This Act requires inbound tour operators to register and lets the regulator set codes of conduct and minimum standards for inbound tour operators and tour guides. It outlaws unconscionable conduct toward tourists and creates inspection, disciplinary and court-based enforcement routes (suspension, cancellation, civil penalties, compensation and injunctions). The rules affect inbound tour operators, tour guides, their associated persons and customers because businesses must register, meet conditions, and face sanctions for breaches.
Mechanically, the Tourism Services Act 2003 establishes a statutory framework regulating inbound tour operators and tour guides in Queensland. The Act creates a registration regime for inbound tour operators (Pt 3, esp. ss 12, 20-28), defines who is an inbound tour operator and who is a tour guide (ss 9 and 10), and makes it an offence to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator without current registration (s 12). The Act also creates a statutory prohibition on unconscionable conduct by inbound tour operators and tour guides in relation to supplying services to tourists (s 35). It provides administrative tools for compliance and remediation: the commissioner may seek undertakings (Pt 7, ss 69-72), suspend registration immediately on reasonable grounds where tourists may suffer detriment (ss 29-31), and cancel registration automatically following conviction for a “serious offence” (s 32).
Enforcement and remedies operate on several parallel tracks. For alleged unconscionable conduct the District Court may be asked to impose civil penalties or order compensation (Pt 9, ss 78-80), the commissioner or an aggrieved person may seek injunctions in the District Court (Pt 8, ss 73-76), and the tribunal (QCAT) may conduct disciplinary proceedings against registrants with a catalogue of powers including reprimand, suspension, cancellation and monetary orders up to the Magistrates Court civil limit (Pt 10, ss 81-84). The Act prevents double action for a single contravention: a person may be prosecuted for an offence or dealt with by disciplinary proceedings, but not both (s 97(2)). Procedural safeguards include review rights to the tribunal under the QCAT Act (s 85) and evidentiary provisions recognising certificates signed by the commissioner as evidence (s 88).
The Act provisions explicitly interact with other instruments. The Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014 supplies common inspector powers and the FTI Act powers are additional to any under this Act unless this Act provides otherwise (s 6A). The Act cross‑references the Fair Trading Act 1989 and the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) for defining “serious offence” (s 32) and identifies the Criminal Code provisions that extend criminal law extra‑territorially (s 6). The Governor in Council retains regulation‑making power about fees, record keeping and advertising, with a maximum regulation penalty of 20 penalty units (s 100).
Current sections
Direct links to the current provisions in Tourism Services Act 2003.
135
pt.1
Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1
Short title
sec.1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the Tourism Services Act 2003 .
sec.2
Commencement
sec.2 Commencement
This Act commences on a day to be fixed by proclamation.
sec.3
Act binds all persons
sec.3 Act binds all persons
This Act binds all persons including the State and, as far as the legislative power of the Parliament permits, the Commonwealth and the other States.
Subsection (1) does not make the State, the Commonwealth or another State liable to be prosecuted for an offence or proceeded against for a relevant contravention.
(sec.3-ssec.1) This Act binds all persons including the State and, as far as the legislative power of the Parliament permits, the Commonwealth and the other States.
(sec.3-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not make the State, the Commonwealth or another State liable to be prosecuted for an offence or proceeded against for a relevant contravention.
sec.4
Main purpose of Act
sec.4 Main purpose of Act
The main purpose of this Act is to provide for fair trading in the tourism services industry by—
establishing a registration system for inbound tour operators; and
providing for codes of conduct for inbound tour operators and tour guides including the setting of minimum standards for—
carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator; or
tour guides; and
prohibiting unconscionable conduct by inbound tour operators and tour guides; and
promoting sound business practices by inbound tour operators and tour guides.
(a) establishing a registration system for inbound tour operators; and
(b) providing for codes of conduct for inbound tour operators and tour guides including the setting of minimum standards for— (i) carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator; or (ii) tour guides; and
(i) carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator; or
(ii) tour guides; and
(c) prohibiting unconscionable conduct by inbound tour operators and tour guides; and
(d) promoting sound business practices by inbound tour operators and tour guides.
(i) carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator; or
(ii) tour guides; and
sec.5
Non-application of Act
sec.5 Non-application of Act
This Act does not apply to a person to the extent the person merely provides a travel package, or guiding services for tourists—
on a not for profit basis; or
for a community purpose if all net proceeds from the package or services are applied solely to furthering the community purpose.
In this section—
community purpose means—
a benevolent or philanthropic purpose, including, for example, the promotion of art, charity, culture, education, medicine, religion or science; or
a sporting or recreational purpose.
not for profit basis , for providing a travel package or guiding services, means the provision of the package or service—
does not have a significant commercial purpose or character; and
does not primarily seek to make a profit for anyone.
(sec.5-ssec.1) This Act does not apply to a person to the extent the person merely provides a travel package, or guiding services for tourists— on a not for profit basis; or for a community purpose if all net proceeds from the package or services are applied solely to furthering the community purpose.
(sec.5-ssec.2) In this section— community purpose means— a benevolent or philanthropic purpose, including, for example, the promotion of art, charity, culture, education, medicine, religion or science; or a sporting or recreational purpose. not for profit basis , for providing a travel package or guiding services, means the provision of the package or service— does not have a significant commercial purpose or character; and does not primarily seek to make a profit for anyone.
(a) on a not for profit basis; or
(b) for a community purpose if all net proceeds from the package or services are applied solely to furthering the community purpose.
(a) a benevolent or philanthropic purpose, including, for example, the promotion of art, charity, culture, education, medicine, religion or science; or
(b) a sporting or recreational purpose.
(a) does not have a significant commercial purpose or character; and
(b) does not primarily seek to make a profit for anyone.
sec.6
This Act’s interaction with other laws
sec.6 This Act’s interaction with other laws
This Act does not limit any other law.
The Criminal Code , sections 12 to 14 include some of the provisions that apply the criminal law of Queensland to particular acts or omissions occurring outside Queensland.
sec.6A
Relationship with Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014
sec.6A Relationship with Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014
The Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014 (the FTI Act ) enacts common provisions for this Act and particular other Acts about fair trading.
Unless this Act otherwise provides in relation to the FTI Act , the powers that an inspector has under that Act are in addition to and do not limit any powers the inspector may have under this Act.
In this section—
inspector means a person who holds office under the FTI Act as an inspector for this Act.
See also the modifying provisions for this Act stated in the FTI Act , section 9 .
s 6A ins 2014 No. 8 s 175
(sec.6A-ssec.1) The Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014 (the FTI Act ) enacts common provisions for this Act and particular other Acts about fair trading.
(sec.6A-ssec.2) Unless this Act otherwise provides in relation to the FTI Act , the powers that an inspector has under that Act are in addition to and do not limit any powers the inspector may have under this Act.
(sec.6A-ssec.3) In this section— inspector means a person who holds office under the FTI Act as an inspector for this Act. See also the modifying provisions for this Act stated in the FTI Act , section 9 .
pt.2
Interpretation
Interpretation
sec.7
Definitions
sec.7 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 2 defines particular words used in this Act.
sec.8
Meaning of associated person and effective control
sec.8 Meaning of associated person and effective control
An associated person of an applicant for registration or renewal of registration is a person who is not the applicant but nevertheless is, or would be if the registration were granted or renewed, in effective control of the applicant’s business.
An associated person of a registrant is a person who is not the registrant but nevertheless is in effective control of the registrant’s business.
A person who is in effective control of a business includes a person who—
is regularly or usually in charge of the business; or
regularly directs staff of the business in their duties; or
is in a position to control or substantially influence the business.
If an applicant for registration or renewal of registration, or a registrant, is a corporation, each executive officer of the corporation is taken to be an associated person of the applicant or registrant.
(sec.8-ssec.1) An associated person of an applicant for registration or renewal of registration is a person who is not the applicant but nevertheless is, or would be if the registration were granted or renewed, in effective control of the applicant’s business.
(sec.8-ssec.2) An associated person of a registrant is a person who is not the registrant but nevertheless is in effective control of the registrant’s business.
(sec.8-ssec.3) A person who is in effective control of a business includes a person who— is regularly or usually in charge of the business; or regularly directs staff of the business in their duties; or is in a position to control or substantially influence the business.
(sec.8-ssec.4) If an applicant for registration or renewal of registration, or a registrant, is a corporation, each executive officer of the corporation is taken to be an associated person of the applicant or registrant.
(a) is regularly or usually in charge of the business; or
(b) regularly directs staff of the business in their duties; or
(c) is in a position to control or substantially influence the business.
sec.9
Meaning of inbound tour operator and carry on the business of an inbound tour operator
sec.9 Meaning of inbound tour operator and carry on the business of an inbound tour operator
An inbound tour operator is a person who alone or with others—
carries on a business of selling to any of the following entities who are overseas entities, for an inclusive price, travel packages that include persons visiting, or travelling in, Queensland—
wholesalers of travel packages;
retailers of travel packages;
corporate buyers of travel packages, including, for example, an overseas corporation that buys travel packages for its employees; or
holds himself, herself or itself out in any way as carrying on a business mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or
is entitled to share in the income of a business mentioned in paragraph (a) .
For subsection (1) , it is immaterial whether or not the person—
has a place of business in Queensland; or
directly or indirectly provides other tourism services to persons who use a travel package of the inbound tour operator.
A person mentioned in subsection (1) (a) , (b) or (c) is taken to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator .
Despite subsections (1) (c) and (3) , a person is not an inbound tour operator, and is not taken to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator, only because the person is entitled to share, as a shareholder, in the income of the business of an inbound tour operator that is a corporation.
(sec.9-ssec.1) An inbound tour operator is a person who alone or with others— carries on a business of selling to any of the following entities who are overseas entities, for an inclusive price, travel packages that include persons visiting, or travelling in, Queensland— wholesalers of travel packages; retailers of travel packages; corporate buyers of travel packages, including, for example, an overseas corporation that buys travel packages for its employees; or holds himself, herself or itself out in any way as carrying on a business mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or is entitled to share in the income of a business mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(sec.9-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , it is immaterial whether or not the person— has a place of business in Queensland; or directly or indirectly provides other tourism services to persons who use a travel package of the inbound tour operator.
(sec.9-ssec.3) A person mentioned in subsection (1) (a) , (b) or (c) is taken to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator .
(sec.9-ssec.4) Despite subsections (1) (c) and (3) , a person is not an inbound tour operator, and is not taken to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator, only because the person is entitled to share, as a shareholder, in the income of the business of an inbound tour operator that is a corporation.
