Two Victorian companies which operated used car businesses in Dandenong and Cranbourne have had their licences to trade suspended. This means they can no longer trade in motor cars.
The Business Licensing Authority (BLA) suspended the licences of CMG Automotive Pty Ltd and CHM Motors Pty Ltd on 31 December 2024, after several customer claims on the Motor Car Traders Guarantee Fund were approved. This fund protects consumers left out of pocket when licensed motor car traders fail to meet their legal obligations.
CHM traded as United Automotive Group. CMG traded under several business names, including Automax Cars and Cranbourne Car Sales. Mark Nicholas Rimanic, 51, of Beaumaris, is the director of both companies.
The BLA has so far approved six claims on the fund against Rimanic’s companies, totaling more than $88,000. Customers claimed against the fund when CHM and CMG:
You should not buy or sell vehicles from either company or its subsidiary businesses while their licences are suspended.
We are aware of other people who may have been financially affected by these businesses, and are continuing to make enquiries into consumer complaints. If you have suffered a loss after buying a car from either CMG or CHM, or its businesses, contact us on 1300 55 81 81.
You may be entitled to compensation if your claim meets certain conditions. The maximum amount that can be awarded is $40,000 and there is no fee to make a claim.
For more information, including what is covered and how to lodge a claim, visit the Car compensation claims page on our website.