Media release 6 Jun : NSW Government in Slow Lane for Qualified EV Mechanics  

NSW Government in Slow Lane for Qualified EV Mechanics  

The NSW Opposition, with the Electric Vehicle industry, is calling on the NSW Labor Government to take its foot off the brake and provide a firm date, regarding recognition of a national course in Electric Vehicle (EV) technology.    

Shadow Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education Justin Clancy and Shadow Fair Trading Minister Tim James have met with the Motor Traders Association of NSW, Electric Vehicle Council, and EV motoring giant Tesla in State Parliament.     

Mr. Clancy said while he recognises NSW Fair Trading is going through its processes, the slow wheels of government are moving too slowly regarding the state’s rapidly expanding EV industry.  

 “The industry is suffering a lack of confidence due to this ongoing uncertainty. The NSW Labor Government must get its act into gear and confirm when this vital EV qualification will be recognised,” he said.  

 Current Fair Trading NSW regulations require individuals undertaking repair on motor vehicles, including EVs, to hold a motor vehicle tradesperson certificate. The failure to recognise Certificate III in Electric Vehicle Technology as an alternative, suitable qualification option is hindering the industry’s ability to train a skilled workforce for the future.  

 Currently, the only qualifications accepted are Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology and Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology. The rapid shift towards electric vehicles necessitates the recognition of the Certificate III in Electric Vehicle Technology as an alternative, suitable qualification option for eligibility for a motor vehicle tradesperson certificate.  

The AUR32721 qualification is pivotal in developing the skills required for the future workforce and driving innovation in the EV sector. It has already been recognised by several states and territories across Australia. However, NSW's recognition is crucial to ensuring the industry can offer apprenticeships in NSW that will contribute to the growing EV industry and provide careers focused on a clean energy future.    

 Shadow Fair Trading Minister Tim James is urging the NSW Labor Government to take action to ensure NSW has a sufficient workforce and does not lag behind other states in servicing electric vehicles. 

Tesla Australia & New Zealand Country Director Thom Drew said Australians have realised the benefits of EV ownership.  

“It’s crucial anyone conducting motor mechanic repair work on EVs is properly qualified and certified. The establishment of an electric vehicle motor mechanic and recognition of Certificate III in Electric Vehicle Technology will ensure NSW continues to train automotive technicians with the skills to service and repair these vehicles. Recognising this certification supports more jobs, builds a new generation of apprentices, and equips them with the skills necessary for the future of transport.”

Motor Traders Association of NSW Head of Government Relations & Advocacy Collin Jennings echoed those calls stating it’s critical that NSW starts to upskill the workforce as well as training apprentices in electric vehicles, just as other states are doing.  “This will ensure the existing workforce is up to speed and apprentices are in the pipeline needs additional capacity in automotive training including the use of independent RTOs." 

“The simple fact is NSW drivers need to know if they buy an EV, we will have enough qualified repairers to actually fix them,” Mr. Clancy said.