(a) carries on a business of selling to any of the following entities who are overseas entities, for an inclusive price, travel packages that include persons visiting, or travelling in, Queensland— (i) wholesalers of travel packages; (ii) retailers of travel packages; (iii) corporate buyers of travel packages, including, for example, an overseas corporation that buys travel packages for its employees; or
(i) wholesalers of travel packages;
(ii) retailers of travel packages;
(iii) corporate buyers of travel packages, including, for example, an overseas corporation that buys travel packages for its employees; or
(b) holds himself, herself or itself out in any way as carrying on a business mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or
(c) is entitled to share in the income of a business mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(i) wholesalers of travel packages;
(ii) retailers of travel packages;
(iii) corporate buyers of travel packages, including, for example, an overseas corporation that buys travel packages for its employees; or
(a) has a place of business in Queensland; or
(b) directly or indirectly provides other tourism services to persons who use a travel package of the inbound tour operator.
sec.10
Meaning of tour guide
sec.10 Meaning of tour guide
A tour guide is an individual who, for reward, personally supplies guiding services to tourists.
For subsection (1) , an individual supplies guiding services for reward if the individual receives a payment or other benefit for supplying the services, regardless of—
who makes the payment or provides the other benefit; or
where the payment is made or the other benefit is provided.
provision of accommodation, flights or food
Also, for subsection (1) , an individual is taken to supply guiding services for reward if he or she supplies the services as work experience, regardless of whether or not he or she is, or has an expectation he or she will be, later paid for supplying guiding services.
Further, for subsection (1) , an individual supplies guiding services whether the individual supplies the services for the whole, or only part, of the time the tourists are in Queensland.
(sec.10-ssec.1) A tour guide is an individual who, for reward, personally supplies guiding services to tourists.
(sec.10-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , an individual supplies guiding services for reward if the individual receives a payment or other benefit for supplying the services, regardless of— who makes the payment or provides the other benefit; or where the payment is made or the other benefit is provided. provision of accommodation, flights or food
(sec.10-ssec.3) Also, for subsection (1) , an individual is taken to supply guiding services for reward if he or she supplies the services as work experience, regardless of whether or not he or she is, or has an expectation he or she will be, later paid for supplying guiding services.
(sec.10-ssec.4) Further, for subsection (1) , an individual supplies guiding services whether the individual supplies the services for the whole, or only part, of the time the tourists are in Queensland.
(a) who makes the payment or provides the other benefit; or
(b) where the payment is made or the other benefit is provided.
sec.11
Notes in text
sec.11 Notes in text
s 11 om 2008 No. 69 s 97
pt.3
Registration
Registration
pt.3-div.1
Requirement of registration
Requirement of registration
sec.12
Requirement to be registered
sec.12 Requirement to be registered
A person must not carry on the business of an inbound tour operator unless the person is a registrant whose registration is not suspended.
Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.
It is a defence to an offence against subsection (1) for the person to prove the person is an exempt person.
The provisions of this Act about unconscionable conduct by inbound tour operators apply to all inbound tour operators whether or not they are exempt persons under this section.
A person is an exempt person if—
the person carries on the business of an inbound tour operator; and
also carries on a business of selling to persons in Australia travel packages that include persons visiting or travelling in Queensland; and
either—
the person has carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on that business in that period is less than 20% of the total number of travel packages sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) ; or
the person has not carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and, having regard to the business already carried on, and the business likely to be carried on, by the person in the 12 month period starting when the person started to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator, it is likely that the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator in that 12 month period will be less than 20% of the total number of travel packages likely to be sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) .
Example 1
Over the past 12 months X sells 10 travel packages to a retailer of travel packages who is an overseas entity and sells 90 travel packages to an inbound tour operator in Australia. X complies with subsection (3) (c) (i) because only 10% of the total number of travel packages sold by X were sold in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator.
Example 2
Over the past 12 months Y sells 80 travel packages to a wholesaler of travel packages who is an overseas entity and sells 20 travel packages to an inbound tour operator in Australia. Y does not comply with subsection (3) (c) (i) because 80% of the total number of travel packages sold by Y were sold in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator.
Z begins selling travel packages 3 months before the date of the alleged offence. Z advertises the packages in a way that is directed primarily at entities in Australia.
In that 3 month period Z sells 40 travel packages to entities within Australia and 5 packages to a retailer of travel packages who is an overseas entity. The 5 packages were sold on the first day of that period.
Z may be able to establish that, in the 12 months starting when Z commenced selling travel packages it is likely that the number of travel packages to be sold by Z in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator will be less than 20% of the total number of travel packages likely to be sold by Z.
(sec.12-ssec.1) A person must not carry on the business of an inbound tour operator unless the person is a registrant whose registration is not suspended. Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.
(sec.12-ssec.2) It is a defence to an offence against subsection (1) for the person to prove the person is an exempt person. The provisions of this Act about unconscionable conduct by inbound tour operators apply to all inbound tour operators whether or not they are exempt persons under this section.
(sec.12-ssec.3) A person is an exempt person if— the person carries on the business of an inbound tour operator; and also carries on a business of selling to persons in Australia travel packages that include persons visiting or travelling in Queensland; and either— the person has carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on that business in that period is less than 20% of the total number of travel packages sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) ; or the person has not carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and, having regard to the business already carried on, and the business likely to be carried on, by the person in the 12 month period starting when the person started to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator, it is likely that the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator in that 12 month period will be less than 20% of the total number of travel packages likely to be sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) . Example 1 Over the past 12 months X sells 10 travel packages to a retailer of travel packages who is an overseas entity and sells 90 travel packages to an inbound tour operator in Australia. X complies with subsection (3) (c) (i) because only 10% of the total number of travel packages sold by X were sold in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator. Example 2 Over the past 12 months Y sells 80 travel packages to a wholesaler of travel packages who is an overseas entity and sells 20 travel packages to an inbound tour operator in Australia. Y does not comply with subsection (3) (c) (i) because 80% of the total number of travel packages sold by Y were sold in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator. Z begins selling travel packages 3 months before the date of the alleged offence. Z advertises the packages in a way that is directed primarily at entities in Australia. In that 3 month period Z sells 40 travel packages to entities within Australia and 5 packages to a retailer of travel packages who is an overseas entity. The 5 packages were sold on the first day of that period. Z may be able to establish that, in the 12 months starting when Z commenced selling travel packages it is likely that the number of travel packages to be sold by Z in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator will be less than 20% of the total number of travel packages likely to be sold by Z.
(a) the person carries on the business of an inbound tour operator; and
(b) also carries on a business of selling to persons in Australia travel packages that include persons visiting or travelling in Queensland; and
(c) either— (i) the person has carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on that business in that period is less than 20% of the total number of travel packages sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) ; or (ii) the person has not carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and, having regard to the business already carried on, and the business likely to be carried on, by the person in the 12 month period starting when the person started to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator, it is likely that the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator in that 12 month period will be less than 20% of the total number of travel packages likely to be sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) .
(i) the person has carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on that business in that period is less than 20% of the total number of travel packages sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) ; or
(ii) the person has not carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and, having regard to the business already carried on, and the business likely to be carried on, by the person in the 12 month period starting when the person started to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator, it is likely that the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator in that 12 month period will be less than 20% of the total number of travel packages likely to be sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) .
(i) the person has carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on that business in that period is less than 20% of the total number of travel packages sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) ; or
(ii) the person has not carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and, having regard to the business already carried on, and the business likely to be carried on, by the person in the 12 month period starting when the person started to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator, it is likely that the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator in that 12 month period will be less than 20% of the total number of travel packages likely to be sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) .
pt.3-div.2
Suitability for registration
Suitability for registration
sec.13
Suitability for registration
sec.13 Suitability for registration
The commissioner may grant an application for registration, or renewal of registration, only if the commissioner is satisfied the applicant is a suitable person to hold registration.
In deciding whether an applicant is a suitable person to hold registration, the commissioner may have regard to any issue relevant to the applicant’s ability to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator in a competent and ethical way.
Also, in deciding whether an applicant is a suitable person to hold registration, the commissioner may have regard to the fact that—
an order has been made against the applicant under part 9 ; or
the tribunal has made an order against the applicant for a contravention of section 35 (1) ; or
the applicant has been convicted of an offence against this Act, the FTI Act if the offence is in relation to a matter under this Act, the Fair Trading Act 1989 , the repealed Travel Agents Act 1988 , the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cwlth) or a corresponding law within the last 5 years.
An offence against the Fair Trading Act 1989 includes an offence against the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) which forms part of that Act.
s 13 amd 2010 No. 54 s 67 sch ; 2014 No. 30 s 63 sch 1 ; 2014 No. 8 s 176
(sec.13-ssec.1) The commissioner may grant an application for registration, or renewal of registration, only if the commissioner is satisfied the applicant is a suitable person to hold registration.
(sec.13-ssec.2) In deciding whether an applicant is a suitable person to hold registration, the commissioner may have regard to any issue relevant to the applicant’s ability to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator in a competent and ethical way.
(sec.13-ssec.3) Also, in deciding whether an applicant is a suitable person to hold registration, the commissioner may have regard to the fact that— an order has been made against the applicant under part 9 ; or the tribunal has made an order against the applicant for a contravention of section 35 (1) ; or the applicant has been convicted of an offence against this Act, the FTI Act if the offence is in relation to a matter under this Act, the Fair Trading Act 1989 , the repealed Travel Agents Act 1988 , the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cwlth) or a corresponding law within the last 5 years. An offence against the Fair Trading Act 1989 includes an offence against the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) which forms part of that Act.
