Consumer Protection

People might be turning away from traditional bricks and mortar travel agents, but they are still flocking to online travel and tour booking services. Regardless of whether you prefer to book direct with the provider or use an agent or service, you need to be aware of how best to protect yourself in the event of that business going bust.

If it starts to look like your dream holiday and hard earned money might vanish quicker than a sunset on a tropical beach, act fast for the best chance of getting your money back or finding another way to still travel.

Commerce Minister Tony Buti has released the following media statement: Housing supply further boosted through incentive extension | Western Australian Government

Key points:

Motorists in Perth and Mandurah are advised to fill up now if they need to, with petrol prices set to rise tomorrow. After today motorists will likely have to wait a week before petrol prices are again at the bottom of the price cycle.

Commerce Minister Tony Buti has released the following media statement: Rent bidding inspections expand WA-wide | Western Australian Government

Key points:

• Dodgy door knockers back targeting WA homes with substandard roof repairs
• Elderly couple paid $18,000 for minor work that was not completed
• Red flags include no quotes, no contact info, demands for bank cheques

Consumer Protection has issued a fresh warning for WA households to be on high alert for travelling conmen following recent reports including an elderly Hillman couple who paid more than $18,000 for unfinished minor roof restoration work. 

Motorists in Perth and Mandurah are advised to fill up now if they need to, with petrol prices set to rise tomorrow. After today motorists will likely have to wait a week before petrol prices are again at the bottom of the price cycle.

• Tax time warning as scammers steal $48,000 in 2024-25 so far
• Scammers lodging fraudulent tax returns in victims’ names
• Advice to change passwords regularly, switch on MFA, never share login details

As the financial year draws to a close, Consumer Protection is urging Western Australians to be extra vigilant against tax scams, which become more common around this time.

• Rental scam victims receiving fake emails ‘confirming’ bogus bond lodgements
• New tactic by scammers to prolong the deception for more money
• Genuine emails about security bonds come from wa.gov.au addresses only

A concerning new wave of rental scams is emerging, with scammers now posing as Consumer Protection to trick prospective tenants into believing their security bond payment is secure so they can continue the deceit and steal more money.

As temperatures drop, families are being reminded to take simple precautions to stay safe while keeping warm this winter.

Whether it’s switching on a heater, using an electric blanket or lighting a fire, following a few key safety steps can help prevent injuries and accidents at home.

Scored a bargain on a new TV, washing machine or fridge lately? But with the purchase often comes the question, “would you like to add an extended warranty?”

It might sound like a smart move for extra peace of mind in case something goes wrong. But before you hand over more money, it's worth taking a closer look at what you’re really getting. Because in many cases, the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) may already cover you.