The AADA has bolstered its leadership team with the appointment of two key industry professionals to strengthen its advocacy efforts. Matthew Hawkes has been named Head of Public Affairs, while Michael (Mick) McKenna steps into the role of Director of Industry Affairs. These appointments reflect AADA’s commitment to enhancing Dealer representation at both state and national levels, ensuring a strong and unified voice for the industry.
Matthew Hawkes has over 15 year’s experience working in Government, Public Policy and Government Relations. Prior to commencing at AADA, Matthew was employed at GRA Cosway where he advised some Australia’s largest companies on their government relations strategies. He has previous been employed as the Policy Manager at the Financial Services Council. In addition, he served as Chief of Staff to Senator Deborah O’Neill for five years. It was during this time with Senator O’Neill, Matthew developed a strong understanding of franchised new car Dealers working on key parliamentary inquiries including the 2019 Parliamentary inquiry into Franchising reforms and the 2021 Parliamentary inquiry into the relationship between car manufacturers and car dealers in Australia.
Prior to his appointment, Mick McKenna led the secretariat of the Victorian Automobile Dealers Association (VADA), a key division of the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) for 16 years. Mick has a very strong understanding of the issues facing franchised new car and truck Dealers in Australia. Over the years he has developed strong relationships with state Government as well as regulatory agencies and has a strong track record of successfully advocating on behalf of car, truck, motorcycle and farm machinery Dealers.
“AADA is pleased to announce the appointment of both new secretariat members,” said AADA CEO James Voortman.
“Matthew has a very good understanding of the inner workings of government and has developed strong experience in a number of issues important to AADA members including franchising reform and finance and insurance issues.”
“Mick is particularly well known and respected amongst Victorian AADA members and enjoys an excellent reputation amongst dealers in Victoria and throughout Australia. We look forward to him applying his vast experience and practical approach to addressing key issues for franchise new car and truck dealers across the country.”
“AADA believes now is a good time to strengthen its resources in supporting both state and national dealer issues. The addition of these two staff members will help us better address member concerns at both levels, ensuring dealers have strong representation and a unified voice in Canberra.”