(a) an order has been made against the applicant under part 9 ; or
(b) the tribunal has made an order against the applicant for a contravention of section 35 (1) ; or
(c) the applicant has been convicted of an offence against this Act, the FTI Act if the offence is in relation to a matter under this Act, the Fair Trading Act 1989 , the repealed Travel Agents Act 1988 , the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cwlth) or a corresponding law within the last 5 years.
sec.14
When applicant is not a suitable person
sec.14 When applicant is not a suitable person
The applicant is not a suitable person to hold registration if the applicant, or an associated person of the applicant—
is an individual who is under 18; or
is an insolvent under administration; or
has been convicted of a disqualifying offence within the last 5 years; or
has breached an undertaking accepted by the commissioner under part 7 of this Act, or the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland), chapter 5 , part 5 -1, division 1 , within the last 5 years; or
is a corporation that is a Chapter 5 body corporate under the Corporations Act .
s 14 amd 2010 No. 54 s 67 sch ; 2020 No. 15 s 213 ; 2023 No. 23 s 247 sch 1 s 2 (3)
(a) is an individual who is under 18; or
(b) is an insolvent under administration; or
(c) has been convicted of a disqualifying offence within the last 5 years; or
(d) has breached an undertaking accepted by the commissioner under part 7 of this Act, or the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland), chapter 5 , part 5 -1, division 1 , within the last 5 years; or
(e) is a corporation that is a Chapter 5 body corporate under the Corporations Act .
sec.15
Inquiries about applicant’s suitability to hold registration
sec.15 Inquiries about applicant’s suitability to hold registration
The commissioner may inquire about the applicant or an associated person of the applicant to help in deciding whether the applicant is a suitable person to hold registration.
If asked by the commissioner, the commissioner of the police service must give the commissioner a report about the criminal history of the applicant or a named associated person of the applicant.
Subsection (2) applies to the criminal history—
that is in the possession of the commissioner of the police service; or
to which the commissioner of the police service ordinarily has access through arrangements with the police service of the Commonwealth or another State.
If the criminal history of the applicant or the named associated person includes a conviction recorded against the applicant or the named associated person, the commissioner’s report must be written.
Information required to be supplied under this section may be used only to decide whether the applicant is a suitable person to hold registration and must not be disclosed for any purpose other than as provided by section 94 .
The commissioner must destroy a report given to the commissioner under this section as soon as practicable after it is no longer needed for the purpose for which it was requested.
s 15 amd 2008 No. 69 s 98
(sec.15-ssec.1) The commissioner may inquire about the applicant or an associated person of the applicant to help in deciding whether the applicant is a suitable person to hold registration.
(sec.15-ssec.2) If asked by the commissioner, the commissioner of the police service must give the commissioner a report about the criminal history of the applicant or a named associated person of the applicant.
(sec.15-ssec.3) Subsection (2) applies to the criminal history— that is in the possession of the commissioner of the police service; or to which the commissioner of the police service ordinarily has access through arrangements with the police service of the Commonwealth or another State.
(sec.15-ssec.4) If the criminal history of the applicant or the named associated person includes a conviction recorded against the applicant or the named associated person, the commissioner’s report must be written.
(sec.15-ssec.5) Information required to be supplied under this section may be used only to decide whether the applicant is a suitable person to hold registration and must not be disclosed for any purpose other than as provided by section 94 .
(sec.15-ssec.6) The commissioner must destroy a report given to the commissioner under this section as soon as practicable after it is no longer needed for the purpose for which it was requested.
(a) that is in the possession of the commissioner of the police service; or
(b) to which the commissioner of the police service ordinarily has access through arrangements with the police service of the Commonwealth or another State.
sec.15A
Costs of criminal history report
sec.15A Costs of criminal history report
The chief executive may require an applicant to pay the reasonable, but no more than actual, costs of obtaining a report under section 15 about the applicant or an associated person of the applicant.
The chief executive must refund to the applicant an amount paid under the requirement if—
the chief executive refuses the application without asking for the report; or
the applicant withdraws the application before the chief executive asks for the report.
In this section—
applicant includes proposed applicant.
s 15A ins 2008 No. 69 s 99
(sec.15A-ssec.1) The chief executive may require an applicant to pay the reasonable, but no more than actual, costs of obtaining a report under section 15 about the applicant or an associated person of the applicant.
(sec.15A-ssec.2) The chief executive must refund to the applicant an amount paid under the requirement if— the chief executive refuses the application without asking for the report; or the applicant withdraws the application before the chief executive asks for the report.
(sec.15A-ssec.3) In this section— applicant includes proposed applicant.
(a) the chief executive refuses the application without asking for the report; or
(b) the applicant withdraws the application before the chief executive asks for the report.
pt.3-div.3
Conditions on registration
Conditions on registration
sec.16
Definition for div 3
sec.16 Definition for div 3
In this division—
change means amend, include or remove.
sec.17
Registration may be granted or renewed on conditions
sec.17 Registration may be granted or renewed on conditions
The commissioner may grant or renew registration on the conditions the commissioner considers necessary or desirable—
for the proper carrying on of the business of an inbound tour operator; or
for another purpose consistent with the achievement of the main purpose of this Act.
a condition that the registrant not engage in conduct that was the subject of an undertaking by the registrant and accepted by the commissioner under this Act
A condition may limit the carrying on of the business of an inbound tour operator.
If the commissioner decides to grant or renew registration on a condition, the commissioner must give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made.
s 17 amd 2009 No. 24 s 798
(sec.17-ssec.1) The commissioner may grant or renew registration on the conditions the commissioner considers necessary or desirable— for the proper carrying on of the business of an inbound tour operator; or for another purpose consistent with the achievement of the main purpose of this Act. a condition that the registrant not engage in conduct that was the subject of an undertaking by the registrant and accepted by the commissioner under this Act
(sec.17-ssec.2) A condition may limit the carrying on of the business of an inbound tour operator.
(sec.17-ssec.3) If the commissioner decides to grant or renew registration on a condition, the commissioner must give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made.
(a) for the proper carrying on of the business of an inbound tour operator; or
(b) for another purpose consistent with the achievement of the main purpose of this Act.
sec.18
Changing conditions of registration
sec.18 Changing conditions of registration
The commissioner may change a condition of registration—
on the application of the registrant; or
on the order of a court; or
on the order of the tribunal made in a disciplinary proceeding; or
on the commissioner’s own initiative.
An application under subsection (1) (a) must be made in the approved form and be accompanied by the application fee prescribed under a regulation.
If the commissioner grants the application, the commissioner must give the registrant notice of the decision.
If the commissioner decides to refuse the application, the commissioner must give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made.
Before changing a condition under subsection (1) (d) , the commissioner must—
give notice to the registrant to whom the condition relates—
of the way the commissioner proposes to change the condition; and
that the registrant may make written submissions to the commissioner about the proposal before a stated day that is at least 14 days after the notice is given to the registrant; and
have regard to the written submissions, if any, made to the commissioner by the registrant before the stated day.
If the commissioner decides to change the conditions of registration under subsection (1) (d) , the commissioner must give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made.
The decision under subsection (6) takes effect—
on the day the QCAT information notice is given to the registrant; or
if a later day is stated in the QCAT information notice, the later day.
s 18 amd 2009 No. 24 s 799
(sec.18-ssec.1) The commissioner may change a condition of registration— on the application of the registrant; or on the order of a court; or on the order of the tribunal made in a disciplinary proceeding; or on the commissioner’s own initiative.
(sec.18-ssec.2) An application under subsection (1) (a) must be made in the approved form and be accompanied by the application fee prescribed under a regulation.
(sec.18-ssec.3) If the commissioner grants the application, the commissioner must give the registrant notice of the decision.
(sec.18-ssec.4) If the commissioner decides to refuse the application, the commissioner must give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made.
(sec.18-ssec.5) Before changing a condition under subsection (1) (d) , the commissioner must— give notice to the registrant to whom the condition relates— of the way the commissioner proposes to change the condition; and that the registrant may make written submissions to the commissioner about the proposal before a stated day that is at least 14 days after the notice is given to the registrant; and have regard to the written submissions, if any, made to the commissioner by the registrant before the stated day.
(sec.18-ssec.6) If the commissioner decides to change the conditions of registration under subsection (1) (d) , the commissioner must give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made.
(sec.18-ssec.7) The decision under subsection (6) takes effect— on the day the QCAT information notice is given to the registrant; or if a later day is stated in the QCAT information notice, the later day.
(a) on the application of the registrant; or
(b) on the order of a court; or
(c) on the order of the tribunal made in a disciplinary proceeding; or
(d) on the commissioner’s own initiative.
(a) give notice to the registrant to whom the condition relates— (i) of the way the commissioner proposes to change the condition; and (ii) that the registrant may make written submissions to the commissioner about the proposal before a stated day that is at least 14 days after the notice is given to the registrant; and
(i) of the way the commissioner proposes to change the condition; and
(ii) that the registrant may make written submissions to the commissioner about the proposal before a stated day that is at least 14 days after the notice is given to the registrant; and
(b) have regard to the written submissions, if any, made to the commissioner by the registrant before the stated day.
(i) of the way the commissioner proposes to change the condition; and
(ii) that the registrant may make written submissions to the commissioner about the proposal before a stated day that is at least 14 days after the notice is given to the registrant; and
(a) on the day the QCAT information notice is given to the registrant; or
(b) if a later day is stated in the QCAT information notice, the later day.
sec.19
Return of registration certificate for changing conditions
sec.19 Return of registration certificate for changing conditions
If the commissioner changes a condition of registration under section 18 , the commissioner may, by notice given to the registrant to whom the condition applies, require the registrant to produce the registration certificate, for changing, within a stated reasonable period of at least 14 days.
The registrant must comply with the requirement, unless the registrant has a reasonable excuse.
Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
(sec.19-ssec.1) If the commissioner changes a condition of registration under section 18 , the commissioner may, by notice given to the registrant to whom the condition applies, require the registrant to produce the registration certificate, for changing, within a stated reasonable period of at least 14 days.
(sec.19-ssec.2) The registrant must comply with the requirement, unless the registrant has a reasonable excuse. Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
pt.3-div.4
Applications for registration
Applications for registration
sec.20
Application for registration
sec.20 Application for registration
A person may apply to the commissioner for registration.
The application must—
be in the approved form; and
state the names and business addresses of all associated persons of the applicant; and
be accompanied by—
the application fee prescribed under a regulation; and
the registration issue fee prescribed under a regulation; and
if, before or when the application is made, the chief executive requires the payment of costs under section 15A (1) —the amount of the costs required to be paid.
The applicant must state in the application whether the application is for registration for a term of 1 or 3 years.
The commissioner may, by notice given to the applicant, require the applicant to give the commissioner further information or documents relevant to the application within a stated reasonable period of at least 14 days.
If the applicant fails to comply with the commissioner’s requirement within the stated reasonable period—
the applicant is taken to have withdrawn the application; and
the commissioner must refund the registration issue fee paid by the applicant, if any.
A requirement mentioned in subsection (2) (c) (iii) is sufficiently made of the applicant if it is made generally of applicants in the approved form or notified on the department’s website.
s 20 amd 2008 No. 69 s 100 ; 2014 No. 30 s 63 sch 1
(sec.20-ssec.1) A person may apply to the commissioner for registration.
