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Trader Guide

The information provided in this guide is intended to assist second hand dealers and pawnbrokers to understand some of the responsibilities that are imposed upon them by the Second-Hand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Act 1989, the Second-Hand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Regulations 2008 (the Regulations) and the Second-Hand Dealers and Pawnbrokers (Exemptions) Regulations 2008. 

The traders guide does not include information about all responsibilities of traders and you should refer to the Act and the Regulations if you require any further information or clarification on any matter.

Consumer Protection

In conducting business, registered second hand dealers and endorsed pawnbrokers should be familiar with all their obligations under the Second-Hand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Act 1989 and the Regulations.

The Victoria Police deal with complaints about second hand dealers and pawnbrokers who do not comply with legal requirements. Consumer complaints are the responsibility of Consumer Affairs Victoria.

Record Keeping

All registered second hand dealers and endorsed pawnbrokers are required to keep accurate and complete records of every transaction involving the receipt of second hand goods. The details are set out in Regulation 9 of the Second Hand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Regulations 2008.

Signage

All registered second hand dealers and endorsed pawnbrokers are required to display certain signage on every secondhand dealing and pawnbroking premises they operate.  The signs are as follows:

For second hand dealers:

• Notice of Stolen Goods

For Pawnbrokers:

• Notice of stolen goods
• Notice of pawnbroker charges
• Notice of sale of pawned goods
• What are my rights when I pawn goods?

For your convenience the BLA has provided online versions of these forms which can be downloaded and printed for display.