Recordkeeping
Businesses trading in Australia are expected to be aware of their obligations under the ACL. It’s not a defence, or an excuse, to claim that you ‘didn’t know’ you were doing something wrong.
Advertising
What labels should look like
What should country of origin labels on non-food and food products look like?
Country of origin labelling FAQs
If you choose to make a country of origin claim, or are legally required to do so, it must be clear, accurate and truthful. Our frequently asked questions provide detailed information about aspects of the labeling system.
Yoogalu and Domestic & General Services give undertakings to ACCC
The ACCC has accepted court enforceable undertakings from Domestic & General Services Pty Ltd (Domestic & General Services) and Yoogalu Pty Ltd (part of the Harvey Norman group of companies) following an industry-wide review of extended warranty selling practices.
“The ACCC has been concerned with the conduct of some retailers overstating the benefits of buying an extended warranty, when consumers have the free protection of consumer guarantees under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL),” ACCC Commissioner Sarah Court said.
False and misleading claims
Any claims you make about your products, including their country of origin, are subject to two overarching rules under the ACL.
When can I say I have 'substantially transformed' a product?
A product will have been substantially transformed in a country if it meets these requirements.
What claims can my business make about the origin of our products?
The types of country or origin clams that may be made about products vary. It is up to you to determine what kind of claim you can make.
Do I need to make a country of origin claim for my products?
Under the ACL, the only products that must be labelled with their country of origin are foods sold in stores, markets, online or vending machines if they meet certain conditions.
Introduction
Many businesses - either because they have to or choose to - make claims about where their products come from. Associating a product with a particular country is one way in which your business may try to differentiate your products from those of your competitors.
Country of origin labelling
Does your business make claims about the origin of your products? Find out how the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) regulates country of origin claims.