A surge in vehicle sales in the wake of the pandemic is producing a backlog in servicing and repairs, with the industry conceding it may need a new approach to fill the labour shortage, starting with a new “Charlene”.

Many commuters began working from home due to COVID-19. As those commuters returned to work, many have chosen to drive instead of utilising public transport. The motoring industry has witnessed an increase in both new car and second-hand vehicles being purchased over the last few months, partly spurred by this desire for a personal form of transportation. At the same time, the closure of international borders has resulted in a surge in road-tripping, evidenced by soaring four-wheel-drive accessory sales and month-long waitlists for caravan purchases.

Motorserve Chief Executive Officer Andrew Boath stated that since restrictions eased in November last year, there has been an increase in bookings, as people hit the roads.

“Once border restrictions were eased in November last year, we saw a jump in future bookings as people were planning holidays,” he said. “We’ve seen an increase in bookings for servicing and mechanical repairs in the lead-up to the Easter holidays, particularly for people wanting to make sure their vehicles are road safe ready.”

While the industry is maintaining current parts supply, Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association Chief Executive Stuart Charity said the shortage of qualified technicians to cope with the increased demand for vehicle servicing and repair is resulting in businesses turning away work. The absence of 457 Visa workers has contributed to the problem, however, the primary factor was the lack of apprentices, he said.

According to Mr Charity, the industry needs a new “Charlene” to entice desperately needed apprentices, referring to Kylie Monogue’s 1990’s character Charlene Robinson on TV soap Neighbours, who played the role of a mechanic. But “that was a long time ago, and people these days wouldn’t remember her,” he said.

“There are just not the available tradesperson out there. We do have a bit of an image problem – people see it as dirty, low paid work – but cars are now so complex that the work has changed. With the new technology, electronics, it is a very fascinating career.”

Motor Trades Association of Australia Limited (MTAA) Membership Senior Manager Wayne Pickering said he hoped the initiative would help solve the car industry shortage over time. According to Mr Pickering, MTAA has taken on over 1800 apprentices to train. “There is definitely enough jobs, especially if you are skilled and qualified,” he said.

Source: Daily Telegraph | Operation Charlene to beat car backlog

7 April 2021