'The Changing Face of Consumer Affairs' will deliver the most significant change to Consumer Law in Australia for 25 years
Thursday, 7 May 2009
In 2009 Australia will commence the implementation of the most significant change to Australian Consumer Laws in 25 years. Following the review by the Productivity Commission into Australia's Consumer Policy Framework, agreement has now been reached between the Commonwealth, States and Territories and ratified by the Council of Australian Government (COAG) to have one National Consumer Law.
These changes will deliver consistent compliance for Australian business with a single law. Consumer protection under the guidance and enhanced enforcement powers for the ACCC, ASIC State and Territory bodies will now be easier for consumers to understand.
The benefits for businesses, as well as consumers, will be significant and provide substantial cost savings for corporate compliance. Previously, businesses that dealt with consumers across different states were compelled to understand the vagaries and differences in Consumer Law on a State by State bases. The changes will begin to be implemented in the second half of 2009 and will deliver a fair market place for both business and consumer groups.
If your organisation deals with Consumers, then you need to be at the SOCAP 2009 Symposium to hear from the Federal Minister for Competition Policy and Consumer Affairs, Hon Chris Bowen MP, as he delivers the Keynote address explaining those changes and what it means for both businesses and consumers.
Visit www.socap.org.au or email SFI to find out more.
Peter Gillson Director SFI International.