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

Summary

This legislation strengthens protections against unfair trading practices by amending the Competition and Consumer Act, Australia's main law governing fair business conduct and consumer rights. The changes target deceptive, misleading, or exploitative trading practices that currently fall into grey areas, giving the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) clearer authority to take action against businesses that engage in tactics like aggressive selling, manipulative pricing, or taking unfair advantage of vulnerable consumers. For everyday Australians, this means stronger safeguards when shopping, signing up for services, or dealing with businesses, particularly protecting those who are elderly, financially struggling, or less educated about their rights.

What happens at this stage

The main debate on whether the chamber supports the broad purpose of the bill. Members speak to its overall merits and concerns rather than the fine print. The government outlines its policy intentions; the opposition and crossbench put their case. This is the stage that determines whether the bill proceeds at all.

Next: Consideration in Detail (House) or Committee of the Whole (Senate), where the bill is examined clause by clause