Fair Trading info translated into 15 languages online
Posted by editor (editor) on Nov 20 2009
2009 >>

Queensland’s non-English speakers now have better access to information about their consumer rights thanks to the Office of Fair Trading’s updated website.

Fair Trading Minister Peter Lawlor said information about how the OFT could help people had been translated and made available online in 15 languages.

“Unfortunately people who don’t speak English fluently may be more vulnerable to scams, might not understand their buyer rights, or if in business, might not be fully aware of their responsibilities,” Mr Lawlor said.

“The language barrier can also make it harder to know where to go for help when things go wrong or need checking.

“We want to give as many people as possible information that can help protect them which is why the Office of Fair Trading is taking steps to better cater for people from all backgrounds.

“Our site now has information in: Arabic, Bosnian, Dari (Persian), Dinka (Sudanese), Greek, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Samoan, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Spanish, Vietnamese and Swahili.”

Mr Lawlor said the web page included an overview of the Office of Fair Trading’s services including information about consumer rights when buying goods and services, resolving consumer complaints, and scams.

“It also tells people about a resource where you can check for debts before buying second-hand vehicles,” he said.

“Other issues that may need to be considered are highlighted too, such as finance and credit, registering a business name, business licensing and more.

“And there’s the number for a special phone interpretation service to help non-English speakers get further Fair Trading information in any of the languages.”

Mr Lawlor said ensuring all Queenslanders had access to services and programs regardless of their cultural, linguistic and religious backgrounds was a key part of the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation’s Multicultural Action Plan 2009-12.

The 15 languages are the most common languages other than English spoken in Queensland.

Visit http://www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au/how-we-can-help-you.htm to access the translated information.

Last changed: Nov 26 2009 at 11:32 AM