 per cent of the manufacturing cost of a car. Anything that increases data-rate per dollar cost is only going to help. Automotive Ethernet will do that.
Fibre-optic based Ethernet can handle the roughest environments.
1. Pressing a simple start button activates a string of minuscule transistors
2. How can the tiny transistors embedded in an integrated circuit switch the current drawn by a starter motor?
5. Then, of course, the relay activates the starter motor. All this from tiny transistors too small to see in microchips
4. Once activated, the relay sends current to the solenoid on the relay
3. Well, they activate larger transistors that can handle enough current to activate a relay iStock
Since the introduction of emission standard Euro 4, the use of EGR systems with EGR coolers is becoming increasingly widespread. EGR coolers are a common failure point for many makes and models which can lead to many hours of diagnostic and repair time. This article will give an overview of the EGR system on the Z22D1 engine and the removal procedure.
EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) systems are widely used to reduce the NOx (oxides of nitrogen) and to some extent PM (particulate matter) emissions of light-duty diesel engines. However, the high-temperature exhaust gases require cooling to avoid compromising the combustion process.
Many modern engines are equipped with an electrically-controlled EGR valve. The PCM will control the EGR flow by opening or closing the EGR valve with a stepper motor. The EGR flow is monitored by the manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor, mass airflow sensor and the air/fuel ratio sensor.
Captiva EGR System Operation
The Z22D1 engine used in the Captiva uses a computer-controlled EGR valve which has a stepper motor and an EGR valve position sensor in a single unit. See Diagram 1
Diagram
Diagram 2 – Engine bay location
Wiring Conduit
EGR Cooler
3 – EGR wiring and connectors
This EGR valve is actuated by a DC stepper motor with a worm gear that extends from the motor to push on the stem of the valve to open it. This worm gear is not attached to the valve stem and is only used to open the valve. There is a return spring to close the valve once the stepper motor retracts the worn gear. The EGR valve stepper motor is controlled by the engine control unit (ECM) via two circuits, EGR motor high
control and EGR motor low control. The ECM will ground the low side in a pulse width modulated (PWM) pattern and increase current to the high side to open the EGR valve. See Diagram 3
To close the valve, the ECM will reverse these circuits and ground the high side. If the valve does not return to the same pre learnt closed position, the ECM will record a fault code.
To learn the closed position, when the ignition is turned on the ECM will
command the stepper motor to wind out, to just touch the end of the EGR valve stem, it will do these three times. Once complete the ECM will now know the minimum closed position of the valve in relation to the output from the EGR valve position sensor. The EGR valve position sensor receives a 5 volt reference and a low voltage return path from the ECM. As the EGR valve moves its position can be determined via the variable voltage
Diagram
Diagram 4 – Rear view of engine 1
TECHNICAL
signal which is sent to the ECM via the signal circuit. See Diagram 3
For the Captiva, the EGR valve will only operate at idle and during cruising under the following conditions.
Intake Air Temperature (IAT) is more than 5.25˚C
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) is between 60 – 96.75 ˚C
Barometric pressure is above 74 kPa. A simple test of this system can be performed with a compatible scan tool. Commanding the EGR valve open and closed should cause a change in the mass air flow sensor readings in the live data. If there is no change, the EGR valve it may be stuck, clogged up with carbon blocking the passages or there is some other component failure. You should check the wiring and connector before replacing any parts. See Diagram 2 & 3
For further diagnosis and information on fault codes and testing see the engine management section of Tech Online.
EGR Valve Removal
1. Disconnect the battery.
2. Remove oil cap then remove the engine cover from the top of the engine.
3. Remove the shield from under the engine.
4. Drain the cooling system.
5. Disconnect the wiring harness from the EGR valve (brown connector).See Diagram 2
6. Remove the three Allen head bolts from the EGR valve assembly, then remove the assembly with the gasket. See Diagram 6
7. Clean out the manifold and any ports to ensure that the system is not blocked with carbon deposits.
NOTE: If you don’t check that the system is free of blockages, you may still have the same problems after you have reassembled the engine with the new EGR valve.
