Government urged to strengthen Right to Repair scheme for productivity gains

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has called on the Federal Government to strengthen the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme, saying it has untapped potential to deliver further productivity gains across the automotive repair industry.

While the scheme is already providing benefits to independent workshops and consumers, AAAA chief executive Stuart Charity said further improvements could help address Australia’s ongoing productivity challenges.

“With national productivity growth stagnating, we should be backing reforms that are already working,” Charity said.  
“The Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme is delivering real gains—higher workshop efficiency, lower costs for consumers, and stronger competition. But it could do so much more if a few key roadblocks were removed.”

The AAAA has recommended several cost-neutral reforms to enhance the scheme’s effectiveness, including:

– Mandating a universal diagnostic tool interface, such as SAE-J2534
– Expanding access to critical telematics data and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) calibration
– Ensuring fair access for data aggregators, which are widely used across the industry

Research conducted by Fifth Quadrant on behalf of the AAAA found that 65% of workshops have reported improved technician productivity since the scheme’s introduction. Additionally, 61% of workshops reported increased revenue and 55% noted higher profitability. The number of vehicles being turned away due to lack of data access has also dropped by 40%.

Charity said the improvements are tangible and making a difference in day-to-day operations.  
“We have independent repairers doing more work in less time, with better results for consumers and more competitive pricing across the board,” he said.

The AAAA also welcomed the inclusion of “Productivity” in the portfolio of Assistant Minister for Competition, Dr Andrew Leigh, and suggested the scheme provides an opportunity for further economic reform that could support small businesses and regional areas.

“Dr Leigh has a strong track record of championing evidence-based policy, and the data is clear: Right to Repair is working. Now let’s finish the job,” said Charity.

According to the AAAA, further strengthening the scheme could deliver broader productivity benefits across the economy.