The Office of Fair Trading takes compliance trackside
Posted by editor (editor) on Oct 23 2009
2009 >>

This weekend's Gold Coast SuperGP marks the beginning of the Office of Fair Trading's multi-industry compliance blitz.

Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading Peter Lawlor said fair trading inspectors would be out in force performing random compliance checks on security personnel, retailers and accommodation providers.

"With the Gold Coast hosting the SuperGP and Schoolies, it goes without saying that this is a busy time of year. Fair trading inspectors will be working hard through this period to ensure operators are complying with the law," he said.

"This weekend our officers will be trackside conducting random licence checks on crowd controllers and security officers. Those found operating without a licence face prosecution."

Mr Lawlor said the Government would not tolerate undesirable people working in the security industry.

"At large events like the SuperGP and Schoolies the security industry should be serving to protect patrons - not roughing them up.

"Queensland's security licensing regime is one of the toughest in Australian, weeding out the rogue elements before they are licensed to operate."

"Keeping these people out of the industry helps reduce the risk of security providers being unnecessarily involved in violent incidents.

"It will allow race goers and Schoolies to feel safe and have confidence that security at a venue is being conducted by professionals who have met stringent licensing requirements." he said.

"I would also remind operators of licensed premises, security firms and security personnel that those found breaking the law will face the consequences."

Mr Lawlor said the compliance blitz would continue in the lead up to and during schoolies.

"As Schoolies approaches we will be ramping up our compliance activity. Fair trading inspectors will conduct random checks on licensed venues, accommodation providers and retailers.

"I urge traders to make sure their complaint handling procedures are in place and that their security providers are licensed," he said.

"During Schoolies we have allocated a dedicated resource to respond to schoolies complaints and issues as they arise. If you have problems contact the Office of Fair Trading on 13 13 04."

Consumers with information about breaches of fair trading law should report it on 13 13 04 or www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au

Last changed: Oct 27 2009 at 9:11 AM