The Productivity Commission believes repairing products is getting harder and coming at a greater cost to consumers.

In a draft report on the "right to repair" released on Friday, the economic advisory body outlines measures governments could take to assist consumers.

"In general, consumer protections work well in Australia, but we are proposing some practical steps that could make it easier for consumers to get goods repaired and enforce the consumer guarantees," commissioner Paul Lindwall says.

The report said many independent repairers find it difficult to access spare parts, the right tools and the information they need to repair products.

In particular, there appear to be problems relating to agricultural machinery, mobile phones and tablets.

One proposal to rectify this would require manufacturers to provide independent repairers and consumers access to repair information, tools and spare parts.

In addition, the commission proposes a change to copyright law to allow independent repairers to legally access and share manuals and software diagnostics.

Commissioner Julie Abramson says although consumers have considerable rights to have their products repaired, refunded or replaced under consumer guarantees, it can be very difficult for them to exercise these rights.

The commission is proposing that consumer groups be able to lodge "super complaints" about guarantees, with these being fast tracked by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

"We also recommend further powers be given to regulators to help consumers resolve their complaints with manufacturers or suppliers," she says.

Consumers should also have a clearer idea of the expected life of their product so they know when they can exercise their rights, a proposal it wants developed by the ACCC in consultation with industry and consumer groups.

Furthermore, it wants manufacturer warranties to clearly state that if consumers use independent repairers, they will not lose their legal rights.

"Not being able to easily repair products can lead to them being discarded as e-waste rather than being reused," Commissioner Lindwall said of a trend that is growing relatively quickly.

The commission is calling for submissions to its right to repair inquiry, with a final report to government due in October.

Australian Associated Press