The following is a media release from the Office of Fair Trading (Qld).
The Do Not Knock informed communities program expanded to Hope Vale today (21 September 2017), with residents marking the occasion at a community event.
The program aims to deter unscrupulous door-to-door traders with prominent roadside signage reminding travelling salespeople of their responsibilities and obligations when trading door-to-door.
Residents are encouraged to use their consumer rights and are offered do-not-knock stickers for their homes. It is illegal under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) for itinerant traders to approach residences displaying do-not-knock notices.
The program was developed to counteract unscrupulous door-to-door traders who have previously targeted Indigenous consumers in north Queensland, in some instances landing consumers in financial hardship.
Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Greg Mclean welcomed the Do Not Knock informed communities program into the town of Hope Vale.
“The program is a great initiative that helps the community understand their consumer rights, in particular that they don’t need to tolerate high pressure sales tactics from door-to-door traders,” Mayor Mclean said.
“The signage at the town entry reminds traders that unlawful sales practices will not be tolerated.”
The program is a joint initiative of Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council, the Queensland Office of Fair Trading (QOFT), Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and Cape York Partnership.
Fair Trading Executive Director Brian Bauer said it was important for consumers to know laws existed to protect them from dodgy traders.
“In the past, consumers have found themselves in financial hardship, and often the cause can be traced back to door-to-door purchase contracts,” Mr Bauer said.
“Organisations such as the QOFT are here to help and to answer questions when needed.
“Consumers should be aware they are empowered to choose whether a door-to-door trader can approach their home.”
Hope Vale is the third Do Not Knock informed community in Queensland, following the program launch in Wujal Wujal in April 2016 and successful expansion to Yarrabah in May this year.
Free ‘do-not-knock’ notices are available to order from the OFT’s website at www.qld.gov.au/fairtrading.
More information on consumer rights is available from www.qld.gov.au/fairtrading or https://www.accc.gov.au/business/treating-customers-fairly/door-to-door-telemarketing-sales. Indigenous consumers can also call the ACCC’s dedicated Indigenous infoline on 1300 303 143.
21 September 2017
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