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 would expand 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.

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Released last Thursday, the discussion paper proposes extending Australia’s existing Right to Repair framework to agricultural machinery, alongside improvements to the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme, which has operated since 2022.

The current 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.

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

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

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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 would give farmers more choice and support regional repair businesses.

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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,” Ms Collins said.

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The consultation period is open until Friday, July 3, 2026.

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