Government Seeks Feedback On Right To Repair Reforms For Farmers And Drivers

The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms that aim to repair access for agricultural machinery and support independent repairers. Photo source: Shutterstock

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The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms aimed at expanding repair options for farmers, drivers and small businesses while helping reduce machinery downtime and maintenance costs.

Released last Thursday, the discussion paper outlines plans to extend Australia’s existing Right to Repair framework to agricultural machinery and make improvements to the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme, which has operated since 2022.

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The scheme requires vehicle manufacturers to provide independent repairers with access to service and repair information at a fair market price, supporting competition and consumer choice in the repair industry.

According to the Federal Government, a review of the scheme found it had been broadly successful, contributing to a $2.4 billion increase in annual turnover across the independent repair sector.

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Under the proposed changes, farmers and regional businesses could gain faster access to repair information for agricultural machinery, helping reduce costly delays during critical periods such as planting and harvest seasons.

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The Productivity Commission estimates expanding Right to Repair laws to agriculture could increase annual GDP by $97 million through increased grain outputs alone by reducing downtime during harvest.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the reforms aimed to give farmers greater flexibility and support regional repair businesses.

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“Our Government’s Right to Repair reforms will give farmers genuine choice about who repairs and services their machinery, while ensuring independent repairers have access to the information they need to compete fairly,” Ms Collins said.

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“By extending Right to Repair laws to include agricultural machinery, these changes will help reduce downtime, lower repair costs and keep farm operations moving when it matters most. This is a win for farmers, a win for regional businesses and a win for competition.”

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Minister for Small Business Anne Aly said the reforms would support small businesses and operators relying on machinery to stay productive.

“We know small businesses can’t afford to be out of action when machinery breaks, so we’re making it easier for small businesses, farmers and drivers to keep moving with access to fast and affordable repairs,” Ms Aly said.

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Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh said the reforms were designed to strengthen competition and improve access to repair services.

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“Whether it’s repairing a car or a tractor, Australian drivers and farmers deserve access to choice and competitive prices,” Dr Leigh said.

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Treasury is now seeking feedback from stakeholders and industry representatives on the proposed expansion to agricultural machinery and other improvements to the existing scheme. The consultation period is open until Friday, 3 July, 2026, with further information available via consult.treasury.gov.au.