General News
19 June, 2026
Trade shortage puts pressure on regional businesses
A shortage of skilled tradespeople, including diesel mechanics and electricians, is placing significant pressure on businesses across the region, with employers struggling to meet the growing demand for workers.
While the shortage is affecting a range of different industries, the lack of skilled diesel mechanics has become a concern for businesses reliant on machinery and heavy vehicles.
Among those experiencing the impact firsthand is Horsham Truck Company director Brendan Wills.
“We regularly see the frustrations this causes our customers,” he said.
“There aren’t enough diesel mechanics in the region, and the ones who are here are already stretched to capacity.”
Mr Wills also acknowledged that the shortage demonstrates the strong employment opportunities open within the industry.
“There’s no shortage of work for qualified diesel mechanics,” he said.
Wilson Bolton service manager Tim Schumann said a lack of young people entering the trade was contributing to the shortage.
"There also does not seem to be enough people coming through the trade to replace the experienced mechanics who are leaving or retiring," he said.
"The shortage does affect businesses like ours. It can make it harder to keep up with the workload and can lead to longer wait times, especially for bigger jobs or more difficult diagnostic work.
"Most customers understand that there is a shortage of skilled mechanics, but delays can still be frustrating, especially when they rely on their vehicle for work, farming or everyday use."
Mr Schumann said the business keeps customers updated as much as possible.
The shortage is also being felt across the agricultural sector, where demand for skilled diesel mechanics remains high, according to Emmetts' Head of People and Performance Nikki Sutherland.
“While the shortage is widespread, regional areas like Horsham are feeling the impact more acutely,” she said.
“Recruitment for skilled technicians is more difficult outside metropolitan centres, where access to a larger workforce pool, training institutions, and competing employers can be limited.”
Mrs Sutherland said attracting and retaining skilled diesel mechanics remained one of the industry’s largest challenges, particularly as workers were increasingly drawn to other sectors.
“The agricultural sector is also competing for talent with industries such as mining, construction, and energy, which often offer higher salaries or structured roster arrangements,” she said.
“These factors can influence career choices, particularly for younger tradespeople entering the workforce.”
The shortage has also impacted the electrical trade, as Grampians Health engineering manager Terry Cameron said his department is seeking at least one additional electrician, with plans to expand the team later on.
“We are offering unique career opportunities that are not necessarily available in the general workforce, and for someone looking to get in early in their trade career, it’s a great way to set yourself up," he said.
From electricians and diesel mechanics to other skilled trades, the message from regional employers is clear: without a consistent pipeline of qualified workers, workforce shortages will continue to place significant pressure on industries essential to the Wimmera’s community and economic growth.