(sec.20-ssec.2) The application must— be in the approved form; and state the names and business addresses of all associated persons of the applicant; and be accompanied by— the application fee prescribed under a regulation; and the registration issue fee prescribed under a regulation; and if, before or when the application is made, the chief executive requires the payment of costs under section 15A (1) —the amount of the costs required to be paid.
(sec.20-ssec.3) The applicant must state in the application whether the application is for registration for a term of 1 or 3 years.
(sec.20-ssec.4) The commissioner may, by notice given to the applicant, require the applicant to give the commissioner further information or documents relevant to the application within a stated reasonable period of at least 14 days.
(sec.20-ssec.5) If the applicant fails to comply with the commissioner’s requirement within the stated reasonable period— the applicant is taken to have withdrawn the application; and the commissioner must refund the registration issue fee paid by the applicant, if any.
(sec.20-ssec.6) A requirement mentioned in subsection (2) (c) (iii) is sufficiently made of the applicant if it is made generally of applicants in the approved form or notified on the department’s website.
(a) be in the approved form; and
(b) state the names and business addresses of all associated persons of the applicant; and
(c) be accompanied by— (i) the application fee prescribed under a regulation; and (ii) the registration issue fee prescribed under a regulation; and (iii) if, before or when the application is made, the chief executive requires the payment of costs under section 15A (1) —the amount of the costs required to be paid.
(i) the application fee prescribed under a regulation; and
(ii) the registration issue fee prescribed under a regulation; and
(iii) if, before or when the application is made, the chief executive requires the payment of costs under section 15A (1) —the amount of the costs required to be paid.
(i) the application fee prescribed under a regulation; and
(ii) the registration issue fee prescribed under a regulation; and
(iii) if, before or when the application is made, the chief executive requires the payment of costs under section 15A (1) —the amount of the costs required to be paid.
(a) the applicant is taken to have withdrawn the application; and
(b) the commissioner must refund the registration issue fee paid by the applicant, if any.
sec.21
Decision on application
sec.21 Decision on application
The commissioner must consider the application for registration and—
grant registration, with or without conditions; or
refuse to grant registration.
However, the commissioner must not consider the application unless it is properly made under section 20 .
If the commissioner decides to grant registration, the commissioner must grant registration for the term stated in the application for registration.
If the commissioner decides to refuse to grant registration, the commissioner must—
give the applicant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made; and
refund the registration issue fee paid by the applicant, if any.
s 21 amd 2009 No. 24 s 800
(sec.21-ssec.1) The commissioner must consider the application for registration and— grant registration, with or without conditions; or refuse to grant registration.
(sec.21-ssec.2) However, the commissioner must not consider the application unless it is properly made under section 20 .
(sec.21-ssec.3) If the commissioner decides to grant registration, the commissioner must grant registration for the term stated in the application for registration.
(sec.21-ssec.4) If the commissioner decides to refuse to grant registration, the commissioner must— give the applicant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made; and refund the registration issue fee paid by the applicant, if any.
(a) grant registration, with or without conditions; or
(b) refuse to grant registration.
(a) give the applicant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made; and
(b) refund the registration issue fee paid by the applicant, if any.
pt.3-div.5
Renewal of registration
Renewal of registration
sec.22
Application for renewal of registration
sec.22 Application for renewal of registration
A registrant may apply to the commissioner for renewal of the registrant’s registration before the registration expires.
The application must—
be in the approved form; and
state the names and business addresses of all associated persons of the registrant; and
be accompanied by—
the registration renewal fee prescribed under a regulation; and
if, before or when the application is made, the chief executive requires the payment of costs under section 15A (1) —the amount of the costs required to be paid.
The registrant must state in the application whether the application is for registration for a term of 1 or 3 years.
The commissioner may, by notice given to the registrant, require the registrant to give the commissioner further information or documents relevant to the application within a stated reasonable period of at least 14 days.
If the registrant fails to comply with the commissioner’s requirement within the stated reasonable period—
the registrant is taken to have withdrawn the application; and
the commissioner must refund the registration renewal fee paid by the registrant, if any.
A requirement mentioned in subsection (2) (c) (ii) is sufficiently made of the applicant if it is made generally of applicants in the approved form or notified on the department’s website.
s 22 amd 2008 No. 69 s 101 ; 2014 No. 30 s 63 sch 1
(sec.22-ssec.1) A registrant may apply to the commissioner for renewal of the registrant’s registration before the registration expires.
(sec.22-ssec.2) The application must— be in the approved form; and state the names and business addresses of all associated persons of the registrant; and be accompanied by— the registration renewal fee prescribed under a regulation; and if, before or when the application is made, the chief executive requires the payment of costs under section 15A (1) —the amount of the costs required to be paid.
(sec.22-ssec.3) The registrant must state in the application whether the application is for registration for a term of 1 or 3 years.
(sec.22-ssec.4) The commissioner may, by notice given to the registrant, require the registrant to give the commissioner further information or documents relevant to the application within a stated reasonable period of at least 14 days.
(sec.22-ssec.5) If the registrant fails to comply with the commissioner’s requirement within the stated reasonable period— the registrant is taken to have withdrawn the application; and the commissioner must refund the registration renewal fee paid by the registrant, if any.
(sec.22-ssec.6) A requirement mentioned in subsection (2) (c) (ii) is sufficiently made of the applicant if it is made generally of applicants in the approved form or notified on the department’s website.
(a) be in the approved form; and
(b) state the names and business addresses of all associated persons of the registrant; and
(c) be accompanied by— (i) the registration renewal fee prescribed under a regulation; and (ii) if, before or when the application is made, the chief executive requires the payment of costs under section 15A (1) —the amount of the costs required to be paid.
(i) the registration renewal fee prescribed under a regulation; and
(ii) if, before or when the application is made, the chief executive requires the payment of costs under section 15A (1) —the amount of the costs required to be paid.
(i) the registration renewal fee prescribed under a regulation; and
(ii) if, before or when the application is made, the chief executive requires the payment of costs under section 15A (1) —the amount of the costs required to be paid.
(a) the registrant is taken to have withdrawn the application; and
(b) the commissioner must refund the registration renewal fee paid by the registrant, if any.
sec.23
Decision on application
sec.23 Decision on application
The commissioner must consider the application for renewal of registration and—
grant the renewal, with or without conditions; or
refuse to grant the renewal.
However, the commissioner must not consider the application unless it is properly made under section 22 .
If the commissioner decides to grant the renewal, the commissioner must grant registration for the term stated in the application.
If the commissioner decides to refuse to grant the renewal, the commissioner must—
give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made; and
refund the registration renewal fee paid by the registrant, if any.
s 23 amd 2009 No. 24 s 801
(sec.23-ssec.1) The commissioner must consider the application for renewal of registration and— grant the renewal, with or without conditions; or refuse to grant the renewal.
(sec.23-ssec.2) However, the commissioner must not consider the application unless it is properly made under section 22 .
(sec.23-ssec.3) If the commissioner decides to grant the renewal, the commissioner must grant registration for the term stated in the application.
(sec.23-ssec.4) If the commissioner decides to refuse to grant the renewal, the commissioner must— give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made; and refund the registration renewal fee paid by the registrant, if any.
(a) grant the renewal, with or without conditions; or
(b) refuse to grant the renewal.
(a) give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made; and
(b) refund the registration renewal fee paid by the registrant, if any.
sec.24
Registration continues pending decision about renewal
sec.24 Registration continues pending decision about renewal
If a registrant applies for renewal of registration under section 22 , the registration is taken to continue in force from the day it would, apart from this subsection, have ended until the day on which any of the following first happens—
the commissioner renews the registration;
if the commissioner decides to refuse to grant the renewal, the commissioner gives the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision;
the registrant is taken to have withdrawn the application under section 22 (5) .
If the commissioner renews the registration, the registration is taken to have been renewed from the day it would, apart from subsection (1) , have ended.
Subsection (1) does not apply if the registration is earlier cancelled or suspended.
s 24 amd 2009 No. 24 s 802
(sec.24-ssec.1) If a registrant applies for renewal of registration under section 22 , the registration is taken to continue in force from the day it would, apart from this subsection, have ended until the day on which any of the following first happens— the commissioner renews the registration; if the commissioner decides to refuse to grant the renewal, the commissioner gives the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision; the registrant is taken to have withdrawn the application under section 22 (5) .
(sec.24-ssec.2) If the commissioner renews the registration, the registration is taken to have been renewed from the day it would, apart from subsection (1) , have ended.
(sec.24-ssec.3) Subsection (1) does not apply if the registration is earlier cancelled or suspended.
(a) the commissioner renews the registration;
(b) if the commissioner decides to refuse to grant the renewal, the commissioner gives the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision;
(c) the registrant is taken to have withdrawn the application under section 22 (5) .
pt.3-div.6
Surrender of registration
Surrender of registration
sec.25
Surrender of registration
sec.25 Surrender of registration
A registrant may surrender the registrant’s registration by signed notice given to the commissioner.
The surrender takes effect on the day the notice of surrender is given to the commissioner or, if a later day of effect is stated in the notice, the later day.
The registrant must return the registration certificate to the commissioner within 14 days after the surrender takes effect, unless the registrant has a reasonable excuse.
Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —20 penalty units.
(sec.25-ssec.1) A registrant may surrender the registrant’s registration by signed notice given to the commissioner.
(sec.25-ssec.2) The surrender takes effect on the day the notice of surrender is given to the commissioner or, if a later day of effect is stated in the notice, the later day.
(sec.25-ssec.3) The registrant must return the registration certificate to the commissioner within 14 days after the surrender takes effect, unless the registrant has a reasonable excuse. Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —20 penalty units.
pt.3-div.7
Registration certificates
Registration certificates
sec.26
Commissioner to issue registration certificates
sec.26 Commissioner to issue registration certificates
The commissioner must, as soon as practicable after deciding to grant registration, or renewal of registration, give the registrant a certificate (a registration certificate ).
The registration certificate must be in the approved form and must contain the following—
the name of the registrant;
the date on which the registration, or renewal of registration, starts;
the date on which the registration, or renewal of registration, ends;
conditions of the registration, if any;
other particulars, if any, prescribed under a regulation.
(sec.26-ssec.1) The commissioner must, as soon as practicable after deciding to grant registration, or renewal of registration, give the registrant a certificate (a registration certificate ).
