Consumer Protection

Buying second-hand can not only be more cost effective than buying new, it can also be more sustainable and better for the environment. But is it safe?

When you buy second-hand products online from a business or in a shop, like a thrift store, you can expect the same consumer guarantee rights as when you are buying a brand new product.

This means you have the legal right to expect the product is of acceptable quality, including that it is safe, durable and free from defects, matches the description and is fit for purpose.

• Banksia Grove agent and agency penalised for misconduct to property owner
• Paid himself bond money for cleaning, neglected inspections, ignored instructions
• Banned for two years, reprimanded and ordered to pay $10,000 in penalties

A Banksia Grove real estate agent and his agency have been penalised by the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) for serious misconduct that included the unlawful handling of a tenancy bond, the misuse of trust funds and consistent failure to act in the best interests of their landlord client.

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.

FuelWatch reports that, from 6am tomorrow (Wednesday 9 July 2025), the average price of Perth’s regular unleaded petrol (ULP) will increase by 32 cents per litre (cpl) to 193 cpl with Ampol, 7-Eleven, Shell Reddy Express and Caltex hiking up to 209.9 cpl; Vibe up to 209.7 cpl; BP up to 209.4 cpl; EG Ampol up to 207.9 cpl; and United up to 199.5 cpl.

• Byford tradie takes $78,715 from WA homeowners, work undelivered
• 11 complaints against Allan Jason Dean Howard, primarily in March 2025
• Failed to deliver plastering, decking and a garage renovation after taking deposits

Consumer Protection is investigating complaints about a Byford tradesperson who has taken $78,715 in upfront deposits without commencing the work or providing refunds.

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.