Cash prizes up for grabs for smart young consumers

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath today launched the 2015 Buy Smart Competition, which encourages students across Queensland to become smarter consumers. 

Ms D’Ath said students could get in the running for a share of more than $11,000 in prize money by developing a creative presentation about a consumer or financial topic. 

”Refund rights, scams and mobile phone expenses are just some of the issues facing young consumers in today’s marketplace,” Ms D’Ath said. 

“Learning consumer skills at a young age means the next generation is better placed to avoid marketplace traps. 

“The Buy Smart Competition provides an opportunity for students from years 4 to 12 to do just that, and have some fun along the way.” 

Students can work individually or in teams to research a consumer issue and present their findings to their peers. 

“Creativity is key – presentations can take any form, from board games and videos, to songs and artwork,” Ms D’Ath said. 

“Entries are also judged on their quality, relevance to consumer issues and ability to communicate a consumer message. 

“Students can work on their entries until the end of term three, with the competition closing on the 18 September 2015. 

“Winners will be announced in October.” 

The total prize pool is more than $11,000 across three categories – school years 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12:

• first prize – $500 for the student, $1500 for the student’s school or organisation
• second prize – $200 for the student, $800 for the student’s school or organisation
• third prize – $150 for the student, $500 for the student’s school or organisation
• up to ten discretionary $50 highly commended student prizes across all categories. 

For more information on the 2015 Buy Smart Competition, including classroom resources and details on how to enter visit www.qld.gov.au/buysmartcomp or call 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

Media contact: Attorney-General's office (07) 3719 7414 or Office of Fair Trading (07) 3247 5968 or (07) 3247 5965