Issue Date:  -  Wednesday, 2 June 1999

Holidaymakers urged to beware

The Commissioner for Fair Trading, Patrick Walker, today urged consumers to be wary of high pressure sales tactics when holidaying overseas.

Mr Walker said the Ministry had received a number of reports from consumers returning from holiday in Bali, claiming they had been pressured into buying timeshare property worth thousands of dollars.

"Consumers have reported being approached by street touts offering free prizes to attend timeshare presentations lasting up to three hours," Mr Walker said.

"After three hours consumers can become very susceptible to high-pressure sales pitches."

"In one case, it was alleged that the salesperson contacted the consumer's bank in Perth to try and effect a transfer of their money on the spot, as soon as he agreed to make a purchase."

"These activities are not regulated by Australian law so it's important to be on guard at all times. The cost of taking legal action, if it becomes necessary, can be very expensive."