Chair's Report

MTA CHAIR, FRANK AGOSTINO

The past two years have been turbulent in a way that the automotive industry has never experienced before, and so it is welcome to see most restrictions placed upon businesses wound back. However, the challenges before industry remain ongoing whether it’s skill shortages and evolving technology, or disruptions to supply chains and a rising cost of doing business.

At a macro level, global forces of interest rates, inflation and international conflict are influencing market expectations. Despite this volatility, it pays to keep updated on major industry trends and so our continued sharing of information with members remains a primary focus.

So while many businesses ponder what the ‘new normal’ looks like, you can rest assured that the MTA will keep you supported, informed and represented.

Anthony Albanese has been elected at Australia’s 31st Prime Minister meaning that industrial relations, emissions targets and skills policy will be front and centre for the MTA to engage with.

At a Territory level, Natasha Fyles has been chosen as the new Chief Minister and we thank Michael Gunner for his service to the Northern Territory.

Pleasingly, the NT Government has listened to the MTA’s calls for automotive to be recognised as an essential service so that our industry can safely continue to work to ensure the mobility of all Territorians.

The major challenge will undoubtedly be in growing our relationships with the new ministers at a Territory and Federal level. This means ensuring that the automotive industry is recognised for the more than $500 million we contribute to the Northern Territory economy through 700 businesses who employ 4,000 people.

I would like to thank Richard Dudley, CEO of the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) for his presentation at last month’s Industry Advisory Council (IAC) meeting to update members on the substantial initiatives and policies delivered at a national level such as the right to repair scheme, franchising reform and funding for an end of life vehicle scheme.

So while borders have reopened to skilled migration, the single biggest thing that we can do as an industry to fight skill shortages in the long term is to continue to take on apprentices and grow the pipeline of skilled technicians available.