Fair Trading Minister Anthony Roberts today welcomed the appointment of Rod Stowe as the new NSW Fair Trading Commissioner.

Mr Roberts said Mr Stowe’s extensive experience gained through over three decades of public service makes him a perfect fit for the high profile consumer protection role.

“I’m delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Rod Stowe PSM as NSW Fair Trading Commissioner. Mr Stowe is an experienced and passionate advocate of Fair Trading in NSW.

“Mr Stowe understands the scale of the challenge ahead and appreciates that NSW Fair Trading is a critical agency for consumers, business, industry and this government,” he said.

“There is no question that the Agency suffered under Labor. Regulatory reform stalled, morale declined and Fair Trading lacked direction and vision. Rod’s appointment is a key part of my strategy to reinvigorate, reunite and redirect Fair Trading in NSW.

“I’ve asked Commissioner Stowe to develop an action plan to reinvigorate the Agency so that all staff are once again engaged and motivated.

“The laws Fair Trading administer set the rules for fairness in the countless daily transactions between consumers and traders. Fair Trading’s contribution to consumer confidence and ethical business practice are integral to achieving a vibrant and expanding NSW economy.

Mr Roberts said Mr Stowe is well placed to deal with the future challenges facing Fair Trading having worked in the portfolio for over 22 years where he has held a number of critical executive roles.

“Rod has made a significant contribution as an outstanding leader in policy, operational and regulatory review roles.

“Some of his career highlights while at Fair Trading include the national implementation of the Uniform Consumer Credit Code, overseeing the consumer protection strategy for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and managing the completion of the portfolio’s National Competition Policy legislative review program.

“In more recent times, as Deputy Commissioner at NSW Fair Trading, Rod has overseen the critical National Reform and has been invaluable in driving the initiatives of the Council of Australian Governments including the implementation of the Australian Consumer Law and the National Occupational Licensing System.”

Mr Roberts said Rod Stowe has consistently driven Fair Trading towards delivering better outcomes for consumers and quality service to the public.

“Mr Stowe has served the community of New South Wales with distinction and I look forward to working with him to deliver a clear public focus for consumer protection in NSW into the future,” he said.

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