Department finalises Recall Rectification Benchmarks

Now that the implementation of the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) is complete the Department of Infrastructure has published recall rectification benchmarks which are designed to promote a shared understanding of the Department’s expectations regarding recall performance.

Responsibility for recalls of motor vehicles was transferred from the Department of Consumer Affairs to the Department of Infrastructure with the introduction of the Road Vehicle Standards Act.

The extension of the recall provisions to heavy vehicles, including trailers and components, has been in place since the commencement of the Road Vehicle Standards Act in 2021.

Percentage of vehicles rectified	25%	50%	75%	100%
Priority level: High	6 months	12 months	18 months	24 months
Priority level: Medium or Low	9 months	18 months	27 months	36 months

These benchmarks have been informed by research on the performance and progression of recalls within an international context and are based on average rectification rates for Australian recalls. The proposed benchmarks were published for public comment in March 2023

HVIA is supportive of the benchmarks as a means of providing a target for recall completion rates; but argued that achieving a 100% rectification rate may not be possible in many cases.

The Department acknowledges that the completion of recalls requires accurate information from State registration systems and cooperation from the public both of which are outside of industry control.

Further details are provided in the Department’s Recalls Policy and will apply to all new recalls notified to the department from 1 September 2023.

The Department has also published a web page outlining industry recall responsibilities under the RVSA.