19 April 2017

Final report for the Review of Australian Consumer Law

The final report for the Review of Australian Consumer Law, conducted by Consumer Affairs Australia and New Zealand (CCANZ), has today been welcomed by Federal Small Business Minister Michael McCormack, who is responsible for consumer affairs.

“This is the first broad review of Australia’s national consumer law since it commenced on 1 January 2011. Commissioned on 31 March 2016, the review assesses the effectiveness of existing laws and, importantly, whether new and emerging issues can be addressed,” Mr McCormack said.

“The Australian Consumer Law touches every Australian every day. It is important the law reflects changes and developments in consumer products Australians use and ensures flexibility when new products enter the market.

“I thank CAANZ for the report and I look forward to considering its recommendations with State and Territory Consumer Affairs Ministers later in the year.

“I am also looking forward to discussions on topics raised by the report, including penalties for breaches of consumer law.”

Mr McCormack said Australian consumer law is managed co-operatively by the Commonwealth and the States and Territories. The law confers rights, protections and obligations on consumers and businesses and its review comes after extensive consultation.

“The report draws upon feedback from businesses and consumers who use Australian consumer law every day. Through having their say on whether the law is working and areas where it might be improved, the Commonwealth, States and Territories can now work together in important areas such as consumer guarantees and product safety,” Mr McCormack said.

“While the feedback indicates improvements may be necessary in some areas, evidence from people who use the law every day is that it is working well.

“I thank those who took the time to have their say and look forward to further discussion with Ministerial colleagues from the States and Territories later in the year.”

Further information about the Australian Consumer Law Review is available on the Consumer Law website.