ACCC Small Business Information Network (SBIN)

If you are a repairer or accept goods for repair you should take note of new Australian Consumer Law Regulations that commenced on 1 July 2011. These regulations will apply to you if you accept goods for repair, where:

• the goods being repaired are capable of retaining user-generated data (any data that is stored on goods, for example files stored on a computer, mobile phone, portable music player or other similar electronic goods); or
• it is your practice to supply refurbished goods rather than repair a defective good, or to use refurbished parts in the repair of defective goods.

You can access further information on repair notices at http://www.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/996739. It provides information material relating to the repair notices requirements for businesses.

The ACCC invites you to pass this information on to anyone else you think needs to know this information. We also encourage you to include it in any periodicals you may provide to members. If you would like additional information for inclusion in periodicals, please let us know.

The regulations are intended to make consumers aware that if they take goods to be repaired that are capable of storing user-generated data they may lose that data in the repair process. Repairers must therefore give consumers a written repair notice before they accept such goods for repair – a suggested set of words is provided in the information material.

The regulations also intend to ensure that where a repairer uses refurbished goods or parts in their repairs that consumers are made aware of this. The repair notice in this instance must also include a specific set of words – this wording is outlined in the information material.

For further information visit the ACCC website or contact the ACCC Infocentre on 1300 302 502.

If you need more help or advice on this issue call the ACCC Small business helpline on 1300 302 021 or contact your local ACCC Education and Engagement Manager listed below.