Fair Trading returns more than $11.8 million to QLD consumers

The Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland) says the Office of Fair Trading (OFT)  finalised 21,150 consumer complaints in 2024. 

Motor vehicle-related complaints made up 4350 cases – around 20% of all complaints – and ranked among the top five reported issues.

The OFT’s intervention has resulted in more than $11.8 million returned to consumers, including a refund of  $76,990 for one Queenslander who faced persistent issues with a vehicle purchase. 

This outcome highlights the importance of robust regulation and consumer advocacy in the automotive sector, according to MTA Queensland.

It says it has long championed the cause of ethical and high-quality automotive service providers. 

As the body representing Queensland’s automotive industry, it remains committed to eliminating dodgy operators that threaten consumer safety, undermine reputable businesses, and erode public trust.

“Unlicensed vehicle dealers – often referred to as ‘backyard operators’ – continue to pose a serious risk to consumers,” MTA Queensland chief executive Rod Camm says.

“These individuals misrepresent themselves as private sellers to avoid their legal obligations. Consumers who purchase from such sources are denied basic protections like cooling-off periods and statutory warranties – safeguards that apply when dealing with licensed dealers.”

To combat these threats, MTA Queensland operates several public reporting platforms,

including:

• Dob in a Backyarder – A tool for consumers and licensed businesses to report

unlicensed dealers, assisting OFT enforcement efforts.

• Report Odometer Fraud – A platform to report illegal tampering of vehicle odometers,

helping to prevent financial loss and maintain road safety.

Odometer tampering remains a serious offence in Queensland, deceiving consumers into overpaying for vehicles that may have unseen wear and safety issues. 

MTA Queensland strongly supports enforcement actions that hold offenders accountable and protect buyers.

“Through our ongoing ‘Don’t Get Taken for a Ride’ campaign, we encourage all Queenslanders to make informed, confident automotive purchases by choosing businesses that are MTA Queensland members. Our ‘Find a Member’ directory helps consumers locate licensed automotive professionals committed to the highest standards of integrity and service,” Camm says.

“Whether buying a vehicle, seeking repairs, or maintaining your car, choosing an MTA

Queensland member ensures you’re backed by industry best practices,” he says.