Instead of going through a months-long tribunal process, consumers who cannot resolve complaints about items worth less than $3000 will soon be able to take their issue straight to the NSW Fair Trading Commissioner.

A bill being introduced to Parliament on Wednesday will give the commissioner powers to direct businesses to repair, refund or replace goods, the NSW Minister for Better Regulation, Matt Kean, said.

NSW Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean is introducing a bill to Parliament to increase the Fair Trading Commissioner's powers. Credit:James Alcock

“This means fair, quick and cheap resolutions for consumers and businesses, and will be an alternative to the often costly process of courts and tribunals," he said.

In an ideal world, consumers and businesses work out a resolution without outside help, the minister said - however, for some consumers that process fails.