Consumer Affairs Minister Chris Bowen has welcomed the results of a review into the consumer policy framework which has recommended Australia adopt national consumer legislation.

The Productivity Commission review was set up in December 2006. Its final report was released last week and highlights inconsistencies in consumer law at the state level.

It recommends national legislation based on the Trade Practices Act. State law is based on the Act but the details vary.

Other recommendations include a national approach to product safety laws and consistent enforcement laws, including the power to impose civil penalties and bans.

“The development of truly national markets means that Australian consumers should expect to be treated in the same way, regardless of where they live,” Mr Bowen said.

The Government will release its formal response to the review at the end of October.