Despite an increase of more than 40% in the number of product recalls since 2010, only about half of the potentially dangerous goods are returned, according to figures from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
“The question needs to be asked as to whether our current system for approving products for the Australian market is adequate,” Shine Lawyers class actions partner for Queensland, Rebecca Jancauskas argues.
According to Australian consumer watchdog, Choice, recall guidelines exist in Australia, but they are not mandatory and suppliers do not necessarily comply. The minimum requirements for a product recall can be met by notifying the Commonwealth minister for consumer affairs and issuing a recall notice in the hope that consumers will hear the message.
In 2013, Samsung warned of its top-loader washing machine that could catch fire, however, of the 144,000 appliances made, about 70,000 have not been returned.
From July 6 to August 6 of this year, 45 safety recalls have been registered on the ACCC’s official website list.