There is not one definitive solution that makes a "right to repair" possible in Australia. This inquiry covers a complex series of problems: from data access to intellectual property restrictions to the effectiveness of consumer guarantee rights. CHOICE wants to see a right to repair that encompasses improvements to the consumer experience of the repair market, for product design to be improved and for consumers and businesses to have clarity that they can refurbish single-use items.

When CHOICE asked consumers what matters most when making purchasing decisions, the answer was clear – people want more information about how long a product will last and whether it can be easily repaired if something goes wrong.

Our survey results found:

• 85% of Australians say that buying products that will last a long time is very or quite important to them.
• 73% said repairability was important.
• Only 39% of people said they regularly choose products that will last longer, despite a strong interest in product durability.
• 46% of people said they choose products that can easily be repaired all or most of the time.

In summary, people do not have the information they need and want when making decisions. Australians need more clarity about product durability and repairability.

Download submission (PDF)

• Submission to the Productivity Commission Issues Paper on the Right to Repair (5.3MB)

Related content

• The right to reuse: Refilling printer cartridges now has legal protection
• What to do with a faulty product
• Refunds and returns – your rights
• Problems with a product: how to use your consumer guarantees
• How long should your appliances last?
• What to do when your fridge breaks down

Stock images: Getty, unless otherwise stated.