Industry body GrainGrowers says today’s commitment from Treasurer Jim Chalmers to extend Right to Repair laws to agricultural machinery will provide greater choice and drive productivity improvements for the nation’s grain farmers.
GrainGrowers has long championed growers’ rights to repair machinery and recently advocated for these reforms on behalf of its members and the broader industry at the 5th Right to Repair Summit, which was attended and addressed by Assistant Minister Leigh.
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 will give farmers greater choice, reduce costs, and keep them operating when it matters most,” Ms Gawel said.
“We congratulate the Government on its commitment and appreciate their consideration of our growers’ interests in reaching this decision. The announcement is timely, with harvest in full swing across many parts of the country.”
The benefits for growers include:
- Greater choice and affordability in repairing essential machinery.
- Reduced downtime during critical farming periods, improving productivity and resilience.
- Enhanced competition in the repair market, lowering costs and improving service quality.
- Support for sustainability by extending machinery life and reducing waste.
Ms Gawel acknowledged the efforts of the broader agriculture industry in achieving the positive outcome for Australian farmers.
“Today’s announcement reflects years of determined advocacy not only by GrainGrowers but many others, including the National Farmers’ Federation, across the agricultural sector.
“It reflects the collective effort of our agricultural industry and will deliver real, practical benefits for farming communities.”
ENDS