The Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC) is calling on Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) to curb illegal and unlicensed car and parts traders.

VACC Executive Director, David Purchase, called on CAV to prevent illegal traders from advertising through the media.

“Unlicensed, illegal traders expose the community to risk,” Mr Purchase said.

“Many prey on the naiveté of young people and their lack of knowledge of their rights.

“Some traders put lives at risk because of dangerous parts and the illegal sale of unsafe vehicles

“It is not easy to police the system; however CAV has powers to identify unlicensed trading, block their advertising and block their operations.

“The main problem we face is that Licensed Motor Car Traders are required by regulation to publish their LMCT number in all advertising, but unlicensed traders can advertise without a number and aren’t required by media publishers to provide proof they are legitimate,” he said.

“CAV could ensure unlicensed motor car traders are prevented from advertising in media and directories, unless they provide proof that they are legitimate.”

Mr Purchase said VACC had also asked for CAV support with a publicity campaign warning of the pitfalls of buying a car or parts from an unlicensed trader.

As part of its own campaign to cut down on unlicensed traders, VACC has been writing to local councils asking for their support and vigilance to prevent illegal backyard trading and kerbside selling.