Media Statements - Perth plays host for National Consumer Congress

4/2/08

Sustainable consumption, the impact of the internet and understanding how consumers think will come under the spotlight when Perth hosts the Fifth National Consumer Congress next month.

Consumer Protection Minister Sheila McHale said it was the first time that the important national two-day event had been held outside the Eastern States.

Ms McHale said outstanding local and international speakers would cover topics of interest to the whole community, as well as consumer groups and people working in consumer protection and policy.

“We are all consumers and the issues that will be explored affect us all directly or indirectly,” she said.

“Understanding what drives consumer decision-making will help us meet consumer needs in ways that minimise environmental impact.

“The rise of the internet has brought about a new world for consumers and businesses, but consumers need to be vigilant about issues such as privacy and identity fraud.”

The Minister said keynote speakers at the congress would include Productivity Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald, iiNet founder and chief of staff Michael Malone and University of Kent Law Professor Iain Ramsay.

A free public lecture entitled ‘Consumer Protection in the Age of the Information Economy’ will be held on the eve of the congress at the University Club at The University of Western Australia.

The lecture will be presented by Professor Jane Winn, an international authority on electronic commerce law from the University of Washington.

People interested in attending the congress, to be held at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre, should visit http://www.NCC2008.com or telephone 1300 30 40 54.

Minister's office - 9213 6900