codes of practice (rules of conduct) - ACL


Under Australian Consumer Law, Codes of Practice are a form of regulation and is an alternative to legislation. Through such codes, industries are able to have a degree of self regulation. This means that the regulations adhered to are specific to the particular industry and hence may be more suitable for that industry than general regulations would be.


Businesses that breach a code which they have agreed to abide by can be asked by the Director of Consumer Affairs to change their behaviour so that it complies with the code. The Director can also ask these businesses to take action to rectify the consequences of the breach. If they do not, the Court can issue an order compelling them to do these things.