Answers to Questions

MOBILITY SCOOTER SAFETY

In reply to the Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (29 September 2010).

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Public Sector Management, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister for Gambling): I am advised:

1. Currently, the sellers of mobility scooters are not required to provide any specific advice to consumers.

2. The Office of Consumer and Business Affairs (OCBA) provide a link on its website to the Australian Consumer and Competition Council (ACCC) Product Safety Australia website.

3. OCBA received four complaints relating to mobility scooters in 2009 and a further four have been received so far in 2010. None of the complaints received have arisen from government agencies.

Additional information—Mobility Scooters

In relation to Question 2

The Office of Consumer and Business Affairs provides a link on its website to the ACCC's Product Safety Australia website. OCBA have an agreement with the ACCC that they won't publish information that differs from the Product Safety Australia Website. The publication 'Help cut mobility scooter accidents' invites consumers to contact the ACCC if they have concerns about their mobility scooter.

The ACCC are coordinating a working party which is looking into mobility scooter safety. The ACCC recently published a report into mobility scooter injury data as a result of a commissioned study by the Monash University Accident Research Centre. The ACCC are now working in partnership with stakeholders, comprising industry, health and government agencies, to develop and implement strategies to minimise deaths and injuries related to mobility scooters. This will include the development of a safety standard for mobility scooters. Should such a safety standard be found necessary, it would assist in the regulation of the increasingly common mobility aid.

In relation to question 3

The majority of complaints received by OCBA related to problems such as the scooters not holding a battery charge, minor warranty repairs and change of mind purchases. OCBA advise that product safety issues relating to mobility scooters are referred to the ACCC.