The Morrison Government is working to improve the ways businesses can meet mandatory safety and information standards for consumer goods under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL).
The consultation is now open, seeking feedback from businesses on making it easier to recognise trusted overseas standards for consumer goods, and ways businesses can comply with the most up‑to‑date Australian and overseas standards recognised in Australian law.
Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar said the government was examining options that would reduce red tape and legal uncertainty for businesses by making it easier to recognise trusted overseas standards in Australian law.
“By limiting the need for duplicative testing and compliance measures if products already satisfy trusted overseas standards, we are streamlining processes for business while still protecting the safety of Australian consumers,” Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar said.
“We are also looking into ways we can support business compliance with the most up‑to‑date Australian and overseas standards, fostering growth and innovation, and ensuring that Australian businesses can keep pace with industry and market developments.”
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister and Cabinet Ben Morton said this is a great example of how the microeconomic reforms under the Deregulation Agenda are making it easier for business to do business.
“Tens of thousands of businesses will benefit from these reforms, saving substantial costs, and reduce barriers to allow businesses to grow, innovate and enter the Australian market,” Minister Morton said.
“Consumers will also benefit from these changes, gaining access to a wider range of products at lower prices and consumer safety will be maintained or improved by recognising trusted overseas standards with safety measures that match or exceed those in equivalent Australian standards.”
The consumer goods subject to these mandatory standards range from cosmetics and clothing to bunk beds and bean bags.
Mandatory safety and information standards apply to consumer goods or related services supplied in Australia to prevent or reduce the risk of injury to Australians.
The consultation Regulation Impact Statement and guidance for making submissions are on the Treasury website and all stakeholders are encouraged to have their say by 21 January 2022.