The Latest Breaking News from ACCC

Schools in Australia have closed over asbestos in play sand fears – here’s what you need to know

Tasmania and the ACT shut schools as recalls issued for products at large chainstores but consumer watchdog says risk to children is low

The Guardian - AU · Nov 17, 2025

Dozens of schools in Australia and New Zealand shut after play sand recalled over asbestos fear

Closures follow laboratory results confirming traces of tremolite and chrysotile asbestos in several sand products widely used in early-learning classrooms

The Independent UK · Nov 17, 2025

Are Australians really paying more for electricity than other countries?

Australia’s electricity prices have gone up a long way over the past decade or so, but global energy trends have also pushed up bills in other countries

The Guardian - AU · Nov 16, 2025

Wiggles given bad wrap by watchdog over headband safety

The Wiggles admit they breached consumer law with their Emma Bow headbands that didn't have button battery safety warnings.

AAP · Nov 10, 2025

I often shop online. Is there anything I can do about dodgy couriers?

When a product isn’t delivered within a reasonable timeframe, it’s up to the retailer to provide a solution, writes Australian policy expert Kat George

The Guardian - AU · Nov 10, 2025

Microsoft apologizes to 2.7 million misled users for hiding subscription options after price hikes — and for broken refund links

Microsoft tried to make amends with 2.7 million users for forcing them into getting a more expensive M365 subscription plan bundled with Copilot AI, but only ended up making things worse.

Windows Central · Nov 6, 2025

Microsoft apologizes to 365 users over confusing software tiers

Microsoft says it “could have been clearer” about the option to retain Classic plans amid price hikes.

TechRadar · Nov 6, 2025

Spot the difference: parents warned that fake Labubu dolls could contain lead and pose choking risk

Australian consumer watchdog’s safety warning says counterfeit dolls – called Lafufus – can have wrong number of teeth and ears that are too wide

The Guardian - AU · Nov 5, 2025

Australians have been promised three free hours of solar power a day. Here’s what you need to know

Customers won’t need solar panels to benefit from the scheme – but will need a smart meter

The Guardian - AU · Nov 4, 2025

Collect 'em all: call for widespread battery recycling

Australia's voluntary battery recycling scheme will be allowed to continue but with limited uptake, the public could benefit if more devices were collected.

AAP · Nov 3, 2025