Consumers' Federation of Australia

20 December , 2017

Proposed curbs on gambling advertising a good first step

Financial Counselling Australia (FCA) welcomes the Government’s proposals to curb gambling advertising on radio and television. Although a complete ban on advertising is preferable, the Government’s plan to prohibit gambling advertising during live sports events between 5:00am and 8:30pm is a step in the right direction. We are alarmed, however, that the broadcast industry is…

20 December , 2017

CAANZ releases guidance on the application of Australian Consumer Law to charities and fundraising

Consumer Affairs Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ) regulators have released guidance on the application of the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) to the fundraising and other activities of charities, not-for-profits and fundraisers. Download A Guide to the Australian Consumer Law – For fundraising and other activities of charities, not-for-profits and fundraisers (pdf, 366.4 KB) CAANZ comprises senior…

20 December , 2017

ACCAN welcomes Government response to Universal Service Obligation

The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) has welcomed the Government’s response to the Productivity Commission report into the existing Universal Service Obligation (USO). ACCAN are pleased that the Government’s response acknowledges that existing arrangements are out of date and in need of reform, and welcomes the Government’s commitment to provide universal access to voice and…

19 December , 2017

Independent Review of Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman

The Final Report of the Independent Review of the TIO has been published, in conjunction with the response from the Ombudsman. The Telecommunications (Consumer Protection and Services Standards) Act 1999 was amended three years ago to require the TIO to be regularly reviewed, and this is the first such review. The Executive Summary of the Final Report notes that…

18 December , 2017

Consumer Tips: Buy Gift Cards Carefully and Use Them Early

Many of us will buy and receive gift cards this festive season and the Queensland Consumers Association advises buyers to check that the terms and conditions are fair and not likely to be unduly restrictive for the receiver, and recipients to consider using them soon after receipt. Association spokesperson, Ian Jarratt, says many people think…

12 December , 2017

Avoiding surcharges for card payments

To avoid being slugged with excessive charges for paying by card during the busy Christmas and holiday shopping period, consumers should be aware of the national restrictions on surcharging by businesses for payments made by debit, credit or prepaid cards, and lookout for businesses that may not be complying. The Queensland Consumers Association’s spokesperson, Ian…

11 December , 2017

CHOICE calls for improved labelling on alcoholic drinks

Consumer group CHOICE is calling for improved labelling on alcoholic drinks to help people compare their beverage options. “For many people Christmas is a time to enjoy a festive drink but if they want to choose lower kilojoule tipples, right now they can’t easily compare their options” says CHOICE spokesperson, Katinka Day. “While consumers can…

5 December , 2017

Principles to secure trust in Internet of Things

Four global and European consumer organisations today launched their principles recommendations to make consumer rights, privacy and security core features of the Internet of Things. Consumers International, BEUC, ANEC and ICRT recognise the benefits of IoT applications but urge developers, manufacturers, policy-makers and regulators to deal with numerous challenges and risks. According to estimates there…

4 December , 2017

Time for a Reboot for the troubled Telco sector

Consumer rights in telecommunications, including mobile and broadband services, are so parlous that thousands of people are being left without access to essential services or meaningful redress when their suppliers fail them, according to consumer advocates. A group of leading consumer advocates today pointed to staggering complaint levels, unfair sales tactics, and disappointing responses to…

29 November , 2017

Dr Gill on Simplifying Tariff Comparisons

The following piece is an excerpt from a piece by Dr. Martin Gill, CFA’s representative on a number of Standards Australia Technical Committees on energy. Retailers should be required to provide sufficient information on bills (and tariff contracts) to ensure consumers can easily compare tariffs. It is also recommended a review be undertaken to determine…

29 November , 2017

Pack weight threat

Research from consumer group CHOICE has found 92% of people believe it is important that the weight measurement remains on the front of food products. The finding comes as the Federal Government’s National Measurement Institute has today released a policy statement which appears to prioritise trade over transparency. “Labels are for consumers not solely to…

28 November , 2017

Australians to own their own data

The Turnbull Government will legislate a national Consumer Data Right, allowing customers open access to their banking, energy, phone and internet transactions. Australians will be able to compare offers, get access to cheaper products and plans to help them ‘make the switch’ and get greater value for money. Assistant Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation Angus…