Bußgelder wegen Verstößen gegen australisches Verbraucherrecht bei Ticketverkauf und Rückerstattungen

Definition

Australian Consumer Law (ACL) under Schedule 2 of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 prohibits misleading representations about services, including event tickets, and voids unfair contract terms in standard form consumer contracts. Event organisers selling author event tickets with blanket 'no refunds' policies, even where events are significantly changed, risk enforcement. Typical author‑oriented events in Australia explicitly state non‑refundable tickets and credits on postponement.[1] The ACCC has taken action against ticketing and events businesses for similar practices, with court‑imposed penalties in the millions (e.g. large ticketing firms and festival organisers) for misleading consumers about their rights and using unfair terms. While smaller book retailers are less likely to face such large penalties, the statutory maximum for corporations is the greater of AUD 50 million, three times the benefit obtained or 30% of adjusted turnover during the breach period under s 224 of the ACL. Even where formal ACCC proceedings do not occur, state fair trading agencies can require refunds and issue infringement notices, and organisers must fund mass refunds for cancelled or significantly changed events. For a mid‑sized author expo with 300–500 premium tickets at AUD 1,000–1,500 each and hundreds of general tickets[1], forced refunds after a cancellation or misrepresentation could easily reach AUD 100,000–500,000 in cash outflow, plus any infringement penalties and legal costs.

Why This Matters

The Pitch: Book retailers and literary event organisers in Australia 🇦🇺 risk AUD 2.5 million+ in penalties for misleading ticket terms and refusal of lawful refunds. Standardised, automated T&Cs, disclosure and refund handling greatly reduce this exposure.

Affected Stakeholders

Directors / Owners, Legal Counsel, Event Manager, Customer Service Manager, Finance Manager

Related Business Risks