Nominations are now open for Capricorn’s 2026 Rising Stars Awards, an annual program recognising outstanding automotive apprentices across Australia and New Zealand, and celebrating the future of the industry.
The Rising Stars Awards shine a spotlight on apprentices who demonstrate exceptional initiative, technical skill, and leadership potential within their workshops and communities.
Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer, Brad Gannon, said that the need to support and elevate apprentices has never been more urgent.
“By championing young talent, we’re helping address today’s skills pressures while building a stronger, more sustainable industry for tomorrow. Rising Stars makes a real difference to the apprentices who are celebrated, the workshops that mentor them, and the wider industry,” Brad said.
Capricorn’s 2025 State of the Nation research found that almost half of Australian automotive businesses were affected by staffing shortages. Around 40 per cent reported difficulty finding qualified workers, while 10 per cent had unfilled vacancies.
The Capricorn Rising Stars Awards play an important role in strengthening the industry’s future.
“Capricorn Members service nearly 42 million vehicles every year. If we don’t find a solution to our workforce challenges, millions of cars may not be able to be serviced in a timely manner, which impacts not only the individuals but everyone driving on our roads.”
Beyond individual recognition, Rising Stars is one of several initiatives Capricorn delivers to help alleviate the industry’s skills shortage. The program encourages more young people to pursue a career in automotive, supports apprentices to stay the course, and gives workshop owners a meaningful way to reward and retain emerging talent.
With over $56,000 worth of prizes up for grabs, Capricorn Members are encouraged to nominate apprentices who are making a positive impact in their business. To find out more, visit Capricorn Rising Stars.
About Capricorn Society
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.
At Capricorn, we're about more than just products and services. We work hard to ensure that our Members, Preferred Suppliers and People feel like they're part of something bigger — a Community that is connected and supported to make a difference, while having some fun along the way!
ENDS
Key dates
- Nominations open: 18 March 2026
- Nominations close: 1 May 2026
More information can be found here:
Media Contact:
Louise Bailey | +61 (0)436 321 753 | media@capricorn.coop
Note to editors:
Brad Gannon, CEO, is available for interview.