Sorry to bump an old thread. But I just thought this info might be worth sharing.

If you're claiming through the at-fault party's insurance. Then you have 100% choice of repairer.

In order to do this, you need to get the name of the insurance company and the claim number; as well as the usual details. You can then pass this onto your chosen panel beater, and they will then liaise with the at-fault party's insurance.

Unfortunately if you go through AAMI, you don't get choice of repairer. Even if you're not at fault.