The Northern Territory Government has commenced a review into the Automotive Industry focussing on business growth opportunities, consumer protection, adherence to pricing and national competition principles and minimising red tape.

 An independent consultant has commenced the consultation process for the review which will run until April 2015 across the Territory.

 A steering committee has been established which includes representation from the Motor Trades Association (NT), Automobile Association of the NT and the departments of Business and Transport. The committee has engaged the services of Sapphire Business Solutions to work with the sector and develop a report for government’s consideration focusing on presenting industry feedback and options regarding:

• written off vehicles. The consultation with industry on legislative amendments for written off vehicles will be managed within the first two months of the review period;

• guidelines relating to management of vehicle sales within the road reserve;

• a review of Part 10 of Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading Act with respect to the above for unlicensed dealers;

• a regulatory regime for vehicle repairer standards (encompassing repair standards and parts standards); and

• a regulatory regime for a Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct.

Executive Director of the Motor Trades Association (NT) and steering committee member, Peter Donovan said that the review is seeking feedback from the industry on proposed legislative amendments, guidelines and standards, and will provide the Northern Territory Government with a robust view of the industry’s position.

A report will be developed and is due to be presented to the Northern Territory Government by the committee in June 2015.

Individuals and organisations from the automotive sector are invited to participate in the consultation by contacting Sapphire Business Solutions dphillips.sapphire@outlook.com or via telephone 0417 894 158.

Media contact: Chantelle Hughes 0401 110 090