The Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) has unveiled its Election Blueprint, outlining support measures for the retail automotive sector ahead of the federal election.
With the election scheduled within the next 12 months, MTAA advocates for various initiatives, from skills support to assistance adjusting to the growth of electric vehicles (EVs).
It says the automotive industry stands at a pivotal point, requiring assistance to adapt to significant changes effectively, such as the upcoming introduction of fuel efficiency standards in 2025. While proactively preparing for an EV future, the sector faces critical challenges that require government attention.
A primary concern is addressing growing skills shortages that jeopardise automotive retailers’ ability to meet the needs of Australian drivers as they embrace zero- and low-emission vehicles (ZLEVs).
Moreover, according to the MTAA, correcting the power imbalance between the typically small to medium businesses that make up the automotive retail sector and corporate entities, including multinational automotive companies and insurers, must be prioritised.
On the consumer front, a comprehensive review of federal automotive taxes is needed to ensure fairness and support the transition to ZLEVs, including reviewing the luxury car tax (LCT), fringe benefits tax (FBT), and road user charging.
The Blueprint highlights ten strategic priorities:
- Expanding automotive skills and training support
- Updating and reinforcing the Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct
- Ensuring fair and effective implementation of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard
- Supporting automotive businesses and apprentices to invest in EV equipment and tooling
- Strengthening the Franchising Code of Conduct
- Enhancing consumer protection measures under the Australian Consumer Law
- Undertaking automotive tax reforms
- Establishing an end-of-life vehicle program
- Expanding the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme
- Establishing a National Approved Vehicle Examiners Scheme
MTA chief executive Matt Hobbs says the automotive sector has a pivotal role in the Australian economy, noting its extensive history of contributions to national culture, employment, and economic vitality and the sector’s ongoing need for support to sustain its positive impact.
“The MTAA Election Blueprint outlines crucial measures to support the automotive industry during this pivotal time of transition. We urge all political parties to consider these proposals seriously to ensure a sustainable future for Australian automotive businesses,” Hobb says.
Hobbs underscored the sector’s readiness to play a critical role in Australia’s transition to net zero.
“Our industry stands ready to drive the transition to net zero emissions, leveraging innovation and sustainable practices to shape a cleaner future for all Australians. Collectively, the initiatives outlined in the Blueprint will help us achieve this goal,” he says.
Developed through extensive consultations with state and territory motor trade associations and their members, the MTAA Election Blueprint offers practical recommendations to support automotive retailers during this transformative phase.
The MTAA looks forward to collaborating with the incoming government, opposition and crossbench members to realise these proposals and bolster the industry’s evolution toward a sustainable future.
