The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has granted authorisation until 31 December 2019 to allow the Jewellers Association of Australia (JAA) to work with members to establish and operate a retail tenancy database.

The database will provide de-identified information about the terms and conditions of retail leases entered into by members of the JAA.  Members can choose to use this information in assessing their current and future lease arrangements.

“Access to information is an important factor for tenants when discussing contractual terms and conditions with landlords. Increasing a tenant’s access to such information can improve their input into contractual negotiations. This can lead to outcomes that better reflect the commercial interests of tenants,” ACCC Deputy Chair Michael Schaper said.

The Productivity Commission has previously recognised that some information asymmetries exist in the market for retail tenancies.

“The ACCC considers that the likely public detriment from the authorised conduct will be limited as participation in the Database is voluntary and the information provided is for guidance only. The JAA members will continue to individually negotiate and enter into leases that best suit their individual circumstances,” Dr Schaper said.

The JAA is a national not-for-profit organisation. Membership is voluntary, and members include organisations from the manufacturing, wholesaling, distribution and retail sectors of the jewellery industry. The JAA estimates that its membership includes more than 75 per cent of the jewellery industry.

Authorisation provides statutory protection from court action for conduct that might otherwise raise concerns under the competition provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010.