This Part sets out a scheme under which designated complainants may make designated complaints to the Commission.

The Commission must respond to a designated complaint within 90 days. If the complaint meets certain criteria, the Commission must give the designated complainant a notice that sets out the actions the Commission proposes to take in response to the complaint.

A designated complainant is an entity that the Minister is satisfied (among other things) represents the interests of consumers or small businesses in Australia in relation to a range of market issues that affect them.

A complaint is treated as a designated complaint if the Commission is satisfied (among other things) that it:

  (a)   relates to a significant or systemic market issue that affects consumers or small businesses in Australia; and

  (b)   relates to a potential breach of this Act or to one or more of the Commission's powers or functions under this Act.