MD&R Update: New Rules for Online Motor Dealers

The Motor Dealers and Repairers Act 2013 has been amended under the Motor Dealers and Repairers Amendment Act 2023, introducing new rules that apply specifically to motor dealers who sell vehicles online. These changes are now in effect, and dealers have until December 2025 to ensure they are compliant.

What’s Changed?

The amendments clearly define what it means to operate as an online motor dealer and outline new requirements, including:

• Definition of online dealers - Dealers can operate wholly or partly online, but online rules apply whenever a sale is made through an online channel.
• Disclosure requirements - Vehicle reports, notices, or documents can be provided online, but must also be attached to vehicles if sold partly offline.
• Inspection opportunities - Online purchasers must be given the chance to inspect a vehicle before buying, and again before taking possession at delivery or collection.
• Deposit limits - Online motor dealers cannot request more than 10% of the vehicle price as a deposit before delivery.
• Website requirements - Online dealer websites must have a .au domain, and dealers must notify NSW Fair Trading of their URL.

What This Means for Dealers

If your business operates online - whether exclusively or alongside a physical showroom - you must ensure your practices align with these new requirements. This includes reviewing your sales processes, updating deposit policies, and ensuring your website meets compliance standards.

For full details, refer to the official guidance from NSW Fair Trading: Changes to motor dealer and repairers laws | NSW Government