The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) has recently uncovered a disturbing trend in the automotive industry: the circulation of fraudulent roadworthy certificates. These counterfeit documents, primarily advertised on social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace, pose a significant threat to road safety and consumer protection.
VACC CEO Geoff Gwylim has been actively engaging with media outlets in recent days to raise awareness about this critical issue. "We're seeing an alarming increase in fake certificates that bear legitimate business details and licence numbers," Gwylim explained in a recent interview. "This makes them particularly dangerous for unsuspecting buyers."
The fraudulent certificates are often issued without proper vehicle inspections, putting drivers at risk and potentially leading to legal complications. VACC is urging all Victorians to exercise caution and only obtain roadworthy certificates through authorised channels.
In response to this growing concern, VACC is taking swift action:
- Collaborating closely with the Department of Transport and Planning to address the illegal practice
- Forming a working group of licensed vehicle testers to tackle industry concerns
- Advising affected Licensed Vehicle Testers (LVTs) to report incidents to VACC
- Encouraging consumers to file complaints with VicRoads if they suspect fraudulent certificates
VACC recommends that buyers be wary of certificates issued without proper inspections or at undisclosed locations. If you suspect you've encountered a fraudulent roadworthy certificate, please report it immediately.
As this situation develops, VACC remains committed to protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of the roadworthy certification process. Stay tuned for updates and remember: when it comes to vehicle safety, always choose authorised professionals.