The book "Trade Practices Act 1974" by Ray Steinwall is an authoritative and comprehensive annotation of the Trade Practices Act 1974, a significant piece of legislation in Australian law. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Consumer Protection: The book extensively covers consumer protection provisions, including access to services and product liability.
2. Anti-Competitive Practices: It delves into the anti-competitive practices, particularly in the telecommunications industry, highlighting advancements in protecting consumers from abusive practices.
3. Enforcement Procedures: The book discusses enforcement procedures, including the powers of the Tribunal and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
4. Legislative Changes: It provides detailed notes on the significant changes to the Act, such as the replacement of the Trade Practices Commission with the ACCC and the broadening of competition provisions.

Plot Summary

The book is structured into twelve parts, each covering a division of the Act. It spans 731 pages, making it a comprehensive treatise on the Trade Practices Act 1974. The text includes:

• Introduction to the Act: An overview of the Act's structure and key provisions.
• Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC): Detailed discussion on the role and powers of the ACCC.
• Consumer Protection: Coverage of provisions related to consumer rights and protection.
• Product Liability: Analysis of liability in product-related issues.
• Anti-Competitive Practices: In-depth examination of anti-competitive conduct, including specific practices in the telecommunications industry.
• Enforcement Procedures: Explanation of how the Tribunal and other bodies enforce the Act's provisions.

Critical Reception

1. Academic and Professional Reception:

   • The book is highly regarded by practitioners, students, and academics for its clarity and comprehensive coverage of the Act. It is considered an ideal legal companion due to its detailed annotations and case commentary.
   • The 1996 edition, reviewed in the Murdoch University Electronic Journal of Law, was praised for its comprehensive index and detailed notes on legislative changes, including the Competition Policy Reform Act 1995.

2. Publication Details:

   • The book was first published in 1999 by Butterworths Australia, with an ISBN of 0 409 31638 5.
   • There are also later editions, such as the 2004 edition, which is available for sale on eBay.

3. Impact on Legal Reform:

   • The book has been noted for its impact on legal reform programs in South Pacific Island nations, providing valuable insights into consumer protection and anti-competitive practices.

In summary, "Trade Practices Act 1974" by Ray Steinwall is a seminal work in Australian law, offering a detailed and authoritative annotation of the Act. Its comprehensive coverage and critical reception make it a valuable resource for legal professionals and scholars.