On 7 October 2015 the Productivity Commission released an issues paper to assist stakeholders in preparing submissions to the public inquiry into Intellectual Property Arrangements. The issues paper outlines a range of issues about which the Commission is seeking comment on.
In considering the issue of intellectual property arrangements and their impact on the Australian economy, the PC has been asked to examine existing arrangements with a view to ensuring that the intellectual property system provides appropriate incentives for innovation, investment and the production of creative works while also ensuring it does not unreasonably impede further innovation, competition, investment and access to goods and services.
For the purposes of this inquiry, the FCAI is limiting its comments to the negative consequences on intellectual property rights and basic equity arising from the introduction of grey and parallel vehicle import arrangements and parallel/aftermarket parts in the automotive industry.