VFF backs Right to Repair reforms

The Victorian Farmers Federation is urging the Federal Government to extend Australia's Right to Repair framework to agricultural machinery, arguing farmers should have greater freedom to choose who repairs essential equipment.

In a submission to the Commonwealth Treasury, the VFF has called for farmers, independent mechanics and farm-employed technicians to have access to diagnostic software, repair information and replacement parts needed to service modern machinery.

Farm Business, Transport and Workforce Committee Chair Daniel Meade says delays during sowing or harvest can cost producers thousands of dollars each day, making fast access to repairs critical for farm businesses.

The federation says expanding repair rights would improve competition, reduce costs, support regional mechanics and create skilled jobs while helping farmers minimise downtime and maintain food production.