13 March 2014

Government to stay nimble in protecting consumers in the digital age

Small Business Minister Bruce Billson has used a speech to the ACCC's Consumer Congress to highlight the need for business, policy makers and regulators to be flexible and responsive to emerging issues in the digital age.

"Last year Australians spent $14 billion on online retail which is why it's important we have strong consumer laws in place to make sure people aren't getting taken for a ride," Mr Billson said.

"The online world moves extremely quickly so we need to be on guard all the time.

"We are lucky though that our laws work well in both the bricks and mortar setting and in the online space in protecting consumer interests.

"The 2016 implementation review of the Australian Consumer Law will be vitally important to iron out any current issues and to ensure the laws are robust and effective."

Mr Billson said the Government was working on ways to boost competition which will have significant benefits for consumers.

"Consumers are the ultimate beneficiaries of robust competitive markets," Mr Billson said.

"Competition is key to putting downward pressure on prices and driving innovation, which drives greater choice, quality and value for consumers."