2 minute read
Occupational Licensing & Compliance Team - Motor Vehicle Dealers
by Boylen
MEGUERDITCH MIKAELIAN - DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRY, TOURISM & TRADE
Did you know if you sell four or more motor vehicles in a 12-month period you need a motor vehicle dealer’s licence?
WHAT DOES OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING DO?
Occupational Licensing administer Part 10 (Motor Vehicle dealers) of the Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading Act 1990, in the Northern Territory (NT). The legislation is designed to protect both consumers and sellers.
A common myth is that Government makes things difficult for industry professionals. In fact the compliance unit of Occupational Licensing (the regulator) are here to assist, guide and educate industry professionals to ensure that all facets of legislation are met.
From the initial application to the inspection of your premises and 12 monthly auditing, our role is to ensure Motor Vehicle Dealers have an understanding of their obligations to customers.
Since the introduction of Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree and other social media platforms more people are finding ways to make extra money on the side.
Industry members, along with the general public, are sharing their concerns and reporting individuals who are selling motor vehicles without the appropriate licence. It is often the buyer who gets the hot end of the muffler and has to take matters to Consumer Affairs and in some cases the Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
This is where the Compliance unit of Occupational Licensing step in and focus their attention. With highly skilled investigators the unit works closely with other Government agencies to investigate all complaints. So far this year the compliance team have already investigated 10 complaints regarding suspicious activities with action being taken against those who have sold four or more motor vehicles.
If you are aware of individuals or companies in the NT who have sold or are selling four or more motor vehicles and do not hold a Motor Vehicle Dealers Licence, please contact the Compliance unit of Occupational Licensing on 08 8999 1800.
