Fair Trading Deputy Commissioner Steve Griffin today released the results of a week long visit by Fair Trading officers to Lismore and other far north coast towns from 6 - 9 June.

Mr Griffin said the visits showcased the range of services offered by Fair Trading to the community and included compliance checks across a number of industries regulated by the agency.

“Just over 220 premises were inspected, including motor vehicle dealers and repairers, travel agents, pawnbrokers and second-hand dealers, as well as visits to a number of building sites,” he said.

Fair Trading officers detected 207 breaches and issued 13 penalty notices totalling $4,290.

Mr Griffin said it was concerning that more than half the breaches involved motor dealers.

“In most cases, warning letters were issued for matters such as poor record keeping, incorrect information on vehicles, wrong forms being used and for not having certificates on public display,” he said.

Pawnbrokers and second-hand dealers accounted for 16 warning notices, while three travel agents received warnings.

Mr Griffin urged all traders to familiarise themselves with the relevant laws relating to compliance.

“Local Fair Trading staff are available to provide all the advice and information traders need to ensure they are fully compliant,” he said.

“It is vital for local businesses to get the advice and education they need to stay on top of their responsibilities and give consumers confidence in their dealings with them.”

Mr Griffin said it was pleasing that so many consumers and business owners took the opportunity to learn more about Fair Trading’s services.

“The eight information sessions attracted almost 900 people, including 146 residential builders who attended a home building expo and nearly 300 members who attended seminars on incorporated associations,” he said.

Fair Trading Minister Anthony Roberts took time out from a busy schedule to spend a day in Lismore talking and listening to business people and consumers.

“By day’s end, Minister Roberts had attended six events and talked to high school students, community workers, seniors, motor dealers, local business people and staff at the local Fair Trading Centre,” Mr Griffin said.

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