NTI has introduced a new Mobile Plant and Equipment (MPE) Repairer Network designed to provide national support for operators when key machinery breaks down or is damaged.
The program seeks to help businesses return to operation more quickly, particularly those reliant on a single critical asset.
Adam Craft (pictured), NTI’s national manager for repairer networks, said the initiative covers equipment ranging from excavators and drilling rigs to dozers and dump trucks.
“These machines are relied upon by contractors, owner-operators, plant hire businesses, quarry operators, and farmers. We know how critical this equipment is to our customers, so we’ve built a network that prioritises speed, quality, and trust,” he said.
According to NTI, the network’s accreditation framework was developed over the past year with input from industry specialists.
Repairers are required to show at least 10 years of trading history, demonstrate technical expertise, and undergo ongoing reviews to maintain standards.
“We’ve handpicked experienced, professional repairers who are not only the best in the business, but who understand the urgency of getting businesses moving again while ongoing training and quality reviews ensure standards are maintained as the network grows,” Craft said.
The network is already active across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia.
NTI said further expansion is planned as additional repairers are assessed.
RD Williams general manager Fred Carlsson said accredited repairers recognise the commercial impact of equipment downtime.
“In this industry, time is everything. When a machine goes down, work stops, and so does income. We understand what’s truly at stake for customers. It’s about delivering trusted, high-quality repairs with the speed and professionalism our customers need to keep moving,” he said.
Meanwhile, consultation on proposed revisions to the Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry (MVIRI) Code of Conduct has closed, with feedback gathered from stakeholders across the country.
The Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) led the consultation, drawing contributions from repair businesses, insurance assessors, and affiliated organisations.
MTAA has compiled its recommendations and will present them to the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA).
Key proposals cover governance structures, repair assessment protocols, dispute resolution procedures, and accountability mechanisms.
The Australian Motor Body Repairers Association will also be involved in the next phase, as industry representatives and insurers prepare for formal negotiations.
The consultation follows a 2023 independent review by Dr. Michael Schaper, which recommended improvements to governance, transparency, and administrative processes under the existing voluntary code.
One proposal from the review is to incorporate the Code Administration Committee as a legal entity, allowing it to oversee compliance more formally.
The revised code is expected to be finalised in 2025, with implementation targeted for early 2026.
