The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) has reinforced its long-term commitment to skills development and workforce capability across Victoria’s automotive industry, by opening a new automotive training and learning centre in North Melbourne.
The centrally located corner warehouse, office and showroom site – at 166–168 Abbotsford Street – is just minutes from VACC House and within walking distance of the Errol Street precinct and the now-open Arden Station.
The facility will be refurbished and purpose-fitted to support automotive-specific training, providing flexible learning spaces that can accommodate hands-on, practical instruction for apprentices, technicians and automotive businesses. Once complete, the centre will enable VACC to deliver a broader range of niche and specialised training that has previously been difficult to run due to the cost and availability of external facilities.
VACC Chief Executive Officer Peter Jones said the new training centre represents a significant investment in the future of the automotive industry and its workforce.
“This is a significant and exciting step for VACC and for our members,” Jones said.
“Victoria’s automotive industry is undergoing rapid change – from advanced diagnostics and electrification through to new vehicle technologies and evolving safety requirements.
“Securing a centrally located training facility close to VACC House allows us to expand our training capability and ensure apprentices and automotive businesses have access to high-quality, industry-relevant learning environments.
“As Australia’s largest single employer of automotive apprentices, we take our responsibility to the next generation of technicians seriously. This investment will deliver direct benefits to the hundreds of apprentices we employ and support each year, while strengthening the long-term skills pipeline for the entire industry.
“This facility will give our apprentices the best possible environment to learn, develop their skills and build long-term careers in automotive. It’s an investment not just in infrastructure, but in people – and in the future capability of Australia’s automotive workforce.”
The North Melbourne location has been selected for its strong transport connections and proximity to VACC’s existing headquarters, allowing closer integration between training delivery, member services and industry engagement.
Training is expected to commence in the first half of 2026, following the completion of refurbishment and fit-out works.