Consumer Protection

Ryan acknowledged the necessity of strong consumer protections during the cost-of-living crisis but criticised the government's handling of specific sectors. Ryan highlighted the high profits of Coles and Woolworths despite rising prices for essentials like cheese and milk. Ryan argued that the government failed to legislate mandatory compensation for delayed or cancelled flights, contrasting Australia's inadequate vouchers with higher compensation in Canada, the US, and the EU. Ryan also noted slow progress on banking protections following the Hayne royal commission, citing ongoing issues with fraud burdens on customers and loss of trust in major banks.

Campbell illustrated the issue of shrinkflation with a personal anecdote about reduced product sizes at a local pool canteen. Campbell supported the government's focus on consumer protections to combat misleading behaviour and unfair treatment in the marketplace. Campbell reiterated that the ban on supermarket price gouging would commence on 1 July 2026, building on the mandatory Food and Grocery Code of Conduct introduced in April 2025. Campbell emphasised that these measures protect farmers and suppliers through stronger dispute resolution processes and improve transparency for shoppers via clearer unit pricing.

Venning agreed that banning unfair trading practices and shrinkflation were sensible measures but argued the government neglected regional consumers. Venning criticised the 3G network shutdown, stating that equivalent 4G coverage was not delivered in areas like Weetulta and Tarcowie, leaving residents without reliable emergency communication. Venning highlighted the instability of the South Australian power grid, citing wholesale electricity prices spiking to over $20,000 per megawatt hour and frequent outages affecting businesses and residents. Venning called for stronger consumer protections regarding power outages, comparing the unreliability of the grid to a faulty appliance that would warrant a refund.