The ACCC has been asked to authorise the Australian Direct Marketing
Association (ADMA) Code of Conduct. ADMA want to launch the code on 9
November. If it goes ahead it will become the default standard for email and
web marketing (which are included in the code), so it is pretty important.
But have you ever seen it?
The ACCC wants to know what public interest groups think of the Code and has
asked for comments by Wednesday 21 October. Some privacy advocates got our
copy of the code TODAY so it is not a huge amount of time to comment.
It does not appear to be online anywhere so ring the ACCC - Angela Razborsek
(02) 6243
1239 for a copy (and you may wish to complain about the lack of notice,
short timeframe etc.
while you are there).
The ACCC's initial inclination is not to allow the Code to proceed in its
present form - they want some enforcement provisions toughened up. But I am
sure that once you see the code you may want to suggest your own
improvements. If the ACCC receive enough negative comments they are required
by law to hold a public conference about the Code. they have indicated that
this will take place in Sydney on October 29 if required.
The danger is that if the Code does receive ACCC approval then it can be
held out to consumers as a government "authorsied' code - so don't ignore
this opportnity to have your say.
Chris Connolly
chrisc@socialchange.net.au