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Question 18 — Optional Focus Study 1 – Consumers (25 marks) (a) Evaluate the effectiveness of law reform in achieving justice for consumers, and include a description of how the law regulates manufacturers/suppliers - HSC - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 18 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 18
Question 18 — Optional Focus Study 1 – Consumers (25 marks) (a) Evaluate the effectiveness of law reform in achieving justice for consumers, and include a descripti... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 18 — Optional Focus Study 1 – Consumers (25 marks) (a) Evaluate the effectiveness of law reform in achieving justice for consumers, and include a description of how the law regulates manufacturers/suppliers - HSC - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 18 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe how the law regulates manufacturers/suppliers
Answer
The law regulates manufacturers and suppliers through various statutes aimed at enforcing standards and ethical practices. Key legislation, such as the Trade Practices Act and the Sale of Goods Act, outlines the responsibilities of suppliers regarding product quality, safety, and misleading representations. Manufacturers are required to ensure that their products meet established standards, thereby protecting consumers from unsafe or defective products. Furthermore, these laws empower consumers to seek redress in case of breaches, establishing a framework for accountability and maintaining fair trading practices in the marketplace.
Step 2
Evaluate the effectiveness of dispute resolution mechanisms in achieving justice for consumers
Answer
Dispute resolution mechanisms are crucial for providing consumers with avenues to seek redress when issues arise with goods or services. Mechanisms such as mediation, arbitration, and tribunal processes facilitate accessible resolutions without the need for lengthy court proceedings. The existence of such systems reflects an awareness of the need for efficiency in resolving consumer disputes in a market-driven economy.
The Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal serves as a prime example of how dispute resolution can function effectively, providing a platform for consumers to address grievances against suppliers and receiving timely outcomes. Consumers are empowered through these mechanisms to hold manufacturers accountable and enforce their rights easily.
Step 3
Describe how the law protects manufacturers/suppliers
Answer
The law protects manufacturers and suppliers through regulations that govern fair trading practices and ensure that they are not subjected to unjust claims. Statutory protections such as those provided under the Trade Practices Act establish clear guidelines that define acceptable commercial behavior, thereby minimizing instances of disputes arising from unrealistic consumer expectations.
Additionally, manufacturers benefit from the assurance that laws will support their ability to protect their intellectual property rights, maintain confidentiality, and uphold trade secrets. This legal framework not only supports fair competition but also encourages consumer trust in the products offered by these manufacturers.