Melbourne auto servicing remains open, says VACC

Negotiations between Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC) and the Victorian state government have seen rules regarding the operation of automotive service and parts businesses during Melbourne’s Stage 4 COVID restrictions clarified.

VACC described the new guidelines for the vehicle servicing and parts sales sectors in metropolitan Melbourne as “important and specific”.

According to the VACC: “Logbook servicing, tyre and windscreen replacement, body repairs, and other safety-related work can be conducted by dealerships, aftermarket repairers, and body repair shops.”

“Wholesale and retail sales of vehicles and automotive parts are not permitted at a physical site in the metro area. But these businesses can still operate,” VACC CEO Geoff Gwilym stated.

“Service and repair operations at vehicle dealerships can remain open on-site and vehicle sales can still take place, but these [sales] will need to take place online,” he said.

The VACC also stated that under the Stage 4 rules “trade sales of vehicle parts can continue, meaning service and repair workshops and body repair businesses can continue their work.”

Aftermarket service, tyre fitting and all other areas of the automotive industry can also remain open on-site if operations are conducted within government safety guidelines. Businesses are required to implement a COVID-19 Safe Plan by midnight Friday, August 7.

The VACC is encouraging automotive businesses needing assistance to consider engaging the services of its specialist OHS&E Unit.

In response to distance from home restrictions, VACC says motorists with a vehicle that requires a specialist and/or brand-specific workplace in order to complete repairs can travel outside the 5km zone to access these services.