Demand for future focused automotive training is accelerating as MTA Training and Employment celebrates a major milestone for its nation-leading dual trade apprenticeships.
In just one year, more than 100 apprentices have enrolled and are preparing themselves for the future of automotive technology, including hybrid and electric vehicles.
MTA CEO Darrell Jacobs said the Federal Government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard was driving demand for more advanced skillsets. “Hybrid and electric vehicles now make up one in every four new cars sold in South Australia,” said Mr Jacobs.
Mr Jacobs said perceptions of spanners and grease were quickly being replaced by laptops and scan tools, “Whether its high-tech dashboards, safety sensors or voice activated driver control, cars have truly become computers on wheels.”
MTA Apprentice Alexander Adcock, hosted by Elizabeth Auto Electrics is the 100th automotive dual trade apprentice and reflected on his career pathway decision, “Getting two trade qualifications in five years is a no-brainer. I’m excited to learn about all the new technology and with dual trade I know I can have a long career ahead of me.”
David Benzie from Elizabeth Auto Electrics said the program would pay dividends for his business, “Modern vehicles are more complex than ever before, so it makes sense to bring as much knowledge as possible into my workshop.”
South Australian Skills Commissioner Cameron Baker said the dual trade apprenticeship program demonstrates strong demand from apprentices and employers seeking to develop skilled automotive workers.
“This program is already delivering the skilled workers South Australia needs for the future of automotive technology, including hybrid and electric vehicles. By supporting apprentices to gain two complementary skillsets in one program, it provides the expertise employers need and a clear pathway to long-term careers.
“It also reinforces South Australia’s leadership in delivering training aligned with industry needs. This is a strong example of responsive, industry-driven skills development, building a workforce that is agile, future-ready and capable of supporting key sectors of our economy.”
Commissioner Baker noted the program reflects a strong partnership between the Commission and the Motor Trade Association, delivering innovative training solutions that meet the evolving needs of industry.
Background
The dual trade apprenticeships were developed in partnership with the South Australian Skills Commission to address the industry’s need for a skilled workforce capable of servicing increasingly complex vehicles, including the growing number of zero and low-emission vehicles.
The program initially launched in May 2024 with a Light Vehicle and Heavy Vehicle dual trade paired with Automotive Electrical and was later expanded in July 2025 to include Agricultural Machinery and Automotive Electrical.
MTA Training and Employment now offers three automotive dual trades for apprentices across South Australia. They are completed over five years instead of eight (four years each) when delivered separately:
- Light Vehicle / Automotive Electrical Technician – AUR30620 Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology and AUR30320 Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.
- Heavy Vehicle / Automotive Electrical Technician – AUR31120 Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology and AUR30320 Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.
- Agriculture / Automotive Electrical Technician – AUR30420 Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology and AUR30320 Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.