EGR Reassembly
1. Once you have ensured that all ports and manifolds are clean, refit the EGR valve with a new gasket and tighten the three bolts evenly to 10 Nm. See Diagram 6
2. Reconnect the wiring harness.
3. Reassemble all other parts in the reverse order.
EGR Cooler Removal
1. Disconnect the battery.
2. Remove oil cap then remove the engine cover from the top of the engine.
3. Relieve the pressure from the fuel system.
4. Remove the four injector pipes and the single feed pipe from the fuel rail. Then plug all open fuel port to prevent foreign objects entering the fuel system. See Diagram 4
5. Disconnect the harness connector from the fuel pressure sensor fitted to the end of the fuel rail. See Diagram 4
6. Remove the two bolts which attach the fuel rail to the cylinder head.
7. Remove the fuel return pipe to the injector pump. It is held on with quick release fittings.
8. Remove the brake booster vacuum hose.
9. Remove the power steering inlet pipe bracket from the EGR cooler.
10. Remove the inlet coolant hose from the expansion tank.
11. Disconnect the wiring harness from the following EGR valve solenoid, EGR valve
Intake actuator assembly
Glow plugs
• Injectors
Camshaft position sensor
This should allow you to unclip the wiring harness conduit from the tabs on the EGR cooler unit. See Diagram 2
Diagram 5
Rear view of engine 2
EGR Valve
EGR Valve Pipe Intake Elbow
EGR Coolant Hoses
EGR Cooler
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TECHNICAL
Diagram 6 – EGR valve and cooler assembly
12. Remove the turbocharger coolant return pipe.
13. Remove the vacuum pump hose.
14. Remove the intake manifold vacuum hose.
15. Raise the vehicle.
16. Remove the EGR cooler return and feed hoses. See Diagram 5
17. Remove the EGR pipe, four bolts. Discard the gasket. See Diagram 5
18. Remove the single bracket bolt from the EGR cooler to the cylinder head. See Diagram 7
19. Remove the EGR cooler brace nut with a 1/4 inch drive socket extension and swivel. See Diagram 7
20. Remove the inter-cooler outlet duct elbow piece. See Diagram 5
21. Remove the injector pump bracket stud bolt from the EGR cooler.
23. Remove the four EGR cooler mounting bolts from the side of the EGR cooler. There will be two long ones and two shorter ones. See Diagram 7
23. Remove the EGR cooler assembly from the engine from the engine and discard the gasket. See Diagram 7
24. Remove the EGR valve coolant hose from the EGR cooler. See Diagram 7
25. Remove the EGR manifold/ bypass assembly from the EGR cooler by removing the six bolts. Discard the bolts and gasket. See Diagram 8
EGR cooler Installation
1. Before installation of a new EGR cooler, ensure that all components are unblocked and free of carbon build-up.
2. Fit the EGR cooler bypass assembly to the EGR cooler with a new gasket. See Diagram 8
3. Fit six NEW bolts to attach the bypass assembly to the cooler and tighten them to 12 Nm. See Diagram 8
4. Connect the EGR valve cooler feed hose from the bypass unit to the cooler. See Diagram 8
5. The manual suggests pressure testing. See Diagram 9
6. Fit the cooler assembly to the cylinder head with a new gasket, then tighten the four bolts to 25 Nm. See Diagram 7
7. Fit and tighten the EGR cooler bracket bolt to the head and tighten to 25 Nm. See Diagram 7
8. Fit and tighten the EGR cooler support nut to the head and tighten to 25 Nm.
NOTE: Use a 1/4 inch drive socket extension and swivel. See Diagram 7
9. Refit the intake and outlet coolant hose to the EGR cooler.
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10. Refit the EGR pipe from the EGR valve and cooler assembly to the intake manifold with new gaskets. Tighten the bolts to 10 Nm. See Diagram 5
11. Refit the intercooler outlet duct elbow.
12. Refit vacuum hoses to the vacuum pump and manifold tuning valve.
13. Refit turbo coolant pipe.
14. Refit coolant hose to expansion tank.
15. Reposition engine harness conduit onto the tabs on the EGR cooler.
16. Reconnect all wiring harnesses.
17. Refit the power steering pipe bracket.
18. Refit the brake booster vacuum hose.
19. Refit the front fuel return pipe.
20. Refit the fuel rail and tighten the bolts to 25 Nm.
21. Reconnect the wiring harness to the fuel pressure sensor.
22. Refit the fuel pipes to the fuel rail, injectors and injector pump and tighten fittings to 27 Nm.
23. Bleed and prime the fuel system. See Tech Online.
24. Refill and pressure test the cooling system.
25. Reconnect the battery.
26. Start engine and check for correct operation.
27. Test drive.
For more information on the Holden Captiva, log on to VACC’s MotorTech or call VACC’s Technical Advisory Service.
Diagram 9 –Pressure testing before refitting
The workshop manual suggests that you pressure test the exhaust gas passages by blocking the rectangular hole which would mount to the engine and the round hole for the EGR pipe and applying 200 kPa of air into the space. Then apply soapy water to the gasket area and check for bubbles.
