ACL Regulations  

The second phase of the ACL commences on 1 January 2011 and contains a number of rules which all businesses need to be aware of. The ACL is supported by a number of Regulations.  

The ACL Regulations were released following public consultation and agreement between the Australian Government and the States and Territories. The ACL regulations provide practical effect to the provisions of the ACL. The regulations are set out in the: Trade Practices (Australian Consumer Law) Amendment Regulations 2010 (No. 1).

The ACL Regulations provide transitional arrangements to allow businesses to adjust to the new law. These transitional arrangements apply to some of the rules surrounding unsolicited selling, repair notices that suppliers must provide to consumers when they repair IT products or provide refurbished items, and warranties against defects.

The introduction of the ACL will have an effect on all small businesses and it is important that businesses make themselves familiar with their obligations, both under the Regulations and the ACL more broadly.

For further information about the ACL and the Regulations please follow the link: http://www.consumerlaw.gov.au/content/Content.aspx?doc=the_acl/legislation.htm.

Practical information on how businesses can comply with the ACL including the ACL regulations will be published in a series of regulatory guides in the coming weeks. 

Guidance material on the ACL will also be available on the ACCC website in the coming weeks. 

For further information visit the ACCC website or contact your local ACCC Regional Outreach Manager listed below.

If you would like to subscribe to receive regular updates from the ACCC on small business issues please send an email with your contact details to smallbusinessinfo@accc.gov.au.

The ACCC also produces a newsletter which provides information on cartels, including tips for businesses on how to avoid engaging in or being the victim of cartel conduct. If you would like to subscribe to receive cartel-specific updates please send an email with your contact details to cartelinfoservice@accc.gov.au.