Fair Trading blitz on Mt Isa, Ayr and Charters Towers traders
Posted by editor (editor) on Jul 22 2010
2010 >>

The Townsville Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has conducted a blitz on Mt Isa, Ayr and Charters Towers traders as part of its ongoing compliance program to ensure businesses in the region are playing by the rules.

Fair Trading Minister Peter Lawlor said local OFT inspectors visited security providers, real estate agents, motor dealers and second hand dealers to ensure they were licensed and complying with the requirements of their industry.

“The inspectors also did random checks of retail shelves to ensure products were scanning correctly for customers,” Minister Lawlor said.

“I am pleased to report generally that most traders were found to be doing the right thing.

“What is disappointing though is that four $1500 infringement notices were issued due to breaches in the security provider industry.

“A security firm received two notices for engaging unlicensed security providers in Mount Isa and the two unlicensed workers copped a fine each as well.”

Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan said there was no excuse for employing someone without a valid licence.

“It can easily be avoided by asking to see someone’s licence before you hire them,” she said.

“And those who work without a licence are also committing a serious offence.”

“Working in security carries a high level of responsibility. Security providers are licensed by the OFT to ensure they are suitable and meet minimum standards of competency.

“This is a warning to all security providers in the Mount Isa region and statewide, if you are unlicensed you face maximum fines of up to $50,000 for an individual or $250,000 for a company,” Mrs Kiernan said.

Mr Lawlor said the OFT offered a free online search facility which allowed the general public to check security provider and other licences issued by OFT at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au

To report information or lodge a complaint with the OFT visit www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au or call 13 13 04.

Last changed: Jul 22 2010 at 11:03 AM