MTA NSW Calls for Urgent Timeline on Critical EV Safety Reforms

Association warns that indefinite delays put automotive technicians at serious risk as EV numbers surge

Wednesday 20th August, 2025: The Motor Traders' Association of NSW (MTA NSW) is calling on the NSW Government to urgently set a clear timeline for Electric Vehicle (EV) safety reforms, after deferring essential licensing and training measures for further consultation.

While acknowledging the Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading’s commitment to the creation of an EV repair class and to licensing in NSW, MTA NSW CEO Mr Stavros Yallouridis warned that the absence of a firm implementation date leaves industry and workers in limbo.  The delay also stalls the urgent upskilling needed for technicians to keep pace with rapidly evolving vehicle technologies, while further exacerbating the current skills shortage in the automotive industry.

“This isn't just about regulatory compliance, it’s about protecting lives," Mr Yallouridis said.  “Every day of delay increases the risk of serious injury for automotive technicians working on high-voltage systems without proper certification. Worker safety cannot be treated as negotiable."

NSW is experiencing unprecedented EV adoption rates, yet MTA NSW warns that postponing safety standards undermines the state's leadership position in automotive regulation.

"We believe NSW has the opportunity to demonstrate strong leadership in EV safety standards," Mr Yallouridis said. "Our automotive industry is ready for the EV future, and we're confident that with clear timelines, our regulations can continue to set the national benchmark for safety and innovation."

"While we support thorough consultation and our continued engagement with the Minister,the safety of NSW automotive workers cannot wait indefinitely," Mr Yallouridis emphasised. “Every workshop owner and technician deserves certainty on when proper safety standards will be implemented”.

MTA NSW is calling for the Government to commit to a clear implementation timeline, ensuring the automotive industry can prepare adequately while maintaining the highest safety standards.

ENDS

For more information, please contact:

Varsha Kumar

[email protected]

0420 540 589

About The Motor Traders' Association of New South Wales (MTA NSW): The Motor Traders' Association of New South Wales is one of Australia's largest state-based industry associations, dedicated to representing owners and business principals in the New South Wales automotive industry for the last 115 years.

MTA NSW provides extensive industry information to its membership base, representing 28 different motor trades, including member forums and on-site visits. It assists members in the daily running of their businesses, as well as lobbying governing bodies to ensure a robust and thriving automotive industry.

Their policy interests are varied, encompassing taxation, fair trading, vehicle repair standards, employment relations, the environment, and industry training.

MTA NSW works to maintain the public's confidence in dealing with MTA members through a Code of Ethics, a landmark statement with a framework setting standards of behaviour, not just legal obligations, that MTA members must follow in their dealings with the public.