Engagement on many levels

The MTA WA Membership and Industry Engagement team has been actively connecting with members across all sectors of the automotive industry, facilitating meaningful discussions on key issues and future opportunities.

In recent months, our presence at events like the Joondalup Festival of Motoring, the coordination of targeted business development courses and the delivery of several industry-specific forums have formed the backbone of this engagement.

Our industry forums have continually proved to be exceptionally valuable, providing a platform for professionals, technical experts and stakeholders to share insights, identify challenges and contribute to collective problemsolving.

These sessions are instrumental in informing our strategic advocacy efforts in order to shape policy recommendations that address both current and emerging industry needs.

Traditionally, our industry advocacy has been guided by the input of sectorspecific committee members. While this remains essential, our forums expand that model by inviting broader participation from all members without the ongoing commitment of a formal committee. This inclusive approach ensures every voice has an opportunity to contribute to sectorwide improvements.

In 2025 so far, we’ve delivered forums across a range of sectors, including:

• Motorcycles

• Caravan Dealers

• Commercial Vehicles

• Licensed Motor Vehicle Dealers

• Rental Vehicles

• Body Repairers

• Automotive Parts Recyclers

Each forum has revealed unique challenges and opportunities, which are now being reviewed. Priority projects are being scoped to support practical, policy-driven outcomes.

One such initiative emerged from the Motorcycle Sector Forum, where members raised growing concerns around the proliferation of illegal e-rideables.

In response, we have developed a draft policy position, held meetings with Ministers and the Road Safety Commission, as well as engaging with the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) policy group. These discussions are already progressing toward a clear, strategic approach to resolve the issue.

Another area of focus is the complexity of navigating jurisdiction inconsistencies across Australia. Despite new vehicles being regulated federally, individual State variations in registrations, modifications, and licensing – particularly in the heavy vehicle space – are creating operational inefficiencies.

The MTA WA is committed to reviewing how we can improve interstate alignment, ensuring WA-based businesses are not disadvantaged and that our processes are respected and accepted nationally.

A major development in the Body Repair sector was the national review of the Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct. The MTA WA brought together body repair members to provide critical feedback on key elements of the Code. This engagement was essential in ensuring that the revised Code reflects the realworld needs of repairers and fosters a more balanced, collaborative relationship with insurers. We sincerely thank all members who contributed their insights during this pivotal consultation.

Meanwhile, members of the Automotive Parts Recycling sector enjoyed a standout networking event at the recent Grill and Grow, hosted at the impressive new JTW Autoparts facility in East Rockingham. The event attracted more than 45 parts recyclers from across WA, offering an evening of connection, industry insights, and business inspiration.

A special thank you to MTA WA members Dave Smith and Michael Beasley for their warm hospitality and for sharing their professional journey with attendees. We also thank eBay Australia for their generous sponsorship and for sharing