EGR Valve and Cooler Manifold
Four EGR Valve Assembly Bolts
EGR
–
Fit six new bolts to attach the bypass assembly to the cooler and tighten them to 12 Nm. The exhaust gases enter on one side then exit on the other
Next, block the intake and outlet coolant passages on the EGR cooler and pressure test the coolant passages with 250 kPa of air via the round coolant passage that would match up with the hole in the cylinder head, then recheck the gasket area with soapy water.
The manual does not give any instruction on how to do this. You might have to make some blanking plates and fit couple tubeless tyre valves to the plates. Then make some gaskets out of an old bike tube to seal the passages. Use your professional judgement on this suggestion.
Diagram 7 – EGR cooler assembly mounting points
Diagram 8
EGR cooler mounting bolts
Cooler Mounting Bolt Positions
Round hole for the EGR pipe
Coolant passage
Exhaust passage
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MEMBER BUSINESS PARTNERS INDEX
Becoming a VACC or TACC member opens up a wide range of special offers and discounted products and services for you and your business. VACC and TACC have collaborated with organisations which provide essential services to your business to offer special low rates for members. Couple the savings from discounted products and services with the subsidised services which VACC itself offers to members, and your annual membership can easily pay for itself. Everything from IR advice, to cheaper EFTPOS terminals to technical solutions is on offer. This guide gives you an idea of the offers which you can access, as well as a number of other collaborations.
Workplace/IR Advice
Members can access services including a call centre for employment-related questions, a web page with award rates and policy and employment fact sheets, writing of employment contracts, handbooks and policies, and member and industry representation. 03 9829 1123 | ir@vacc.com.au vacc.com.au
Auto Apprenticeships
VACC takes the hassle out of hiring trainees and apprentices, as businesses are matched with high quality candidates who meet strict selection criteria. VACC also looks after all administration, including visits by Field Officers.
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VACC and TACC members (including their staff) receive a corporate discount on nib’s retail health insurance products. 1800 13 14 63 nib.com.au/corp/vacc
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VACC and TACC members (including their staff) can join the Bunnings PowerPass program or link their existing PowerPass account to access a range of exclusive benefits. organisationsvic@bunnings.com.au
Waste Management
Cleanaway is Australia’s largest waste management provider, offering VACC and TACC members, competitive waste solutions for their automotive business. When contacting Cleanaway please mention VACC. 13 13 99 cleanaway.com.au
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Businesses can purchase a wide range of items, including personalised stationery, consumables such as floor mats and seat covers, workplace safety signage and much more. Member businesses automatically receive a discount on purchases.
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Superannuation
Spirit Super and CareSuper have merged to create a bigger and stronger Industry SuperFund for the motor trades. We have competitive fees and returns, exceptional service, and a focus on real care for our members.
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EFTPOS Facility
Commonwealth Bank could provide the expertise, insights, technology and financial solutions to help your business move forward. Our Commonwealth Bank Business Banking Specialists can guide you through available business solutions to suit your business needs. 1300 013 341 | vacc.com.au
Training & Education
Members can access automotive industry-specific training programs in business management, industrial relations/human resource management, technical and OHS & Environment. Skills Development Centre also facilitates short courses, online programs and diploma and degree qualifications. 03 9829 1130 | info@vaccsdc.com.au vaccsdc.com.au
Freight Services
VACC and TACC members receive discounted rates and benefits, including trace and track capabilities, one number to call, one easy-tounderstand invoice, and online job quoting, booking and tracking. Contact VACC for an application form. 03 9829 1152 | vacc.com.au
OurAuto Diagnostic Tool
Easy-to-use diagnostic tool with class leading automotive fault technology, including seamless integration with VACC MotorTech, providing auto-detection, top range health reports and monthly updates. The Diagnostic Toolis available on a convenient monthly subscription plan. 1300 687 288 | ourautoscantool.com.au
AutoCareers
The AutoCareers jobs portal connects jobseekers with employers wanting skills and labour. VACC and TACC member businesses can advertise qualified and apprenticeship vacancies free of charge. 03 9829 1133 autoadvice@vacc.com.au autocareers.com.au
Environmental Advice
VACC members can benefit from environmental compliance advice, briefings, training and on-site assessments. Green Stamp is an accreditation program that recognises and promotes businesses which have implemented sound environmental practices. 03 9829 1117 environment@vacc.com.au greenstampplus.com.au
ATRA
