Capricorn recently released its sixth State of the Nation report, explains Group CEO, Brad Gannon

The State of the Nation report shares how our Members are feeling about the automotive industry and this year we are thrilled to have insights from three different research surveys, including feedback from apprentices.
Once again, Capricorn’s State of the Nation report shows that our number one industry-wide challenge is attracting and retaining good people. The skills shortage affects everything from productivity to customer wait times, to the health and wellbeing of business owners.
In good news, we continue to see that despite economic and labour pressures, 77 percent of Capricorn’s Australian Members have plans to either expand or to improve profitability in 2025 – perfectly demonstrating the faith and resilience of our community. Capricorn is there to provide help and support to this, every step of the way.
Feedback from apprentices also shows a strong passion for, and high level of confidence in, the automotive industry; and many are aspiring to be business owners – a great sign for the future of the industry.
You can find out much more information in the full report, available on the Capricorn website. I encourage you to have a read and reach out to continue the conversation. Together I am confident we can make a difference to our challenges and celebrate the contributions of the automotive community. Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in Capricorn’s research and share your experiences.
Late last month, Capricorn started announcing our first ever Rising Stars Region Winners, celebrating some of the outstanding apprentices in the Industry. This year, we received more than 350 nominations and are thrilled to be able to celebrate winners in each of the Capricorn zones, before announcing an Overall Winner towards the end of the year.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to recognise their apprentices. Please join us in celebrating and congratulating the worthy winners as they are shared on Capricorn’s website and social media channels.

For more on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop