Melbourne Works Limited Fined $100,000

Melbourne Work Limited has been fined $100,000 FJD by the Suva Magistrate’s Court for accepting payment without being able to supply as ordered contrary to section 88 of the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission Act (FCCC Act 2010).

The Suva based trader was sentenced on two separate occasions where they were fined$50,000 for each matter. The court ordered a compensation payment with a total of

$9,850.00 for the construction of the kitchen, supply to built-in cupboards respectively. Furthermore, the court had awarded $400 as prosecution cost.

“This historic decision by the court to impose high penalties should issue a stern warning to Traders and Businesses that engage in unethical business practices,” FCCC CEO Joe Abraham. “The FCCC Act 2010 not only authorizes us to institute proceedings against traders in breach of the Act but also impose fines and seek compensation on behalf of the victimized

consumers.

“The judgment, considering the relative seriousness of the offence, is an appropriate one and trying to cheat Fijian consumers would not be taken lightly.”

While FCCC will always ensure that unethical traders are taken to task, there are many more Fijian businesses that operate ethically and have the best interest of the consumers. FCCC as part of regulatory compliance reform introduced the Voluntary Compliance Framework. When the focus is making a long-term change by allowing businesses to embrace the principles of consumer protection.

The FCCC is the ONLY statutory body that is empowered to enforce the protection of Consumer rights for all Fijians. Ultimately, the Commission plays a very crucial role in ensuring that every Fijian consumer is prioritized and privileged with appropriate recourse and justice.

Feedback: rosi.doviverata@fijisun.com.fj