Statement of expectations 2016-17

Mr Simon Cohen
Deputy Secretary, Regulation &
Director, Consumer Affairs Victoria
Level 17, 121 Exhibition Street
MELBOURNE VIC 3001

Dear Mr Cohen,

Statement of Expectations for Consumer Affairs Victoria and the Business Licensing Authority

I am pleased to provide you with this Statement of Expectations (SOE) for Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) and Business Licensing Authority (BLA). This SOE applies for the period 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2017, or until otherwise amended. Please note that a reference to CAV in this SOE also includes the BLA.

Improving the administration and enforcement of regulation

This SOE sets out my expectations of CAV’s continued contribution to the Government’s Regulation Reform Program to reduce red tape and improve regulatory practices.

This SOE outlines key governance and performance objectives and targets aimed at promoting greater efficiency and effectiveness in the administration and enforcement of regulation and thus reducing its cost impact on businesses, not-for-profit organisations, government service providers and households. It is an extension of the previous SOE that was in place for the period 2014-15 and 2015-16.

As Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, I am responsible for administering the Australian Consumer Law and Fair Trading Act 2012 and related consumer protection legislation that affect businesses and the broader Victorian community. This SOE should be read within the context of the objectives, obligations and functions set out in these Acts.

Improvements and targets

Based on consultation with CAV, I have identified some key areas of governance and operational performance where there are opportunities for CAV to make improvements that would reduce cost impacts on business.

I expect CAV to identify activities it will undertake to achieve the following performance improvements and targets:

Increased accountability and transparency

• Inform business and consumers about CAV’s regulatory approach to risk, enforcement and regulatory action.

Improved timeliness

• Reduce the time required for consumers to access the right information and advice relating to building or renovating in Victoria
• Make it simpler for private landlords to submit residential tenancy bonds to the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA).

Reducing the cost of compliance for small business

• Reduce the delays and costs for builders and consumers in relation to resolving domestic building disputes.

In developing actions to achieve these improvements and targets, CAV is expected to consult with business and the broader community as appropriate.

Reporting

Reporting on your progress to achieve these SOE performance targets should be undertaken in the context of annual financial reporting to avoid dual reporting streams. As part of annual reporting, regulators are expected to report on: