Bait advertising, also known as bait and switch, is a type of deceptive advertising in which a business entices customers to visit a store or website with the promise of a particular product or service at a low price, only to then try to sell them a more expensive product or service once they have arrived.
In Australia, bait advertising is generally considered to be a deceptive and misleading practice, and it is therefore prohibited under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL). The ACL applies to businesses operating in Australia, regardless of whether they are based in the country or not.
Under the ACL, businesses are not allowed to make false or misleading representations about the availability, nature, characteristics, suitability, or quantity of goods or services they offer. This includes making false or misleading representations about the price or discounts they offer.
If you believe that a business is engaging in bait advertising, you can report it to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The ACCC is responsible for enforcing the ACL and can take action against businesses that engage in deceptive or misleading practices.
