Suncorp Group has thrown its support behind Australia’s newest repair industry advocacy body to help combat the skills shortage and ageing workforce of the motor repair industry.
In a two-year sponsorship deal inked with the Australian Collision Industry Alliance (ACIA), Suncorp Group has become the first insurance partner to support the new body which launched last year.
The ACIA is a national not-for-profit and aims to promote a wide range of rewarding careers offered in the collision repair sector to attract and retain staff ensuring the sustainability of the industry.
Its focus is on co-ordinating industry stakeholders including collision repairers, industry suppliers, insurers, dealer groups and OEMs in funding and driving programs for attracting new talent.
Suncorp’s EGM Motor Claims Customers Luke Whenman said it was an important partnership.
"This is an excellent step forward for the repair industry, recognising the significance of investing in developing current and future talent,” Whenman said.
“I’m proud that Suncorp can partner with ACIA to ensure the delivery of exceptional repair outcomes for our customers."
Stuart Faid, ACIA Board member and Regional Vice President Australia, Asia, NZ Fix Network said the partnership would help support and tackle the mounting skills shortage crisis the industry is facing.
“It’s great to see one of Australia’s major insurers getting behind the industry through this commitment to the ACIA,” Faid said.
“It is a testament to their commitment to the long-term sustainability of the industry that Suncorp is the first insurer to become an “Industry Partner” of the ACIA.
“Suncorp joins a diverse range of stakeholders across the entire supply chain, from parts companies, equipment suppliers, paint companies, right through to the repairers themselves, creating a truly diverse membership, focused on the complex task of building increased community awareness of the array of careers available in collision."