If you need evidence that the ACCC is focusing on the energy industry, this (and our earlier blogs) should provide it. In spades. In its most recent rulings, the Federal Court has issued fines of $2 million to Origin Energy Electricity Limited (and $325,000 to its marketing agency, SalesForce Australia Pty Ltd), and $1 million … Read more
The ACCC has issued Federal Court proceedings against global consumer goods company, Reckitt Benckiser, alleging misleading claims in relation to its Nurofen ‘targeted pain’ products (Nurofen Back Pain, Nurofen Migraine Pain, Nurofen Period Pain and Nurofen Tension Headache). The packaging for each of these products claims to target the specific type of pain referred to … Read more
Continuing its commitment to focus on the industry, the ACCC has been busy prosecuting energy resellers for making misleading claims. Origin Energy – misleading representations regarding discounts Origin trumpeted to South Australian consumers that signing up to a DailySaver energy plan would lead to discounts of up to 16% for electricity usage, and up to … Read more
Pizza Hut was forced to pull ads for its Australia Day tie-in invention, the “Mitey stuffed crust” pizza. This slightly dubious crust creation features a ‘black gold’ filling of mozzarella and Vegemite, which was variously described as tasting like ‘medicine’, ‘petrol’, and ‘fish jam’ by the hapless backpackers who featured in the campaign commercial. But … Read more
New Zealand-based appliance manufacturer Fisher & Paykel and warranty provider Domestic & General have been found guilty of misleading and deceptive conduct in relation to representations to consumers regarding extended warranties. What they did Domestic & General was contracted by Fisher & Paykel to offer extended warranties to customers who purchased Fisher & Paykel dishwashers. … Read more
On a mild Tuesday evening in November, approximately 60 guests joined us for a panel discussion on brands and transparency in the digital age. The event was co-hosted by KHQ Approved (our dedicated marketing law practice) and brand communications agency Hard Edge Media. The panel was chaired by James Hutchins, Senior Associate with KHQ Approved … Read more
A key change in Victoria’s gaming legislation is due to come into effect sometime in 2015. The Gambling Regulation Act 2003 (the Act) currently requires a permit be obtained to run a game of chance promotion in Victoria, where the total prize pool is $5,000 or more. The Gambling and Liquor Legislation Further Amendment Act … Read more
