VACC CEO Peter Jones said the chamber was encouraged by the appointments across key portfolios relevant to the automotive industry, including skills and training, small business, industry development, and economic growth.
"We congratulate all incoming ministers and welcome the fresh energy and focus this new Cabinet brings," Mr Jones said.
"In particular, we look forward to establishing strong working relationships with the new ministers holding portfolios directly relevant to our industry — including Minister for Skills and TAFE Colin Brooks, Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ros Spence and Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Steve Dimopoulos."
"The automotive industry is one of Victoria's most significant economic contributors, employing tens of thousands of Victorians in businesses ranging from independent repairers and service stations to new vehicle dealerships and specialist trades. It is also the industry that keeps Victoria moving — servicing the vehicles that transport our families, connect our communities."
Mr Jones said the industry was at a critical juncture, with multiple converging pressures requiring close collaboration between government and the sector.
"Victoria's automotive industry is undergoing profound change. The transition to electric vehicles, evolving consumer expectations, apprenticeship pipeline pressures, and a rapidly shifting regulatory environment all demand an active and engaged government partnership," he said.
"VACC stands ready to work constructively with the new ministry to ensure our industry has the policy settings, skills infrastructure, and business support it needs to move forward with confidence."
Mr Jones said workforce development and apprenticeship retention remained among VACC's most pressing priorities heading into the next electoral cycle.
"Free TAFE has been a welcome initiative, but more must be done to ensure apprentices complete their training and transition into long-term, skilled careers within the automotive industry. We urge the incoming ministry to prioritise this pipeline as a matter of economic urgency."
"VACC also looks forward to continuing its constructive dialogue with the government on behalf of Victoria's small and family-owned automotive businesses, who are the backbone of this industry and the communities they serve."
VACC represents more than 5,000 member businesses across Victoria's automotive industry and is committed to working with all levels of government to support a strong, skilled and sustainable sector.