From 1 July 2005, the Fitness Industry Code of Practice replaced the Code of Practice for Fitness Centres as the voluntary code administered by the national fitness industry body, Fitness Australia. All members of Fitness Australia agree to adhere to the Code as a measure of their commitment to consumer protection and safety. The revised Code has been updated and improved.

The Code provides a guideline for the business conduct of fitness centres and a guarantee to consumers of fair, safe and ethical service. The Code aims to enhance consumer confidence and improve the long term viability of signatory fitness centres by setting standards of business practice and service delivery, promoting a drug-free fitness environment and establishing procedures for dispute resolution.

Under the Code, fitness centres that are members of Fitness Australia must:

• Provide prospective members with sufficient information to make informed decisions about joining
• Not use false or misleading advertising or marketing practices
• Offer a range of membership plans with options of pre-payment or periodic billing
• Disclose the full price of all goods and services offered including various fees
• Maintain a high level of cleanliness
• Provide mechanically safe equipment and qualified staff to run fitness programs
• Provide a clear procedure for resolving complaints.

Consumers who have complaints concerning fitness centres that are Fitness Australia members, which they have been unable to resolve with the particular fitness centre, should contact:

Complaints Administration Officer
Fitness Australia
PO Box 6453
South Sydney Corporate Park
Alexandria  NSW  2015
Phone:  1300 211 311
Email: info@fitness.org.au