Issue Date:  -  Monday, 17 July 2000

Buyers beware Bill's Camera House

The Ministry of Fair Trading is warning consumers to be wary of advertisements selling discount cameras from Bill's Camera House.

The Ministry's Call Centre has received numerous calls from customers who are concerned that the offer is 'too good to be true'.

Bill's Camera House operated by Mr William Murnane, has placed advertisements offering Canon Elph LT cameras valued at $230 for the extraordinary low price of $26.95.

The advertisement, which details the company's address as Brunswick, Melbourne, directs consumers to call a 1800 number to place an order or post in a coupon.

Consumer and Business Affairs in Victoria have also received inquiries about the offer and have contacted Mr Murnane.

"Mr Murnane has informed Consumer and Business Affairs Victoria that he will suspend the promotion indefinitely, as he cannot confirm his ability to meet the demand," said Commissioner for Fair Trading, Patrick Walker.

"He has also stated that payments for any order will not be processed and all monies paid will be refunded if a camera cannot be supplied."

Investigators from Consumer and Business Affairs Victoria have seized approximately 300 cheques that have been forwarded with orders for cameras and are making arrangements to return these payments to consumers.

The Ministry of Fair Trading advises any customers who have ordered a camera using their credit card, to approach their financial institution and request a credit reversal.

The investigation by the Ministry of Fair Trading is continuing.

Consumers wanting further advice on this or any related matter can ring the Fair Trading Call Centre on 1300 30 40 54 or send an email to consumer@docep.wa.gov.au.

Media inquiries:

Hayley Mayne
Tel: (08) 9282 0961
Mobile: 0409 118 982