Victorian Consumers Benefit from National Consumer Law
Victoria’s adoption of the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) has proceeded smoothly, beginning a new era in which consumers all over the country are protected equally.
The ACL is consumer protection legislation that applies to all Australian states and territories.
The law was introduced on 1 January 2011, replacing 20 different consumer laws across the country.
Victorian Consumer Affairs Minister, Michael O'Brien, said the ‘one law, multiple regulator’ approach underpinning the ACL provided the ideal environment for states and territories to work together to stamp out dodgy traders.
Mr O’Brien said Victoria had been one of the leading voices in the transition to the new national law.
“Victoria has taken the lead in making sure consumers and traders are aware of their rights and obligations under the ACL,” Mr O'Brien said.
“The smooth transition from each state and territory's fair trading legislation to one piece of legislation which protects consumers whether they're in Dandenong or Darwin is a benefit all Australians now enjoy,” he said.
Mr O'Brien said while Victoria had also called for the modernisation of travel regulation, not all states and territories had agreed, preferring instead to endorse a more cautious approach to reform.
For more information visit the Australian Consumer Law website.