Scams Prevention Framework Bill 2024

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Thursday 6 February 2025 · House of Representatives

   Consideration in Detail

   The debate focused on the implementation details of the Scams Prevention Framework Bill 2024, with the Coalition raising concerns about the lack of available delegated legislation and underestimated compliance costs. The Government defended the use of industry codes for flexibility and confirmed that regulatory impact statements were based on industry consultation. Independent members moved amendments to improve consumer protections, including requiring entities to provide statements of compliance during dispute resolution and publishing scam data. The Government agreed to the amendments regarding statements of compliance, but rejected proposals to define vulnerable consumers or mandate public reporting of scam statistics.

   Outcome: The bill was not passed on division, with 13 votes in favour and 52 against.

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2. Thursday 6 February 2025 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   Members debated the Scams Prevention Framework Bill 2024, which sought to regulate banks, telecommunications providers, and digital platforms to combat financial scams causing an estimated $2.7 billion in losses in 2023. Government members supported the legislation as a comprehensive preventive measure, citing a recent 33 per cent reduction in scam losses, while Opposition, Greens, and Independents criticized it for insufficient victim reimbursement and excessive burden on consumers. Independent members moved amendments to strengthen protections, arguing the current framework was inadequate despite acknowledging the severity of the crisis. The debate concluded with the bill being defeated in a division.

   Outcome: The bill was defeated in a division with 58 votes against and 76 votes for.

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3. Thursday 6 February 2025 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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