A 268-page consumer handbook that lists every consumer organisation by industry sector and contains sample complaint letters and check lists was launched in Perth today.
"The Australian Consumer Handbook is designed to be the consumer bible for people wanting to know what to do or where to go when things go wrong," the Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer, Senator Ian Campbell, said.
"It provides consumers, and the organisations that assist them, with comprehensive information on who can help them become more informed about goods or services and who can help them resolve disputes.
"It is very well designed and easy to navigate."
Senator Campbell launched the handbook when officially opening the Financial Planning Association's three-day Perth Money Show at the Burswood Dome.
He said the handbook had been produced by the Commonwealth in response to feedback from community organisations around Australia.
It listed more than 700 community and specialist bodies, government departments and industry associations that provide help to consumers.
The handbook is available for $15 from Commonwealth Info shops and is available on the ACCC website. All organisations that assist consumers will receive a free copy.
PERTH
6 September 2002
Contact: Wayne Grant (08) 9421 1755 or 0407 845280