(sec.26-ssec.2) The registration certificate must be in the approved form and must contain the following— the name of the registrant; the date on which the registration, or renewal of registration, starts; the date on which the registration, or renewal of registration, ends; conditions of the registration, if any; other particulars, if any, prescribed under a regulation.
(a) the name of the registrant;
(b) the date on which the registration, or renewal of registration, starts;
(c) the date on which the registration, or renewal of registration, ends;
(d) conditions of the registration, if any;
(e) other particulars, if any, prescribed under a regulation.
sec.27
Replacement of registration certificate
sec.27 Replacement of registration certificate
A registrant may apply to the commissioner for the replacement of a damaged, destroyed, lost, or stolen registration certificate.
The application must be made in the approved form and be accompanied by the fee prescribed under a regulation.
The commissioner must grant the application if the commissioner is satisfied the certificate has been damaged in a way that requires its replacement, destroyed, lost, or stolen.
If the commissioner grants the application, the commissioner must issue another registration certificate to the registrant to replace the damaged, destroyed, lost, or stolen certificate.
If the commissioner decides to refuse the application, the commissioner must give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made.
s 27 amd 2009 No. 24 s 803
(sec.27-ssec.1) A registrant may apply to the commissioner for the replacement of a damaged, destroyed, lost, or stolen registration certificate.
(sec.27-ssec.2) The application must be made in the approved form and be accompanied by the fee prescribed under a regulation.
(sec.27-ssec.3) The commissioner must grant the application if the commissioner is satisfied the certificate has been damaged in a way that requires its replacement, destroyed, lost, or stolen.
(sec.27-ssec.4) If the commissioner grants the application, the commissioner must issue another registration certificate to the registrant to replace the damaged, destroyed, lost, or stolen certificate.
(sec.27-ssec.5) If the commissioner decides to refuse the application, the commissioner must give the registrant a QCAT information notice for the decision within 14 days after the decision is made.
pt.3-div.8
Register about registrations
Register about registrations
sec.28
Commissioner to keep register
sec.28 Commissioner to keep register
The commissioner must keep a register about registrations.
The register must contain the following details for each registrant—
the registrant’s name;
the registrant’s business name and trading name, if any;
the registrant’s business address;
the dates when the current registration started and ends;
any conditions of the registration;
particulars of any cancellation, surrender or suspension of the registration;
the name, business name and trading name, if any, and business address of each associated person of the registrant.
The register must be kept in the form and in the way decided by the commissioner.
A person may, on payment of the fee, if any, prescribed under a regulation, inspect, or obtain a copy of an entry in, the register at a place or places decided by the commissioner.
In this section—
entry , for the register, means all the details about a particular registrant.
s 28 amd 2005 No. 14 s 2 sch
(sec.28-ssec.1) The commissioner must keep a register about registrations.
(sec.28-ssec.2) The register must contain the following details for each registrant— the registrant’s name; the registrant’s business name and trading name, if any; the registrant’s business address; the dates when the current registration started and ends; any conditions of the registration; particulars of any cancellation, surrender or suspension of the registration; the name, business name and trading name, if any, and business address of each associated person of the registrant.
(sec.28-ssec.3) The register must be kept in the form and in the way decided by the commissioner.
(sec.28-ssec.4) A person may, on payment of the fee, if any, prescribed under a regulation, inspect, or obtain a copy of an entry in, the register at a place or places decided by the commissioner.
(sec.28-ssec.5) In this section— entry , for the register, means all the details about a particular registrant.
(a) the registrant’s name;
(b) the registrant’s business name and trading name, if any;
(c) the registrant’s business address;
(d) the dates when the current registration started and ends;
(e) any conditions of the registration;
(f) particulars of any cancellation, surrender or suspension of the registration;
(g) the name, business name and trading name, if any, and business address of each associated person of the registrant.
pt.3-div.9
Immediate suspension and cancellation of registration
Immediate suspension and cancellation of registration
sec.29
Immediate suspension
sec.29 Immediate suspension
This section applies if the commissioner considers, on reasonable grounds, that—
a registrant is contravening, or has contravened this Act, the Fair Trading Act 1989 , the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cwlth) or a corresponding law; and
A contravention of the Fair Trading Act 1989 includes a contravention of the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) which forms part of that Act.
tourists may suffer, or have suffered, detriment because of the contravention.
A registrant takes tourists to a retail outlet, for which the registrant receives a commission from the owner of the outlet, to purchase goods in circumstances that contravene section 35 . The tourists purchase goods from the outlet. The tourists could have purchased goods of the same or a similar quality from other retail outlets in the vicinity at a considerably lower price. This was known to the registrant who failed to tell the tourists. Because of the contravention the tourists have suffered detriment.
The commissioner may suspend the registrant’s registration for not more than 28 days.
The suspension—
must be effected by a QCAT information notice given to the registrant for the decision to suspend the registration; and
operates immediately the notice is given.
The registrant must return the registration certificate to the commissioner within 14 days after the registrant is given the QCAT information notice, unless the registrant has a reasonable excuse.
Maximum penalty for subsection (4) —100 penalty units.
s 29 amd 2009 No. 24 s 804 ; 2010 No. 54 s 67 sch
(sec.29-ssec.1) This section applies if the commissioner considers, on reasonable grounds, that— a registrant is contravening, or has contravened this Act, the Fair Trading Act 1989 , the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cwlth) or a corresponding law; and A contravention of the Fair Trading Act 1989 includes a contravention of the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) which forms part of that Act. tourists may suffer, or have suffered, detriment because of the contravention. A registrant takes tourists to a retail outlet, for which the registrant receives a commission from the owner of the outlet, to purchase goods in circumstances that contravene section 35 . The tourists purchase goods from the outlet. The tourists could have purchased goods of the same or a similar quality from other retail outlets in the vicinity at a considerably lower price. This was known to the registrant who failed to tell the tourists. Because of the contravention the tourists have suffered detriment.
(sec.29-ssec.2) The commissioner may suspend the registrant’s registration for not more than 28 days.
(sec.29-ssec.3) The suspension— must be effected by a QCAT information notice given to the registrant for the decision to suspend the registration; and operates immediately the notice is given.
(sec.29-ssec.4) The registrant must return the registration certificate to the commissioner within 14 days after the registrant is given the QCAT information notice, unless the registrant has a reasonable excuse. Maximum penalty for subsection (4) —100 penalty units.
(a) a registrant is contravening, or has contravened this Act, the Fair Trading Act 1989 , the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cwlth) or a corresponding law; and Note— A contravention of the Fair Trading Act 1989 includes a contravention of the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) which forms part of that Act.
(b) tourists may suffer, or have suffered, detriment because of the contravention.
(a) must be effected by a QCAT information notice given to the registrant for the decision to suspend the registration; and
(b) operates immediately the notice is given.
sec.30
Suspension continues if disciplinary proceedings started
sec.30 Suspension continues if disciplinary proceedings started
This section applies if a registrant’s registration is suspended under section 29 and while it is suspended the commissioner applies—
to the tribunal to start disciplinary proceedings against the registrant for the contravention and detriment that gave rise to the suspension; or
to the District Court under section 78 in relation to the contravention.
The suspension continues until the first of the following to happen—
the disciplinary proceedings are decided by the tribunal;
the commissioner withdraws the application;
the tribunal or the District Court, on application by the registrant, orders that the suspension end.
(sec.30-ssec.1) This section applies if a registrant’s registration is suspended under section 29 and while it is suspended the commissioner applies— to the tribunal to start disciplinary proceedings against the registrant for the contravention and detriment that gave rise to the suspension; or to the District Court under section 78 in relation to the contravention.
(sec.30-ssec.2) The suspension continues until the first of the following to happen— the disciplinary proceedings are decided by the tribunal; the commissioner withdraws the application; the tribunal or the District Court, on application by the registrant, orders that the suspension end.
(a) to the tribunal to start disciplinary proceedings against the registrant for the contravention and detriment that gave rise to the suspension; or
(b) to the District Court under section 78 in relation to the contravention.
(a) the disciplinary proceedings are decided by the tribunal;
(b) the commissioner withdraws the application;
(c) the tribunal or the District Court, on application by the registrant, orders that the suspension end.
sec.31
Return of registration certificate after suspension
sec.31 Return of registration certificate after suspension
This section applies if a registrant’s registration certificate is returned to the commissioner after suspension under section 29 , and the registration is still current when it stops being suspended under that section or section 30 .
The commissioner must return the certificate to the registrant.
(sec.31-ssec.1) This section applies if a registrant’s registration certificate is returned to the commissioner after suspension under section 29 , and the registration is still current when it stops being suspended under that section or section 30 .
(sec.31-ssec.2) The commissioner must return the certificate to the registrant.
sec.32
Immediate cancellation after conviction for serious offence etc.
sec.32 Immediate cancellation after conviction for serious offence etc.
A person’s registration is cancelled if the person is convicted of a serious offence or an order is made against the person under part 9 .
The person must return the person’s registration certificate to the commissioner within 14 days after the cancellation happens, unless the person has a reasonable excuse.
Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
In this section—
serious offence means an offence under—
any of the following provisions of the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland), chapter 4 —
part 4 -1, other than section 165 ;
part 4 -2, other than division 3 ;
part 4 -3, other than sections 196 , 200 , 201 and division 4 ;
part 4 -4; or
a law of another State or another country that provides for the same, or substantially the same, matter as a provision of the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) mentioned in paragraph (a) and for which the maximum penalty is—
at least 100 penalty units; or
an amount at least equal to the value of 100 penalty units; or
imprisonment.
s 32 amd 2010 No. 54 s 67 sch
(sec.32-ssec.1) A person’s registration is cancelled if the person is convicted of a serious offence or an order is made against the person under part 9 .
(sec.32-ssec.2) The person must return the person’s registration certificate to the commissioner within 14 days after the cancellation happens, unless the person has a reasonable excuse. Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
(sec.32-ssec.3) In this section— serious offence means an offence under— any of the following provisions of the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland), chapter 4 — part 4 -1, other than section 165 ; part 4 -2, other than division 3 ; part 4 -3, other than sections 196 , 200 , 201 and division 4 ; part 4 -4; or a law of another State or another country that provides for the same, or substantially the same, matter as a provision of the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) mentioned in paragraph (a) and for which the maximum penalty is— at least 100 penalty units; or an amount at least equal to the value of 100 penalty units; or imprisonment.
