South Australia could soon make history as the first state in the nation to guarantee motorists the right to choose their own repairer, under a bold new policy proposal from the Motor Trade Association (MTA) SA/NT.
The landmark initiative forms the centrepiece of the MTA’s newly launched 2026 South Australian Election Blueprint, a comprehensive document presented to all political parties and candidates ahead of the next state election.
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The Blueprint outlines 26 key recommendations designed to strengthen and futureproof South Australia’s automotive retail, service, and repair industry.
Unveiling the policy, MTA SA/NT CEO Darrell Jacobs emphasised the importance of giving motorists genuine freedom of choice when it comes to vehicle repairs.
Repair rights
“Whether it is proximity to home or work, or a repairer’s expertise and quality, South Australians deserve to choose where they can repair their vehicle following an accident,” Jacobs said.
“Managing an insurance claim after an accident is already a stressful time.
This policy puts policyholders back in the driver’s seat.”
While many insurers promote “choice of repairer” and “comprehensive insurance,” the MTA’s Blueprint highlights a range of concerning practices that undermine these promises. These include:
- Restricting motorists to insurer-approved repairers. • Warning customers that repairs will take longer if they choose their own repairer.
- Forcing motorists to pay any cost difference between their preferred repairer and the insurer’s choice. • Requiring second quotes from insurer network repairers to influence decisions.
- Imposing excessive or unjustified price gaps between “choice” and “non-choice” policies.
Jacobs added such practices were ultimately unfair to motorists.
“Choice of repairer in today’s insurance market has more conditions than dents after a hailstorm,” he said.
The announcement comes amid growing concern about increasing consolidation in the insurance industry, with multinational and publicly listed corporations exerting greater control over the market.
Breaking it down
This includes the ACCC’s recent approval for Allianz to acquire RAA Insurance, along with similar moves by IAG targeting motoring organisations in Queensland and Western Australia.
According to Jacobs, MTA SA/NT members have raised concerns that insurer-driven repair steering is threatening the viability of small and family-run businesses.
“If left unchecked, we will see local business closures and more pressure on skill shortages at a time the industry can least afford it,” he warned.
With electric and hybrid vehicles becoming more common on South Australian roads, the MTA’s Blueprint also calls for greater government support to help the industry transition.
Building up
“Supporting businesses to tool up, install chargers and train their workforce will be critical to ensuring a smooth ride for South Australia,” Jacobs said.
Recently recognised as Large Training Provider of the Year at the 2025 SA Training Awards, MTA Training and Employment has pledged to work collaboratively with the next State Government.
“Whether it’s getting more students into an automotive apprenticeship, mentoring them through to completion or investing in the latest technology – the strong track record of industry not-for-profit training providers must not be overlooked,” Jacobs said.
Alongside the choice of repairer policy, the Blueprint outlines a range of recommendations to cut red tape, reform taxation, and stimulate productivity and investment across the sector.
“Automotive is a powerful multiplier for all sectors and for South Australia as a whole,” Jacobs said.
“We look forward to the support of South Australia’s next Parliament.”