Discussion Paper

5. Conclusion

The Government has undertaken to ensure that Australians engaged in e-commerce enjoy a world-class consumer protection environment. The competitive position of Australian businesses will also be strengthened as Australia develops an international reputation as a centre of excellence for B2C e-commerce.

The BPM represents the Government’s key self-regulatory initiative in B2C e-commerce consumer protection. A self-regulatory approach has been adopted in this area, due to the rapid evolution of online markets and of the technologies that support them. The BPM is also underpinned by a robust legislative framework for consumer protection, which safeguards the interests of consumers when shopping online in the same way that it governs conventional retail transactions.

Since the BPM was released in May 2000 there have been several significant developments to the technologies and market relationships that are important in B2C e-commerce. In addition, there is an ongoing need for government and industry to effectively address a range of consumer protection issues that are of ongoing concern to consumers engaging in e-commerce.

The Expert Group has been asked to advise the Australian Government on ways in which it can effectively respond to these ongoing and emerging online consumer policy challenges, including an examination of the appropriate mix of legislative and self-regulatory responses. Following consultation, the Expert Group will report to the Australian Government. This report will be available to the public.

Consumers, businesses, and other interested parties are encouraged to participate in this review process.

Next: Appendix A - International Approaches to B2C E-Commerce Consumer Protection
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