An investigation conducted by Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS) has found that VIP Sheds Pty Ltd has committed offences under section 158(7) of the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), by wrongly accepting payment for goods and services, and failing to supply within an agreed or reasonable timeframe.
The Director of Consumer Affairs has issued 31 Infringement Notices to the two former directors of VIP Sheds, Mr Carl Dobson and Mrs Cassandra Dobson, with a total value of $95 480 ($47 740 per director), in accordance with section 25 of the Australian Consumer Law (Tasmania) Act 2010.
VIP Sheds was an Australian owned company that sold prefabricated sheds, garages and carports. The sheds were fabricated in Victoria and sold nationally, with VIP Sheds retail outlets operating in both Launceston, Tasmania and Laverton, Victoria.
VIP Sheds, along with related parties Sidach Pty Ltd and Sidach National Pty Ltd, was placed into liquidation on 7 April 2016.
CBOS’ investigation revealed that at least 67 Tasmanian consumers who paid a deposit to VIP Sheds, did not receive their goods as agreed. Many of these customers also reported that they have been affected emotionally by their financial loss.
Some customers have managed to secure refunds through their financial institutions for payments made via credit card to VIP Sheds.
Mr Dale Webster, the Director of Consumer Affairs, commented that “the issuing of these infringement notices is also an effective general deterrent to Tasmanian traders and businesses for wrongly accepting payment for goods and services.”
The Director’s Investigation Report will also be provided to the Australian Securities and Investment Commission, in support of the report provided by the liquidator appointed under section 533 of the Corporations Act 2000.
Tasmanian consumers who have had a negative experience with a Tasmanian trader or business may make a complaint to CBOS by phone on 1300 654 499 or by email to cbosinfo@justice.tas.gov.au.
Further information about consumer issues can be found at: www.consumer.tas.gov.au.