The Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA), in partnership with its state associations, has successfully secured formal recognition for Electric Vehicle (EV) Technicians in a landmark decision that will reshape Australia's automotive industry.
Starting today, EV Technicians will have their own occupation classification (code 351434) under the Australian Government's Occupation Standard Classification (OSCA). This recognition marks a significant milestone in supporting Australia's transition to electric vehicles by officially acknowledging the profession within the national framework for reporting occupation data.
MTAA CEO Matt Hobbs said the new classification marks an important step for Australia's automotive sector.
"This is more than just an administrative change – it's a fundamental recognition of how rapidly our industry is evolving," Mr. Hobbs said. "With the exponential growth in electric vehicles across Australia, this classification provides the framework our industry needs to develop a skilled workforce capable of supporting Australia's automotive future."
The classification comes at a crucial time, with EV adoption accelerating nationwide. Recent data shows dramatic growth, with Australian new EV sales breaking a record by surpassing 100,000 units in a year for the first time.
"The numbers tell a compelling story about the urgent need for this classification," Mr. Hobbs said. "This growth trajectory, combined with the government’s soon-to-commence New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, means we need to act now to build our workforce capability."
The new classification will enable standardised training programs across Australia and provide clearer career pathways for automotive technicians specialising in electric vehicles.
"This achievement positions Australia's automotive industry for the next decade and beyond," Mr. Hobbs said. "It gives businesses the confidence to invest in training and equipment, knowing there's now a formal recognition of these specialised skills."
The classification is the result of years of coordinated advocacy by MTAA and its member organisations, including substantial contributions from the state motor trade associations.
"This outcome demonstrates what our industry can achieve through collaboration and sustained advocacy," Mr. Hobbs said. "It ensures Australia's automotive sector can confidently meet the challenges and opportunities of our electric vehicle future."
This milestone announcement for EV Technicians comes at an opportune time, following the recent release of the Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL), which notably included nine automotive occupations.
"The inclusion of multiple automotive roles in the CSOL, coupled with this new EV Technician classification, represents a significant win for our industry," Mr. Hobbs said. "It demonstrates the government's recognition of the automotive sector's critical role in Australia's economic future and reinforces our industry's position as a key driver of technological advancement and sustainable transport solutions."
ENDS
Media contact
MTAA CEO, Matt Hobbs
m: 0419 608 845
e: matt.hobbs@mtaa.com.au
The Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) is the peak body representing the interests of the automotive retail sector across the nation. Through proactive engagement, MTAA helps shape sound public policy on issues that affect the retail motor trades, small businesses, and consumers.
MTAA’s member associations include the Motor Traders’ Association of New South Wales, the Victorian and Tasmanian Automobile Chamber of Commerce, the Motor Trade Association of South Australia and Northern Territory, the Motor Trade Association of Western Australia, and the Motor Trades Association of Queensland.
At the national level, MTAA acts as a unified voice, representing the interests of the automotive sector to the federal government and influencing key policy decisions. Its work includes identifying and addressing issues impacting the sector and advocating for the needs of automotive businesses through ongoing discussions with government.
