We start the year with timely reminders regarding the commencement of the Competition and Consumer Regulations 2010 (Cth), Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cth) and new Work Health & Safety Laws.

Competition and Consumer Regulations 2010 (Cth) (previously Trade Practices Act).

Since 1 January 2012 there have been significant penalties for companies and individuals trading using non-compliance terms, conditions and warranties. Please go to www.consumerlaw.gov.au for more information.

Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cth)

We also remind you of the commencement of the Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cth) and the associated Personal Property Securities Register. A commencement date of 30 January 2012 has now been confirmed by the Government. Please go to www.ag.gov.au/pps for more information.

Work Health & Safety Legislation

From 1 January 2012 the current Occupational Health & Safety legislation (OHS laws) have been replaced by Work Health & Safety legislation (WHS laws). The legislation has been passed by NSW as well as other jurisdictions, and has commenced without any transitional or grace period. Please go to http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/newlegislation2012/Pages/default.aspx for more information.