AUSTRALIA’S biggest automotive event, which is only weeks away, will combine some of the aftermarket industry’s most influential leaders and in-depth seminars with exhibitions of the latest in automotive technology and workshop tools.
The 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, held in conjunction with the Collision Repair Expo, will take place from May 14-16 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, to become the annual hub for the entire automotive aftermarket industry.
The expo floor will feature over 400 exhibitors showcasing the latest in diagnostics, parts, tools, workshop equipment and services, with interactive displays throughout.
It will also feature a comprehensive technical training program led by Australian and international experts, focused on building diagnostic capability, improving accuracy and helping technicians keep pace with evolving vehicle technology.
Across the three-day event, attendees will have access to more than 400 leading brands, the latest workshop tools, equipment and technology, live demonstrations, and valuable networking opportunities with about 13,000 industry peers and suppliers.
GPC Asia Pacific group CEO, Rob Cameron
It offers a rare occasion for Australian auto businesses to learn from the industry leaders to examine how workshops can stay competitive and profitable as vehicles become increasingly connected and software-driven.
The session, The Aftermarket’s Next Advantage – Making Smart Bets Now, forms part of the expo’s comprehensive ‘workshop management program’, designed for business owners, industry leaders and automotive professionals looking to strengthen their understanding, prepare for the future and improve profitability.
Capricorn CEO, Bradley Gannon
It will feature GPC Asia Pacific group CEO Rob Cameron; Capricorn CEO Bradley Gannon; Bapcor CEO Chris Wilesmith; and facilitated by Stuart Charity, the CEO of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association.
The panel will explore how connected, software-driven vehicles are reshaping workshop economics, changing what is profitable, what is repairable, and what customers expect.
As vehicle technology evolves, workshops are experiencing what many describe as a “barbell effect”, where routine work becomes less frequent and lower-touch, while other jobs become more complex, equipment-intensive and increasingly difficult to quote with confidence.
Bapcor CEO, Chris Wilesmith
This session will take place on May 15 at 1pm, and see panellists unpack what is changing fastest across the industry, where the aftermarket is investing — from tools and software to training and supply chain support — and how workshops can protect margins while building the capability required for the future.
“This is a critical moment for our industry,” said Stuart Charity.
“Workshops that understand where the market is heading and make the right investments now will be best placed to succeed.
Stuart Charity, CEO of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association
“This will be a rare opportunity to hear from this calibre of industry leadership together in one place, so don’t miss out.”
The workshop management training program sits alongside a comprehensive technical training program, delivering hands-on learning for technicians across modern diagnostics, electrification and advanced vehicle systems.
For those looking to go further, paid advanced technical masterclasses held prior to the expo will offer in-depth training led by international experts.
The 2026 Expo will also feature dedicated learning areas on the show floor including the diagnostic discovery zone and the ADAS training zone, alongside the high-energy ‘Flying Spanners’ competition, showcasing the next generation of automotive technicians in a fast-paced, hands-on format.With thousands of industry professionals expected to attend, the Auto Aftermarket Expo offers an unmatched opportunity to build capability, strengthen business performance and stay ahead of industry change.
Importantly, attendance at the expo, including both training programs, remains free for automotive trade professionals.
In focus at this year’s expo is advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) which reflect the growing complexity of modern vehicle service and repair.
As ADAS becomes standard across more vehicles, workshops and technicians need a clear understanding of how these systems operate and how their work can impact performance.
Cameras, radar and sensors can be affected by changes in ride height, alignment and component replacement, making correct processes and calibration essential to ensure these systems continue to function as intended after repair.
ADAS capability will be a major feature across both the Expo floor and training program.
A dedicated ADAS-focused business information session will turn the new national ADAS industry code of conduct into practical workshop processes, helping technicians determine when calibration is required, apply the code’s decision-making framework, and implement the documentation and communication practices needed to remain compliant and protect customers.
This will be complemented by the ADAS training zone, a free feature area on the trade show floor providing expert-led demonstrations, specialist advice and access to the latest calibration equipment.
The zone will help workshops understand best-practice workflows and build confidence in applying ADAS procedures, with sessions led by international ADAS specialists Keith and Liz Perkins from L1 Automotive Group (USA).
AAAA’s Mr Charity said ADAS represents one of the most significant shifts in automotive service and repair.
“ADAS is now part of everyday workshop activity, and technicians need a clear understanding of how their work impacts these systems,” Mr Charity said.
“The expo provides practical, hands-on access to the tools, training and expertise needed to support safe and consistent service and repair outcomes.”
Adding to the technical training will be the diagnostic discovery zone, where technicians can see advanced diagnostic tools and techniques in action, gaining practical insight into faster fault-finding, improved accuracy and more efficient repair workflows.
A dedicated business management program will run alongside the technical sessions, delivering practical insights to help workshop owners and managers improve business performance, efficiency and profitability.
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By Neil Dowling
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