ACCC proposes to authorise the 2005 Direct Marketing Code of Practice

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has issued a draft decision proposing to authorise* the 2005 Direct Marketing Code of Practice.

The Code has been developed by the Australian Direct Marketing Association and is designed to provide protection for consumers from undesirable direct marketing methods.

"As many consumers are aware, the practice of direct marketing has become increasingly common", ACCC Chairman, Mr Graeme Samuel, said. "In this environment, an industry code of practice providing additional avenues through which consumers may seek redress is of benefit to the public.
"The ACCC first authorised the ADMA Direct Marketing Code of Practice in 1999. Since this time ADMA has introduced a number of amendments to its Code of Practice which have enhanced its relevance for consumers. 

"In particular the ADMA Code continues to provide consumers with some rights and avenues that are in addition to those granted at law and continues to provide consumers with recourse to a resolution mechanism where they have complaints regarding the conduct of an ADMA member.

"While the ACCC considers that the ADMA Code would benefit from further development, it considers that on balance the Code is likely to result in a net benefit to the public such that it may be authorised.

"The ACCC is now seeking submissions from ADMA and interested parties in respect of its draft decision".

Background

*The ACCC has the function, through the authorisation process, of adjudicating on certain anti-competitive practices that would otherwise breach the Trade Practices Act 1974. Authorisation provides immunity from court action, and is granted where the ACCC is satisfied that the practice delivers a net public benefit.