Donna Axiak

Driving Change with Grit and Grace: The Story of Donna Axiak, Elite Automotive Repairs, Sydney.

When you meet Donna Axiak, Co-Founder and Director of Elite Automotive Repairs, Sydney, you quickly sense the grit, humour, and deep care that has driven her remarkable career in the automotive industry. She’s a business owner, Board Member of MTA NSW, proud grandmother, and lifelong learner - currently studying for her MBA. But more than that, she’s part of a growing movement of women changing the face of the Australian automotive industry.

“Grab a coffee - or a glass of red - and I’ll tell you how it started,” Donna laughs.

On 3 January 2005, Donna and her business partner Darren rolled up the workshop doors of Elite Automotive Sydney for the first time. The two had worked side by side for years under their former boss, Mick, at C&M Autos - just around the corner from where Elite operates today. When the time came for Mick to retire, Donna and Darren decided to take a leap and build their own version of the business- one grounded in integrity, innovation, and partnership. “It was just the two of us at first,” Donna recalls. “We worked hard, made mistakes, learned quickly, and never looked back.”

That partnership, built on mutual respect and trust, remains the backbone of their success two decades later. “Our relationship is unexplainable,” Donna says. “We know each other’s strengths and values. We put people first - our customers, our staff, our suppliers. Getting to know them is a privilege.”

A Journey Built on Learning and Resilience

Donna’s path into automotive wasn’t conventional, but it was earned through sheer determination. “My job interview back then was to start and drive a manual 1974 FJ40 Land Cruiser up a hill without rolling back or stalling,” she laughs. “Mick and the whole workshop were watching. Yes - I did it!” Since then, she’s navigated the evolution of the industry - from carburettors and handwritten invoices to diagnostics, digital bookings, and electric vehicles. “The change over the last forty years has been extraordinary,” she says. “And the possibilities still excite me.”

Her journey has also had its share of personal challenges. In 2008, one of her children suffered a catastrophic accident, requiring nine months in hospital. “Running the business during that time was incredibly hard,” Donna reflects. “But I learned to keep moving forward - around, over, or under whatever obstacle is in front of you.” That mindset of resilience and constant learning has shaped her leadership style. “I don’t believe in mistakes,” she says. “Every experience teaches you something valuable.”

Breaking Barriers and Leading Change

As a woman in a male-dominated industry, Donna has learned to navigate assumptions with quiet strength and good humour. “People still occasionally ask to speak to the boss,” she smiles, “and I just say, ‘You’re looking at her.’”

Her entry into the MTA NSW Board came after encouragement from a Business Development Manager. What started as a nomination has grown into a genuine passion for governance and advocacy. “I love the learning, the critical thinking, and the strategy that goes into growing the MTA,” she explains. “The more experienced Board members have been incredible mentors. I’ve had opportunities to meet Ministers, spend time in Parliament House, and advocate for our industry.”

Donna’s commitment to representation and mentorship mirrors the mission of Women in Automotive (WinA). “Women need to be the change, not the industry,” she says. “Be involved, be heard, cheer loudly for other women, and lift them up.” For Donna, visibility and community are key. “Mentorship and encouragement through organisations like WinA and AAAA Women’s Circle make a huge difference. When women see what’s possible - when they see others thriving - they start to believe it’s possible for them, too.”

Advice for the Next Generation

When asked what advice she gives to women starting out in automotive, Donna doesn’t hesitate: “Have a go. Don’t think you have to prove yourself. Ask questions - there are no stupid ones, just stupid answers. Show compassion without losing your strength. Live and work by your own standards, not someone else’s. And make some noise!”

Her belief in lifelong learning runs deep. She’s currently studying an MBA and encourages others to stay curious. “Learning keeps you sharp,” she says. “And the industry needs people who want to grow.”

A Balanced Life and a Lasting Legacy

These days, Donna’s focus includes finding balance and joy beyond the workshop. With children spread across three states and a grandchild she adores, she’s learned to value both time and technology. “I’ve got a list for my list and a diary to match,” she laughs. “But I always try to do one thing each day that makes my heart smile.”

When asked for the best advice she’s ever received, she smiles: “Things don’t just have to be right; they have to look right. Trust yourself. That was from my dad.”

Empowering the Future of Automotive

Through her work at Elite Automotive Sydney, her leadership within MTA NSW, and her advocacy for women in the trade, Donna Axiak embodies the spirit of progress. Her story is proof that the automotive industry is full of opportunity for those with the courage to take the wheel.

As she puts it simply: “Give women the vision. Show them where a career in automotive can lead. And stand alongside the men who are already here doing the work. We’re all part of this industry, together.”