Capricorn data shows only 11% of mechanics in NSW will be able to service EVs from Sep 2
Capricorn, a member- based automotive cooperative with over 30,000 predominately small business members, has joined the AAAA in calling on the NSW Government to revisit a draft regulatory impact statement (RIS) mandating training requirements for EV technicians.
Capricorn has today released new data showing that only 11% of workshops in NSW have completed the mandated training course — AURSS00064 Battery Electric Vehicle Inspection and Servicing Skill Set, meaning that from September 2, the ability to service your EV in NSW will drop significantly.
Brad Gannon, Group CEO of Capricorn says the industry supports the Government’s approach to upskill the sector, but that businesses cannot be expected to complete the mandatory training, off-site and over multi days by the start of September.
“While we support the upskilling of the industry as we transition to technology and this has always been an ever present in the industry, we also support the AAAA in their concerns that this training requirement is poorly thought out and will impact not only technicians but consumers at the end of the day
“We know that 97% of automotive businesses in the industry are micro or small businesses with fewer than 19 employees. These businesses need to schedule their workload to find time for upskilling, particularly given that 54% of businesses report that they are already struggling with finding time to take a break from their busy work schedules”
“Our research shows that businesses aren’t opposed to completing EV training with many having completed alternate EV safety training through MTAs or OEMs. The feedback is that they’re confident this training is sufficient so why should these businesses have to complete additional training at their own cost, in their own working time?”
“We join the AAAA in calling for a multi-year industry transition. We think this is appropriate, and also gives Government the opportunity to understand the training that the industry is already delivering and receiving as part of our sector’s own initiatives to upskill small business as we transition.”
If implemented as drafted, this proposal will set a dangerous precedent around Australia.
“Our datashows that NSW is actually leading the country with EV training, so if other states look at implementing similar proposals, the impact will be even-more wide spread, especially in states like Western Australia where only 1% of automotive workshops have completed this specific training,” Brad says.
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Capricorn is one of Australia and New Zealand’s largest and most dynamic Member-owned organisations. Since 1974, we’ve provided our members with financial and business solutions to make running a business easier. Our flagship Trade Account offers instant credit with over 2,000 Preferred Suppliers, simplified monthly expenses, and a generous rewards program.
We have a strong foundation in the automotive and machinery aftermarkets. Our vibrant community includes over 30,000 Members across Australia and New Zealand, from national franchises to your local family workshop. Last year, Capricorn facilitated over $3.7bn in sales with our Preferred Suppliers.
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