What is consumer representation?

Value of effective representation

Effective representatives can describe what their constituency does (not just what they themselves do), how they do it, when they do it and why. They can either see how their constituency’s knowledge and experience relates to that of the others at the table or they can work towards an understanding of those relativities and relationships. They can also predict accurately the consequences for their constituency of any decisions.

Together, representatives from the consumer, industry and professional sectors can bring the knowledge and experience that enables officials to develop a clear understanding of the elements of a successful solution and a clear understanding of the consequences of that decision, and any variations, for those groups represented.

Don’t get stuck on the terminology - the term consumer representative is a generic term for layperson, community representative, and consumer representative.

A consumer representative may be required as a member of a board or committee for a set term, or may be someone who is to be consulted in respect of a specific issue.

Ministry's role in consumer representation

The Ministry advises government departments and other agencies about:

• the purpose and value of consumer representation 
• the value and different perspectives consumer representatives can bring to the decision-making process 
• the qualities of effective consumer representatives; assisting them by making nominations of suitable and appropriate consumer representatives 
• the practical difficulties consumer representatives may encounter.

The Ministry also

• nominates consumer representatives for consumer or lay positions on boards and committees 
• provides the opportunity for consumer representatives to network and support each other, and 
• provides training and support for consumer representatives through the Consumer Representative Network.

Contact the Ministry of Consumer Affairs if you require consumer representatives

If you are interested in being considered for a position as a consumer representative, read Being a consumer representative. 

Guidelines for Officials

Cabinet has agreed to Guidelines for Officials [PDF]  which includes the requirement to identify the consumer constituency when calling for nominations for lay/consumer appointments.

The Guidelines are based on a research study completed by the Ministry in 2001 into the nature of effective consumer representation.

View the Research Report here [PDF].

Papers and reports

In 2001 research by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs was completed on effective consumer representation. This research identified:

• the qualities of an effective consumer representative 
• the purpose of consumer representation 
• the value of consumer representation 
• the practical difficulties for consumer representatives and their solution 
• a Guideline for Chairpersons and 
• effective ways to locate consumer representatives.