The report examines the Australian community’s experiences with digital service problems and challenges resolving online complaints. The report reveals widespread problems with digital services – people find it hard or impossible to get help. It finds that unresolved digital service problems are costing the Australian community an estimated $497 million per year.

This research links the decline in consumer sentiment in Australia to the cumulative, broad-based impact of high inflation on consumer purchasing power. The evidence suggests it is the persistent price pressures, rather than mortgage rates which are driving the pessimism across all household types, suggesting a return to confidence depends on inflation easing back.

Private health insurers can open a new health insurance product at any time, at any premium, without the Health Minister’s approval. This Impact Analysis considers a preferred policy approach requiring insurers to seek the Minister’s approval for premiums for new products, and existing products for which cover or value to consumers has been reduced.

Highly concentrated markets can be less competitive, leading to higher prices for consumers. Australia’s two largest supermarket chains account for around two-thirds of supermarket sales. This, combined with recent food price increases, has created renewed interest in how supermarket prices and supplier relationships are regulated. This paper outlines the context and current regulatory mechanisms.

This report outlines the state of private health insurance in Australia, trends, contracts, paying for medical care and premiums. It finds that fewer policies now offer top-level coverage, exclusions are at record levels, and the overall value of private health insurance is eroding. The report is designed to help consumers choose the right cover.