The Australian E-commerce Best Practice Model (BPM) was released in May 2000. A review of the Australian E-commerce Best Practice Model commenced in November 2003.  The BPM has been updated and replaced by The Australian Guidelines for Electronic Commerce, which were released by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer on 17 March 2006.

Treasury has also released a fact sheet covering issues when engaging in business-to-consumer e-commerce:

• Does your business follow ‘fair business practices’?
• Do consumers need specialised software or hardware to trade with you?
• Have you taken reasonable steps to ensure the goods and services you supply are accessible to people with a disability?
• Is all advertising material clearly identifiable, so it cannot be confused with other content?
• Are procedures in place to ensure that any marketing messages you send do not constitute spam?

• Have you taken reasonable steps to avoid entering into transactions with minors?
• Can consumers easily fi nd all key information about your business, including contact details?
• Are contract terms for purchases clear, accurate and easily accessible by consumers?
• Have you taken appropriate steps to protect consumers’ privacy?
• Have you provided consumers with payment mechanisms that are easy to use and offer appropriate security?
• Have you clearly explained to consumers the security and authentication methods you use so they can assess any risks?
• Do consumers have easy access to, and clear information about, dispute resolution procedures?
• Are consumers informed about any specific laws or jurisdiction applicable to transactions with your business?

See my guidelines for website compliance