Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading
The Honourable Peter Lawlor

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Fair Trading warns against car-boot traders

The Office of Fair Trading has urged Rockhampton residents to be wary of car-boot dealers selling electronic equipment, following reports of traders operating in the area.

Minister for Fair Trading Peter Lawlor said two men, driving a white van, had approached a member of the public in the Rockhampton's CBD offering to sell him a stereo system which they claimed was leftover stock.

The two men said the stereo system was worth thousands of dollars but they were able to offer it at a reduced price.

“Consumers should be extra cautious about buying goods from car-boot dealers as their products are generally of inferior quality and over-priced,” Mr Lawlor said.

“These dealers often make false and misleading claims about the items they sell, and consumers only find out later that the goods they have bought are neither the quality nor standard they were claimed to be.

“By that time, the seller has shut the boot and taken off.

“If the goods are faulty, consumers have no means of recourse if the products don’t have legitimate warranties.

“Under the Fair Trading Act, consumers buying goods sold door-to-door for more than $75 are entitled to a 10-day cooling off period and do not have to pay the vendor until after this expires.

“Vendors must also supply consumers with two forms – one explaining the cooling off period and one which can be used to cancel the contract if so desired.

“Vendors who breach fair trading laws face fines of up to $54,000 for individuals and $270,000 for businesses.

“These people use high-pressure, slick sales techniques and it can be easy to fall victim to them,” Mr Lawlor said.

Mr Lawlor said consumers should be wary of car-boot dealers who:

- do not have an established business address, or only provide a post office box or suite number
- will not provide ID or contact details, or only provide an email address or mobile phone number; and
- operate out of rental vehicles or vehicles registered in another state.

“If you are approached by a car-boot trader and you suspect the items might be stolen, get as much information as possible about the trader or vehicle and contact your local police,” he said.

Report any scams or suspicious offers to the Office of Fair Trading at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au or call 13 13 04.


Minister’s office: 3224 2002

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