The Productivity Commission (PC) has released its draft report on the Right to Repair, which assesses the case for a right to repair products and reducing unnecessary barriers to repair. As outlined in Professionals Australia’s submission (see below), the PC found there are barriers to consumers repairing and replacing smartphones, tablets and other devices and there is scope to reduce these barriers.

The PC noted the emerging trend which makes it harder and more expensive to get devices repaired by anyone other than the manufacturer and the problems associated with voiding of guarantees when consumers do not use repairers and spare parts specified by manufacturers.

As highlighted in our submission, the PC noted the impact that premature and planned obsolescence of products is having on our environment and growing levels of e-waste and landfill. Professionals Australia CEO Jill McCabe said PA welcomed the draft report’s findings and the Productivity Commission’s efforts to deal with the policy complexities associated with the right to repair. “Premature product obsolescence and lack of competition in repair services impact on all consumers and action is required to improve consumer rights in this area.

“The global issue of reducing e-waste is especially critical and we welcome action to monitor and regulate this growing problem.

The shift to incentives to encourage an emphasis on repair and reuse as well as product recycling would be a positive move forward.”

The PC’s final report is expected to be delivered to the Australian Government by 29 October 2021.