Treasury has released its final report on the statutory review of the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing scheme. The report concludes that the framework is broadly achieving its objectives of encouraging competition and supporting consumer choice.
The review estimates that the scheme is associated with a $2.4 billion, or 6.7 per cent, expansion in industry turnover. However, only around 3,000 individual technicians currently hold an Australian Automotive Service and Repair Authority account, compared with a target workforce of more than 150,000. This disparity raises questions about awareness, utilisation and proportional regulatory burden.
The report makes 11 findings, several of which appear to anticipate legislative amendment. Recommendations of likely impact on FCAI members include expanded access to electronic logbooks for independent repairers, removal of the mandatory separation of safety and EV information, enhanced ACCC infringement notice powers and improved access for third party tool manufacturers.
Several of these recommendations may expand regulatory obligations for OEMs and increase compliance risk exposure.
The FCAI will engage in consultations expected in the second quarter of 2026, with a focus on minimising additional financial and administrative burdens, ensuring appropriate transition timeframes and supporting members operationally. Detailed positions will be developed in consultation with the Legal and Aftersales Committees.