• Fake tickets have been detected at Optus Stadium events
• Warning that scammers will prey on Western Derby fans prior to bouncedown
• Consumers urged to only buy tickets from the authorised selling agent

WA footy fans desperate to buy tickets to tomorrow’s Western Derby at Optus Stadium are being warned about potential scams.

There are concerns by stadium management that fake tickets may have been sold via social media for events such as AFL matches.

Executive Director for Consumer Protection Penny Lipscombe said tickets should only be purchased from the authorised selling agent which, in this case, is Ticketmaster.

“We fear that, as tickets become scarce or are sold-out, desperate footy fans will be tempted to respond to offers on social media as well as other platforms and risk losing their money,” Ms Lipscombe said.

“We strongly urge consumers to exercise extreme caution before handing over money for tickets being sold online. Consumers should at all times buy tickets for major events and concerts only from the authorised selling agent to avoid disappointment, as entry to the venue may be refused.

“Consumers should also be aware that it is now illegal to sell tickets for more than a ten per cent mark-up under WA’s ticket scalping laws. Sellers suspected of breaking the law should be reported to Consumer Protection.

“Consumers are encouraged to check the authorised selling agent details for each event via the relevant venue website.”

Fake tickets being sold, as well as tickets being sold that breach WA’s ticket scalping laws, should be reported to Consumer Protection by emailing consumer@dmirs.wa.gov.au or by calling 1300 30 40 54.

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Media Contact: Alan Hynd, (08) 6552 9248 / 0429 078 791 / alan.hynd@dmirs.wa.gov.au