Response to Unfair Trading Practices protections for small businesses Consultation Paper
HIA has responded to a Treasury consultation on extending Unfair Trading Practices protections to small businesses under Australian Consumer Law. The proposal would treat small businesses as consumers, giving them new legal protections.
Will small building businesses get stronger protection against unfair trading practices?
Builders and trade contractors could gain stronger legal protections against unfair commercial dealings with suppliers or clients. May reduce exploitation in contracts and purchasing.
Key takeaways
- HIA has submitted a response to Treasury's consultation on Unfair Trading Practices protections for small businesses.
- The proposal would extend Australian Consumer Law protections to small businesses as if they were consumers.
- Trade businesses could gain new legal grounds to challenge unfair commercial conduct from suppliers or clients.
- The consultation is still ongoing, so no changes to law have been confirmed yet.
Related
Construction needs an effective enforcer not a paperwork obsession
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) warns that proposed national construction standards and new procurement rules miss the mark. It says the measures land hardest on home builders and argues for an effective enforcer rather than more paperwork.
Why it matters: Home builders and small residential contractors could face extra compliance paperwork and procurement requirements, adding admin time and cost to jobs without necessarily lifting building quality.
Potential Commonwealth Standards for the Construction Industry
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) says it backs a lawful, safe, productive and sustainable construction industry and has long called for structural reform. It says the consultation on potential Commonwealth standards proposes several measures it is concerned about.
Why it matters: Commonwealth standards could add new compliance requirements for builders and subcontractors across residential construction. The article gives no detail yet, so the practical impact on trades is unclear.
Secure Australian Jobs Framework
The article argues that residential building and its supply chains should be exempt from the Secure Australian Jobs Framework and any related procurement obligations. It says government effort should go towards improving productivity instead.
Why it matters: Builders and the trades working in residential construction could avoid extra procurement obligations and compliance work if the exemption is granted. Otherwise, supply chain and tendering requirements may change.