(a) any of the following provisions of the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland), chapter 4 — (i) part 4 -1, other than section 165 ; (ii) part 4 -2, other than division 3 ; (iii) part 4 -3, other than sections 196 , 200 , 201 and division 4 ; (iv) part 4 -4; or
(i) part 4 -1, other than section 165 ;
(ii) part 4 -2, other than division 3 ;
(iii) part 4 -3, other than sections 196 , 200 , 201 and division 4 ;
(iv) part 4 -4; or
(b) a law of another State or another country that provides for the same, or substantially the same, matter as a provision of the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) mentioned in paragraph (a) and for which the maximum penalty is— (i) at least 100 penalty units; or (ii) an amount at least equal to the value of 100 penalty units; or (iii) imprisonment.
(i) at least 100 penalty units; or
(ii) an amount at least equal to the value of 100 penalty units; or
(iii) imprisonment.
(i) part 4 -1, other than section 165 ;
(ii) part 4 -2, other than division 3 ;
(iii) part 4 -3, other than sections 196 , 200 , 201 and division 4 ;
(iv) part 4 -4; or
(i) at least 100 penalty units; or
(ii) an amount at least equal to the value of 100 penalty units; or
(iii) imprisonment.
pt.3-div.10
Other provisions about registration
Other provisions about registration
sec.33
Requirement to notify changes in circumstances
sec.33 Requirement to notify changes in circumstances
A registrant must, within 30 days after the happening of a change in the registrant’s circumstances prescribed under a regulation, give the commissioner a signed notice stating details of the change.
Maximum penalty—50 penalty units.
sec.34
Registration not transferable
sec.34 Registration not transferable
Registration is not transferable to another person and does not vest in another person by operation of law.
pt.4
Unconscionable conduct
Unconscionable conduct
sec.35
Unconscionable conduct
sec.35 Unconscionable conduct
An inbound tour operator or tour guide must not, in relation to supplying services to a tourist, engage in conduct that is, in all the circumstances, unconscionable.
For deciding whether an inbound tour operator or tour guide has contravened subsection (1) , regard must not be had to any circumstances that were not reasonably foreseeable at the time of the alleged contravention.
Subsection (1) is in addition to, does not limit, and is not in substitution for, any right, entitlement or remedy under common law or otherwise.
A proceeding for a contravention of subsection (1) may be taken under parts 7 to 10 .
(sec.35-ssec.1) An inbound tour operator or tour guide must not, in relation to supplying services to a tourist, engage in conduct that is, in all the circumstances, unconscionable.
(sec.35-ssec.2) For deciding whether an inbound tour operator or tour guide has contravened subsection (1) , regard must not be had to any circumstances that were not reasonably foreseeable at the time of the alleged contravention.
(sec.35-ssec.3) Subsection (1) is in addition to, does not limit, and is not in substitution for, any right, entitlement or remedy under common law or otherwise. A proceeding for a contravention of subsection (1) may be taken under parts 7 to 10 .
sec.36
Matters that may indicate unconscionable conduct
sec.36 Matters that may indicate unconscionable conduct
Without limiting the matters to which regard may be had to decide if an inbound tour operator or tour guide has contravened section 35 (1) , regard may be had to all or any of the following—
the relative strengths of the bargaining positions of the inbound tour operator (the service provider ), the tour guide (also the service provider ) or a business associate of the inbound tour operator or tour guide (also the service provider ) and the tourist;
whether any undue influence or pressure was exerted on, or any unfair tactics were used against, the tourist by the service provider;
the extent to which the service provider unreasonably failed to tell the tourist about—
any intended conduct of the service provider that might affect the interests of the tourist; or
any apparent risk to the tourist from the intended conduct;
the extent to which the service provider failed to tell the tourist about any relationship between the service provider and an entity who was involved in the provision of a service to the tourist;
Example 1
A service provider owns, has a proprietary interest in, or receives a payment or other benefit from a retail establishment to which the service provider takes a tourist for the purpose of the tourist purchasing goods.
Example 2
An inbound tour operator publishes, or contributes material to, a brochure for the use of tourists that contains an itinerary for the tourists. The inbound tour operator is the owner of a retail establishment listed in the brochure as a place at which the tourists can purchase goods or services.
whether the tourist’s ability to protect the tourist’s interests was affected by the tourist’s cultural, language or religious characteristics;
the amount for which, and the circumstances under which, the tourist could have acquired identical or equivalent services—
from a person other than the service provider; or
without the help of the service provider;
if the service provider supplies a service of selling goods to a tourist, or taking a tourist to a place to purchase goods or services, the amount for which, and the circumstances under which, the tourist could have acquired identical or equivalent goods or services—
from a person other than the service provider; or
without the help of the service provider;
whether the service provider acted to prevent or dissuade the tourist from making a choice about where to eat, shop, stay or visit in circumstances where it would have been reasonable to have allowed the tourist to make the choice;
To facilitate shopping by tourists, a service provider takes them to a retail outlet (the first outlet ) in an area away from competing outlets. The provider is aware of competing outlets in places to be visited by the tourists as part of their itinerary but, before taking them to the first outlet, fails to tell them that they will have the opportunity to shop at these outlets also.
the extent to which, in a dealing with the tourist, the conduct of the service provider toward the tourist was consistent with the conduct of the service provider in a similar dealing with other tourists;
whether the service provider deceived or misled the tourist;
Example 1
A service provider deceives a tourist by telling the tourist that goods the tourist can purchase from a particular retail outlet are ‘good value’, knowing that identical or equivalent goods are available for considerably lower prices from other retail outlets easily accessible by the tourist.
Example 2
A service provider misleads a tourist by telling the tourist that certain goods the tourist is considering buying from a particular retail establishment are likely to be confiscated by customs authorities, knowing that the information is untrue or having no reason to believe that it is true.
whether the service provider has contravened a code of conduct;
the provisions of any applicable industry code that the service provider has agreed to be bound by.
In this section—
apparent risk means a risk the service provider should reasonably foresee but that may not be apparent to the tourist.
business associate , of an inbound tour operator or tour guide (the relevant person ), means—
an employee of the relevant person; or
a person with whom the relevant person has a contractual relationship that relates to or affects the tourist, including, for example, a hotelier, restaurateur or retailer with whom the relevant person has a contractual interest that relates to or affects the tourist.
help includes direction or guidance, whether or not the tourist asked for the direction or guidance.
(sec.36-ssec.1) Without limiting the matters to which regard may be had to decide if an inbound tour operator or tour guide has contravened section 35 (1) , regard may be had to all or any of the following— the relative strengths of the bargaining positions of the inbound tour operator (the service provider ), the tour guide (also the service provider ) or a business associate of the inbound tour operator or tour guide (also the service provider ) and the tourist; whether any undue influence or pressure was exerted on, or any unfair tactics were used against, the tourist by the service provider; the extent to which the service provider unreasonably failed to tell the tourist about— any intended conduct of the service provider that might affect the interests of the tourist; or any apparent risk to the tourist from the intended conduct; the extent to which the service provider failed to tell the tourist about any relationship between the service provider and an entity who was involved in the provision of a service to the tourist; Example 1 A service provider owns, has a proprietary interest in, or receives a payment or other benefit from a retail establishment to which the service provider takes a tourist for the purpose of the tourist purchasing goods. Example 2 An inbound tour operator publishes, or contributes material to, a brochure for the use of tourists that contains an itinerary for the tourists. The inbound tour operator is the owner of a retail establishment listed in the brochure as a place at which the tourists can purchase goods or services. whether the tourist’s ability to protect the tourist’s interests was affected by the tourist’s cultural, language or religious characteristics; the amount for which, and the circumstances under which, the tourist could have acquired identical or equivalent services— from a person other than the service provider; or without the help of the service provider; if the service provider supplies a service of selling goods to a tourist, or taking a tourist to a place to purchase goods or services, the amount for which, and the circumstances under which, the tourist could have acquired identical or equivalent goods or services— from a person other than the service provider; or without the help of the service provider; whether the service provider acted to prevent or dissuade the tourist from making a choice about where to eat, shop, stay or visit in circumstances where it would have been reasonable to have allowed the tourist to make the choice; To facilitate shopping by tourists, a service provider takes them to a retail outlet (the first outlet ) in an area away from competing outlets. The provider is aware of competing outlets in places to be visited by the tourists as part of their itinerary but, before taking them to the first outlet, fails to tell them that they will have the opportunity to shop at these outlets also. the extent to which, in a dealing with the tourist, the conduct of the service provider toward the tourist was consistent with the conduct of the service provider in a similar dealing with other tourists; whether the service provider deceived or misled the tourist; Example 1 A service provider deceives a tourist by telling the tourist that goods the tourist can purchase from a particular retail outlet are ‘good value’, knowing that identical or equivalent goods are available for considerably lower prices from other retail outlets easily accessible by the tourist. Example 2 A service provider misleads a tourist by telling the tourist that certain goods the tourist is considering buying from a particular retail establishment are likely to be confiscated by customs authorities, knowing that the information is untrue or having no reason to believe that it is true. whether the service provider has contravened a code of conduct; the provisions of any applicable industry code that the service provider has agreed to be bound by.
(sec.36-ssec.2) In this section— apparent risk means a risk the service provider should reasonably foresee but that may not be apparent to the tourist. business associate , of an inbound tour operator or tour guide (the relevant person ), means— an employee of the relevant person; or a person with whom the relevant person has a contractual relationship that relates to or affects the tourist, including, for example, a hotelier, restaurateur or retailer with whom the relevant person has a contractual interest that relates to or affects the tourist. help includes direction or guidance, whether or not the tourist asked for the direction or guidance.
(a) the relative strengths of the bargaining positions of the inbound tour operator (the service provider ), the tour guide (also the service provider ) or a business associate of the inbound tour operator or tour guide (also the service provider ) and the tourist;
(b) whether any undue influence or pressure was exerted on, or any unfair tactics were used against, the tourist by the service provider;
(c) the extent to which the service provider unreasonably failed to tell the tourist about— (i) any intended conduct of the service provider that might affect the interests of the tourist; or (ii) any apparent risk to the tourist from the intended conduct;
(i) any intended conduct of the service provider that might affect the interests of the tourist; or
(ii) any apparent risk to the tourist from the intended conduct;
(d) the extent to which the service provider failed to tell the tourist about any relationship between the service provider and an entity who was involved in the provision of a service to the tourist; Examples of a relevant relationship between a service provider and an entity— Example 1 A service provider owns, has a proprietary interest in, or receives a payment or other benefit from a retail establishment to which the service provider takes a tourist for the purpose of the tourist purchasing goods. Example 2 An inbound tour operator publishes, or contributes material to, a brochure for the use of tourists that contains an itinerary for the tourists. The inbound tour operator is the owner of a retail establishment listed in the brochure as a place at which the tourists can purchase goods or services.
