Ministers meet to discuss consumer protection

2021-11-09

A meeting of the NSW, Victorian and ACT Consumer Affairs Ministers and representatives from state, territory, Commonwealth and New Zealand governments was held on Thursday 3 November with a key focus on COVID-19 and vulnerable consumers.

Chaired by the ACT Attorney-General and Minister for Consumer Affairs, Shane Rattenbury, the meeting involved discussions around:

  • emerging issues for consumers caused by the COVID-19 pandemic – such as travel disputes and cancellations, and protections for vulnerable consumers,
  • Australian Consumer Law reform,
  • the progress of the Commonwealth Credit reforms, and
  • the Productivity Commission’s inquiry into the Right to Repair.

“The Consumer Ministers Network Meeting focused on COVID-19 and vulnerable consumers, covering travel industry consumer credit, and included updates for ministers on emerging issues,” Minister Rattenbury said.

“The impacts of COVID-19 have been felt across the country and observed in the consumer protection space including the impacts on the travel sector, the increase in e-commerce transactions and increased scam activity.

“A connected approach to consumer protection has been critical over the last 12-18 months as regulators as well as consumers, have been faced with many challenges. The meeting reflected on the year that was, the challenges that arose, and noted the opportunities to ensure that the consumer protection framework remains strong and fit for purpose.”

Consumer Ministers meet to ensure that collaboration and coordination between states, territories, the Commonwealth and New Zealand is maintained. Attendees at the meeting included:

  • Mr Shane Rattenbury, ACT Attorney-General and Minister for Consumer Affairs.
  • Hon Melissa Horne MP, VIC Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation; Minister for Ports and Freight; and Minister for Boating and Fishing.
  • Hon Kevin Anderson MP, NSW Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation.