Hot off the press of the Dept of Fair Tradings email is this little note.
Quote:
"DNA Model Agency was fined $3,500 and ordered to pay court costs for failing to substantiate its advertised claims about the extent of its operations and its client's potential for career success," Mr Shine said.
"The agency is owned by a Canberra registered company, but operates from a studio in Albert Street in Brisbane's city centre.
"The Office of Fair Trading brought the charge against the DNA Model Agency after receiving complaints from its customers.
"Investigations into the DNA Model Agency revealed its claim of being the 'busiest and largest' agency in Queensland and claims about its clients' potential success could not be substantiated.
"The agency also claimed in its advertising to refund fees paid for photographic shoots if clients didn?t get any work after 12 months.
"For one customer this did not happen until after a complaint was made to the Office of Fair Trading."
Mr Shine said he hoped the penalties dealt to the company would serve as a warning to other traders not to make unsubstantiated claims.
"Traders in every industry must abide by the law, including the Fair Trading Act 1989 under which it is illegal to make claims that cannot be substantiated.
"Consumers who engage the services of such agencies, or any trader who makes claims that require substantiation, are urged to ensure they have proof of the claim before signing a contract."
For more information about trader obligations and consumer rights, visit the Office of Fair Trading website at WELCOME TO FAIRTRADING.COM.AU or phone 13 13 04.
|
Great stuff, too often we see crap like
"industry leaders"
"best in the business"
"biggest and the best"
Which of course is usually their own opinion and not a fact and hard to be substantiated. Take a look at your own as well as your competitors advertising, make sure you're not sucked into this type of competition coz it can easily happen.
