Topic > Consumer Rights Case Study - 1413

Australian country of origin labeling is already difficult for consumers to understand. The new reforms will not be effective if this problem is not addressed. If the new labels are difficult to understand, it will be even more difficult for consumers to support Australian farmers and make an informed decision about products. This will only be possible if the new labels to be applied are more understandable for consumers. The kangaroo and Australian flag logos that will appear on these new labels will be eye-catching, simple and easy to understand. However, the text accompanying this logo will make it difficult for consumers to interpret. One consumer stated that "...as a shopper, I spend a lot of time in the supermarket squinting at the fine print trying to understand what is actually made in Australia or what has the most Australian content."' The Australian government should take into account consider removing the text from these new labels so that this legislative reform is more successful and more understandable. The text on these labels will only further confuse consumers. Furthermore, consumers would question these products and their country of origin even more than before. The government should aim to inform consumers in the simplest way possible to ensure clear understanding without any possibility of being so