Victorian Urged To Learn More about Their Rights and Avoid Problems
Victorian consumers are the best-informed when it comes to knowledge of consumer protection laws but continue to experience problems in a number of sectors, Consumer Affairs Minister, Michael O'Brien said.
The 2011 Australian Consumer Survey revealed that most Victorian consumers are confident that businesses do the right thing and will not mislead or cheat them.
However, consumers reported difficulties in a number of sectors including utilities, mobile phones, electrical goods, internet service providers, banking or financial products and clothing and footwear.
Under the Australian Consumer Law, where goods or services are faulty, defective or otherwise do not meet guarantees, consumers have the right to remedies such as a refund, replacement or repair.
Mr O'Brien said the Australian Consumer Survey results proved largely positive for Victoria.
"Victorians are savvy and informed consumers – 90 per cent of Victorians surveyed know that consumer protection laws are in place," Mr O'Brien said.
"When consumers know their rights, they can be confident in asserting these rights with a trader."
"An impressive 97 per cent of Victorian businesses surveyed were aware of their legal obligations and responsibilities to protect consumers."
The survey sought views from more than 5,300 consumers and 1,200 businesses across the country.
In the 2010-11 financial year, Consumer Affairs Victoria received almost 142,000 queries from consumers seeking advice and information on shopping problems.
The Australian Consumer Survey 2011 is available on the Australian Consumer Law website.
For further information on consumer matters, contact Consumer Affairs Victoria on 1300 55 81 81 or visit their website.