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Fines up to $46,000 for telemarketers promoting Victorian Energy Upgrade (VEU) scheme end barrage of nuisance calls

The Nationals secured a ban on nuisance calls promoting the Victorian Energy Upgrade (VEU) scheme, effective May 1st, also extending to door knocking from August 1st. Enforcement by the ESC includes fines up to $46,000.

By news@gippsland - 7th May 2024 - Back to News

Victorians' mobile phones should be a little quieter after a ban has been introduced on nuisance telephone calls from companies spruiking the Victorian Energy Upgrade (VEU) scheme. The ban secured by The Nationals came into place on 1st May and also extends to door knocking. The new law followed a review of the practices used to sell the Victorian government energy upgrade scheme that used high pressure sales tactics to sell government subsidised solar systems, heating upgrades, hot water upgrades and LED lighting.

Victorian energy consumers gain control over marketing calls for the VEU program. A ban on telemarketing is effective, with doorknocking banned from August 1, 2024

Telemarketing ban implemented

Nationals MP, Melina Bath said the ban on telemarketing was long overdue as Victorians were tired of the constant intrusion in their daily lives. "As of the start of May accredited providers of the VEU scheme are not allowed to cold call a person to promote any products and services. While the ban on door knocking will come into effect on August 1st."

The Nationals have been calling for urgent action on rogue telemarketing calls given the frequency and shonky tactics used by some companies to push the Victorian government's energy upgrades scheme. The new laws which companies must comply with will be enforced by the Essential Services Commission (ESC) and companies found to be in breach will be liable for fines of up to $46,000.

Telemarketing ban criticised

Ms Bath said Labor's Minister for the Environment deemed the telemarketing of the VEU scheme was under control through its "Code of Conduct", but it was clearly deficient. "My constituents report they have been bombarded by constant disruptive and nuisance telemarketing practices. It should not have taken two years for the telemarketing ban to be enacted given the relentless technological scams that intimidate innocent people - all Victorians deserve these protections."

"I encourage anyone who receives a cold call spruiking the Victorian government's Energy Upgrades scheme to report them - take note of the company and or telephone number, tell the operator you're reporting them and hang up," Ms Bath said.

Reporting of breaches of Victoria's new telemarketing laws can be made by calling the ESC on (03) 9032 1310 or email veu@esc.vic.gov.au.
Online complaints can also be lodged with Consumer Affairs Victoria online.

Pictures from Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com