Ag Industry, Policy

NFF calls for right to repair after US John Deere breakthrough

The National Farmers Federation has called for Australian arrangements after American farmers win right to repair concessions from John Deere

The NFF is calling for right-to-repair measures in Australia

Farmers in the US can now fix and repair their own John Deere machinery without voiding their warranties after the manufacturer signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). 

The MoU was signed in early January which ensures farmers now have the freedom to repair their own farm equipment, including at independent repair workshops. 

And now, the National Farmers Federation (NFF) in Australia has called for Deere, the largest manufacturer of agricultural machinery in the world, as well as other OEM manufacturers, to introduce similar regulations Down Under. 

“For years we’ve been calling for Australian farmers to have the right to repair their agricultural machinery,” says NFF president Fiona Simson. 

“Farmers are small business owners who should have the same right as anyone else to have their machinery repaired by their preferred repairer or make small repairs on farm without fear of voiding warranties or travelling long distances to access authorised repairs and then being burdened by their supply restrictions. 

“Right to repair regimes are being introduced across most advanced economies around the world, including specific protections for agricultural machinery. It’s essential the Australian Government keeps pace with the world to ensure Australian farmers can fix their machinery on-farm.” 


 MORE READING: PROVIDE REPAIR INFORMATION: PRODUCTIVITY COMMISSION


 

Under the MOU between Deere and the AFBF in the US, farmers and independent repair facilities will gain access to many of the unique tools and software required for maintaining vehicles for agricultural purposes. 

Diagnostic and repair codes, as well as operator, parts and service manuals, and product guides, will all become available to farmers under the agreement. 

Deere has also committed to meeting at least twice per year with the AFBF as well as engaging with farmers and dealers, to resolve issues as they arise. 

“A piece of equipment is a major investment. Farmers must have the freedom to choose where equipment is repaired, or to repair it themselves, to help control costs.” 

Back in Australia, the NFF’s calls for Government intervention follows an inquiry by the Productivity Commission (PC), handed down in December 2021, which found owners and independent repairers should be provided with access to repair information and diagnostic software. 

The PC found that the current restrictions, whereby major OEMs dominate the repair market through network of often- expensive dealerships, were also ‘causing material harm to farmers and other machinery owners’. 

Limited access to repair supplies, delay times and the high cost associated with switching between machinery brands was also noted as harm experienced by third-party repairers in the Australian study. 

In the PC inquiry, 40 per cent of agricultural machinery owners surveyed reported problems accessing diagnostic software tools, and 71 per cent said they would opt for third- party repairers if given the choice. 

In July 2021, similar amendments were implemented for the motor vehicle sector under the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme, when calls were also made for similar legislation for agricultural machinery. 

 

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