This Wednesday the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) will convene a national satellite link-up that will allow small business leaders in 25 regional towns across Australia to directly raise their concerns on competition policy with the Commission's chairman, Professor Allan Fels.
ACCC Commissioner for Small Business, John Martin, says the
Competing Fairly forum is an important pilot initiative which will bring together business leaders in each participating town.
"The ACCC doesn't want to talk at local business leaders, we want to talk with them," he says.
"This is an opportunity for local small business leaders to talk directly to the head of the ACCC about their concerns and other issues.
"For example, issues likely to be raised including petrol pricing, gas supplies, telecommunications, business relationships in the supply chain, how unconscionable conduct provisions in the Trade Practices Act can help small business, and bank charges.
"The ACCC is know for its success in high-profile court cases, but we recognise that prevention is better than cure.
"To this end, we know that information and education on trade practices law is important so that business people can better understand the rules of the game and how the ACCC can benefit them."
Fels will be joined by business leaders from such organisations as the Australia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Australian Retailers' Association, the National Farmers' Federation and Australian Business.
The forum will be hosted by well-known TV presenter George Negus and also will feature Australian Consumers' Association head Louise Sylvan and high-profile businessman Dick Smith.
For further information, including location details, or to register online,
click here. Alternatively, call the forum's producer, LOE-Wells, (02) 6242 1377.