Watchdog
Started a new year health kick? Beware the ‘subscription trap’
Gyms, streaming services and meal-kit providers are being targeted by proposed new laws that will crack down on unfair business practices.
- Millie Muroi
Latest
State’s financial watchdog slams ‘reactive’ budget with no long-term plan
The auditor-general has warned that prolonged operating losses and cash deficits are not financially sustainable following a review of the state’s reports for the past financial year.
- Kieran Rooney and Annika Smethurst
‘Flipping mad’: Charges laid over Kew Recreation Centre roof collapse
WorkSafe Victoria is pursuing two construction companies in court following a lengthy investigation into the collapse, as locals demand answers from council on project delays.
- Brittany Busch
- Updated
- Renting
Almost $450,000 of fines handed out for dodgy rentals since March
The Victorian government has revealed the details of rental reform promised last September, including a dispute resolution service.
- Rachel Eddie
- Opinion
- Opinion
Scam nation: What’s going on with our most trusted companies?
The disturbingly regular notifications from regulators that businesses and brands Australians trust have allegedly misled them is more sinister than the digital scammers we face every day.
- Elizabeth Knight
- Exclusive
- Courts
Magistrate who mimicked interpreter’s accent to have sensitivity counselling
A watchdog has ruled a Victorian magistrate portrayed a culturally insensitive stereotype and his conduct lacked professionalism and respect.
- Melissa Cunningham
- Exclusive
- Childcare
WA childcare service accused of taking tens of thousands from parents
Consumer Protection is warning WA families to steer clear after at least 37 disgruntled customers claim to have lost more than $37,000 between them.
- Michael Genovese
Real estate agency charged after auction sale smashes price guide
The townhouse in Melbourne’s north-east was initially listed for $900,000 to $950,000, then raised to $1 to $1.1million. It sold for more than $1.5 million.
- Alex Crowe
- Analysis
- Consumer rights
Calls to make ‘no refund’ claims illegal as retailers snub consumer law
Consumer advocates say some businesses will continue to evade their responsibilities to repair, replace or refund faulty goods without reform of consumer law.
- John Collett
New federal corruption watchdog focuses on complaints to chase in 2024
Almost 90 per cent of reports to the National Anti-Corruption Commission are dismissed as irrelevant – but have recent whistleblower prosecutions deterred those who know about serious wrongdoing?
- Olivia Ireland
Original URL: https://www.theage.com.au/topic/watchdog-jdu