Issue Date:  -  Tuesday, 17 December 2002

Introduction & dating agencies can leave consumers broken hearted.

Single people living in the state's North West are falling victim to the sales pitch of introduction and dating agencies who advertise in the region but can offer few prospects of providing matches.

While the industry's reputation has generally improved in recent years, there are still some pitfalls to watch out for in looking for your perfect match warns Marie Bingham of the Department of Consumer and Employment Protection in the North West.

"Consumer protection laws require these agencies to exercise due care and skill when fulfilling their contractual obligations. This includes having or obtaining sufficient knowledge about the towns they are targeting to be able to provide the services they are offering.

" In one case a $700 fee produced only three introductions for one Karratha consumer due to a low number of people on the agencies books in the area. Another local consumer was offered an introduction `in the next town' which happened to be Port Hedland, 250km away.

"Advertising via the Internet and on the radio often attracts lonely people who may see introduction and dating agencies as a solution to the isolation they are feeling," she said.

Consumer Protection offers the following advice when thinking about using these services:

 - Never pay large sums up front
 - Do not sign contracts in haste. Take your time and read everything carefully
 - Make sure you understand what you can expect to get for your money. Will you receive a specific number of introductions or unlimited introductions? What exactly is an `introduction' under the contract?
 - Just because you don't meet your `perfect match' doesn't't necessarily mean you will be eligible for a refund. If an agency misleads you, is deceptive or operates unconscionably, refunds may be appropriate. Call 1 300 30 40 54.
 - Remember that at holiday times loneliness and emotions may tempt us to do things we would not normally consider. You can always join later once you have considered all the aspects, especially the financial cost.

Media Contact: Marie Bingham 9144 1478