JUNGLE Kids Indoor Play Centre in Wallan permanently closed its doors unexpectedly for its customers on Wednesday last week, claiming its closure is due to unsuccessful negotiations around a new lease agreement.
“After 13 incredible years, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the closure of Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre effective immediately,” they reported in a public Facebook post on Wednesday, February 25.
“We are deeply grateful to every family who chose to spend their time with us … This decision has not been an easy one. We received this information advising us of this closure at 2.50pm on Tuesday afternoon. We explored every possible option to continue, but, unfortunately, due to unsuccessful negotiations surrounding a new lease agreement and the proposed rental amount, we are unable to move forward … Please refer to the comments section for customer FAQs.”
A customer who rang the North Central Review on Wednesday said customers are horrified that the business has stated [in its FAQs] that memberships, passes, credits or gift vouchers will not be refunded.
“Many people would assume that the cost of these parties are small,” she said.
“However they are not, they can be upwards of $500. Many customers were promised discounts and vouchers that would be ongoing throughout the next 12 months.”
On Facebook last week, Jungle Kids reported: “Jungle Kids is unable to honour or refund any unused party bookings, memberships, passes, credits or gift vouchers. As the business is no longer operating, it is not possible to provide services or process refunds for unused products or bookings. We acknowledge this will be disappointing and appreciate your understanding during this truly difficult time.”
But in its latest post, it said it has started processing refunds for all parties booked.
The community pooled together to help one family find a new party venue for a five-year-old girl’s birthday at the weekend.
Many people are shocked and resentful that they have invested money into the business and also helped promote its specials by word of mouth, but now told they are not getting a refund for their memberships.
A Consumer Affairs Victoria spokesperson said: “Consumers are entitled to a refund if a business cancels a contract or the consumer has not received the services they paid for.
“We encourage affected families to contact Consumer Affairs Victoria for more advice about their rights and options.”
Further advice is that customers may have the option of trying to get their money back by requesting a chargeback if a credit card was used for payment or by raising a dispute if you paid through an online payment service such as PayPal.
“You should do this as soon as possible,” the spokesperson said.
People can contact Consumer Affairs Victoria on 1300 55 81 81 or visit www.consumer.vic.gov.au