Breaches and penalties |
Inspections and compliance
Office of Fair Trading (OFT) inspectors conduct random on-site inspections of second-hand dealers and pawnbrokers to ensure they are complying with the law.
Inspectors also conduct investigations and may take enforcement action for breaches identified under the Second-hand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Act 2003.
Queensland Police Service officers can also issue on-the-spot infringement notices.
If the inspector is an OFT employee, they will produce a signed photo ID.
An inspector:
- enter any public place that is open
- enter an area with the owner's permission
- enter any area if they have a warrant from the Magistrates Court
- search the premises
- seize possessions
- take copies of documents
- take other people or equipment into the area.
You must abide by all lawful requests an inspector makes. If requested, you must:
- give your name and address
- provide any information regarding your work
- produce and provide copies of documents required.
A person must not obstruct an inspector while they are exercising their powers under the Act. A person who does so can face prosecution action.
Breaches and penalties
You could be severely penalised for operating unlicensed as a second-hand dealer or pawnbroker.
If you work unlicensed as a second-hand dealer or pawnbroker, you can be penalised up to $20 000.
Cancelled licences
If you hold a current licence and are found guilty of a disqualifying offence, we will ask you to show cause for why we should not cancel your licence.
Please report any inappropriate activity or unlicensed operators to us.
Last reviewed 30/06/2011 |
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