Australia · Consumer law and remedies
Australia’s unfair-trading reforms start on 1 July 2027
The enacted reforms introduce a broad prohibition on unfair trading practices and specific requirements for transaction-based charges and subscription contracts. They start on 1 July 2027, so the present position is enacted future law rather than an obligation already in operation.
What this means
Understand the practical effect.
The enacted reforms introduce a broad prohibition on unfair trading practices and specific requirements for transaction-based charges and subscription contracts. They start on 1 July 2027, so the present position is enacted future law rather than an obligation already in operation.
What to do
Turn the update into action.
Use the preparation period to review complete customer journeys, not only terms and conditions. Prioritise digital design, unavoidable charges, free trials, renewals, cancellation, sales pressure and situations where information or friction may distort a customer's choice.
- Inventory subscriptions, trials, recurring payment arrangements and transaction-based fees across every brand, channel and customer segment.
- Map where design, timing, pressure, asymmetry, withheld information or cancellation friction may influence a customer's decision and create material detriment.
- Update pricing displays, checkout steps, terms, billing, renewal notices, cancellation tools, complaints handling and staff scripts as one controlled change programme.
- Plan for existing subscription arrangements that renew, extend, continue or vary after commencement and test the implemented journey before 1 July 2027.
Official sources
Check the controlling material.
Practical support
Apply this update to your business.
Confirm the products, customer journeys, claims, suppliers or processes affected, then identify the evidence, ownership and timing needed for a defensible response.
Watchdog can assess the update against your circumstances and recommend the most useful next step.
Important information
Check the current position.
This update is general information, not legal advice. Laws, official guidance and proceedings can change. Check the current source and your specific facts before acting.