Industry Accreditation Program

Marine Queensland is the peak Industry Body in Queensland representing the interests of member organizations to government at all levels.  Marine Queensland as part of its charter is also responsible for dealing with consumer complaints regarding business transactions of both members and non members within the Marine Industry.  This activity aims to ensure that the reputation of responsible operators is protected while enhancing the confidence of the consumer in the industry.

The Association has for some time been working with various Divisions to introduce a Business Accreditation Program.  It is planned to expand this program across all Divisions of Marine Queensland and even to other State BIA's nationally is to provide a means to educate both consumers and business owners who have been involved in an accreditation program within the Marine Industry.

The Business Accreditation process is to ensure that the businesses operating within the industry are professional in their conduct and that the products and services they provide will result in a satisfactory customer transaction. The Accreditation Program reinforces that businesses within the marine industry strive to protect consumers and endeavor to prevent any false and misleading conduct or a consumer being financially disadvantaged.

Unfortunately, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of queries and complaints referred to Marine Queensland by consumers regarding the business practices of both member and non member businesses in the last three months alone.

Marine Queensland has future plans to promote to consumers those businesses which are accredited by their Industry Body and it is therefore recommended that Business Owners and Managers circulate to all staff dealing with customer transactions, a copy of the Association's Code of Conduct as a timely reminder to all employees of their role in customer transactions and the law under the Trade Practices Act and Fair Trading Act.

It is also recommended that staff giving advice to consumers or completing legal documentation should be encouraged to become an Associate member of Marine Queensland.  Associate members pay $250 per annum to be a recognized member of Marine Queensland which includes a four hour Information session regarding issues relating to the Code of Conduct, Trade Practices Act and Fair Trading Act provided at no additional cost.

Should you have staff you desire to nominate as an Associate Member please contact Marine Queensland on 07 3390 4657.