The State Government plans to legislate to control dishonest practices in the motor vehicle smash repair industry.
Consumer Affairs Minister Yvonne Henderson today announced her support for legislation following the recommendations of the Motor Vehicle Repair Industry Review and meetings with major industry insurance bodies.
The review, chaired by South Metropolitan Region MLC Cheryl Davenport and including industry representatives, unanimously recommended industry regulation and some form of licensing of people in the trade or premises.
"Ms Davenport has expressed serious concerns to me about the threat to driver safety by some repairers using non-standard replacement parts," Mrs Henderson said.
"Ms Davenport has been told that some insurance companies and assessors are also involved in decisions to use cheaper, less safe parts.
"Consultation with people in the industry has confirmed their support for legislation to licence repairers and repair premises.
"They agree that while only a small number of such incidents occur, legislation would help clean out the undesirable element."
Mrs Henderson said she was pleased with the industry's willingness to confront the problem.
she was pleased that all the parties to the review agreed to this new licensing proposal, which she believed would resolve the allegations of dishonesty.
If this did not happen, she would consider further action.
Mrs Henderson said she was keen to improve public confidence in the industry and ensure the highest standards were maintained.
