Through the Automotive Industry Workforce Advisor Program (IWA), I have been supporting many businesses address workforce and skills-related challenges. I have been fortunate enough to support dozens of automotive businesses over the past 12 months to develop, grow, and enjoy greater success.
One such business is M&R Auto Care of Sandgate. The business is owned and run by Michael Manzi, ably assisted by Office Manager Ash Stevens. I worked closely with Michael and Ash to examine their business practices and troubleshoot their human resource (HR) systems. It was a collaboration that has proven to be extremely successful.
“We were fortunate to connect with Kelvin, and it has been a game-changer for M & R Auto Care,” said Michael. “He provided an in-depth look at our business operations, helping us uncover areas we could improve and align with best practices.
“One of the standout benefits was being able to access a grant through the Department of Trade, Employment, and Training,” added Michael. “This funding allowed us to engage professional HR support, which has significantly elevated our business. We have been able to streamline and modernise our HR systems, creating clear job descriptions and updated employment contracts that strengthen our relationships with staff and apprentices. Additionally, the tailored HR training we received has helped our management team better understand their responsibilities and ensure compliance with current legislation.
“The changes we have implemented have been transformative. We now have a solid HR framework that complements our high standards of service and reputation in the community. This program has truly set us up for continued success, and we’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity.”
Through the IWA program, I have access to Government grants, resources and experts to support automotive businesses improve their HR practices. Having access to the MTAQ Industrial Relations (IR) team allows me to connect businesses with expert technical advice and guidance. Many businesses have already benefited and been able to address difficult HR and IR-related challenges.
“This program has truly set us up for continued success, and we’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity.”
In addition, I have developed an automotive industry-specific workforce planning resource for all automotive businesses to access for free. This resource takes a small-business owner through the process for developing strategies to help manage difficult staff recruitment and retention issues. A hard-copy version can be attained by contacting me or any of our dedicated Area Managers. An interactive version of the resource is also available on the MTAQ website HERE.
I am pleased that through the IWA program I have already supported over 130 automotive businesses from metropolitan and regional Queensland thrive, and I look forward to continuing to provide services to the industry in 2025.
If you have any workforce or skilling needs that are currently not being effectively met, get in touch, I would be very happy to work with you on developing solutions for your business.
Kelvin Millar, Industry Workforce Advisor
The Industry Workforce Advisor program is funded by the Queensland Government as part of the Good People, Good Jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032.
Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (February 2025)
28 March 2025