(e) whether the tourist’s ability to protect the tourist’s interests was affected by the tourist’s cultural, language or religious characteristics;
(f) the amount for which, and the circumstances under which, the tourist could have acquired identical or equivalent services— (i) from a person other than the service provider; or (ii) without the help of the service provider;
(i) from a person other than the service provider; or
(ii) without the help of the service provider;
(g) if the service provider supplies a service of selling goods to a tourist, or taking a tourist to a place to purchase goods or services, the amount for which, and the circumstances under which, the tourist could have acquired identical or equivalent goods or services— (i) from a person other than the service provider; or (ii) without the help of the service provider;
(i) from a person other than the service provider; or
(ii) without the help of the service provider;
(h) whether the service provider acted to prevent or dissuade the tourist from making a choice about where to eat, shop, stay or visit in circumstances where it would have been reasonable to have allowed the tourist to make the choice; Example of circumstance in which service provider acts to prevent choice— To facilitate shopping by tourists, a service provider takes them to a retail outlet (the first outlet ) in an area away from competing outlets. The provider is aware of competing outlets in places to be visited by the tourists as part of their itinerary but, before taking them to the first outlet, fails to tell them that they will have the opportunity to shop at these outlets also.
(i) the extent to which, in a dealing with the tourist, the conduct of the service provider toward the tourist was consistent with the conduct of the service provider in a similar dealing with other tourists;
(j) whether the service provider deceived or misled the tourist; Examples of deceptive or misleading conduct— Example 1 A service provider deceives a tourist by telling the tourist that goods the tourist can purchase from a particular retail outlet are ‘good value’, knowing that identical or equivalent goods are available for considerably lower prices from other retail outlets easily accessible by the tourist. Example 2 A service provider misleads a tourist by telling the tourist that certain goods the tourist is considering buying from a particular retail establishment are likely to be confiscated by customs authorities, knowing that the information is untrue or having no reason to believe that it is true.
(k) whether the service provider has contravened a code of conduct;
(l) the provisions of any applicable industry code that the service provider has agreed to be bound by.
(i) any intended conduct of the service provider that might affect the interests of the tourist; or
(ii) any apparent risk to the tourist from the intended conduct;
(i) from a person other than the service provider; or
(ii) without the help of the service provider;
(i) from a person other than the service provider; or
(ii) without the help of the service provider;
(a) an employee of the relevant person; or
(b) a person with whom the relevant person has a contractual relationship that relates to or affects the tourist, including, for example, a hotelier, restaurateur or retailer with whom the relevant person has a contractual interest that relates to or affects the tourist.
sec.37
Not unconscionable conduct only because of legal proceedings
sec.37 Not unconscionable conduct only because of legal proceedings
An inbound tour operator or tour guide does not, for section 35 (1) , engage in unconscionable conduct in relation to supplying services to a tourist only because the inbound tour operator or tour guide, in relation to supplying the services—
institutes legal proceedings; or
seeks to have a dispute or claim dealt with through a dispute resolution process.
(a) institutes legal proceedings; or
(b) seeks to have a dispute or claim dealt with through a dispute resolution process.
pt.5
Codes of conduct
Codes of conduct
sec.38
Codes of conduct
sec.38 Codes of conduct
A regulation may prescribe a code of conduct for inbound tour operators, and a code of conduct for tour guides, relating to supplying services to tourists.
Without limiting subsection (1) , a code of conduct may—
set minimum standards for carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator or for tour guides; or
establish principles that encourage and facilitate fair dealings between—
inbound tour operators and tourists or tour guides and tourists; or
inbound tour operators and businesses or other entities with which tourists come, or are likely to come, in contact or tour guides and those entities; or
provide for a system of dispute resolution including by requiring an inbound tour operator or tour guide to have a written policy about resolving disputes.
(sec.38-ssec.1) A regulation may prescribe a code of conduct for inbound tour operators, and a code of conduct for tour guides, relating to supplying services to tourists.
(sec.38-ssec.2) Without limiting subsection (1) , a code of conduct may— set minimum standards for carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator or for tour guides; or establish principles that encourage and facilitate fair dealings between— inbound tour operators and tourists or tour guides and tourists; or inbound tour operators and businesses or other entities with which tourists come, or are likely to come, in contact or tour guides and those entities; or provide for a system of dispute resolution including by requiring an inbound tour operator or tour guide to have a written policy about resolving disputes.
(a) set minimum standards for carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator or for tour guides; or
(b) establish principles that encourage and facilitate fair dealings between— (i) inbound tour operators and tourists or tour guides and tourists; or (ii) inbound tour operators and businesses or other entities with which tourists come, or are likely to come, in contact or tour guides and those entities; or
(i) inbound tour operators and tourists or tour guides and tourists; or
(ii) inbound tour operators and businesses or other entities with which tourists come, or are likely to come, in contact or tour guides and those entities; or
(c) provide for a system of dispute resolution including by requiring an inbound tour operator or tour guide to have a written policy about resolving disputes.
(i) inbound tour operators and tourists or tour guides and tourists; or
(ii) inbound tour operators and businesses or other entities with which tourists come, or are likely to come, in contact or tour guides and those entities; or
pt.6
pt.6-div.1
sec.39
Section sec.39
s 39 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.40
Section sec.40
s 40 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.41
Section sec.41
s 41 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.42
Section sec.42
s 42 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.43
Section sec.43
s 43 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
pt.6-div.2
sec.44
Section sec.44
s 44 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.45
Section sec.45
s 45 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.46
Section sec.46
s 46 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.47
Section sec.47
s 47 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.48
Section sec.48
s 48 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.49
Section sec.49
s 49 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.50
Section sec.50
s 50 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.51
Section sec.51
s 51 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.52
Section sec.52
s 52 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.53
Section sec.53
s 53 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.54
Section sec.54
s 54 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.55
Section sec.55
s 55 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.56
Section sec.56
s 56 amd 2009 No. 24 s 805
om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.57
Section sec.57
s 57 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.58
Section sec.58
s 58 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.59
Section sec.59
s 59 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.60
Section sec.60
s 60 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.61
Section sec.61
s 61 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.62
Section sec.62
s 62 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.63
Section sec.63
s 63 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.64
Section sec.64
s 64 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.65
Section sec.65
s 65 amd 2005 No. 14 s 2 sch
om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.66
Section sec.66
s 66 amd 2005 No. 14 s 2 sch
om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.67
Section sec.67
s 67 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
sec.68
Section sec.68
s 68 om 2014 No. 8 s 177
pt.7
Undertakings
Undertakings
sec.69
Commissioner may seek undertaking after contravention
sec.69 Commissioner may seek undertaking after contravention
If the commissioner believes, on reasonable grounds, an inbound tour operator or tour guide has contravened this Act, the commissioner may, by written notice given to the inbound tour operator or tour guide—
state the act or omission the commissioner believes is the contravention; and
ask the inbound tour operator or tour guide to give the commissioner a written undertaking that the inbound tour operator or tour guide will not continue or repeat the act or omission.
Subsection (3) applies if the inbound tour operator or tour guide gives the undertaking, the commissioner accepts it and either—
the contravention is conduct consisting of an act or omission and the inbound tour operator or tour guide does not repeat the conduct; or
the contravention is conduct consisting of a series of acts or omissions and the inbound tour operator or tour guide stops the conduct and does not later repeat it.
A person can not start an offence proceeding or a proceeding under part 9 or 10 against the inbound tour operator or tour guide for the contravention, unless the commissioner withdraws his or her acceptance of the undertaking under section 70 (1) (b) .
(sec.69-ssec.1) If the commissioner believes, on reasonable grounds, an inbound tour operator or tour guide has contravened this Act, the commissioner may, by written notice given to the inbound tour operator or tour guide— state the act or omission the commissioner believes is the contravention; and ask the inbound tour operator or tour guide to give the commissioner a written undertaking that the inbound tour operator or tour guide will not continue or repeat the act or omission.
(sec.69-ssec.2) Subsection (3) applies if the inbound tour operator or tour guide gives the undertaking, the commissioner accepts it and either— the contravention is conduct consisting of an act or omission and the inbound tour operator or tour guide does not repeat the conduct; or the contravention is conduct consisting of a series of acts or omissions and the inbound tour operator or tour guide stops the conduct and does not later repeat it.
(sec.69-ssec.3) A person can not start an offence proceeding or a proceeding under part 9 or 10 against the inbound tour operator or tour guide for the contravention, unless the commissioner withdraws his or her acceptance of the undertaking under section 70 (1) (b) .
(a) state the act or omission the commissioner believes is the contravention; and
(b) ask the inbound tour operator or tour guide to give the commissioner a written undertaking that the inbound tour operator or tour guide will not continue or repeat the act or omission.
(a) the contravention is conduct consisting of an act or omission and the inbound tour operator or tour guide does not repeat the conduct; or
(b) the contravention is conduct consisting of a series of acts or omissions and the inbound tour operator or tour guide stops the conduct and does not later repeat it.
sec.70
Variation and withdrawal of undertakings
sec.70 Variation and withdrawal of undertakings
If the commissioner accepts the undertaking—
it may be varied or withdrawn by the inbound tour operator or tour guide if the commissioner agrees to the variation or withdrawal; or
the commissioner may withdraw his or her acceptance of it, if the commissioner believes, on reasonable grounds, that—
before it was accepted, the inbound tour operator or tour guide contravened this Act in a way unknown to the commissioner; and
had the commissioner known about the contravention, the commissioner would not have accepted the undertaking or would not have accepted it unless its terms were changed.
The commissioner may also withdraw his or her acceptance of the undertaking if the commissioner believes, on reasonable grounds, the undertaking is no longer necessary.
If the commissioner varies, or withdraws his or her acceptance of, or agrees to the variation or withdrawal of, the undertaking, the commissioner must give the inbound tour operator or tour guide notice of the variation, withdrawal or agreement.
The variation or withdrawal takes effect when notice of the variation, withdrawal or agreement is given to the inbound tour operator or tour guide.
The undertaking as varied under this section is taken to be accepted by the commissioner.
