The value of being a member of a motor trades’ association shone through at two separate undertakings. On a regular basis, I meet with inter-state colleagues to consult and collaborate on core issues. Each association, similar to MTA Queensland, is providing the leadership, delivering quality services and advocacy to transition industry through the challenging economic and technological transformations that are underway.

Pride in being a member came into focus with the launch of our MTAiQ client’s ACE Electric Vehicles cargo van at the Adelaide Tonsley Innovation Precinct. The support for the manufacturing of the van was upbeat and the comments from the audience positive. One speaker informed the gathering that technological and innovative change was a challenge as it competes with existing business models and operations. He informed the audience it was the knowledge gained from an MTA Queensland Carmageddon event that opened his mind to pursuing new opportunities and the need to adjust in a time of mass disruption and opportunity.

Now more than ever, there is value in being a member of a motor trades’ association. Much is happening in national policy development requiring strong advocacy. The National Transport Commission (NTC) circulated a consultation paper on the regulation impact statement In-service safety for automated vehicles. The outcome of the consultation will have far reaching consequences for our franchised motor dealers, independent vehicle repairers, automotive collision repairers and second-hand motor vehicle dealers regarding ‘in-service’ safety for automated vehicles.

Additionally, the issue of the responsibility for the regulatory frameworks to manage the ‘in-service’ safety for the operation of automated vehicles in Australia must be resolved. It is our view that a framework harmonised across the nation would provide the certainty and consistency for all parties in the automotive value chain impacted by the regulatory regimes. The submission is on the website for members’ perusal.

The value of being a member of the MTA Queensland has been enhanced with the implementation of the Member Engagement Strategy. Specifically, this is to expand direct contact with members and augment the flow of information between the membership and the corporate office. It is now underway. Many of you should have received emails and personal calls about the support available and seeking your views on industry issues. Feedback from members is vital to shape our advocacy priorities and our ability to represent these views to governments, at stakeholder meetings and in submissions.

Challenges and Opportunities

In previous From the Desk of CEO columns, I’ve informed of the appointment to the Queensland Electric Vehicle Council by Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads. The Council is advisory in nature and comprises government, industry and community representatives. Recently, I attended the electric vehicle workshop with Energy Queensland. The purpose was to consider the energy supply, costs, infrastructure required, safety aspects and the support required by energy distributors to predict and sustain energy supply for the uptake of electric vehicles. I note the Commonwealth Government’s Australian Renewable Energy Agency has provided funding to roll out the largest ultra-fast battery electric vehicle charging network along Australia’s highways.

Telematics is an issue discussed in various submissions relating to transport technologies such as the Global Positioning System tracking, fleet management, and dispatch solutions. Recently I met with experts in the field to discuss the data gathered through telematics and how business may use that data to determine market strategies and entice consumers to their business. In the near future, telematics will be a significant part of automotive businesses and the corporate office and our members will need to develop awareness/skills to remain competitive.

For all employers, the safety of staff and workers is a priority and an obligation as defined in Queensland’s Work Health and Safety Act. Recently, I attended a prevention forum in Sydney with the focus on programs to reduce risk and cut insurance premiums. The initiatives discussed have potential and I plan to attend further meetings with the aim of considering how the programs may be established in Queensland.

Our National Auto Collision Alliance (NACA) (paint and panel) members have endured significant business and technological changes in recent years. Mindful of this and the transition to automated vehicles, I met with insurance companies to build the relationships necessary to stay ahead of the changes that impact the industry. In a positive dialogue, the business opportunities for our NACA members was discussed and some opportunities communicated directly to members in areas where they exist.

Stakeholder meetings

The recent MTA Queensland Board meeting hosted the MTA Australia (MTAA) Chairman Neville Gibb, Chief Executive Officer Richard Dudley and Management Committee Chairman Stephen Moir which enabled the guests to outline their new management structure, issues of mutual interest and the national priorities for industry. The discussion provided great scope to exchange views important at both state and federal level.

And the last thing

Ian Lawrence, the former MTA Institute (MTAI) Board Chairman of Directors, was farewelled at a special board and staff luncheon to thank him for his almost five years of strong professional leadership and service to MTAI. In handing over the reins to newly appointed Chairman Rod Camm, the occasion provided the opportunity to reflect on Ian’s significant contributions to policy reform and curricula changes to meet the demands of both students and employers.

A special accolade to Ian’s stewardship is that the MTAI has been announced as a top three finalist for the Queensland Training Awards in the category of Small Training Provider of the Year. All winners will be announced on 14 September at the Queensland Training Awards State Gala Dinner.

On 22 August, Rod Camm chaired his first meeting as the MTAI Board Chairman of Directors. His stewardship coincides with the commonwealth, states and territories’ recognition that vocational education and training, and higher education are equal and integral parts of Australia’s post-secondary education system. This is a view we support and expressed in several fora and submissions.

Until next month, as Henry Ford, the industrialist and the founder of the Ford motor company said, ‘execute ideas with enthusiasm . . . as it is the bottom of all progress’.