From the Magazine: Looking back and moving forward

Advocating for the right to repair 

This past year was a big one for our industry. After years of advocacy, persistence, and collaboration, we celebrated a major milestone: The federal government passed amendments to the Copyright Act — Bill C-244 and Bill C-294 — that removed a long-standing barrier to servicing and repairing vehicles.

This win opens the door for independent auto care service providers to better serve Canadian drivers, who require access to the data, tools, and parts needed to keep vehicles on the road.

It was also an election year, and with it came significant change. More than 100 new members of parliament are now in office, bringing fresh perspectives and new opportunities. We spent the summer connecting with new and returning MPs through shop visits and meetings, laying the groundwork for stronger relationships that will carry into the year ahead.

Where we are now, where we want to go

Our work today balances a national vision with provincial realities. Quebec has shown what is possible, with its right to repair law, Law 21, now in force as of October 5, 2025. This milestone proves that when industry and government collaborate, drivers and businesses alike benefit.

But Canada can’t rely on a patchwork of provincial rules. Fragmentation would only create confusion and unequal access for Canadians. What we need is a strong federal framework that secures the right to repair consistently, from coast to coast to coast.

But Canada can’t rely on a patchwork of provincial rules. Fragmentation would only create confusion and unequal access for Canadians.

That is why our federal advocacy remains front and centre. With a new government and more than a hundred new members of parliament, we have an important opportunity to build relationships and keep repair rights high on the agenda. Our efforts will culminate on our Parliament Hill Day in February 2026, where AIA Canada members will meet directly with decision-makers to push for a clear, national solution.

Looking ahead, our focus is twofold: Strengthening our global partnerships and advancing federal legislation. The right to repair is not a Canadian issue alone — it is part of a worldwide movement. This year, our presence at Autopromotec in Italy reinforced the importance of staying connected with colleagues from Australia, the United States, South Africa, the European Union and beyond. These relationships keep us informed about emerging policies, highlight areas where Canada risks falling behind, and provide valuable lessons that we can apply at home.

As we prepare for the next phase of advocacy, we will continue to push for a federal framework that enshrines the right to repair in Canadian law. Our vision is clear: a competitive, innovative and consumer-friendly auto care sector where independent professionals have access to the necessary repair data and the tools to thrive, and where Canadian drivers benefit from choice, affordability and trust.

The momentum we built this past year was only the beginning. The road ahead is long, but with collaboration, determination, and bold advocacy, we are confident that Canada can lead the way in securing the right to repair for all. To get involved, visit righttorepair.ca.

Emily Holtby serves as vice president, government relations for the Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada). She leads the association’s advocacy work with federal and provincial governments, representing AIA Canada in meetings with government officials, staff, and external stakeholders.

This article originally appeared in the October issue of CARS magazine