David Fraser, Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer, said while Members were confident in the future of their sector, finding skilled staff is an increasingly stressful burden on small businesses.
“Capricorn estimates that there are 13,600 vacant skilled positions across Member workshops in Australia and New Zealand with these vacancies taking an average of up to eight months to fill.” Mr. Fraser said.
“Members have always taken on apprentices to help with a pipeline of skilled labour, and whilst appetite to hire an apprentice is increasing, retaining them is a challenge.”
“Overall, the stress about a lack of available skilled labour is up 12 percent on last year’s survey, a concerning trend which is having a real impact on a sector contributing over $58 billion to Australia’s economy.”
“Finding good staff is the biggest challenge Members face in running their businesses, and it's causing operational, financial, mental and emotional stress.” Mr. Fraser said.
“We strongly encourage our industry partners and government to use this latest research to drive change we need to see. By helping this sector with red tape and cost reduction, the handbrake will come off this industry and the country will be better for it.” Mr Fraser concluded.
For more information visit State of the Nation Special Report: The Skills Shortage.
1 Source: Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA)