VACC is committed to supporting its 5,000-plus members in the retail, service and repair sector of the automotive industry. It provides key services and products to members enabling them to run their business.

These services include industrial relations, occupational health and safety and environment, training, and lobbying governments and industry bodies. Its technical library is the largest in the southern hemisphere and the award winning auto-apprenticeship group scheme is the biggest in Victoria. A recent addition is the commercial department which provides business solutions for members and non-members, both in Victoria and interstate.

The VACC brand is displayed by member businesses and promoted through a range of activities, including this year's Australian Motoring Festival at the Melbourne Showgrounds (26-29 March). The Festival is a new model compared to previous motor shows and included interactive displays, driver test tracks and family entertainment.

In addition, VACC provides support services for the Tasmanian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (TACC), works closely with other interstate Motor Trades Associations and is a member of the national retail automotive body, the Australian Motor Industry Federation (AMIF).

Since inception in 1918, VACC has been a loud and influential voice for its members and the industry. Always promoting the interests of the retail sector, VACC has ensured that when policy decisions about the 'automotive industry' are discussed, the focus is not solely on manufacturers and that retail is fairly, and squarely, represented. And why shouldn't it be when three quarters (approximately, 320,000) of people employed in the automotive industry work in the retail, service, repair and recycling sectors - a fact often overlooked by governments, regulators and the media.

In fact, many recent reports on the demise of car making in Australia suggested the end of the automotive industry as we know it. VACC, and its national body, AMIF, were on the front foot highlighting the significant contribution the retail side makes to the economy and community, so much so, that it generated a Senate Inquiry into the 'whole' of the automotive industry later this year.

Approximately 2,500 VACC members service, repair and install automotive air conditioning systems, so VACC has a very close relationship with ARC. As strong supporters of regulation in the air conditioning industry, a productive and co-operative relationship with ARC has resulted in VACC members being better informed and better equipped to meet their customers' needs, while ensuring the environmental benefits of the legislation are realised to the fullest extent.

VACC's ARC membership is an active one, with regular contributions, information-sharing and participation in meetings. For example, VACC supports the intent of the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989 and the regulation of ozone depleting substances.

When the Australian Automotive Air Conditioning Code of Practice 2008 was redrafted, VACC provided input. This activity led to the announcement of the Review of the Act.

And just last year, VACC tabled a submission to the Department of the Environment's review of the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989 and associated legislation, and participation in the subsequent Transport Refrigeration and Air conditioning summit.

VACC looks forward to continuing its working relationship with ARC and ARC members.

VACC contact details

Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC)
464 St Kilda Road
Melbourne VIC 3004
Phone: (03) 9829 1111
vacc@vacc.com.au
www.vacc.com.au

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