Warning on charity scammers and dodgy handymen taking advantage of flood victims

Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading
The Honourable Peter Lawlor
10/03/2010
Warning on charity scammers and dodgy handymen taking advantage of flood victims

Fair Trading minister Peter Lawlor has warned Queenslanders not to be duped into scams or dodgy work following the devastating flooding in south-west Queensland.

Mr Lawlor said floods in south-west Queensland last week destroyed the homes and lives of so many residents.

"I don't want them to be conned into employing shoddy workers who often overcharge and do substandard work,'' Mr Lawlor said.

"The problem is they often overcharge or completely rip people off.

"They usually pressure people and demand cash upfront, sometimes even driving them down to ATMs to get their money.

"If you do not know the company go online to check their website, call their head office to confirm their existence or perhaps check with someone else in town if they've used the trader's services.

Additionally people should check the trader has an identity card with their full name and address. For any building work, tradesmen should also be able to produce their Building Services Authority license which says they are licensed to do that work.

A simple check to see if they are licensed can be done on the BSA's website www.bsa.qld.gov.au

Mr Lawlor also warned residents to watch out for bogus charities that might come out of the woodwork to cash in on people's generosity.

"It's sad but unfortunately a true story," Mr Lawlor said.

"Each year the Office of Fair Trading receives complaints about fake charities collecting money under false pretences.

"They seem to use natural disasters as an opportunity to take advantage of people's goodwill and good intentions.

Mr Lawlor said that while there had been no reports so far of this occurring in relation to the flood victims, it was a timely reminder to those who donate to make sure they are donating to legitimate charities.

"The Premier herself encouraged people to give generously to the Dis aster Relief appeal for flood affected communities.

"This is a great initiative and will go a long way towards helping those who need assistance in this difficult time."

Donations to the Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal for flood victims in south west Queensland can be made in person, over the phone or online. For more information about donating visit: http://www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/initiatives/disaster_recovery/southwest_03_10.aspx

Mr Lawlor said scammers operating under the ruse of a charity may try to collect via email, the internet or even at your door.

"The OFT's general advice to those who've been approached at home is to consider going directly to a reputable charity's website instead," Mr Lawlor said.

"If donating online, check the site is secure and that the organisation's contact details and functions are clear.

"Don't be fooled by an organisation if its name or site address differs even slight ly from a reputable agency, and if in doubt consider a different method of donation.

"Alternatively, contact a charity directly by phone to find out the most effective and safe ways to donate to the appeal.''

Permanent Link: Warning on charity scammers and dodgy handymen taking advantage of flood victims
Publish Date: 10 Mar 10