The ACIA

30/04/2026

We’re doing something important at CRE 2026 👇

The industry is facing a skills shortage—and it starts with students, educators and parents.

ACIA is introducing students to the real world of collision repair at the Collision Repair Expo 2026—showing them the tools, the tech, and the career pathways across panel and paint.

🕚 Thursday | 11:00am – 2:00pm

Students will take part in guided sessions, then explore the expo in their own time—so keep an eye out for them visiting stands (especially ACIA members 👀).

It’s all about building awareness, changing perceptions, and helping the next generation see what’s possible.

30/03/2026

In March, ACIA was at the Victoria Careers & Employment Expo connecting with students interested in collision repair careers.

Thanks to our members SAPE Group and DRIVE Group for volunteering their time and resources, alongside our wider member support.

Simple focus — change perceptions, generate interest, and make connections.

17/03/2026

The Australian Collision Industry Alliance will be attending the Victorian Careers & Employment Expo this Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Melbourne Showgrounds.
Representing the collision repair industry, the Alliance will be on the ground delivering a clear message about the exciting career opportunities available in this evolving trade. With the industry facing ongoing skills shortages and outdated perceptions, ACIA is working with businesses across the sector to showcase the real pathways available for students and job seekers.
Supported by dedicated member volunteers, the stand will highlight real opportunities to begin a career in collision repair, connect visitors with industry professionals, and demonstrate the wide range of roles within the sector.
If you’re in Melbourne, come and visit the The ACIA lend a hand, or simply see the work being done on the ground to address real workforce challenges facing our industry.

23/02/2026

17/02/2026

We’re proud to announce that Suncorp has renewed its support as an Industry Partner of the Australian Collision Industry Alliance — further strengthening our collective commitment to tackling the skills and workforce challenges facing the collision repair sector.

As the first insurer to recommit to our mission, Suncorp’s ongoing partnership reflects a shared belief in the importance of promoting the wide range of rewarding careers available across collision repair, and building a sustainable pipeline of talent for the long term.

This renewed support will help drive industry-wide initiatives that raise awareness of the amazing opportunities within our sector — from apprenticeships to advanced technical roles — and highlights the power of collaboration across repairers, suppliers, insurers, dealer groups and OEMs working together for the future.

Thank you, Suncorp, for backing the vision of a thriving, resilient collision repair workforce!

03/02/2026

ACIA members — we’re calling on your best work!

We’re creating a new range of ACIA-branded posters for career events and want them to showcase the real craftsmanship happening in member workshops every day.

No stock or AI images — just real vehicles, real repairs, real skills.

Selected images may feature on ACIA posters and event materials, helping inspire students and promote careers in collision repair while highlighting your work.

What to submit:
✔️ High-resolution, print-quality images
✔️ Real vehicles and genuine repairs
✔️ Completed projects

⏰ Deadline: COB Friday, 5 February

Email your images to [email protected] with a short description of the vehicle or work.

Thanks for helping us show the industry at its best — we can’t wait to see what you’ve created! 👏

19/01/2026

In December, ACIA kicked off our journey with The Industry School - Ipswich , sponsoring the 2025 School-Based Apprentice of the Year – Automotive at the Ipswich Campus Graduation.

The award recognised one outstanding student ready to embark on their real-world adventure in the automotive industry, as they prepare to transition into the workforce in 2026.

The Industry School model continues to demonstrate the value of early engagement, strong industry partnerships, and structured pathways that prepare young people for successful automotive careers.

It was a fantastic opportunity to engage with students, celebrate their success, and share in their excitement as they move into the next phase of their journeys.

For ACIA members, this collaboration opens the door to meaningful engagement with motivated students early in their journey and helps shape the future workforce of our industry.

🔗 Industry Day at Emu Gully – showcasing opportunities for rookies:
https://theindustryschool.com.au/industry-day-at-emu-gully-a-showcase-of-opportunities-for-rookies/

14/01/2026

Cairns industry call-out | Future talent opportunity

We’re reaching out to the Cairns collision repair community to see if any repairers are open to connecting with a motivated young person keen to start her career in the industry.

Aimee first contacted us back in September last year. While we weren’t able to secure a local opportunity at the time, she has stayed engaged and remains genuinely enthusiastic about pursuing a career in collision repair.

Aimee is based in Cairns City and ready to get started. She’s eager to learn, gain hands-on experience, and explore pathways such as an apprenticeship or SBAT.

If you’re a Cairns-based repairer and open to an initial conversation—no pressure or obligation—we’d love to help make an introduction and see if there could be a fit.

Supporting young people like Aimee is how we build a stronger, sustainable future for our industry.

Comment below or message me directly if you’d like to connect.

08/01/2026

Start the year with a plan.

A career in collision repair offers more than a job — it provides clear pathways, nationally recognised training, and long-term opportunities across technical, specialist, leadership and business roles.

As vehicles become more advanced, the need for skilled people continues to grow. Supporting young people to see the scale, technology and career potential of the modern collision repair industry is critical to building a strong future workforce.

This is where a career in collision can take you.