Australian Government meets VW and Audi to seek clarification regarding presence of ‘defeat devices’ in Australian vehicles

Australian Government officials today met with representatives of VW Australia and Audi Australia to seek clarification regarding the presence of emissions ‘defeat devices’ in vehicles sold in Australia. 

The Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission were briefed by executives from VW and Audi regarding the proposed local response to the issue.

“VW and Audi have committed to update the public on Australian-sold vehicles as more detailed information is provided from their global headquarters,” said Minister for Territories, Local Government and Major Projects Paul Fletcher. “The Government expects this information to be provided next week.”

The Australian Government has been in contact with both companies on a daily basis since news of defeat devices emerged in recent weeks.

The presence of emissions defeat devices wouldrepresent a breach of the Australian Design Rules under the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989. The Australian Design Rules are also covered by Australian Consumer Law (ACL) as mandatory safety standards.

The ACCC has initiated an investigation into VW and Audi and is currently assessing if consumers were exposed to false, misleading or deceptive representations.

The Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development and the ACCC will continue to engage with VW and Audi to obtain information on the extent of the issue in the Australian market, and to ensure appropriate steps to rectify the issue are undertaken.

The Minister for Territories, Local Government and Major Projects sits within the Infrastructure portfolio and has responsibility for motor vehicle issues.

VW and Audi owners with questions regarding their vehicles should contact VW and Audi on the contact numbers below:

VW Australia Customer Care Centre: 1800 607 822

Audi Australia Customer Service Hotline:   1300 557 405