Consumer Protection would like to hear from consumers who have paid deposits to a Bunbury restaurant called World Kitchen, the overarching business The Singing Chef or Little Cornish Restaurant Pty Limited, or owner/director John Dudley.

A visit to the business premises on Cobblestone Drive, along with discussions with employees, indicates that the restaurant has closed its doors. Consumer Protection has not yet been able to contact the owner/director who appears to have vacated his residential address.

According to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) the business has not been put into administration or insolvency. However, the Australian Tax Office has lodged an application for a winding up order in the WA Federal Court and a Directions Hearing is scheduled later this month (30 September).

Commissioner for Consumer Protection Anne Driscoll is asking consumers to lodge their details with the department while further information is gathered.

“Phone calls we have received lead us to believe a number of people have paid large deposits, equalling thousands of dollars, for upcoming functions, such as weddings,” she said.

“Consumers in this situation who haven’t already been in contact with Consumer Protection should call either 9722 2888 or 1300 30 40 54 or email consumer@commerce.wa.gov.au

“We will then be able to discuss options and store consumer details to provide updates as we get them.

“For the time being I would urge consumers to exercise caution and not make any further payments to this business.”

The Commissioner said this situation highlights some important general consumer messages.

“Whilst we do not know what is happening with this particular trader, we understand that some consumers have paid by direct bank transfer or using cash and that some may not have receipts.

“Paying large deposits and receiving nothing in return always carries risks and consumers should consider the benefits of using a credit card, which offers a chargeback (transaction reversal) if the consumer does not receive the goods or services they paid for.”