The National Farmers' Federation (NFF) has secured a Federal Government commitment to extend Right to Repair reforms to agricultural machinery, hailing it a historic win for farmers and a direct result of years of advocacy from the farm sector.
Following a meeting of state and territory Treasurers on Friday, Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirmed that agricultural machinery will be included in national Right to Repair reforms designed to modernise Australia's economy and lift productivity.
This will see real economic gains for the sector. Modelling by the Productivity Commission shows this reform could lift agricultural production to $97 million and greater competition in the repair sector will lead to a $311 million increase to GDP.
NFF President Hamish McIntyre said the announcement was a major breakthrough for farmers delivering much needed competition and productivity uplift.
"Farmers will finally have more freedom to choose who services and repairs their machinery. That means less downtime, lower costs, and more control over their own businesses," Mr McIntyre said.
"When a machine breaks down in the middle of harvest, waiting on an authorised dealer isn't just inconvenient, it can cost tens of thousands of dollars. This reform will help farmers stay productive and competitive, which is exactly what farmers and the economy needs."
Mr McIntyre said the Government's commitment showed a clear understanding that supporting farmers boosts the broader economy.
The NFF has led this reform for many years, in partnership with NFF members who formed the NFF's Right to Repair Taskforce.
"The NFF would like to acknowledge the Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, Andrew Leigh, for his genuine engagement with the sector and ongoing advocacy on the issue," Mr McIntyre said.
Victorian Farmers' Federation President Brett Hosking celebrated this historic announcement.
"This is a game-changing piece of reform that will act on recommendations from farmers, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, the Productivity Commission and Right to Repair academics, as well as putting us in line with our international competitors.
"The VFF in partnership with the NFF has been pushing hard for this outcome, and it's pleasing to see the Government back a practical reform that helps farmers get on with the job," Mr Hosking said.
GrainGrowers CEO Shona Gawel said the landmark commitment would ensure fair access to repair options for growers.
"Extending Right to Repair laws to agricultural machinery is a landmark moment that will give farmers greater choice, reduce costs, and keep them operating when it matters most," Ms Gawel said.
NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin congratulated the Government on the announcement.
"This major reform will mean that farmers will be able to choose to use and support a qualified local repairer, so they can get their machinery fixed without huge costs or wait times," Mr Martin said.
