Where to complain
Tim Colman
What would you do if your surgeon was smoking while operating?
It’s one thing to write about a negative experience on TrueLocal, but if a business has blatantly broken the law an anonymous review isn’t going to help. Different legal issues, including defamation, might mean your review simply can’t be posted. As a consumer you need to know your rights and direct your complaint to an organisation who can take action on your behalf.
Building and Construction
Builders and home owners often disagree when it comes to renovations. There are plenty of places to complain if you feel your job has resulted in dangerous, faulty or just plain dodgy work. In Victoria the Building Commission will point consumers in the right direction depending in the dispute while Building Advice and Conciliation Victoria (BACV) helps the two opposing parties come to an agreement. In NSW the Department of Fair Trading has a resolution process while the Master Builders Association has a Code of Practice all builders must adhere to. Other states have similar groups.
Removalists and Furniture
Removalists also get a bad rap. The Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA) will take your complaints in writing if the removalist is a member. If you’ve got problems with a faulty piece of furniture try the Furnishing Industry Association of Australia who have offices in every state.
Medical
Issuing a complaint against a doctor can be a serious matter so getting advice beforehand is recommended. Each Australian State and Territory has an independent health service which offers free advice to assist consumers with health related complaints. Get in touch if you’ve had a problem with a doctor, hospital, dentist and more. The Australian Medial Association (AMA) will also deal with complaints but only if the doctor is a member.
Legal
When it comes to legal professionals, specifically lawyers, solicitors or barristers, your first stop should be the appropriate body rather than review site. Each state and territory has its own independent statutory authority, Law Society or Bar Association which can handle your dispute. The appropriate organisation will be happy to take you through the steps required to submit a complaint.
Above is really just touching on the help which is available. Check out the Complaint Line website’s category list and hopefully you can rectify any problems with a business before taking to the internet and venting your frustration.
