Consumer protection

Common value auction

Forward auction

Microeconomics

Commerce

Legislation

Economics

Transparency (behavior)

Auction theory

Business

Political science

Popularity

Australian business law review

This article analyses the challenges associated with online auctions and consumer protection. Online auctions are increasing null popularity - however, they come with a range of potential legal issues. This article focuses on two potential concerns under the laws of both the United Kingdom and Australia: first, when an online auction fulfils the requirements of an auction for the purposes of consumer protection legislation; and second, when online auction sales occur in trade or commerce. Both of these - apparently simplistic - questions highlight the complexity of the laws surrounding online auctions. Such complexity undermines the transparency of the legal system and puts consumers at risk of not understanding or appreciating their rights. The article concludes by making some initial points on potential reforms to improve transparency null the regulation of online auctions.

Online Auctions and Consumer Protection in the United Kingdom and Australia: The Value of Transparency