The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) moved into its purpose-built four-storey building in North Melbourne three weeks ago. It sold its previous headquarters in St Kilda Road for $95.38 million to Abacus Property Group and Singapore’s Wing Tai Holdings.

VACC president Mark Awramenko said in his address at the formal opening of the new headquarters that the automotive industry was experiencing “an evolution not seen in the 130-year history of the automobile.”

VACC President Mark Awramenko with Prime Minister Scott Morrison

“Changes in vehicle power sources, fuels, how we drive – or not drive … nothing will remain the same.

“When one considers other trades and other sectors – like building and plumbing – they will change, of course, but they will not be impacted in the same way. That is both our burden and our opportunity.

“That is why VACC House is so important. This cutting edge, five-star green rated, architecturally significant building is a showcase for what automotive is now and what it will remain: modern and future-focused.”

The new headquarters was opened by the prime minister and at the event, showed examples of the latest electric vehicle technology in the foyer.

The opening was attended by automotive dignitaries, the VACC board and staff, past presidents and officials.

Prime minister Scott Morrison said at the event that he acknowledged the VACC for its important advocacy and representation role and that the new headquarters reflected the important services the VACC provides. 

He also spoke of the value of the automotive industry and the importance to consumers of quality professional services provided by automotive businesses, particularly those where generations of the same family sell, service and repair cars to generations of family customers.

The new building is at the forefront of modern sustainable technology, with its architectural features a subtle nod to the automotive industry, including a facade inspired by the grille of the classic Ford Mustang. 

VACC will use the expansive level one lobby area as a function space and exhibition area to showcase new technology and automotive achievements. 

The building was designed by architects Gray Puksand, built by Hacer Group. It was project managed by Case Meallin.

Located at 650 Victoria Street North Melbourne, it has four levels, state-of-the-art audio-visual system, extensive training spaces, 91 car spaces and five electric-vehicle charging stations.

The home of Victoria’s century-old automotive industry body, the VACC’s previous seven-storey building at 464 St Kilda Road Melbourne was built in 1958 as a three-storey office and opened that year by the then Victorian premier Sir Henry Bolte. It was the third home for the VACC that was founded in 1918.

It was expanded to seven storeys in 1970. The building had unique details such as its copper-coated Belgian glass – regarded as being irreplaceable today – and bluestone paths with a front garden. 

The 100-year-old VACC was founded on September 20, 1918 in Bendigo. Soon after its formation, it first leased rooms at 432 Collins Street and then, in 1942, moved VACC House to Lonsdale Street before opening at the St Kilda Road address.

By Neil Dowling