Fixing transmission problems is our specialty. Whether its transmission maintenance, simple transmission repair, or a complete transmission rebuild, you can be sure there is an ATRA member nearby to help. atraaus.com.au
Zembl
Zembl is the leading energy price comparison service for Australian businesses. VACC and TACC members have access to a free energy bill review. Then Zembl works with leading retailers to find a competitive deal. 1300 915 162 zembl.com.au/partner/vacc
VACC Accreditation
VACC Accreditation is here to help drive your business forward. Achieving accreditation means a business can demonstrate it is meeting a higher standard that is valued by customers. 03 9829 1167 accreditation@vacc.com.au vacc.com.au
OH&S Services
Members can access consultation and advice on OHS issues, including incident management, policies, workers’ compensation and more. OHS specialists provide workplace assessments and training, and administer the HazCheck management system. 03 9829 1138 | ohs@vacc.com.au vacc.com.au
Officeworks
Officeworks is here to support VACC and TACC members with over 40,000 products, business services and specialist advice. Members can sign up for an Officeworks 30 Day Business Account, and enjoy exclusive business pricing and flexible delivery options. officeworks.com.au/campaigns/vacc
Sixfam
Sixfam is an experienced Telecommunications Service Provider, built on the basis to help ease the frustrations of small to medium businesses in Australia. 03 9200 2800 | sixfam.com.au
Apprentice Helpline
VACC Helpline provides apprentices and businesses a free automotive apprenticeship sign-up and advisory service to assist all parties at any time. With years of experience and knowledge, it’s well worth a quick phone call to put you in the right direction. 03 9829 1133 | vacc.com. au autoadvice@vacc.com.au
MEMBER BUSINESS PARTNERS INDEX
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Auto Workplace Assist
A convenient go-to solution for supporting automotive workplace compliance needs. Health and Safety can be a complex, high risk and costly area for workplaces. AWA offers readymade, industry-specific compliance products, so that business owners can get on with the job at hand.
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Graphic Design
VACC’S Marketing department can assist members with their graphic design requirements at a subsidised rate. Services include business cards, logo re-designs, corporate image overhauls, brochures and advertisements.
03 9829 1189 creativeservices@vacc.com.au
Workplace Update
All VACC and TACC members receive Workplace Update on a monthly basis via email, with issues also available on the VACC website. The publication provides the latest news and information regarding workplace and industrial relations, OHS and environment, business obligations and training opportunities. 03 9829 1123 vacc.com.au
TACC
Founded in 1930, TACC serves the automotive industry in Tasmania and amalgamated with VACC in 1999. TACC members gain access to all of the same products and services as VACC members, however TACC also has a number of additional services for its membership.
03 6278 1611 | tacc.com.au
Insurance
Automotive business owners can access competitive solutions through OurAuto Insurance. Specifically designed to meet to the unique risk profile of the automotive industry, OurAuto Insurance can help your business access the best cover at an affordable rate.
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Advertising
Members receive VACC Automotive magazine as a member benefit and have access to preferential advertising rates. The VACC marketing department can help members by designing advertisements.
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Tech Talk
Included in VACC/TACC membership is a subscription to the Tech Talk publication, the premier technical publication of the VACC Technical Services Department since 1986. The journal is printed 11 times a year, while a back-catalogue of articles is available as part of the Tech Online website. 03 9829 1292 vacc.com.au
Test and Tagging
ETCS offers TACC members electrical service statewide, including installation, testing and tagging and assisting with OHS requirements. TACC members can access special member rates. 1300 724 001 | etcs.com.au
TACC Apprenticeships
TACC takes the hassle out of hiring trainees and apprentices, as businesses are matched with high quality candidates who meet strict selection criteria. TACC also looks after all administration aspects of the apprenticeship, including visits by Field Officers.
03 6278 1611 | tacc.com.au
Roadside Help
TACC members who want to reward their loyal customers can do so though TACC’s Roadside Help program. Members purchase vouchers to give to customers, which customers can use for free help for a flat battery, tyre change, fuel or a tow back to the member’s business.
03 6278 1611 | tacc.com.au
TACC Accreditation
TACC Accredited Repairers are promoted to the community as a group of professional businesses who deliver high quality repairs and services. Participating members enter into a contract with TACC to deliver a more professional level of service. TACC promotes these members.
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Liability and customer vehicle risks
• Damage due to faulty workmanship
• Negligence by contractor/subcontractor
• Driving risks
• Authorised vehicle inspections
Management risks
• Breaches in employment
• Unfair or wrongful dismissal
• Harassment or discrimination
• Wrongful acts as an owner/director
• Statutory fines & penalties (e.g. OH&S breaches)
