Pre-Games crackdown on fake indigenous art

An Office of Fair Trading compliance operation into Indigenous art and souvenirs has identified 12 Queensland retailers for further investigation, but found most shops and galleries are doing the right thing by artists and consumers.

Speaking at the Jellurgal Arts Centre on the Gold Coast, Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath said the OFT operation was about ensuring traders weren’t misleading consumers about the authenticity of artworks.

“I know most Queenslanders feel pride in the beautiful and meaningful works our indigenous artists create,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“In the lead-up to the Commonwealth Games we hope that tourists seek out authentic indigenous art and products which support our thriving Indigenous art community.

“One of the ways we can help consumers do this is to ensure that traders who sell products as authentic Indigenous art can substantiate their claims.

“And I’m pleased to say the OFT compliance operation shows most businesses checked are meeting their obligations to consumers.”

During February and March 2018, in the lead up to the Commonwealth Games, the OFT conducted 152 spot checks of art galleries and souvenir businesses.

All 46 art galleries and warehouses checked were found to be compliant with the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), with supporting documents verifying the authenticity of Indigenous art sold.

Of the 106 tourist businesses spot checked, 94 were found to be compliant with the ACL while 12 have been referred for investigation to determine if enforcement action is warranted.

“Under the ACL, businesses must not mislead customers about the products they sell, including artwork and souvenirs”, Mrs D’Ath said.

"I’d encourage anyone to question traders about claims such as “original work” and if they can’t be substantiated, take your business elsewhere.”

The OFT will be available throughout the Commonwealth Games to assist consumers with questions or complaints about consumer rights and trader responsibilities.

A copy of the Indigenous Souvenirs and Arts Factsheet can be found at www.qld.gov.au/fairtrading or by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

Media contact: Kirsten MacGregor 0417 675 917

Art galleries and warehouses checked (statewide by region)

Tourist businesses (statewide by region)