- The Crisafulli Government is delivering $7.7 million to build stronger school-to-industry pathways and secure a pipeline of skilled workers to end Labor's Skills Shortage.
- A new Automotive Gateway to Industry Schools Program will connect students with high-tech, high-demand careers.
- The Motor Trades Association of Queensland has been selected to deliver the Automotive Gateway.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy, and a fresh start for Queensland.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a new Automotive Gateway to Industry Schools Program to accelerate the sector and tackle Labor's Skills Shortage.
During their decade of decline, the former Labor Government ignored calls from the automotive industry for support, leaving businesses without skilled workers and students missing out on career opportunities.
The Crisafulli Government is shifting gears, partnering with the Motor Trades Association of Queensland to bring industry into the classroom and equip students with the skills needed for tomorrow's automotive technologies.
The Automotive Gateway will commence in Queensland schools from early 2026, giving students hands-on access to real-world training and career pathways in trades and emerging technologies like electric and autonomous vehicles.
It joins a range of industry-led initiatives under the Gateway to Industry Schools Program, designed to help students explore career pathways across key sectors including aerospace, health, and agribusiness.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start to end Labor's skills shortage and secure a pipeline of skilled workers to deliver a better lifestyle through a stronger economy.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates, said the initiative marked a clear shift from Labor's neglect of the sector.
"The Crisafulli Government is delivering A Fresh Start by backing industry and building real career pathways for young Queenslanders," Minister Bates said.
"For too long, Labor ignored the automotive industry's workforce needs, leaving businesses short-staffed and students without direction.
"Queensland's 16,000 automotive businesses help keep our economy moving and our communities connected.
"From 2026, students will have access to hands-on programs that open doors to high-tech, high-demand careers."
MTA Queensland CEO Rod Camm welcomed the opportunity to lead the new Automotive Gateway.
"The automotive industry is at a critical turning point. Skills shortages are placing real pressure on businesses across Queensland, and without action, this will only intensify as technology and customer demand evolve," said Mr Camm.
"The Automotive GISP is an exciting opportunity to inspire the next generation and show that automotive is a modern, innovative, high-tech career choice. From traditional trades to emerging fields like electric and autonomous vehicles, the industry offers a wide range of pathways for young people.
"Building on MTA Queensland's work over recent years connecting schools, students and parents with industry, this program will strengthen the sector's future by developing a pipeline of skilled, passionate workers who can keep Queensland moving, support local businesses, and drive innovation."
