Unlicensed traders and scams

The Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety is responsible for a variety of licences and registrations. Consumer Protection administers the following:

• real estate and business agents and sales representatives
• settlement agents
• land valuers
• motor vehicle repairers and repair businesses
• motor vehicle dealers, yard managers, salespeople and dealer premises
• employment agents
• debt collectors

For more information or to apply, renew or update a licence, please visit DEMIRs licensing page. 

Most licensed traders have to undergo training, possess a great deal of knowledge about the law and meet certain selection criteria and checks before they are approved for a licence by the Commissioner of Consumer Protection. As a result, establishing and running one of these businesses can require a great deal of investment in time and money.

If consumers use unlicensed traders, they are left with little or no protection if something goes wrong and this is particularly risky with unlicensed vehicle dealers and repairers.

Doubt in an unlicensed trader

If you believe your trader is unlicensed, please contact Consumer Protection. A person convicted of unlicensed dealing may face a maximum fine of $50,000.

Formal complaints can be address to:

Email:
consumer@demirs.wa.gov.au

Phone:
1300 304 054

Post:
Commissioner for Consumer Protection
Locked Bag 100
EAST PERTH WA 6892

Scams

Scams, rip-offs and frauds are becoming more and more commonplace. Consumer Protection has developed WA ScamNet as one method of combatting this ever-increasing problem.

How to spot a scam

There are so many types of scams out in the community, it can be very hard to identify what is legitimate and what is a scam. Spotting scams and learning how to protect yourself from falling victim, will help you avoid losing vital personal information and money. 

What is WA ScamNet?

WA ScamNet profiles the most prevalent scams targeting Western Australians and provides information on different types of scams, how to recognise scams, and what to do if you have received a scam. It also provides links to other useful websites such as WA Police and counselling services for victims.

How can you help WA ScamNet?

Simply send in your suspect emails and letters, Consumer Protection can identify the most prevalent scams and provide information to law enforcement agencies here in Australia and overseas.