fiXit (Concern Australia Welfare Inc.)

Who we are

fiXit is a Social Traders-certified social enterprise and a program of Concern Australia, a not-for-profit organisation that has worked in partnership with young people, and their families for over 50 years. Concern Australia’s services include housing, vocational education, homelessness, youth justice, child protection and employment support. 

fiXit was established in 2021 as Concern Australia's automotive social enterprise, operating out of Sunshine West and Dandenong in Victoria. It grew out of Concern Australia’s Hand Brake Turn program and was created specifically for young people who have disengaged from education and training and who face barriers to finding stable work.  fiXit’s purpose is to give young people practical workplace experience, industry skills, and a genuine employment pathway. In its first four years, fiXit provided entry-level employment to our young people 

fiXit's approach is grounded in Concern Australia's broader values and actively promotes gender equality and diversity. It has also been shaped through our partnership with the Warlpiri Community in the Northern Territory, strengthening cultural safety and collaborating to build Indigenous skills and training opportunities.

What we do

Automotive training and employment

fiXit employs young people in its workshop alongside qualified mechanics and trainers, providing practical experience in mechanical skills, transport and logistics, customer service, and stock management. Young people work in a real workplace environment, building skills and professional experience that can lead to ongoing employment in the automotive sector. 

Car donations and repurposing

fiXit generates income by accepting donated cars from the Melbourne, Geelong, and surrounding communities. Donated vehicles are assessed and repurposed in one of several ways: sold as affordable vehicles to young people and families, used as training vehicles in the workshop, or broken down for parts. This model reduces waste and environmental impact while funding the enterprise's operations. Car donations are tax deductible, and fiXit can arrange pickup of vehicles at a time that suits the donor, with trainees often accompanying staff on collection runs as a learning experience. The income generated by donated cars provides the funding for the fiXit trainee’s wages.

Community automotive workshops

fiXit also delivers automotive workshops in the community through HBT Mobile Community Workshops, teaching basic car maintenance skills and promoting road safety. These sessions extend fiXit's reach beyond its workshop premises and into the communities where young people and families live.