Unfair trading practices – Decision Regulation Impact Statement

Update

In November 2025, Consumer Ministers agreed to improve protections for consumers against unfair trading practices. The main changes to the Australian Consumer Law are:

• a general prohibition on unfair trading practices
• targeted reforms on unfair subscription practices
• better protections against hidden fees.

These changes will improve consumer trust and save consumers time and money.

Background

This Decision Regulation Impact Statement follows 2 earlier consultations:

• 2023 consultation about the nature of unfair trading practices in Australia.
• 2024 consultation about the design of proposed unfair trading practice reforms.

Treasury received close to 140 submissions in total. Stakeholders said that the current law cannot fully protect consumers from some unfair trading practices.

Next steps

Treasury is now working on draft laws. Stakeholders will have another chance to provide feedback when the government releases the draft laws for consultation.