Dooley Blog

With the proliferation of customers seeking to do their Christmas shopping online from Australia and overseas, the ACCC advises it will be closely monitoring complaints about e-commerce during the December and January periods. They will target non-disclosure of terms and conditions and failure to provide refunds where appropriate, including non-delivery.

ACCC Chairman, Professor Allan Fels advises "Consumers should be vigilant, especially during this high spending time of year". The ACCC recommends consumers act promptly if they experience difficulties with an on-line transaction.

Businesses should engage in full disclosure and behave in a credible fashion. Businesses can measure their online selling behaviour against the Best Practice Model guide which includes prominent disclosure of address, phone and e-mail contacts, all relevant terms and conditions, total cost of item, refund and exchange policies and procedures, privacy policies and methods of addressing consumer complaints (http://www.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/87933/fromItemId/378012). The ACCC also “encouraging consumers to check websites for these disclosures before giving any personal information or payment to on-line businesses".

If you do have problems with your purchase or just want to source further information, here are some useful links should you have issues with your purchase.

Australian Competition and Consumer Comission

Stay Smart online

Consumers online

If you require assistance with drafting or reviewing your businesses Terms and Conditions ensuring that you comply with the Australian Consumer Law, some provisions of which will commence on 1st of January 2012, contact Dooley and Associates on (02) 9890 4755 for assistance.