September 20 2008 marked the 90th anniversary of the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC).

Established in 1918 in Bendigo, VACC, the peak body for the automotive industry in Victoria, was formed primarily to counter the power and influence of big business and to represent small business interests to the Government of the day.

“VACC has approximately 5,500 members employing more than 50,000 employees. Half of VACC’s motor industry membership is in rural Victoria. It is one of the largest, most successful and longest running employer organisations in the country,” VACC Executive Director, David Purchase, said.

Over the past nine decades, VACC has risen in power and influence to become one of Australia’s key employer associations.

“In these times of challenge for the motor industry and transport generally, VACC is at the centre of important industrial and social issues and represents the industry and members’ interests to State and Federal Governments.

“VACC is also aware of its responsibilities to the future of the industry and to the next generation of business owners and mechanics,” Mr Purchase said.

“VACC Auto Apprenticeships is one of the largest industry-specific Group Scheme in Victoria. VACC also runs the ‘Target 2020, Future Cars Competition’ – a secondary schools and tertiary design competition run in conjunction with the Melbourne Motor Show.

“VACC stages the Melbourne Motor Show - one of the longest running Motor Shows in the world – through its new car dealer Division, AADA.

“The VACC motto is ‘you’re in good hands’. VACC has enjoyed a distinguished past and, thanks to the ongoing support of members, our partners in Government and business, it looks forward to a prosperous and rewarding future for the industry, and the great State of Victoria,” Mr Purchase said.

Source: VACC website