In 1923 and advisory council was established by the Co-operation, Community Settlement and Credit Act 1923,[3] to make recommendations to the Treasurer.

The Council submitted recommendations about the rules and regulations relating to societies and any action to be taken by the Treasurer, including the appointment of committees.

[6] The portfolio was abolished in the first Greiner ministry in March 1988 with the responsibilities allocated to the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs.

This was handled by consumer education, providing a complaints service, licensing some occupational groups, investigating prices and charges, responsible for weights and measures and landlord and tenant matters.

[12] The Fair Trading Minister is responsible for the regulation of various occupations, organisations and industries including incorporated associations, hairdressers, charitable fundraisers, pawnbrokers, biofuels and co-operatives.