Repair info sharing law seminar confirmed for W&G as AASRA holds inaugural board meeting

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’s (AAAA) director of government relations and advocacy, Lesley Yates, will deliver a well-timed seminar at Wire & Gas 2022 about the mandatory repair information sharing law that will come into effect on July 1 next year – shortly before VASA’s flagship conference takes place.

Lesley will talk about the unique Australian choice of repairer law, what it means for repairers, how it works and what the future might look like with new industries and new vehicles being included in the legislation over time.

The announcement is timely as the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme recently hit a milestone with the inaugural board meeting of the Australian Automotive Service and Repair Authority (AASRA).

Australia’s right to repair law is unique in that the establishment of an industry body is designed into the legislation, which is required to implement the secure data release model and the program that supports EV repair and service information.

AASRA brings together the major parties representing the interests of the automotive industry. The AASRA Board of Directors includes representatives from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), the Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA), the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) and the AAAA.

“After months of informal meetings and work behind the scenes, the Authority’s first official meeting is a highly significant moment that t demonstrates the extensive progress made in the implementation of the new mandatory data sharing law for our industry. It’s great to have the parties all come together and work constructively to support the new law for the benefit of the industry and consumers,” said AAAA CEO Stuart Charity.

AASRA will oversee and manage the release of security-related information, EV service and repair information, provide education, follow up any missing information, provide a dispute mediation and resolution service, and recommend improvements as necessary.

The Australian data sharing scheme will be based on NASTF, a tried and tested model successfully being used in the U.S. This model allows for the safe, simple and secure transfer of required data to repairers.

“The key message for independent repairers is that we are on track and working hard to ensure everything is in place for the Law and we are confident the roll-out of the scheme will be ready for 1st July 2022,” said Stuart.

As well as Wire & Gas 2022, the upcoming Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo in Melbourne on 7 – 9 April will also be a key opportunity for the industry to learn the latest on the new law at dedicated seminars that will help answer questions about the scheme.