As the automotive industry undergoes its most significant transformation in over a century, MTA NSW Motor Traders' Association of NSW (MTA NSW) – the largest representative industry body in the automotive sector in NSW – has actively engaged with the NSW Government throughout the consultation process to ensure the proposed Motor Dealers and Repairers Regulation support the thousands of automotive businesses and consumers across the state.
"There has been considerable confusion circulating about these reforms," MTA NSW CEO, Stavros Yallouridis, said.
"The reality is that these changes extend far beyond new EV licensing requirements and include important updates that will modernise our industry, such as enabling online vehicle sales, reducing regulatory red tape, and other important industry matters."
MTA NSW specifically addressed the changes regarding electric vehicle repair. The organisation outlined that only specific tradespeople who work directly on high-voltage systems in Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) — a new repair class — will be required to undergo additional upskilling. This requirement does not apply to existing hybrid vehicles it stated.
Tradespersons with a Certificate III qualification are not required to undertake any further upskilling if they are currently working on internal combustion engines (ICE) or defined hybrid vehicles. However, should an existing tradesperson (Cert III) decide to repair or service BEVs in the future, they will be required to complete the proposed pathway (AURSS00064).
Tradespeople holding low-scope certificates, who choose to work on electric or hybrid vehicles will be required to complete a one-day safety training course as a condition.
"As the largest private automotive Registered Training Organisation (RTO) in NSW, with over 2,200 apprentices in training, we've already helped more than 800 individuals complete EV training," Yallouridis said.
"This demonstrates not only the industry's readiness to adapt but also the strong demand for these skills as the market evolves."
“Of the approximately 23 million vehicles on Australian roads, electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles account for over 300,000 nationwide, representing only 1.3 percent of the total fleet. In NSW specifically, the number of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles currently registered is approximately 100,000.”
“This modest but growing segment underscores why the timing of these regulatory reforms is appropriate. It’s important to undergo due diligence and preparation without undue urgency, as the market naturally evolves.”
The NSW Association has called for a three-year transition period for any training-related compliance and continues to advocate for government-funded support to ensure fair and timely access to training, particularly for small workshops and those in regional areas, where access to training facilities may be limited.
"We thank the NSW Government for its collaborative approach throughout this process," Yallouridis added.
"MTA NSW will continue to examine the draft regulations carefully to ensure that safety comes first for all, while supporting the automotive industry through this critical transition."