Different accreditations/qualifications of panel beaters

Apprenticeships

To become a panel beater it is usually necessary to have completed a trade apprenticeship in automotive vehicle body repairs. Training is usually both on and off the job. The off-the-job training is provided through registered training organizations, including TAFE. Entry requirements vary, but employers generally require completion of Year 10 at high school. Some high schools offer metal work classes, which can help with getting a job and attaining an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are four years in duration, but can be completed in a shorter time. The first three years will commonly involve on-the-job training mixed with schooling at a trade school or TAFE. By the fourth year, an apprentice is usually receiving on the job training alone. It is necessary for an apprentice panel beater to get a job in a smash repair business and find an employer who can complement their training during this apprenticeship period.

Professional memberships

Once qualified, it is advisable to become a member of a relevant professional organization. The Australian Motor Body Repairers’ Association (AMBRA) is the national body for the specialist motor trade dedicated to the repair and restoration of motor vehicles. Required certification will vary from state to state. For example, in NSW, panel beaters must be certified by the Motor Vehicle Repair Industry Authority (MVRIA) under the Motor Vehicle Repairs Act 1980. The main purposes of the MVRIA are the licensing of motor vehicle repairer businesses, the certification of trades people working in repair businesses, the promotion of improvements in the standard of motor vehicle repair work and the settlement of disputes between motor vehicle owners and repairers. Most states will have an authority similar to the MVRIA. It is a good idea to check with the relevant organization in the state in which a newly qualified panel beater is planning to live and work as to the registration requirements.

On the job training

Sometimes a person wishing to become a panel beater may have had a fair amount of work experience, with no formal training. This can happen when someone is employed as an unskilled labourer but receives substantial training on the job. In this case, attaining a qualification may involve submitting an application detailing the skills already attained. It is possible an apprenticeship may be completed in a lesser amount of time and a qualification achieved. The best thing to do is check with the relevant training organization.

Additional skills

When considering starting up their own workshop, a panel beater may undergo additional training to attain skills not directly related to the panel beating profession. These might include book-keeping or marketing qualifications to assist in the running and management of the business. Those owning a panel beating business may also become members of the local chamber of commerce. Professional development can also be an area where panel beaters expand their qualifications. New techniques and modern equipment may also require additional training. Staying in touch with a professional organization such as the MVRIA can help stay on top of additional training available. Often TAFE will run short courses on particular skill areas, designed to keep skills and qualifications current.

If you are interested in becoming a panel beater, contact a local panel beating workshop about apprenticeship opportunities and research relevant courses offered by training organisations in your area.