Are you ready for Australia’s biggest aftermarket event?

The countdown is on for the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo 2026, and there is a real sense of momentum building as our industry prepares to come together once again.
Every two years, this premier event reminds us just how strong, capable and forward-thinking the Australian automotive aftermarket truly is. In 2026, that will be on full display at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 14-16 May, as thousands of automotive professionals travel from across Australia, New Zealand and around the world to be part of the largest automotive aftermarket event in the country.
The aftermarket is an industry worth $25 billion to the Australian economy, and nowhere is that scale, diversity and ingenuity more visible than on the Expo floor. With 400 exhibitors across both the Auto Aftermarket Expo and co-located Collision Repair Expo, the venue will be packed with the latest products, equipment, technology and services, alongside the people driving innovation across every part of the aftermarket. From global brands to local pioneers, the breadth of capability on display is a powerful reminder of what makes this industry so great.
But what truly sets the Expo apart is not just what you see – it is what you learn and who you connect with.
Across three days, attendees will have access to extensive free training programs for both technicians and workshop owners. World-class international and local trainers, together with industry leaders, will share practical insights and real-world techniques that can be applied immediately back in the workshop. Whether it’s improving diagnostic decision-making, increasing efficiency, or building a more profitable business, the value of this knowledge is significant – and it’s all included as part of attending.
For technicians, the opportunity to sharpen diagnostic skills, better understand modern vehicle systems, and build confidence in complex repairs is invaluable. For business owners, it’s a chance to explore emerging trends, and identify opportunities to move your business forward. The Expo is where new ideas are formed, new approaches are considered, and real progress is accelerated.
The show floor itself brings training opportunities. Dedicated feature areas like the Diagnostic Discovery Zone and ADAS Training Zone will give attendees the chance to learn and participate in these important workshop practices in a supportive environment. As advanced vehicle systems become standard across the vehicle fleet, building capability in this space is no longer optional – it is essential.
There is also a strong focus on the future of our industry. Initiatives like the Flying Spanners Apprentice Challenge will highlight the next generation of talent, showcasing the skills, passion and potential of emerging technicians. It’s a reminder that while technology continues to evolve, the future of the aftermarket will always depend on the people within it.
The co-located Collision Repair Expo 2026 will deliver a dedicated experience for the collision repair sector, bringing together equipment suppliers, repairers and industry specialists in one place.
Attendees will experience a range of hands-on features across the show floor. See real-world refinishing in action at the Lowbake Spray Booth, with live demonstrations, setup tips and practical techniques to improve finish quality and turnaround times. The I-CAR Welding Zone will give technicians the opportunity to test and refine their skills using a virtual welding simulator with real-time feedback, before applying techniques through live demonstrations aligned with correct setup, safety procedures and OEM repair standards. The ADAS Training Zone will focus on calibration processes, with live demonstrations offering practical insight into real-world ADAS calibrations and expert guidance on best practice techniques to achieve consistent and accurate results.
A dedicated collision repair training program will also deliver valuable insights into modern repair techniques, materials and processes, supporting safer and more accurate repairs in an increasingly complex environment.
Together, the two Expos create the largest gathering of automotive trade professionals in the country – and the energy that comes with it is something you must experience firsthand. It is the biggest networking opportunity of the year, where long-standing relationships are strengthened, and new connections are formed.
Importantly, an event of this scale and quality remains free to attend for the automotive trade. Considering the depth of training, the calibre of exhibitors and the overall experience on offer, it makes the decision to attend an easy one.
For those looking to go further with training while in Melbourne, the paid Advanced Technical Masterclasses – held the day before the Expo begins – offer in-depth training led by international experts, Training at this level is rarely accessible, and with limited places available, this is a unique opportunity to take your diagnostics skills to the next level.
While our industry is together, the best and brightest will be recognised during the Auto Aftermarket Innovation Breakfast and the Aftermarket Excellence Awards Banquet, celebrating innovation and outstanding contribution across the Australian automotive aftermarket.
Ultimately, taking the time to attend the Expo is an investment – in your skills, your business and your future. It is three days that can influence the direction of your business, improve the way you work, and open your eyes to what’s possible.
There is simply no other event in Australia where you can access this level of training, innovation, and connection in one location. It will be a productive, inspiring and enjoyable three days for the entire industry—and I look forward to seeing you there.

Register today at www.aftermarketexpo.com.au or www.collisionrepair.com.au