CEO Message

MTA Calls Out Automotive Priorities Ahead of Election

It is an important time as we once again head to the polls to decide who will be the next Northern Territory Government. By all accounts this will be the most closely fought election in recent memory.

Much has changed since 2020, at a time where COVID-19 and the government’s response were front of mind for voters. Today cost of living impacts are being felt in every corner, challenging businesses and customers alike. Skill shortages have sharpened, and local crime remains an ongoing challenge across the Territory.

But despite these headwinds, the strength of the local industry continues to encourage me.

The MTA is fortunate to have strong relationships with all sides of politics. While we may not agree on every issue, our track record of backing our members and getting things done means we are ready to work with whoever the Territory chooses.

That is why the MTA was proud to share our 2024 Northern Territory Election Charter which calls on all parties and candidates to support the local automotive industry which contributes more than $500 million to the economy through more than 700 businesses who employ more than 4,000 Territorians.

Driving the Territory Forward was informed by our everyday engagement with our members, whether visiting your businesses, engaging in industry forums, or just chatting over the phone when you need our help.

This document covers four key policy pillars:

• Automotive transformation

• Skills

• Cost of business and taxation; and

• Legislative reform.

While electric vehicle uptake is behind other states and territories, it is important to note that one in five new cars sold in the Northern Territory are either an EV, hybrid or plug-in hybrid. Businesses need to be prepared for whatever vehicle enters the workshop and that is why we have recommended financial support for reskilling, charging infrastructure and updated tooling.

We want to see automotive training in the Territory at its best, and the MTA stands ready to work collaboratively with the next government and CDU TAFE to see the sector thrive. Skilled migration must also form part of our local skills strategy by making it easier for small, medium and family run businesses to help plug gaps in the market.

There is no silver bullet to crime, whether it is theft, property damage or violent behaviour. But we want to see more support for businesses to protect themselves with a doubling of available grant money under the BizSecure program.

The MTA will always be an independent advocate for our industry, but we also know that small business needs all the support it can get. That is why the time has come for us to appoint an NT Small Business Commissioner to advocate to government from within.

Finally, we are seeing important safety reforms occurring interstate that we should learn from and adopt. Towing operators, roadside assistance operators and their employees deserve a safe working environment, and we should slow down when they are working roadside with amber lights on.

The outcome of the election is not certain, but our members can always count on the MTA’s support and credibility, no matter who the government of the day is.

We are pleased to feature contributions from NT Chief Minister Eva Lawler and Leader of the Opposition Lia Finocchiaro in this edition of the Motor Trade Magazine, where they share their vision for the future of our automotive industry.