The Motor Traders’ Association of New South Wales has launched its first-ever Automotive Excellence Awards, with the inaugural event to be held on February 28, 2026, at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth.
The awards aim to celebrate professionalism, innovation and emerging talent across the state’s $55b automotive industry. More than 400 industry professionals, apprentices, trainees and business leaders from across metropolitan and regional NSW are expected to attend.
The programme features 23 award categories, recognising outstanding apprentices and trainees, as well as member businesses excelling in areas including mechanical repair, collision repair, tyre services and new-vehicle dealerships.
MTA NSW chief executive Stavros Yallouridis says the event marks a major milestone for the organisation and the wider sector.
“The launch of the awards represents a major milestone for our organisation and the industry,” Yallouridis says.
“The Automotive Excellence Awards are about celebrating the automotive sector, its people and businesses – those who are setting new benchmarks in skill, professionalism and innovation, while recognising the future of the industry, at the same time.
“We are shining a spotlight on the achievements of our member businesses, apprentices, trainees and celebrating the contribution they all make to the growth and strength of our automotive sector.”
The gala will be hosted by comedian and television presenter Charlie Pickering, with entertainment from award-winning speed painter Brad Blaze and Sydney band Bermuda Social. Industry leaders and keynote speakers will attend, and the event will raise funds for Cars for Hope, which supports mental-health awareness in the automotive community.
Women in Automotive co-directors Kate Peck and Rachel Reed-Butler will present the inaugural Women in Automotive Female Training Award.
“As the leading organisation advocating for women in the sector, WinA congratulates MTA NSW for establishing this award, which highlights the growing importance and impact of women in our industry. We wholeheartedly support this initiative and look forward to celebrating with the industry on the night,” Peck says.
Nominations are open until November 28, with finalists to be named in December. Entries can be made via the MTA NSW website. Early-bird table bookings are available until November 30.
Award categories include:
● Small, Medium and Large Automotive Business of the Year (Metropolitan and Regional)
● Specialist categories, including Collision Repair, Mechanical Repair, New Vehicle Dealership and Tyre Specialist of the Year
● MTA NSW Apprentice / Trainee of the Year
● Women in Automotive Apprentice / Trainee of the Year
Automobile Magazine-AU
