Tips for Preparing Advertising Campaigns – Legal Compliance

In preparing advertising campaigns for market, often what seems like a good idea for an advertising campaign may be a breach of the Trade Practices Act 1974 (Cth) (the "Act"). Knowing when to recognise potential trade practices issues is the first step in avoiding breaches of the Act.

Substantial penalties, including significant fines, exist for both companies and employees who act in breach of the Act.

Some basic tips for preparing Advertising Campaigns

• Prices: Ensure that all prices are stated clearly and display the full cash price including GST and any other charges payable by the consumer. Ensure that prices are genuine and available;
• Comparative Advertising: Ensure that any comparisons between products or services are with like products of similar standard and quality, i.e. compare "apples" with "apples" - not "apples" with "oranges";