4138 (2026). Arena Williams to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

Written Question
Published date: 27 Feb 2026
4138 (2026). Arena Williams to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs: Does the Minister agree with Coroner Borrowdale in his 2021 report who said "the incidence of window cord fatalities in this country, and the availability of preventative devices, to my mind readily make the case for mandatory regulation to address the risks", and if not, why not?
Hon Scott Simpson: I acknowledge Coroner Borrowdale’s comments and his concern about the risks that corded internal window coverings pose to young children. The question of whether to introduce a mandatory product safety standard must be informed by a full assessment of current evidence, policy considerations, and regulatory impacts.