Unapproved spas on eBay – no way!

A NSW importer who had been reselling spas on eBay has been convicted and fined nearly $15,000 by Parramatta Local Court. The spas did not comply with Australian Standards.

The Minister for Fair Trading, Virginia Judge says that George Sekuloski and his businesses Wholesale Australia Import/Export, Cargo Industries Pty Ltd and Dome Technology were convicted for numerous offences under the Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act.

“The idea that someone would put the lives and homes of consumers in potential danger to make a quick buck over the internet is appalling,” says Judge. “Mr Sekuloski’s conviction conveys a strong message that people who try and do the wrong thing by consumers will be caught and prosecuted. Electrical appliances must be properly designed and manufactured so they won’t start a fire, or cause electric shock, injury or death when used as directed,” she says.

“This law exists to minimise the threat of serious harm to lives and property. Consumer safety is paramount.” Fair Trading investigators found that Mr Sekuloski sold two spas and a lead acid battery charger for an electric golf buggy on eBay. None of the items carried approval markings, or a Certificate of Approval showing they complied with Australian Standards. People who bought the spas also encountered great difficulty trying to contact Mr Sekuloski to resolve operating problems. One of the spas came with an LCD TV but the water pressure caused the filter top to blow off and the keypad didn’t work at all.

An inspection of the eBay website also found Mr Sekuloski was advertising another spa that was not approved.