ACCC Takes Coles to Court for Fake Discounts; Australian Skier Matt Graham Wins Olympic Bronze
February 16, 2026
A federal court hearing started today in Melbourne as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) sues supermarket giant Coles. The ACCC accuses Coles of offering “illusory” discounts on hundreds of everyday products using a tactic called "was/is" pricing. They claim Coles temporarily raised prices before marking items as discounted under promotions like “Down Down.” The ACCC seeks large penalties and community service orders. Coles denies wrongdoing, saying cost increases from suppliers caused pricing changes. Woolworths faces a similar case later. The case unfolds amid rising grocery costs. In other news, Australian skier Matt Graham won bronze in the dual moguls event at the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. Graham overcame multiple injuries to claim Australia’s fifth medal at the Games. He said, “This means a lot, the other day was a bit bittersweet, coming fifth when I knew I had enough to get on the podium so today was a bit about redemption, I was fired up.” The International Monetary Fund (IMF) released a report praising Australia's “soft landing” in the economy but noted inflation pressures have returned. Treasurer Jim Chalmers called it a “very positive report,” saying it endorsed the government’s economic plan. Meanwhile, in Sydney, police continue the search for an 85-year-old grandfather, Chris Baghsarian, who was allegedly kidnapped by mistake. Police are concerned for his health as he needs daily medication. Victoria’s environment department is also searching for a young humpback whale entangled in rope off the Gippsland coast. The whale is moving slowly and appears underweight. The public is urged to report any sightings to DEECA. Additionally, the Labor government released figures claiming the budget would be $14 billion worse over two years if the Coalition had won the 2025 election. Treasurer Jim Chalmers criticized Coalition figures, saying they “blew up their economic credibility.”
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Tags:
Accc
Coles
Illusion Discounts
Federal Court
Matt Graham
Winter Olympics
Imf Report
Australia Economy
Humpback Whale
Kidnapping
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