DON'T FALL FOR 'DO NOT CALL' DOOR-KNOCKERS

Fair Trading Minister Margaret Keech has warned Queenslanders to ignore door-to-door traders trying to sign them up to the Do Not Call Register for a fee.

“I’m appalled by recent reports of door-to-door operators offering to sign Brisbane householders up to the national “Do Not Call” register for a fee,” Mrs Keech said.

“These operators appear to be preying on the elderly and the uninformed, charging people for a service they can receive for free.

“Queenslanders should know they can sign up to the register for free by phone, post or online. They can do this themselves and it’s free and easy.

“It is of great concern that these operators may be misleading people about how to sign up for the register.

“Under the Fair Trading Act 1989, traders cannot make false or misleading representations about a service. Traders caught misleading consumers can face fines of up to $40,500 for an individual or $202,500 for a corporation.

“Consumers should make sure they fully investigate any door-to-door offer before agreeing to a service or signing a contract.”

Mrs Keech said when dealing with door-to-door traders people should always:

·ask for full identification from the trader;

·make sure the service they are offering is not available at a better price elsewhere or, as in this case, available for free;

·always get independent advice to confirm what you have been told by a door-to-door trader; and

·ask the trader to leave if you are not interested in their product or service.

“If you suspect a trader is being misleading in their sales techniques, you should lodge a complaint with the Office of Fair Trading at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au or phone 13 13 04,” Mrs Keech said.

“To register your home or mobile number on the “Do Not Call” register visit www.donotcall.gov.au, phone 1300 792 958 or write to: Do Not Call Register, PO Box 42, North Melbourne VIC 3051.”

Media Contact: Jo Gibbons 3225 1005 / 0439 761 416