The Fair Trading Amendment Bill (Bill) is to be considered this week in Parliament, in what will be the Bill's second reading. As the Bill was discharged from the Economic Development, Science and Innovation Committee without a report on 12 August 2020, the Bill is moving to the second reading as introduced without the benefit of any amendments recommended by a select committee.
The Bill, as introduced, amends the Fair Trading Act 1986. You can read our previous updates on the proposed reforms
here and the discharge of the Bill from the Economic Development, Science and Innovation Committee
here. In summary, the Bill will introduce a prohibition against serious misconduct in trade, extend the current unfair contract regime to "small trade contracts" and amend the uninvited direct sales provisions.
We will provide further updates on the progress of the Bill and when it will enter into force when such indications are available.
This article is intended only to provide a summary of the subject covered. It does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. No person should act in reliance on any statement contained in this publication without first obtaining specific professional advice. If you require any advice or further information on the subject matter of this newsletter, please contact the partner/solicitor in the firm who normally advises you, or alternatively contact one of the partners listed below.