A refrigeration installer who took deposits from two businesses but failed to do the work has been convicted and fined.
On 26 March 2013, Dandenong Magistrates Court ordered Robert Turner, 39, of Pakenham, to pay $7500 in fines and $6179 in compensation to the businesses.
The Small Business Commissioner had referred complaints to Consumer Affairs Victoria, which prosecuted Mr Turner for two breaches of the Fair Trading Act and Australian Consumer Law. This law protects businesses for purchases up to $40,000.
In October 2010, Mr Turner accepted a $2179 deposit to install a refrigerator at a Pakenham shop, but did not turn up to do the work and never repaid the money.
In November 2011, he took a $4000 deposit for similar work at a Cranbourne business, but did not do the work or give a refund.
Mr Turner was convicted of both offences. He was also ordered to pay Consumer Affairs Victoria’s costs of $2000.