CAV Taking Dangerous Toys Off the Shelf
Consumer Affairs Victoria is keeping dangerous toys out of the reach of children.
More than 11,000 dangerous toys seized from Victorian suppliers over a 12-month period have been destroyed.
Consumer Affairs Minister Tony Robinson said the State Government has “enacted very strict safety standards and ban orders to ensure toys available for sale in Victoria don’t pose unnecessary risks to our kids.”
Product safety officers inspected more than 150 toy importers, wholesalers and retail outlets last financial year across metropolitan and regional Victoria.
“Consumer Affairs Victoria’s product safety officers conduct regular inspections and raids on suppliers to ensure unsafe toys are not available for sale,” Mr Robinson said.
Toy suppliers breaching product safety laws risk prosecution and fines of up to $70,000.
When buying toys for children, Mr Robinson advised consumers to:
- Check for sharp edges or rough surfaces that could cause cuts and splinters
- Buy sturdy, non-breakable toys for babies
- Buy toys that are age-appropriate and ensure that young children do not play with toys meant for older children
- Check for gaps or holes that could trap fingers
- Be careful about toys that make loud noises as they could be harmful to ears
- Remove any loose magnets from toy boxes, as these pose particular dangers if swallowed
- Always supervise babies and young children while they play.
For important product safety information contact the Toy and Nursery Safety Line on freecall 1300 36 48 94.
Information and images of banned and dangerous toys are also available on the Consumer Affairs Victoria website.