Competition and Consumer Amendment (Unfair Trading Practices) Bill 2026; Third Reading

Summary

This amendment strengthens Australia's consumer protection system by adding new rules against unfair trading practices to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. The changes give the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission clearer authority to stop businesses from using deceptive, aggressive, or misleading tactics when selling goods and services. For everyday people, this means better protection when shopping online or in stores — businesses will face stricter penalties if they use high-pressure sales tactics, hide important information, or exploit vulnerable consumers.

What happens at this stage

The final vote in this chamber on the bill as a whole, after all amendments have been considered. If it passes, the bill moves to the other chamber to go through the same process. If both chambers have already agreed to identical text, the bill proceeds directly to Royal Assent.

Next: The other chamber, which runs the same process from First Reading, or Royal Assent if both chambers have already agreed