More repair information access for independent workshops: what changed?

22 October 2026

On 16 September 2026, the ACCC announced improvements to Mazda, Kia and BYD service-information access following separate investigations. The regulator said the changes reduced barriers and costs faced by independent repairers.

The Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme requires relevant information to be offered to Australian repairers on reasonable commercial terms. The ACCC announcement describes changes to diagnostic access arrangements and the availability of shorter access periods.

For customers, this supports greater servicing choice. It does not mean every workshop can immediately perform every procedure on every model. Equipment, training, technical access and the particular fault still matter, especially when specialist systems are involved.

Before arranging work, provide the make, model, year, powertrain and a clear description of the problem. Ask whether the workshop can support the required procedure and whether anything must be referred to a manufacturer or specialist. Keep diagnosis, service work and recall remedies distinct when comparing options. The useful outcome is a clearer conversation about the support available for your exact car, rather than an assumption based on the badge alone.