Consumer rights discussed in Mount Ommaney
Posted by editor (editor) on Aug 12 2010
2010 >>

Buying a house, returning faulty products, dealing with doorknockers and avoiding scams were issues all under the spotlight today in Mount Ommaney thanks to a presentation by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).

Fair Trading Minister Peter Lawlor and Member for Mount Ommaney Julie Attwood today welcomed guests at an information session held at the Jindalee Bowls Club which gave around 50 attendees a brush up on their consumer rights.

"One of the roles of the OFT is consumer education and protection - so people can fully exercise their rights and make sure they get what they pay for," Mr Lawlor said.

"Regardless of the type of product or service or business you deal with, fair trading laws ensure all Queenslanders are entitled to basic consumer rights when buying something.

"If you look at refunds for example, despite signs that might be to the contrary, all consumers are entitled to a refund, exchange or repair if the product has a fault they didn't know about, was not described accurately in an ad, or doesn’t do the job for which it was intended.

"The OFT provides information to consumers on their rights in a range of different situations and I encourage everyone to refresh their knowledge now and then.

"It all comes down to knowing what you're entitled to so you don't get ripped off."

Member for Mount Ommaney Julie Attwood said the presentation by a Fair Trading expert gave attendees practical tips to walk away with.

"What do you do when approached in your home by someone selling something? What are some of the things I should look for when buying a house or caravan, or a car or boat? How can I avoid being a victim to email scams?

“These are questions most of us have asked at some point or another.

"The OFT website (www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au) has a wealth of information on these and a range of other topics and issues and it's a great resource of consumers."

Ms Attwood said the session also reminded people of what to do when things went wrong and recommended consumers try to work things out with the business in question in the first instance.

"Failing that the OFT can mediate between consumer and business and help obtain redress where possible. Where it's thought the business has breached fair trading laws, appropriate enforcement action will be pursued,” she said.

“I urge people to know their rights and where to go for help.

"Consumers who want to report information about a dodgy trader or lodge a complaint for being treated unfairly should visit the OFT website or call 13 13 04."

Media contact:
Minister’s office: 3224 1005
Mount Ommaney electorate office – 3279 5137

Last changed: Aug 12 2010 at 10:54 AM