HVIA recently met with the Victorian Skills Authority (VSA), whose role includes gathering industry data, identifying current and emerging skills shortages in the state’s workforce, and working with stakeholders to develop strategies to bridge these gaps.
These discussions have been highly encouraging, with the VSA demonstrating a strong commitment to understanding the challenges our members face—particularly in upskilling and the apprenticeship system.
One significant issue affecting the technician workforce, both in Victoria and nationally, is the default approach to upskilling.
Currently, any technician seeking additional qualifications is typically enrolled in an apprenticeship. While this is often the easiest route—primarily due to funding structures, it is not always the most practical solution. Having experienced technicians away from the workshop for block-release training can be disruptive, and it’s clear alternative pathways are needed.
To tackle this, HVIA and the VSA are working towards hosting workshops at which HVIA members and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) can come together to clearly define the problem and develop viable solutions.
A key area of focus is the transition of light vehicle technicians into the heavy vehicle industry. Currently, these skilled workers, despite already holding qualifications, face limited options: they must either navigate a challenging Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process or, in some cases, re-enrol as apprentices—even those with decades of experience.
This is a highly skilled workforce with transferable expertise that extends far beyond traditional pathways. It’s encouraging to see the VSA taking proactive steps to engage with industry and support our members in identifying practical solutions.
By working together, we can create a more flexible, responsive training system that meets the needs of both businesses and workers—ultimately strengthening the heavy vehicle industry’s future workforce.
To discuss these issues in more detail, contact Michael Rose, HVIA National Manager – Skills, Training and Workforce Development,on 0487 222 876 or m.rose2@hvia.asn.au.