Code Administration Committee advances motor code reforms

Code Administration Committee advances motor code reforms | Insurance Business Australia

Motor & Fleet

External advisors’ input sought

Motor & Fleet

By
Roxanne Libatique

The Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry (MVIRI) Code of Conduct Committee (CAC) has advanced its efforts following the independent review conducted by Dr Michael Schaper.

Having finalised a brief for the code’s revision, the CAC is actively seeking legal counsel on governance options from external parties. The insights gathered will be reported back to the committee in early 2024, contributing to the ongoing refinement of the MVIRI Code.

MVIRI CAC Chair Stephen Jenkins (pictured) acknowledged the need for improvements outlined in Schaper’s review, emphasising the importance of simplifying the code while upholding legal robustness.

“To this end, the CAC has sought input from external advisors,” he said. “The review also called for the appointment of an independent chair and deputy chair, as well as clarifying the committee’s governance and voting.

“It is prudent the committee is informed with sound legal advice to ensure reform of the code achieves the best possible outcomes for all industry participants.”

In response to Schaper’s suggestion and industry feedback to enhance the code website, the committee is actively working on improving the user experience.

Since the formal reception of the report in May 2023, the CAC has convened multiple times to advance the 15 recommendations presented by Schaper.

Background

In December 2022, the CAC appointed Schaper to conduct an independent review of the MVIRI Code of Conduct for the Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry. The formal receipt of Schaper’s final report occurred in May 2023.

The report, addressing the review’s terms of reference, presented 15 recommendations focusing on dispute resolution processes, awareness and accessibility of the code, compliance, governance, and other relevant aspects.

The review process included consultations with various stakeholders, encompassing government bodies, regulators like Small Business Commissioners, members of the Code Administration Committee, and representatives from the insurance and repair industry.

The MVIRI Code of Conduct, established in 2006, has undergone periodic reviews, with the most recent one in 2017, ensuring its continual suitability and effectiveness.