Across the globe the independent aftermarket faces a constant battle with vehicle manufacturers to secure vital technical information that allows it to compete effectively with dealer service outlets. While the battle continues in Europe, with organisations such as FIGIEFA and the IAAF representing aftermarket interests at EU and UN levels, a glimpse of what might be possible has emerged from down under, with the Australian senate passing new “Right to Repair” legislation which will become law in July 2022.

Bodyshop News Australia reports that the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme Bill will make it illegal for car manufacturers to withhold information from qualified independent bodyshops and repairers.

CEO of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) Stuart Charity, says the mandatory scheme will require all motor vehicle service and repair information to be made available for purchase by independent repairers at a fair market price. The scheme will be monitored for compliance by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

Geoff Gwilym, CEO of the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) described the legislation as “world-leading” and said it finally fulfilled a longstanding government commitment for a mandatory scheme. He commented, “Australia’s global policy leadership is again highlighted as one of the few global jurisdictions to legislate a fair and balanced outcome for Australian consumers and automotive businesses.” He added, “Automotive service and repair businesses will have strengthened rights to repair Australia’s 20 million-strong fleet by accessing manufacturers’ and data providers’ service and repair information at reasonable prices. Australian motorists will also know their chosen repairer has access to critical service and repair information.”

Work is now underway to assist the Department of Treasury in designing information-sharing scheme rules.