Minister for better regulation, Matt Kean joined specialist NSW Fair Trading staff at Golden Ponds Retirement Resort in Forster to raise awareness with seniors about dodgy tradies and cunning con artists.

Those aged over 65 are more likely than younger people to become victims of scams. 

Last year across Australia there were around 6700 reports of scams against 18-24 year olds who lost a total of about $2.4 million, while there were more than 25,000 reports of scams against people aged 65 and over for a total loss of around $17.5 million. That’s eight times as much as their younger counterparts.

At the Fair Trading seminar, residents learned about the many different types of scams, including investment “opportunities”, romance scams, non-existent government rebates and fake lotteries.

Mr Kean said he was proud to see Fair Trading staff sharing their expert knowledge on how to avoid scammers.

“It’s important that we spread awareness of scams and educate vulnerable members of the community so they can identify and protect themselves from dodgy businesses,” Mr Kean said.

For more information visit www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au.