• ZAMEL'S: Jeweller fined $250,000.
    ZAMEL'S: Jeweller fined $250,000.
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Do you want to avoid a $250,000 fine? Then read this.

The consumer competition watchdog has released an updated version of its Advertising and Selling Guide.

The guide contains new advice relating to "was/now" pricing claims, as well as online marketing channels including social media, reviews and group buying.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) said the move was prompted by recent Federal Court enforcement actions.

This included a $250,000 penalty handed to jewellery chain Zamel's for misleading "was/now" or "strikethrough" claims.

In another case, the Court hit Scoopon with a $1 million fine for misleading businesses about the cost or risk of running a deal on the site.

It also misled consumers about their refund rights and the price of goods advertised in some deals.

ACCC deputy chair Dr Michael Schaper said truth in advertising is law.

"The Australian Consumer Law aims to put businesses on a level playing field by requiring them to truthfully advertise their goods or services.

"Nor can they try to get an unfair advantage over other firms by misleading their customers.

"Whether on television, radio, the internet or print media – businesses must ensure their advertising and selling practices comply with the law."

The revised Guide provides detailed information about how consumer law applies to specific selling and promotional activities.

It includes examples and links to case law summaries of relevant ACCC enforcement action.

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