ACCC eyes businesses for false carbon tax claims

The ACCC has launched a hotline and online claim form for the public to dob in any businesses that unjustly blame the carbon tax for price hikes.

The regulator has encouraged businesses and consumers to complain when they suspect false assertions are being made about the Government’s carbon tax, which will tax 500 of Australia’s largest carbon polluters from July 1.

The ACCC has flagged potential $6000 fines or the possibility of legal action if a claim is “false or misleading”.

“The ACCC is concerned that consumers may be duped into accepting a price increase for a product or service because of the carbon price, when the carbon price is actually not the cause,” ACCC chairman Rod Sims said in a statement.

“While businesses are free to set their own prices, if they make claims about the impact of the carbon price these need to be truthful and have a reasonable basis.” 

According to reports, the ACCC has already received a number of complaints about unjustified price hikes being blamed on the new law.

It said businesses approaching the carbon price fairly and reasonably had nothing to fear from the ACCC.

“However businesses seeking to mislead consumers by making false price claims about the carbon price can expect a call from the ACCC.”

Complaints may be lodged on 1300 303 609 and at www.accc.gov.au/carbon.