In congratulating the Albanese Labor government’s victory in the 2022 federal election, VACC CEO Geoff Gwilym said the chamber welcomed the election announcement and looked forward to working closely with the new government.

“The Labor government has shown goodwill and support for key policy priorities outlined in the chamber’s election manifesto REVolution,” he said.

“These are extremely important issues for the over 380,000 people working in the automotive industry within 72,521 businesses across the country.”

But the VACC reminds prime minister Albanese that there is still much work to be done.

“We reiterate to the new government that there are several policy positions that remain overlooked. These need to be addressed and addressed right now,” Mr Gwilym said.

Geoff Gwilym

VACC’s priorities for the government include:

• Boost apprentice support
  
• Improve the eligibility for employers to sponsor skilled migrants
  
• Commit to extending the recently reformed franchise code to include commercial vehicle, motorcycle, farm and industrial machinery franchise dealers, affording these sectors the same legislative protections as new car dealers
  
• Take a leadership role in implementing a national zero- and low-emission vehicle policy in collaboration with the automotive retail industry
  
• Commit to the inclusion of state-based protections under the Australian Consumer Law and Fair-Trading Regulations 2012 (Vic) for the automotive industry with regard to unfair contract terms (UCT), given the interruption of progress of UCT reform at a national level.
  

“There’s more to do, of course, but if the government gets these policies quickly into place it will shore up a $40 billion sector. That’s good for every Australian,” said Mr Gwilym.

“Regardless, VACC will continue to work with both sides of government to create meaningful reform that recognises and promotes the merits and key needs of the automotive industry amongst policy-makers.

“The automotive industry is a fundamental component of a well-functioning economy, and it is at a critical juncture. With the emergence of ZLEVs and a long-standing skills shortage, industry and government must work together.”

By Neil Dowling