In response to demand from the independent automotive repair and service sector, the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has launched the Automotive Repairers Council of Australia (ARCA).
AAAA Executive Director Stuart Charity said the independent automotive repair and service sector is under significant threat. “The challenges facing this small business sector arise from the rapid pace of technological change, skills and training gaps, and the anti-competitive behaviour of the car companies” he said.
“The time is right for the formation of a truly national service and repair representative group. The AAAA has responded by facilitating the ARCA initiative. This new Council will operate across state borders to provide structure and much needed formal links to the rest of the automotive parts and accessories supply chain.
“Independent repairers have realised that now more than ever it is critical that this sector has a unified national voice to influence key stakeholders and ensure that Government recognition and support for these businesses is proportionate to their important contribution to the Australian community and the economy,” said Stuart Charity.
This new group joins the existing AAAA industry Councils supporting the Performance Racing and Tuning, Four Wheel Drive and the Automotive Products Manufacturers and Exporters sectors. The experience of independent automotive service and repair businesses over many years has been that most government decision makers do not recognise the value that they contribute to the Australian economy and to the safety and reliability of the vehicles that our lifestyle demands.
“It is important to stress that the Automotive Repairers Council of Australia is designed to complement rather than compete against the state based industry bodies such as the Motor Trades Associations (MTAs) and Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC).
“Those organisations provide valued services to retail motor trade businesses and ARCA has no plans to mirror their service offerings. The ARCA strategy is to fill identified gaps in the market – especially the need for strong independent workshop advocacy. It is fully expected that ARCA members will see value in having dual ARCA and MTA/VACC memberships,” said Stuart Charity.
Further details visit www.aaaa.com.au
