The focus of this inquiry is on Australian consumers’ ability to repair faulty goods and to access repair services at a competitive price.

The Productivity Commission has been asked to look at the barriers and enablers of competition in repair markets and the costs and benefits of a regulated 'right to repair', including facilitating access to embedded software in consumer and other goods.

The Commission has also been asked to look at arrangements for preventing premature or planned product obsolescence and the proliferation of e‑waste, and means of reducing e‑waste through improved access to repairs.

This issues paper has been released to assist individuals and organisations to prepare submissions to the inquiry. It contains and outlines:

• the scope of the inquiry
• the Commission’s procedures
• matters about which the Commission is seeking comment and information
• how to make a submission

Initial submissions are due by 1 February 2021.