Mackay Chapman October 2025 ACCC Update

In this month’s ACCC update:

• Federal Court Orders Optus to Pay $100 Million Penalty
• JustAnswer Faces Federal Court Action Over Misleading Pricing and Claims
• The Good Guys Fined $13.5 Million Over Misleading Store Credit Promotions

Keep reading for more information and key details.

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Federal Court Orders Optus to Pay $100 Million Penalty

Optus Mobile Pty Ltd has been ordered to pay $100 million for unconscionable conduct in selling phones and contracts to hundreds of Australians, many of whom were vulnerable or disadvantaged. 

The ACCC found consumers were sold products they didn’t need, couldn’t afford, or couldn’t use, and some were pursued for debts. 

Justice O’Sullivan said the conduct caused financial harm, emotional distress, and social shame. 

Optus admitted wrongdoing and agreed to a five-year court-enforceable undertaking, including a remediation program, system reforms, staff incentive changes, and a $1 million donation to support First Nations Australians’ digital literacy.

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JustAnswer Faces Federal Court Action Over Misleading Pricing and Claims

The ACCC has taken JustAnswer LLC to the Federal Court, alleging it misled consumers about its affiliation with Australian government agencies and the cost of its service. 

From November 2022, JustAnswer promoted a $2 joining fee, but consumers were automatically signed up for ongoing subscriptions of $50-$90 per month, often without clear disclosure. 

The ACCC also alleges the company falsely implied sponsorship or approval from the Fair Work Ombudsman or other government bodies – a huge no-no.

The regulator is seeking compensation, injunctions, penalties, publication orders, and a compliance program to prevent further consumer harm.

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The Good Guys Fined $13.5 Million Over Misleading Store Credit Promotions

The Federal Court has ordered The Good Guys to pay $13.5 million for misleading store credit and StoreCash promotions and failing to provide credit to over 21,000 eligible consumers. 

Between July 2019 and August 2023, the retailer ran 116 promotions offering store credit with undisclosed conditions, including very short expiry periods and marketing opt-in requirements. 

The Good Guys admitted the misleading conduct and cooperated with the ACCC. The Court also ordered consumer redress, requiring extended expiry periods for affected store credits. 

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The contents of this article do not constitute legal advice, are not intended to be a substitute for legal advice, and should not be relied upon as such. They are designed and intended as general information in summary form, current at publication, for general informational purposes only. You should seek legal or other professional advice concerning any particular legal matters you or your organisation may have.

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