Unlicensed Motor Car Traders a Key Focus for Consumer Affairs Victoria
Consumer Affairs Victoria has increased its crackdown on unlicensed and unlawful motor car traders in the last financial year.
"Unlicensed motor car trading – where consumers miss out on the protections they get when buying from licensed motor car traders – is a priority for the Victorian Coalition Government," Consumer Affairs Minister, Michael O'Brien said.
Mr O'Brien also said Consumer Affairs Victoria had targeted unlicensed motor car traders through a number of initiatives including a comprehensive education, compliance and enforcement program.
"More than 100 reports about suspected unlicensed motor car traders were received to the end of June. This information came from the dob-in hotline launched in May, reports from stakeholders and other sources. All of these reports have been followed up by Consumer Affairs Victoria, with suspected unlicensed traders contacted," Mr O'Brien said.
"By using electronic surveillance techniques, Consumer Affairs Victoria was able to identify ads placed by alleged unlicensed traders."
"Dodgy dealers were incorporated into routine inspection programs across the state, and industry groups were consulted about how to work together about unlicensed motor car traders."
Consumer Affairs Victoria finalised 15 court actions against licensed and unlicensed motor car traders in 2010-11. Unlawful motor car traders incurred:
- convictions
- good behaviour bonds
- financial penalties
- paid compensation of around $158,000.
Anyone who suspects someone is operating as an unlicensed motor car trader is encouraged to dob them in by calling Consumer Affairs Victoria's free hotline on 1800 351 591 or visit the website.