Planned reforms to the motor repair code have taken a “constructive and encouraging step forward” following a meeting of stakeholders, Code Administration Committee chair George Manos says.

“This meeting was a positive first step towards developing a more effective code,” said Mr Manos, who was reappointed for another term at the session.

“CAC members engaged in open and collaborative discussions, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving outcomes for the industry.”  

It was the first in-person meeting of committee members since the end in June of consultations on planned changes to the Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct.  

Last month, the Motor Trades Association of Australia rejected a draft version of the code, calling it “not fit for purpose”.

It cited issues around fairness and transparency, and called out insurer overreach, among other concerns.

Mr Manos acknowledges that feedback from insurance and repair businesses shows they have “both shared and differing priorities”.

“The CAC has agreed to continue dialogue and negotiations, with the Insurance Council of Australia and Motor Trades Association of Australia continuing to consult with their members and the broader industry,” he said.  

The committee has also released its 2024 annual report, which shows more than 501 internal dispute resolutions were lodged through the CAC website – 413 of them from Victoria.  

Some 33 matters went to external dispute resolution, two of which advanced to mediation.