NSW Govt must act on EV skills training, Opposition says

The NSW Opposition and electric vehicle industry are urging the Minns government to speed up recognition of a national course in electric vehicle (EV) technology.

Currently, Fair Trading NSW requires workers undertaking repairs on motor vehicles, including EVs, to hold a motor vehicle tradesperson certificate; at the moment, this is limited to a Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology and a Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology.

A Certificate III in Electric Vehicle Technology is not currently accepted as an alternative, suitable qualification. This is hindering the industry’s ability to train a skilled workforce for the future, the Opposition said.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Justin Clancy and Shadow Fair Trading Minister Tim James recently met with the Motor Traders’ Association of NSW, Electric Vehicle Council and Tesla in the state parliament.

Clancy said that while he acknowledged NSW Fair Trading was going through its processes [in order to recognise the certification], the government was moving too slowly in relation to the state’s rapidly expanding EV industry.

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

Anthony Tomassetti from the Motor Traders’ Association of NSW trains apprentice Aidan. Image: Supplied.

The AUR32721 Certificate III in Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology (Light Vehicle) has already been recognised by several states and territories across Australia. Recognition in NSW would be critical to fostering EV apprenticeships and careers in the state, the Opposition said.

Tesla Australia & New Zealand Country Director Thom Drew said it was crucial anyone conducting motor mechanic repair work on EVs was properly qualified and certified.

“The establishment of an electric vehicle motor mechanic [qualification] 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,” he said.

“Recognising this certification supports more jobs, builds a new generation of apprentices and equips them with the skills necessary for the future of transport.”

Top image caption: EV work in progress at the Motor Traders’ Association of NSW. Image: Supplied.