`DOUBLE THE TROUBLE' FOR DODGY DEALER

A Beenleigh backyard motor dealer has been convicted and fined $10,000 under the tough new penalties in the Property Agents and Motor Dealers Act 2000 (PAMDA).

Fair Trading Minister Margaret Keech said Ian Raymond Partridge, 50, of Kent Street, Beenleigh was found guilty in the Beenleigh Magistrates Court of selling eight vehicles without a licence between July and September 2006.

“This is the first prosecution of an unlicensed motor dealer to go through the courts since the penalties were doubled under the Act,” Mrs Keech said.

“This proves just how serious we are about protecting consumers from dodgy dealers.

“The Office of Fair Trading provided evidence to Magistrate Basil Gribbin, including photos and details of taped conversations about the sales.”

Partridge did not attend the hearing. As well as the fine, he was also ordered to pay court costs and now faces up to three months’ imprisonment if he does not pay up.

Mrs Keech said OFT mounted an investigation after a tip-off from a member of the public who was concerned about Partridge’s activities.[cb1]

“Motor dealers are required to be licensed under the Property Agents and Motor Dealers Act,” she said.

“They also have to prove they are suitable to hold a licence and have a minimum level of formal training and qualifications.

"Partridge never applied for a licence, although he knew he needed one, yet still sold vehicles from his home base.

“The laws exist to protect consumers and honest traders, They also promote the reputation and credibility of the Queensland motor industry by providing consumer protections such as statutory warranties.

“Under the tough new penalties those convicted of unlicensed motor dealing can face a fine of $30,000 or two years’ imprisonment.”

For more information on the responsibilities of motor dealers visit www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au and download a free copy of the Motor Dealing Good Business Guide.

Media contact: Joanne Gibbons 3224 2007 or David Smith 3225 1005