Whittlesea residents who are looking forward to relief from government energy scheme telemarketers following their banning from May 1 may still have some time to wait.
A warning posted on the Whittlesea Township Community page on social media has warned residents to be aware of door-to-door salespeople.
“I had solar panel people offering community bulk packages today. They had no identification documents and they asked to see electrical bills, offered payment plans and wanted to me to sign up on the spot,” the writer said.
“The door knockers would not show any brochures on what they were selling, and came quite abrupt when I asked for more info and said they would only provide that if I signed up,” the writer continued.
Door knocking activity in the district has led to community concern that the forceful sales tactics from energy companies, even after the ban on telemarketing and door knocking came into effect, will continue.
From May 1, providers and participants in the Victorian Energy Upgrades program – a State Government initiative that provides incentives for households that install certain energy-efficient products and services – will not be allowed to cold call a person to promote products and services.
A total ban on door knocking will come into effect on August 1. The changes also mean that providers and participants cannot purchase a person’s contact details from a third party nor arrange a contractor or other agent to call or door knock on their behalf.
Concern is also that residents who had signed up to the Do Not Call register are being repeatedly harassed and coerced by people promoting products, from heaters and hot water systems to shower heads, clothes dryers, and fridges.
In some instances, promised upgrades have resulted in faulty equipment and damage to existing appliances.
The Essential Services Commission will monitor compliance with the new laws, with companies found to be in breach liable for fines of up to $46,000. They can also be suspended or removed from the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.