Product Overview

Summary: This Standard Operating Procedure provides a structured, repeatable approach for building and maintaining workforce capability in the fast‑evolving electric vehicle (EV) sector. It helps Australian organisations identify critical EV skills, plan targeted training, and embed competency management that keeps pace with technology, regulation, and customer expectations.

The rapid growth of the electric vehicle sector in Australia is transforming the skills profile required across automotive, transport, energy and infrastructure businesses. Traditional mechanical competencies are no longer enough; organisations now need structured pathways for developing capabilities in high-voltage systems, battery management, EV diagnostics, charging infrastructure and integrated digital platforms. This Standard Operating Procedure sets out a clear, end‑to‑end process for identifying current and future EV skill requirements, assessing workforce gaps, and implementing a targeted development roadmap that aligns with business strategy.

Designed for Australian conditions and regulatory settings, the SOP provides practical guidance on integrating EV-specific skills into existing training frameworks, onboarding processes and performance management systems. It outlines how to engage with OEMs, RTOs and industry bodies, how to incorporate WHS and high‑voltage safety training into broader capability programs, and how to evaluate the effectiveness of training over time. By following this procedure, organisations can reduce the risk of skills shortages, support safe and competent EV operations, and position themselves as employers of choice in a highly competitive market.

Key Benefits

• Identify critical EV sector competencies across technical, operational and customer-facing roles.
• Streamline workforce planning and training investment using a consistent, evidence-based process.
• Support safe EV operations by embedding relevant WHS and high-voltage awareness into skills development.
• Improve staff retention and engagement through clear learning pathways and career progression in the EV sector.
• Enhance organisational agility by regularly reviewing and updating skills in line with emerging EV technologies and standards.

Who is this for?

• HR Managers
• Learning and Development Managers
• EV Fleet Managers
• Workshop Managers
• Technical Training Coordinators
• Operations Managers
• EV Service Centre Managers
• RTO (Registered Training Organisation) Managers
• WHS Managers
• General Managers – Automotive and Transport

Included Sections

• 1.0 Purpose and Scope
• 2.0 Definitions and Key Terms (EV, BEV, PHEV, HEV, High-Voltage Systems)
• 3.0 Roles and Responsibilities (Management, HR, L&D, Supervisors, Workers)
• 4.0 Regulatory and Industry Context for EV Skills in Australia
• 5.0 Workforce Skills Needs Analysis for the EV Sector
• 6.0 Competency Framework and EV Role Profiles
• 7.0 Training and Development Planning (Internal and External Pathways)
• 8.0 Integration of WHS and High-Voltage Awareness into Skills Development
• 9.0 Engagement with OEMs, RTOs and Industry Bodies
• 10.0 Onboarding and Induction Requirements for EV-Related Roles
• 11.0 Assessment, Certification and Recordkeeping of Competencies
• 12.0 Continuous Improvement and Review of EV Skills Programs
• 13.0 Communication and Change Management for Workforce Upskilling
• 14.0 Monitoring, Reporting and Key Performance Indicators
• 15.0 Document Control and Review History

Legislation & References

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and model Work Health and Safety Regulations
• AS/NZS 4761: Competencies for working with electrical equipment for hazardous voltages
• AS/NZS 3000: Electrical installations (Wiring Rules)
• AS 5732: Electric vehicle operations – Maintenance and safety requirements (where applicable)
• National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011
• AUR Automotive Retail, Service and Repair Training Package (EV and hybrid units of competency)
• Safe Work Australia – Model Code of Practice: Managing electrical risks in the workplace