The Australian Collision Industry Association (ACIA) has had a standout August on the road, showcasing why a future in the collision repair industry is brimming with opportunity.
From Townsville to Hobart, Cairns to Sydney, ACIA teamed up with schools, repairers and local members to spark conversations, run hands-on demos, and open doors for the next wave of apprentices.
- 4th of August — Townsville
- 7th of August — Mackay
- 14th – 15th of August — Hobart (Fearless Festival)
- 21st of August — Cairns Careers Expo
- 21st of August — YES Work It Festival (Sydney, NSW)
- 28th of August — Cobham Youth Justice Centre Try-a-Trade (Sydney, NSW)
Highlights from the events:
Students rolled up their sleeves and got hands-on with the tools of the trade, while ACIA members and local repairers shared real stories about their journeys and how students can kickstart a career in spray painting and panel beating. For many, it was the first time they could actually see themselves in the trade.
- North QLD (Townsville/Mackay/Cairns): Huge interest from students, with multiple work-experience placements already locked in.
- Hobart Fearless Festival: A standout moment celebrating women in trades, capped off with a Gala Event where guest speakers inspired the next generation with their journeys.
- Cobham YJC (Sydney): Sharing key insights and opportunities with justice-involved youth, giving them a chance to try the tools, ask questions, and think about what a future in the trade might look like.
- Across all events, students asked one key question: “How do I start?”, reflecting the strong demand for clear pathways into the collision repair industry.
A huge thank you
These events would not be possible without the time, passion, and dedication of our members and partners volunteering their support. A special thanks to:
- Townsville & Cairns: McClure Refinishing, Anne McClure
- Mackay: McClure Refinishing, McCarthy Panel Works, Wholesale Paint Group
- Hobart: AMA Apprenticeship team, female apprentices in spray painting and panel beating, and Anne McClure
- Sydney (YES Work It): Dan Maher (L & M Smash Repairs), Steve Lozenkovski (Bears Auto Group)
- Sydney (Cobham YJC): Sam Street, Steve Lozenkovski, Dan Maher
- Perth (July): AMA, Ash Jardine (Bodyshop Solutions), Dale Wesley (Dalcos Accident Repair Centre)
Looking ahead:
The message is clear; there’s real excitement out there about careers in the collision industry. With every event, ACIA is forging connections, opening doors, and shaping the future of the industry, one apprentice at a time.
For all members who want to learn more, get involved, and share ideas to assist ACIA in planning our activities for 2026, please attend the exclusive member-only Leaders Lunch on Thursday, 20 November, on the Gold Coast. For more details, visit www.theacia.com.au/events or email info@theacia.com.au.
The last events for 2025 will take place in October when ACIA showcases the industry at the 2025 Careers Advisers Association Annual Conference in Sydney, providing an opportunity to engage with over 450 teachers and advisors from Sydney and the ACT.