But not all emerging social challenges would require additional laws, with issues such as artificial intelligence and volatile fuel prices potentially addressed using existing rules.
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb issued the call as consumer, business and energy regulators met in Brisbane on Thursday to discuss future safeguards.
The meeting comes after consumer energy product complaints surged, but also as regulators considered the impact of AI tools, data centre demands, and rising petrol prices fuelled by conflict in the Middle East.
Several simultaneous challenges had created "some of the most uncertain times and volatile times" in recent history, Ms Cass-Gottlieb said, handing a significant challenge to organisations tasked with moderating their impact.
Energy prices had emerged as a leading issue, she said, as rising fuel costs drained household finances and more consumers installed renewable energy products to reduce electricity bills.
The commission's recent report into the National Electricity Market found solar panel and battery installations delivered energy bill savings of up to 52 per cent but also drove up complaints by 107 per cent.
Some additional complaints could be expected due the number of installations, Ms Cass-Gottlieb said, but consumers clearly needed help to tackle complex contracts, faulty installations, and poorly designed systems.
"We've suggested that additional consumer protections are worthwhile," she told AAP.
"We're calling for an overarching consumer duty supporting electricity-specific protections, including a code of conduct to be clear about the way in which the service and the plan would be offered, and to expand ombuds(man) scheme coverage so there is clear dispute resolution."
The commission will also monitor petrol prices closely over the coming weeks after the removal of the federal government's fuel excise discount, she said, and would use the two-day event to discuss AI rules.
While the technology could be used to mislead and scam consumers, Ms Cass-Gottlieb said existing consumer laws could be modified to offer protection to avoid crafting overly specific rules.
"We feel at times, particularly in times of uncertainty and crisis, there can be an overreaction with a focus on right now," she said.
"It's important for all of us to look to the medium-term at least, not just the immediate term."
The event, hosted by the commission and the Australian Energy Regulator, will host panels on topics including data centre developments, competition among digital platforms, and the transition to renewable energy.
