The introduction of mandatory data sharing law will force car makers to share service and repair information with independent workshops.
Australian car owners will soon be able to choose their vehicle repairer knowing they’ll have access to the latest vehicle service and repair information thanks to a mandatory data sharing law. The Australian Government is in the process of drafting legislation for mandatory data sharing between car makers and independent workshops.
The push for mandatory data sharing has been led by Assistant Treasurer, the Hon. Michael Sukkar who, in a statement said, “Our scheme will mandate that all service and repair information car manufacturers share with their dealership networks must be available for independent repairers to purchase.
“It will also remove grey areas in the current voluntary arrangements by explicitly setting out a list of safety, security and environmental information that must only be released to appropriate businesses as well as clear criteria for access.”
The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has been championing its Choice of Repairer campaign for some time now and said the announcement was a “huge moment” for its members.
“This is an incredible result for our members, who came to us with their concerns, put competitive rivalries aside and fought alongside us to have the law changed for their customers, their businesses and the wider industry,” said Stuart Charity, CEO at the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association.
“It is also an important win for consumers. Our Choice of Repairer campaign has sought to increase community awareness around consumers right to choose their repairer, and their new car warranty and servicing rights.”
“This announcement has been a long road and is the culmination of tireless work by the AAAA team to push for Government action to address this important competition issue. We have personally met with over 75 Federal MP’s, facilitated hundreds of workshop visits by MP’s all around the country and had countless early morning and late-night discussions with Ministers and other industry stakeholders.”
“This has been an industry wide effort and I would like to acknowledge the invaluable role played by automotive industry associations – Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA), Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA), Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC), Australian Automobile Association (AAA), and the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).”
“We look forward to seeing progress on an exposure draft and we will review every word to ensure that car manufacturers are not able to wriggle though any loopholes that would prevent or restrict consumer choice and ultimately harm competition,” said Stuart.
