Queensland Automotive Academy to address skills shortage

Queensland has unveiled a pioneering automotive training initiative designed to combat the industry’s critical skills shortage, with a new academy set to provide senior secondary students with direct pathways into automotive careers from 2026.

The Automotive Academy, announced on August 12, 2025, represents a collaborative effort between the Heavy Vehicle Industry Association, the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association and the Motor Trades Association of Queensland to address the need for 73,500 additional apprentices nationwide.

Starting in January 2026, the program will offer Years 10-12 students the opportunity to earn a Certificate II in Automotive while gaining hands-on industry experience across multiple roles, combining classroom study with up to 28 weeks of industry placement annually.

“It’s no secret the automotive industry is in the midst of a skills shortage,” the AAAA stated, noting that 3300 new workshops have opened in the past five years, with demand certain to grow well into the future.

HVIA chief executive officer Todd Hacking emphasised the significance of the collaboration, saying: “HVIA is delighted to extend its existing relationship with The Industry School and looks forward to the opening of the Automotive Academy.”

“The heavy vehicle industry needs an additional, sustainable, energetic pipeline of apprentices, and targeting school-based learners is an exciting opportunity for the industry.”

The Industry School chief executive officer Lee Smith highlighted the program’s comprehensive approach: “Our students spend up to 28 weeks per year in industry, balancing academic and vocational education, work experience and an apprenticeship, driven by real-world exposure.”

“It all starts by partnering with industry associations like HVIA, AAAA and MTAQ.”

The immersive experience ensures students acquire not only technical skills but also essential soft skills including communication, problem-solving and adaptability, all critical for success in the automotive sector.

MTAQ chief executive officer Rod Camm described the initiative as a key component of the automotive sector’s workforce strategy: “Addressing skills and labour shortages is the number one issue facing the industry today.”

“Creating pathways for students into automotive careers that The Industry School has developed is a critical feature of the automotive industry’s workforce development strategy.”

The AAAA praised the Automotive Academy as a “fantastic initiative”, highlighting its innovative approach to trade pathways for secondary school students.

The program integrates classroom study with industry exposure through partnerships with TAFE Queensland and local businesses, ensuring students receive both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

The Automotive Academy will begin its first intake of students in Term 1, 2026, at The Industry School’s Ipswich location, with plans to expand to additional campuses across south-east Queensland, broadening access to the training initiative.

Graduates will be equipped with diverse skill sets, preparing them for careers across the automotive sector — whether in light vehicle repair, heavy truck maintenance or aftermarket services.

The program’s hands-on model ensures students are industry-ready and able to contribute immediately upon graduation.

Backed by the Queensland Government, which recognises the urgent need to tackle skills shortages and drive workforce growth in critical sectors, the Automotive Academy offers a forward-thinking solution to an urgent challenge.

The initiative is expected to play a pivotal role in developing a sustainable workforce while ensuring the long-term competitiveness of the automotive industry in Queensland and beyond.