What can I do if I think I’ve been misled? Where can I find more information?
So here’s some guidance about what you can do if you think you’ve been misled by another business, and some information about action the ACCC can take.
If you’re concerned about claims made by your suppliers, your competitors or other businesses, contact the ACCC. We can act against misleading claims.
If you have a complaint or inquiry, the easiest way to reach us is to contact our Small Business Helpline on 1300 302 021, our Infocentre on 1300 302 502 or visit the ACCC website www.accc.gov.au/carbon.
Once we receive a complaint, the ACCC may investigate and take action.
Some of the ACCC’s powers include:
Requiring a business to provide documents that respond to a substantiation notice;
Where we consider a claim is false or misleading - issuing infringement notices of up to $6600 for an individual, or $66 000 for a listed corporation;
Taking legal action against a business for breaches of the Australian Consumer Law; or
Seeking court-imposed penalties of up to $1.1 million for serious breaches of the Australian Consumer Law, and injunctions to stop a business from making certain claims.
You can find out more about the carbon price, including further guidance about any of the topics discussed in this video, on the ACCC website.
There you’ll find a range of information including Business Snapshots about:
Information to support your claims;
Dealing with your suppliers and competitors;
Guidance for industry associations; and
Guidance for business advisors.
As well as more information about what you can and can’t do.
In addition, you can contact our Infocentre or Small Business helpline for more information.
To find out more about the carbon price scheme, compensation and rebates, visit the Clean Energy Future website www.cleanenergyfuture.com.au
So remember, when considering making a claim about the impact of the carbon price:
It’s business as usual. You’re entitled to increase your prices as you see fit - but you have the same obligation not to mislead or deceive;
Secondly, like any other claim, it must be truthful and it must have a reasonable basis; and
Finally, if you need more information, you have an inquiry or you see a claim that doesn’t seem right, contact the ACCC.
