Consumers’ Federation of Australia (CFA) and CHOICE has made a submission to the Productivity Commission about future National Competition Policy reforms. The submission stresses the need to analyse potential policy reforms with a focus on their effects on consumers and households, urging the Commission to prioritise understanding how different groups might be affected.
The submission’s key points are:
Focus on Consumer Outcomes: Consumer welfare is more than just prices and incomes. The submission advocates for a broader approach that considers factors like product quality and the ability to compare options, especially in markets where increased choices don’t always lead to better outcomes.
Addressing Vulnerability: Vulnerable consumer groups need special attention. The submission calls for assessing how reforms might impact those facing barriers like low income, living in regional areas, or having disabilities.
Transparent Assessment: Once reforms are known, there should be an open process for gathering feedback on how to measure their impact. This inclusive approach aims to ensure everyone’s voice is heard in shaping effective policy reforms
A copy of the submission can be found here: