Door-knock sales ban starting this week in Victoria will reduce harms say consumer advocates
Consumer Action Law Centre campaigned long and hard for a ban on door-to-door sales in Victoria and we are delighted that the ban for businesses that are part of the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) has come into effect this week.
The ban under the VEU program is in addition to a ban on ‘cold call’ telemarketing that commenced on 1 May 2024.
“It’s great to see the Victorian Government listened to the submissions and evidence we provided and is implementing a ban on unsolicited sales,” said Consumer Action Law Centre CEO, Stephanie Tonkin.
“We see the harms that door-to-door sales and high-pressure sales tactics can have on unsuspecting Victorians, and this step is significant in ensuring consumers are protected against predatory or misleading sales of renewable energy products.
“It’s important for people to be able to transition their home to renewable energy, and we support the VEU program’s crucial role in making sure that consumers can rely on these products being safe, fair and fit for their needs,” Ms Tonkin said.
The bans will protect consumers from unwanted marketing phone calls and visits about the sale of VEU products, empowering consumers to choose whether they want to be contacted for marketing purposes. Under the bans, businesses must obtain consent from consumers before telephoning or visiting them to market energy efficient upgrades, products and services under the VEU program.
ENDS
Media contact: Mark Pearce, Media and Communications Adviser, 0413 299 567, media@consumeraction.org.au
