Pacific consumer’s and credit:A case study of consultation in action

Liz MacPherson, General Manager

Ministry of Consumer Affairs, New Zealand

18th Consumers International World Congress

29 October 2007

Setting the scene

• Context for consultation

• Issues identified

• Consultation with and by the people affected

Consultation resulting in action

• TrueCost campaign piloted• Consumer clinics piloted• Training Needs Analysis being

undertaken with community groups• Minister’s Financial Summit• Ongoing involvement of Pacific

Island Reference Group

Looking ahead…

• Issues around consumers and credit are broader than simply ‘consumer issues’

• Continued engagement with community and business• Encourage ‘whole of government’ approach to

engage on key issues• Aim to identify solutions that work for people locally,

regionally, and nationally

For more information

• Pacific Consumers' Behaviour and Experience in Credit Markets, with Particular Reference to the "Fringe Lending" Market – Research Findings and Government’s Strategy

Available on the Ministry of Consumer Affairs website

www.consumeraffairs.govt.nz/policylawresearch/research/index.html