No answer to your Australia specific question, yet here’s something that might provide a lead:
From comment #7 at Clock spring
The clocksprings on 1996-2000 Chrysler mini vans have a lifetime warranty.
Safety recall B-24, 1996-1998
Safety recall D-17, 1998-2000
REMEDY:
Dealers will replace the clockspring assembly on all covered vehicles with 70,000 miles or less. FOR THOSE VEHICLES WITH MORE THAN 70,000 MILES, DaimlerChrysler will offer an extended lifetime warranty under which it will replace the clockspring at no charge if it fails. DaimlerChrysler will also reimburse owners who have paid to have the clockspring replaced on their vehicles. The recall began on October 12, 2004. Owners should contact DaimlerChrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Maybe something similar is present for Chrysler in Australia and can be an example for your VW in Australian.