GET ENTRIES IN FOR CONSUMER AWARDS

Fair Trading Minister Margaret Keech today reminded consumer crusaders to lodge 2007 Queensland Consumer Protection Awards nominations for the chance to win $1,500 plus well-deserved recognition.

Mrs Keech said the deadline for nominations was 5pm on National Consumer Day – Thursday, 15 March.

“Every year local individuals, businesses, community organisations, industry associations and the media go the extra mile to protect consumers,” Mrs Keech said.

“Now is the time to seek the recognition you deserve, or you believe an individual, group or business you have dealt with deserves.”

Mrs Keech said the Beattie Government instigated the Awards to recognise exceptional consumer protection, promotion, education or advocacy.

“Past nominees have included businesses that have developed customer education programs, provided consumer advocacy services, improved complaints processes or helped spread the word about important consumer issues,” she said.

Nominees can choose from three categories:

·TradeSmart Award – recognising achievement by a Queensland business, company or professional/industry association in promoting consumer protection.

·Consumer Advocacy Award – recognising achievement in promoting consumer protection by an individual, non-government or community organisation.

·Public Awareness Media Award – recognising achievement in advancing awareness about consumer issues in the Queensland media.

All nominees also have the chance to win the Minister’s Award for Excellence, selected from all nominations.

For more information go to www.consumerawards.qld.gov.au or email consumerawards@dtftwid.qld.gov.au.

Media contacts: Jo Gibbons 3224 2007 or David Smith 3225 1005