Current Issues In Consumer Law & Policy Sp

This book is the first of its kind in Australia. Written by one of the leading experts in the field, it critically examines, in detail, selected current issues in consumer law and policy.  The text is designed for use by undergraduate and graduate students undertaking courses in, or examining aspects of, advanced consumer law and policy. It will also be a highly useful adjunct to more generalist consumer law texts. Because of its contemporary focus on issues of both law and public policy, the text will also be a source of authoritative views for legal practitioners, regulators, consumer advocates and others working in consumer law and policy.

The author
Introduction
1. Consumers, consumer policy and the law
2. Regulation of contractual unfairness
3. Should Australia introduce laws prohibiting unfair contract terms?
4. Reviewing Australian consumer protection law and policy
5. Industry codes of practice, internal dispute resolution and industry dispute
    resolution schemes

- The first chapter of the book is dedicated to examining a range of issues that underpin the study of consumer law and policy.  The remainder of the text focuses on four major, topical issues.

- Topics examined include:

• regulation of contractual unfairness
• the introduction of laws prohibiting unfair contract terms
• the forthcoming review of Australian consumer protection policy
• red-tape regulation
• self-regulation
• dispute resolution
• the role of competition policy in framing consumer protection policy. 
  

Chris Field is a Member of the Economic Regulation Authority, the independent regulator of the Western Australian gas, electricity, rail and water industries. He is also an Adjunct Professor at the University of Western Australia and La Trobe University.  He teaches intensive units in advanced consumer law at both universities.  Chris is also Chair of the Consumer Utilities Advocacy Centre and a Director of the Energy and Water Ombudsman Victoria.  He undertakes selected consultancy work as principal of Chris Field Consulting Pty Ltd.  Prior to his appointment to the Economic Regulation Authority, Chris was widely regarded as one of Australia’s leading consumer advocates, well known for his work as the Executive Director of the Consumer Law Centre Victoria for seven years and the Chair of the Australian Consumers’ Association for four years.  A qualified lawyer, he holds Arts and Law (Honours) degrees.