The Office of Fair Trading says more than $12 million was returned to Queenslanders in 2020 thanks to its efforts.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Shannon Fentiman said consumer complaints rose almost 20 per cent last year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“During the pandemic we saw a growing number of Queenslanders reach out to the Office of Fair Trading for assistance,” Ms Fentiman said.
“Complaints related to cancelled travel and holiday bookings soared by more than 600 per cent in 2020.”
She said more than $12 million had been returned in the form of refunds, repairs and replacements — an increase of 50 per cent compared to 2019.
The OFT finalised more than 18,600 complaints from consumers in 2020 compared to 15,800 in 2019.
Ms Fentiman said each year the most complaints were for purchases of products which fell within the ‘personal and household goods’ category.
“The figures show that goods, such as televisions, appliances and furniture, continue to be the number one cause of consumers’ issues, topping the list right across Queensland,” the Minister said.
“This was followed by complaints for motor vehicle sales and personal and household services such as gardening, repair and maintenance services.”
Complaints against travel agents came in at fourth on the list with those against real estate agents rounding out the top five.
