Trade practices and fair trading laws have assumed fundamental importance in the Australian marketplace. This subject examines the regulation of restrictive trade practices under the Trade Practices Act 1974 (Commonwealth) and the Competition Code with particular reference to collusive activity, distribution methods, pricing arrangements, abuse of market power, mergers and access to essential facilities. This subject also examines major fair trading initiatives under the Trade Practices Act, and State and Territory Fair Trading legislation, with particular reference to misleading or deceptive conduct, unconscionable conduct, advertising and marketing strategies and product liability. Aspects of the protection of intellectual property are also examined.