In this article, AASRA’s Executive Director reviews what Right to Repair is, and why it matters

AASRA’s core function is to support the day-to-day operation of the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing (MVIS) Scheme and to facilitate the vetting process in accordance with the Scheme Rules for individuals seeking to access security or safety-related repair information.
“As I move around the industry, whether it is delivering formal presentations, or participating in panel discussions, I am still amazed at the number of independent repairers who are still unclear about the Right to Repair legislation, even though the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing scheme has been in place for the past three years,” AASRA Executive Officer, Joe McFadries, said.
“So, I thought, perhaps it’s time for a refresher on ‘what it’s all about.’
“Well, following a decade-long campaign by the AAAA, advocating for the rights of independent repairers, the Right to Repair legislation was enacted in July 2022.
“While there are many elements to this ground-breaking legislation, essentially all repairers now have access to the information needed to service and repair vehicles, including software updates such as that required to connect a new spare part with a car, and diagnostic information and security codes for vehicles’ computerised systems.
“AASRA was appointed Scheme Advisor to oversee the day-to-day operation of the scheme, and three years down the track service and repair procedures for the vast majority of vehicles on our roads can be accessed through the AASRA website.
“Of course, you still need to pay for the manufacturers’ information, however the information is available at a fair market rate.
“This all sounds straightforward, but as with many things, the devil is in the detail, especially if you are an all makes, all model repair business.
“Each manufacturer has its own system and processes to access the information, which can be initially daunting until you become familiar with the brands that you access most frequently.
“So, why is the Right to Repair legislation so important? Well, it allows independent repairers to compete with dealer networks on a level playing field.
“The information is accessed directly from the manufacturer’s own database and is therefore live, genuine and complete every time.
“This ensures that you return the vehicle to the owner knowing that you have completed the repair to the best of your ability and in line with the manufacturer’s requitements.”

For more information, contact AASRA on 1300 222 772, or visit www.aasra.com.au