Issue Date:  -  Wednesday, 31 October 2001

Seniors to make 'wise choice'

The Department of Consumer and Employment Protection has released a new version of Wise Choice - a consumer guide for seniors - to coincide with Seniors' Week.

The 26-page booklet contains a new section on cold calling (cold calling - an unsolicited sales pitch) and updated information for seniors on the internet and pyramid schemes.

Consultation with seniors has also resulted in a new ready reference section of useful consumer phone numbers and websites.

Consumer Protection Commissioner Patrick Walker said the publication had been redesigned to make it easier to read and more relevant to the changing nature of modern technology.

"Wise Choice is an excellent resource that can assist seniors to fight back against those people who think they can take advantage of the elderly," Mr Walker said.

"It provides seniors with useful information on buying or selling motor vehicles or a house, and tips on signing contracts and employing traders."

"It also offers information on Internet shopping, scams and investments to enable seniors to become better informed about making the right decisions," Mr Walker said.

Wise Choice is a free publication and is available by calling the Consumer Protection Call Centre on 1300 30 40 54.