Published
- Pre-Xmas toy crush destroys thousands of unsafe toys
- Consumer Affairs inspectors removed 26,500 toys from sale
- Projectile toys and toy-like cigarette lighters confiscated
Thousands of dangerous toys were crushed today to ensure a safer Christmas for children across Victoria.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Heidi Victoria said the toys were seized by Consumer Affairs Victoria due to hazards that could lead to choking, eye injuries or lead poisoning.
“The toys being destroyed today failed to meet the safety standards that exist for a very good reason – the health and wellbeing of Victorian children,” Ms Victoria said.
“It is a priority of Consumer Affairs Victoria to remove any products that put consumers at risk. This should send a clear warning to manufacturers and retailers that unsafe goods will not be tolerated.”
In the lead-up to Christmas, product safety inspectors conducted an extensive inspection program of retailers and wholesalers across the state, resulting in more than 26,500 toys being removed from sale.
The toys confiscated this year include:
- toys for children under three-years-old, which can break into small parts and potentially choke a child;
- projectile toys, which can injure children’s eyes;
- toy-like novelty cigarette lighters; and
- toys that contain lead and other elements that could cause poisoning.
The toy crush is part of Consumer Affairs Victoria’s annual pre-Christmas toy survey inspections, which aim to remove from sale as many unsafe products as possible.
“Toy sales skyrocket at this time of year so it is vital that anyone purchasing toys ensures that products suitable for children’s ages comply with safety standards,” Ms Victoria said.
“We will continue to monitor traders for any toys that breach safety standards and pursue individuals and companies who trade in unsafe toys, to ensure that they don’t put Victorian children at risk.”
Under Australian Consumer Law, a supplier who fails to comply with a mandatory safety standard can face fines of up to $220,000 for individuals and $1.1 million for a body corporate.
Anyone with concerns about product safety issues can contact Consumer Affairs Victoria on 1300 55 81 81 or visit www.consumer.vic.gov.au
Contact details
Carolyn Jones - 0437 996 560
