Thousands of Queenslanders received a financial boost in 2024 thanks to the efforts of the Office of Fair Trading (OFT), which helped return more than $11.8 million in refunds, repairs, and compensation.
Dylan Anderson
According to a new statement from the Queensland Government, OFT finalised over 21,150 consumer complaints during the year, marking a record level of intervention. The majority of these complaints involved everyday goods and services affecting household budgets.
Common Complaints and Major Wins
The top five most complained-about industries in Queensland last year were:
- Motor vehicles – 4,357 complaints
- Real estate and letting services – 1,529 complaints
- Building and construction – 1,359 complaints
- Manufacturing – 1,242 complaints
- Household goods and services – 12,298 complaints
Significant refunds negotiated by OFT included:
- $3,200 for an elderly customer who faced repeated issues with a mobility scooter.
- $76,990 for a consumer who experienced ongoing problems with a recently purchased car.
- $35,660 for a buyer misled during the purchase of a custom-built tiny home.
Supporting Queenslanders Under Pressure
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity, Deb Frecklington, acknowledged the financial strain many residents are under due to rising costs.
Dylan Anderson
"Last year, the Office of Fair Trading dealt with 12,298 complaints related to products and services Queenslanders use in their homes each and every day, such as household appliances and furniture," Minister Frecklington said.
"We know the cost of these often-essential items can add up and place a strain on budgets, especially with current cost-of-living pressures. That financial burden only increases when there are issues with the products, or worse, when they are never even supplied."
Your Rights Under Australian Consumer Law
Queenslanders are protected under Australian Consumer Law, which ensures goods and services must meet certain standards. If they don’t, consumers may be entitled to a refund, repair, or replacement from the business they purchased from.
Consumers who believe they have been treated unfairly are encouraged to first contact the trader. If no resolution is reached, complaints can be lodged directly with the OFT via their website.
For more information or to submit a complaint, visit the Office of Fair Trading website.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
