AAA applauds competition review findings

The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) has approved of the federal government's support for most of the recommendations in a competition review authored by Professor Ian Harper.

"The AAA is particularly pleased that Government has committed to work with consumer groups to allow consumers to access and use their own vehicle data to improve choice in the marketplace," said AAA Chief Executive Michael Bradley.

From the association's perspective, chief among the review recommendations was freeing up access to data logged by a vehicle during normal operation. The recommendation has numerous ramifications for the motorist and for car companies. Data logged by vehicles in the USA provided the proof Toyota needed to clear its name in a class action for 'sudden unintended acceleration'. Assessed independently by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the USA, the logged data showed that vehicle owners complaining of 'SUA' had their foot firmly planted on the accelerator, rather than the brake.

"From a motorist's perspective, communications and telematics technologies have progressed rapidly in recent years and there is a need to ensure that vehicle manufacturers are not able to restrict access to data or leave consumers worse off," said Bradley, as quoted in the AAA press release.

"The AAA believes that data captured and stored within a vehicle's own electronic systems should be made available to the owner of that vehicle, or a third party nominated by the owner, such as their preferred vehicle repairer or roadside assistance provider."

Another recommendation highlighted by the AAA included prohibition of a person engaging in 'concerted practices', which would benefit motorists and fuel retailers.

"In terms of price signalling legislation, the AAA welcomes the Government's support of the recommendation that Section 45 of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 be extended to prohibit a person engaging in a concerted practice.

"This supports the AAA's view that including the concept of concerted practices into the Act could improve competition in the retail fuel market."

The AAA also welcomed recommendations concerning the taxi industry and 'cost-effective' road pricing.

"This is a considered response to the national competition framework which will provide more choice and competition across the AAA membership and strengthen the economy more broadly," Bradley concluded.