AAAA News

I’ve just returned from Autocare 2025 and what an incredible few days it was in Brisbane.

Australia’s largest skills and training event for the automotive industry delivered an extraordinary experience – uniting professionals from every corner of our sector for two powerful days of education, innovation and connection.

Autocare has grown into much more than a training convention. It’s a national platform where we chart the course for the future of automotive service and repair.

The energy throughout the venue was incredible. Seeing the Convention Centre halls filled with engaged workshop owners, technicians and apprentices was a sight to behold. It was fantastic to see the smiles on people’s faces, the aisles full of conversation, and even the nearby pubs and restaurants buzzing with our people networking, building relationships and sharing ideas.
No other event offers the level of training Autocare offers, and 2025 featured over 40 training and panel sessions across two purpose-built programs.

The Technical Training Program took things to another level, with in-depth sessions led by some of the best in the world – including Brandon Steckler, Keith Perkins and Tomi Oliva – who joined Australia’s top trainers to deliver advanced content on diagnostics, EVs, ADAS, J2534 programming, network failure and diagnosis, oscilloscope essentials, diesel and emission control diagnostics, and more. Technicians gained the information they need to accurately and efficiently service and repair the latest generation vehicles.

Running alongside that, the Workshop Management Program delivered some of the most informative and practical business education I’ve seen. The content, topics, speakers and panels were exceptional, covering the future of the industry, AI integration, skills shortages, the all-makes repair model, EV impacts, marketing, productivity, how to leverage Australia’s Motor Vehicle Information Scheme (MVIS) to enhance diagnostic and repair capabilities and more. The sessions were tailored for business owners and delivered real-world strategies to help them grow and adapt in a changing environment.

A defining moment at Autocare was the launch of the new ADAS Industry Code of Conduct.
This national Code brings practical, sector-specific guidance to one of the most important safety issues in modern vehicle repair: calibration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. It’s a first for our industry – designed by and for the aftermarket – and provides technicians across mechanical, windscreen, tyre and collision with clear procedures, checklists and decision-making tools to ensure these life-saving systems continue to function as intended after repair.

ADAS isn’t just a technology trend – it is a foundation of future mobility. With vehicle systems like AEB and lane-keeping assist now standard, our industry needs to step up to ensure we’re servicing them safely and consistently. This Code is our proactive response. It shows that we’re willing to lead from within – without waiting for government intervention. I want to thank Craig Baills, Lesley Yates, the Automotive Repairers Council of Australia (ARCA), and all those who contributed to what is truly a game-changing initiative for our sector.

The Autocare Trade Show stepped up in 2025, with more than 120 exhibitors bringing the latest workshop tools, diagnostic equipment, parts and service solutions to life on the trade show floor. The size and quality of the show was an impressive and complementary part of the convention.

Another standout was the National Light Vehicle Modifications Summit. This unique forum brought together influential regulators and key voices from the 4WD and modifications industry for a powerful day of interactive, high-impact discussion. The content and calibre of attendees will have far-reaching and long-standing influence over how government engages with our industry on key issues like VSB 14, ROVER, GCM/GVM upgrades, EV, ADAS, NVES and more.

With apprentice tickets heavily discounted as part of Autocare’s commitment to foster the next generation, it was fantastic to see so many young automotive professionals at the event. Complementing this initiative, was the Flying Spanners competition, showcasing young talent in an engaging, high-energy format – it was a massive highlight and a huge success.

I was also proud to see more female leaders and workshop owners take the stage than ever before. The AAAA is committed to fostering an inclusive and representative industry, and I know the next generation of professionals – regardless of gender – will be inspired by their leadership.

Autocare doesn’t happen without the support of many. Thank you to our exceptional trainers, presenters and exhibitors. Thank you to our Platinum Partner mycar Tyre and Auto, our Diamond Partners Brembo and Supercheap Auto Trade, and all of our supporting sponsors. A special thanks to MSE Events Group for delivering the event to such a high standard, and to our AAAA Board and staff for their commitment and hard work behind the scenes.

And finally, thank you to every delegate, workshop owner, technician, apprentice and trade visitor who created a large, highly engaged Autocare audience. Your energy, your passion, and your willingness to invest in yourselves and your teams made Autocare 2025 truly special.

We are an industry that never stands still – and Autocare proved once again that we are united, capable, and ready for the future.