A PERTH mother and son duo have been hit with hefty fines after buying and selling cars without a licence for a year.
Angela Goodwin and Stuart Goodwin, from Banksia Grove, have admitted to buying and selling 27 cars without holding a licence from October 2017 to November 2018.
They were each fined $6000 and ordered to pay $580.50 in costs by the Perth Magistrates’ Court on January 24.
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READ NOWIn sentencing, Magistrate Scadden rejected Mr Goodwin’s explanation that selling vehicles was a hobby, describing the unlawful practice as a danger to the community.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection Lanie Chopping said unlicensed dealers eroded the rights of consumers who buy a used-car, potentially jeopardising their safety.
“People who buy vehicles from illegal operators do not have the protection of a warranty, meaning they have very little chance of getting repairs done if something goes wrong with the car after purchase,” she said.
“Dealer and repairer licensing also ensures repair work is undertaken properly, meaning the vehicle is safe to drive and industry standards are maintained.
“I urge car-buyers to only deal with licensed operators, and to report any illegal business to Consumer Protection so action can be taken.”
Consumers can check whether a motor vehicle dealer is licensed by doing a search on the Consumer Protection website.
Unlicensed dealers can be reported by emailing consumer@dmirs.wa.gov.au or by calling 1300 30 40 54.
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