News
8 December, 2024
Toys taken off naughty list for Christmas
More than 20 products have been removed from sale in Queensland after recent compliance checks found they failed to meet Australia’s strict product safety laws.
More than 20 products have been removed from sale in Queensland after recent compliance checks found they failed to meet Australia’s strict product safety laws. The Queensland Office of Fair Trading (OFT) conducted inspections across over 100 stores and reviewed nearly 80 online sellers, assessing more than 5,000 toy lines.
The products removed from sale largely breached mandatory standards for button batteries, a particular safety concern due to the risk they pose to children. According to the OFT, one child is seriously injured each month in Australia from incidents involving button batteries. A total of 17 products, including light-up cups, juggling balls, and sensory toys, were identified online as failing to secure button battery compartments or display proper warnings.
In addition, products such as magnetic bucky balls and a fidget pen gift set were pulled from online sales for containing banned small high-powered magnets.
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington emphasised the importance of safety when shopping, especially online. She urged Queenslanders to shop through reputable retailers and be cautious of products from overseas sellers that may not comply with safety standards.
“Queenslanders are buying more and more online, and unfortunately, those products don’t always meet the required standards,” Ms Frecklington said.
As part of ongoing enforcement efforts, the OFT has fined retailers more than $54,000, and six enforceable undertakings have been finalised, requiring sellers to halt the sale of unsafe products and commit to ensuring safety.
The OFT will continue its safety monitoring beyond the festive season, and consumers are encouraged to report any concerns about unsafe products. For more information, visit the OFT website.
