Coles and Woolworths are set to face a joint class action next year over claims they misled shoppers with discount pricing promotions.
The Federal Court confirmed that the class action, led by law firm Gerard Malouf & Partners (GMP) on behalf of shoppers, will run alongside proceedings by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) against the supermarket chains.
The law firm said the decision will help the proceedings “move forward efficiently,” cut legal costs, and protect group members by avoiding duplicate processes.
The class actions have been put on hold until the ACCC’s liability judgment is delivered.
The court will first examine whether Coles and Woolworths made false or misleading claims in their discount campaigns.
If the ACCC finds the supermarket giants liable, the same finding will apply to the class actions, which will then focus on compensation for affected shoppers.
Shoppers impacted by the alleged actions from Coles and Woolies could be eligible for compensation ranging from $200 to more than $1,300.
“This is an important milestone for group members,” said Gerard Malouf, founder and chairman of GMP Law.
“The court’s decision to align our class action with the ACCC proceedings streamlines the path to justice, reduces costs, and strengthens the prospects of securing fair compensation if liability is established.”
The next case management hearing is scheduled for next Wednesday in Melbourne.
Images: Nine
