What the ACCC does

  • We are currently conducting the digital platform services inquiry. This is upon direction of the Australian Government.

  • In 2021 we completed an inquiry into markets for digital advertising services.

  • We work alongside other Australian independent regulators to share information about, and collaborate on cross-cutting issues and activities relevant to digital platform regulation.

What the ACCC can't do

  • We don’t resolve individual complaints against online platforms or services.

  • We don’t approve the conduct or advertising of online businesses.

ACCC role as initial Digital ID Regulator

Digital identity

The Australian Government has passed legislation for secure, convenient, voluntary and inclusive ways to verify your identity online. In 2023, the ACCC was announced as the initial Digital ID Regulator.

ACCC inquiries into digital platforms and services

Current inquiries

Finalised inquiries

Digital advertising services inquiry 2020-21

On 10 February 2020 the Australian Government directed the ACCC to conduct an inquiry into markets for the supply of digital advertising technology services and digital advertising agency services.

Digital platforms inquiry 2017-19

The inquiry looked at the effect that digital search engines, social media platforms and other digital content aggregation platforms have on competition in media and advertising services markets.

Digital platform initiatives

News media bargaining code

The News Media Bargaining Code is a mandatory code of conduct governing commercial relationships between Australian news businesses and ‘designated’ digital platforms who benefit from a significant bargaining power imbalance.

Rules and advice for business and consumers

Online product and service reviews

It’s against the law for a business to create fake or misleading reviews or to arrange for others to do so. There are certain signs that can indicate a review is fake.

Social media promotions

Australian Consumer Law applies to social media advertising in the same way as other types of advertising. Businesses must not make false or misleading claims when promoting themselves.

Buying online

Standard rights and responsibilities still apply, but there are things consumers and businesses need to know when buying and selling online.

ACCC action in digital platforms and services

See media releases on digital platforms and services