Posted by Elizabeth Gore-Jones
on 29 March 2020
The focus of the law can change so quickly in a crisis.
The ACCC released a press release on 27 March 2020 which reflected just that.
Whilst we are far from a lawless nation, these relaxations are sensible and will hopefully help to save businesses from teetering over the edge.
Game Changer: potential authorisations to allow competitors to coordinate - this is usually unlawful
What's in:
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efforts to stop businesses seeking to exploit the crisis causing harm to consumers or enhancing their position
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internal ACCC Covid-19 taskforce helping businesess understand cancellations, refunds and suspension of services
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raising awareness about scammers
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product safety
What's out:
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Price gouging - not illegal but maybe unconscionable or misleading
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excessive pricing for petrol, energy and communications
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regulatory burden - they will be minimising notices for production of information and compulsory examination
Disclaimer: This blog is not legal advice. You should seek legal advice for your circumstances.
Author:Elizabeth Gore-JonesAbout: Elizabeth specialises in franchising law. She lectures at Bond University PLA in franchising, she sits on the Queensland Law Society Franchising Committee, she is a past member of the Women in Franchising committee and a past member of the Franchise Council of Australia.
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