We're well used to the "Australian premium" – the extra price charged for everything here from iTunes to Mercedes-Benz because, well, because the importers can. The early signs are that our "open for business" government is happy to keep it that way for the motor trade and against the best wishes of consumers.

And if patriotism is the first refuge of the scoundrel, safety is the motherhood claim for vehicle importers and fleet owners wanting Australians to continue to pay more than they should for a set of wheels.

Illustration: Rocco Fazzari

Unless you were paying close attention, the release of the Productivity Commission's final report on Australia's automotive manufacturing industry came and went with little notice as events have long since overtaken its key recommendations. Ford, GM and Toyota didn't wait for the last rites before announcing funeral dates.

But tucked away in the 340 pages were a couple of vital recommendations that would affect the price of just about every car on the road and perhaps the viability of some large, expensive and politically well-connected vehicle dealerships.