Interview with an Australian Automotive Employer AMA Group: What It’s Like to Relocate for Work

Thinking of swapping greasy garages for golden beaches? You’re in the right place.
Australia isn’t just a sunny holiday dream. For those in the automotive game, it’s fast becoming one of the most exciting places to work, grow, and live.
With high demand for skilled tradespeople, supportive visa pathways, and employers like AMA Group offering genuine career development, Australia has moved to the top of the list for thousands of professionals seeking not just a job, but a long-term future.
We connect skilled automotive professionals like AMA Group with real opportunities abroad and help turn career dreams into reality.
What makes AMA stand out from other employers in the automotive industry?
With over 140 sites and a workforce of more than 3,500 people, AMA Group is not a newcomer to the industry. What makes it a particularly attractive employer for international candidates is its ability to combine the scale of a publicly listed corporation with the familiarity and support of local workshops.
“What sets AMA apart is its commitment to creating real career pathways for its team,” the company explains. “We offer industry-leading technical training, structured development opportunities, and exposure to a broad range of automotive repair environments.”
In other words, AMA doesn’t just fill vacancies. It invests in people – from apprentices to senior technicians ensuring that everyone has access to upskilling, internal promotions, and long-term career security. This is particularly significant in a global industry that often suffers from short-term contracts and limited growth opportunities.
What core values guide AMA approach to employees?
Although AMA Group is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), it operates with a community-driven mindset. “We combine the scale and stability of a corporate group with the community feel of local workshops,” they add. This means employees benefit from the security of a well-established brand, while still enjoying the hands-on, team-based culture typical of smaller operations.
The company’s purpose: “keeping people moving today and tomorrow”.
AMA’s values focus on performance, innovation, and quality. These are not just internal slogans, but guiding principles that shape day-to-day operations, training programmes, and investment in new technologies. Additionally, AMA places significant emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion – values that are embedded into recruitment and workplace culture.
What Does the Relocation Process Look Like?
Unlike many employers who leave overseas hires to navigate bureaucracy alone, AMA has a well-defined, guided process for international recruitment.
“After accepting a role, AMA assigns an immigration agent to manage the visa process and guide you through relocation,” the company explains. “This agent is your main point of contact for all visa-related and logistical concerns. Once you arrive in Australia, you’re supported by our People team and your direct manager.”
Timelines vary depending on personal circumstances and government visa processing, but most candidates can expect the process from offer to arrival to take a few months. Once on the ground, AMA helps new employees settle into both their new job and their new life.
Why Australia?
Beyond the professional opportunities, Australia offers something many European countries currently cannot: a consistently high standard of living.
“Australia offers excellent healthcare, education, and public services,” AMA notes. “It’s known for its outdoor lifestyle, with national parks, beaches, and a climate that supports year-round recreation. It’s also a safe, multicultural country with a strong community spirit.”
Whether you’re moving alone or with your family, Australia presents an opportunity to achieve not just career advancement, but long-term personal stability.
Conclusion
If you’re a qualified automotive professional considering a fresh start, we and AMA Group may offer exactly what you’re looking for. From structured support with relocation to genuine investment in your skills, this is a chance to step into a future where your work is valued, your growth is planned, and your life outside the workshop matters just as much as your time in it.
Are you sure about the move? Let’s talk. We’re here to help.
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