AkzoNobel has opened a new, purpose-built Automotive Training Centre in Port Melbourne, Australia, designed to support the evolving needs of the automotive refinishing industry. The centre will be a hub for technical training, innovation, and sustainability, offering a modern space for professionals to develop new skills and collaborate. 

The Automotive Training Centre (ATC) has been created to improve painter efficiency and productivity across the region and will serve customers in Australia, New ZealandIt is equipped with cutting-edge tools, including a Virtual Reality refinishing simulator that allows technicians to refine their techniques in a digital environment before using materials.  

This new ATC is part of the first phase of AkzoNobel’s investment program into its network of training centres around the world. It is investing €3 million to create new or upgrade existing sites across Europe, Asia, Australia and Thailand this year to further upskill painters, bodyshop managers and OEM engineers on a new generation of coatings and technologies that will support the industry to create a more sustainable future. 

The ATCs are being equipped with the latest spray booth technologies and AkzoNobel’s full suite of digital tools created for bodyshops to manage and monitor the high-tech process of vehicle repairs. 

Patrick Bourguignon, Managing Director of AkzoNobel’s Automotive and Specialty Coatings business says the business is making good progress with its training centre programme: “We know how important these training hubs are for applicators and bodyshop businesses If the industry is to attract, retain and upskill talented professionals they need training in the latest technologies and techniques so that they can see what is possible now and what the future looks like ” he explains. “This centre is about more than training – it’s about providing the industry with the tools and knowledge to improve efficiency, sustainability, and performance.” 

 The Automotive Training Centre will also serve as a testing ground for new technologies such as automated paint mixing systems, helping bodyshops improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption. 

In 2026, AkzoNobel will be launch its Rethink Program in Australia and APAC, an initiative focused on helping bodyshops improve energy efficiency and sustainability through smarter processes and products, which will be led from the Port Melbourne facility. As well as being a hub for training, trials and upskilling in the local area, the facility will also be used as a venue for hosting industry engagement seminars and webinars. 

With this new centre, AkzoNobel is reaffirming its commitment to driving innovation and sustainability globally across the vehicle refinishes industry. 

For more information, visit: https://www.sikkensvr.com/au/Contact