(sec.70-ssec.1) If the commissioner accepts the undertaking— it may be varied or withdrawn by the inbound tour operator or tour guide if the commissioner agrees to the variation or withdrawal; or the commissioner may withdraw his or her acceptance of it, if the commissioner believes, on reasonable grounds, that— before it was accepted, the inbound tour operator or tour guide contravened this Act in a way unknown to the commissioner; and had the commissioner known about the contravention, the commissioner would not have accepted the undertaking or would not have accepted it unless its terms were changed.
(sec.70-ssec.2) The commissioner may also withdraw his or her acceptance of the undertaking if the commissioner believes, on reasonable grounds, the undertaking is no longer necessary.
(sec.70-ssec.3) If the commissioner varies, or withdraws his or her acceptance of, or agrees to the variation or withdrawal of, the undertaking, the commissioner must give the inbound tour operator or tour guide notice of the variation, withdrawal or agreement.
(sec.70-ssec.4) The variation or withdrawal takes effect when notice of the variation, withdrawal or agreement is given to the inbound tour operator or tour guide.
(sec.70-ssec.5) The undertaking as varied under this section is taken to be accepted by the commissioner.
(a) it may be varied or withdrawn by the inbound tour operator or tour guide if the commissioner agrees to the variation or withdrawal; or
(b) the commissioner may withdraw his or her acceptance of it, if the commissioner believes, on reasonable grounds, that— (i) before it was accepted, the inbound tour operator or tour guide contravened this Act in a way unknown to the commissioner; and (ii) had the commissioner known about the contravention, the commissioner would not have accepted the undertaking or would not have accepted it unless its terms were changed.
(i) before it was accepted, the inbound tour operator or tour guide contravened this Act in a way unknown to the commissioner; and
(ii) had the commissioner known about the contravention, the commissioner would not have accepted the undertaking or would not have accepted it unless its terms were changed.
(i) before it was accepted, the inbound tour operator or tour guide contravened this Act in a way unknown to the commissioner; and
(ii) had the commissioner known about the contravention, the commissioner would not have accepted the undertaking or would not have accepted it unless its terms were changed.
sec.71
Enforcement of undertakings
sec.71 Enforcement of undertakings
If the commissioner believes, on reasonable grounds, an inbound tour operator or tour guide (the undertaker ) has contravened a term of an undertaking accepted by the commissioner, the commissioner may apply to the District Court for an order under this section.
If the court is satisfied the undertaker has contravened the term, the court may make 1 or more of the following orders—
an order directing the undertaker to comply with the term;
an order directing the undertaker to pay to the State an amount that is not more than the direct or indirect financial benefit obtained by the undertaker from, and reasonably attributable to, the contravention;
an order directing the undertaker to pay compensation to someone else who has suffered loss or damage because of the contravention;
an order directing the undertaker to give a security bond to the State for a stated period;
another order the court considers appropriate.
The court may order the forfeiture to the State of all or part of a security bond given by an undertaker under subsection (2) (d) if—
the commissioner applies to the court for the order; and
the court is satisfied the undertaker contravened the term of the undertaking during the period for which the bond was given.
(sec.71-ssec.1) If the commissioner believes, on reasonable grounds, an inbound tour operator or tour guide (the undertaker ) has contravened a term of an undertaking accepted by the commissioner, the commissioner may apply to the District Court for an order under this section.
(sec.71-ssec.2) If the court is satisfied the undertaker has contravened the term, the court may make 1 or more of the following orders— an order directing the undertaker to comply with the term; an order directing the undertaker to pay to the State an amount that is not more than the direct or indirect financial benefit obtained by the undertaker from, and reasonably attributable to, the contravention; an order directing the undertaker to pay compensation to someone else who has suffered loss or damage because of the contravention; an order directing the undertaker to give a security bond to the State for a stated period; another order the court considers appropriate.
(sec.71-ssec.3) The court may order the forfeiture to the State of all or part of a security bond given by an undertaker under subsection (2) (d) if— the commissioner applies to the court for the order; and the court is satisfied the undertaker contravened the term of the undertaking during the period for which the bond was given.
(a) an order directing the undertaker to comply with the term;
(b) an order directing the undertaker to pay to the State an amount that is not more than the direct or indirect financial benefit obtained by the undertaker from, and reasonably attributable to, the contravention;
(c) an order directing the undertaker to pay compensation to someone else who has suffered loss or damage because of the contravention;
(d) an order directing the undertaker to give a security bond to the State for a stated period;
(e) another order the court considers appropriate.
(a) the commissioner applies to the court for the order; and
(b) the court is satisfied the undertaker contravened the term of the undertaking during the period for which the bond was given.
sec.72
Register of undertakings
sec.72 Register of undertakings
The commissioner must keep a register of each undertaking accepted by the commissioner under this part.
The register must be kept in the form and in the way decided by the commissioner.
The register must contain a copy of the undertaking.
A person may, on payment of the fee, if any, prescribed under a regulation, inspect, or obtain a copy of an entry in, the register—
at the department’s head office when it is open to the public; or
at another place decided by the commissioner.
In this section—
entry , for the register, means all the details about a particular undertaking.
(sec.72-ssec.1) The commissioner must keep a register of each undertaking accepted by the commissioner under this part.
(sec.72-ssec.2) The register must be kept in the form and in the way decided by the commissioner.
(sec.72-ssec.3) The register must contain a copy of the undertaking.
(sec.72-ssec.4) A person may, on payment of the fee, if any, prescribed under a regulation, inspect, or obtain a copy of an entry in, the register— at the department’s head office when it is open to the public; or at another place decided by the commissioner.
(sec.72-ssec.5) In this section— entry , for the register, means all the details about a particular undertaking.
(a) at the department’s head office when it is open to the public; or
(b) at another place decided by the commissioner.
pt.8
Injunctions
Injunctions
sec.73
Who may apply for an injunction
sec.73 Who may apply for an injunction
The following persons may apply to the District Court for an injunction—
the commissioner;
a person aggrieved by the conduct of another person who is carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator or who is a tour guide.
(a) the commissioner;
(b) a person aggrieved by the conduct of another person who is carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator or who is a tour guide.
sec.74
Grounds for injunction
sec.74 Grounds for injunction
The District Court may grant an injunction against a person if the court is satisfied the person has engaged, or is proposing to engage, in conduct that constitutes or would constitute—
contravening this Act; or
attempting to contravene this Act; or
aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring a person to contravene this Act; or
inducing or attempting to induce, whether by threats, promises or otherwise, a person to contravene this Act; or
being in any way, directly or indirectly, knowingly concerned in, or party to, the contravention by a person of this Act; or
conspiring with others to contravene this Act.
(a) contravening this Act; or
(b) attempting to contravene this Act; or
(c) aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring a person to contravene this Act; or
(d) inducing or attempting to induce, whether by threats, promises or otherwise, a person to contravene this Act; or
(e) being in any way, directly or indirectly, knowingly concerned in, or party to, the contravention by a person of this Act; or
(f) conspiring with others to contravene this Act.
sec.75
Court’s powers for injunctions
sec.75 Court’s powers for injunctions
The power of the District Court to grant an injunction restraining a person from engaging in conduct may be exercised—
whether or not it appears to the court that the person intends to engage again, or to continue to engage, in conduct of that kind; and
whether or not the person has previously engaged in conduct of that kind.
The power of the court to grant an injunction requiring a person to do an act or thing may be exercised—
whether or not it appears to the court that the person intends to fail again, or to continue to fail, to do the act or thing; and
whether or not the person has previously failed to do the act or thing.
An interim injunction may be granted under this part until the application is finally decided.
The District Court may rescind or vary an injunction at any time.
(sec.75-ssec.1) The power of the District Court to grant an injunction restraining a person from engaging in conduct may be exercised— whether or not it appears to the court that the person intends to engage again, or to continue to engage, in conduct of that kind; and whether or not the person has previously engaged in conduct of that kind.
(sec.75-ssec.2) The power of the court to grant an injunction requiring a person to do an act or thing may be exercised— whether or not it appears to the court that the person intends to fail again, or to continue to fail, to do the act or thing; and whether or not the person has previously failed to do the act or thing.
(sec.75-ssec.3) An interim injunction may be granted under this part until the application is finally decided.
(sec.75-ssec.4) The District Court may rescind or vary an injunction at any time.
(a) whether or not it appears to the court that the person intends to engage again, or to continue to engage, in conduct of that kind; and
(b) whether or not the person has previously engaged in conduct of that kind.
(a) whether or not it appears to the court that the person intends to fail again, or to continue to fail, to do the act or thing; and
(b) whether or not the person has previously failed to do the act or thing.
sec.76
Terms of injunction
sec.76 Terms of injunction
The District Court may grant an injunction in the terms the court considers appropriate.
Without limiting the court’s power under subsection (1) , an injunction may be granted restraining a person from carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator, whether or not the person is a registrant or the business is carried on as part of, or incidental to, the carrying on of another business—
for a stated period; or
except on stated terms and conditions.
Also, the court may grant an injunction requiring a person to take stated action, including action to disclose information or publish advertisements, to remedy any adverse consequences of the person’s contravention of this Act.
(sec.76-ssec.1) The District Court may grant an injunction in the terms the court considers appropriate.
(sec.76-ssec.2) Without limiting the court’s power under subsection (1) , an injunction may be granted restraining a person from carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator, whether or not the person is a registrant or the business is carried on as part of, or incidental to, the carrying on of another business— for a stated period; or except on stated terms and conditions.
(sec.76-ssec.3) Also, the court may grant an injunction requiring a person to take stated action, including action to disclose information or publish advertisements, to remedy any adverse consequences of the person’s contravention of this Act.
(a) for a stated period; or
(b) except on stated terms and conditions.
sec.77
Undertakings as to damages or costs
sec.77 Undertakings as to damages or costs
If the commissioner applies for an injunction under this part, no undertaking as to damages or costs may be required or made.
pt.9
Civil penalties, compensation orders and other orders for unconscionable conduct
Civil penalties, compensation orders and other orders for unconscionable conduct
sec.78
Application for order imposing civil penalties
sec.78 Application for order imposing civil penalties
This section applies if an inbound tour operator or tour guide is alleged to have contravened section 35 (1) .
The commissioner, or a person (the injured person ) who claims to have suffered financial loss because of the contravention, may apply to the District Court for an order requiring the inbound tour operator or tour guide—
to pay a money penalty to the State; or
to pay an amount to the injured person as compensation.
An application by the commissioner may be made together with an application made by the commissioner under part 8 .
Under section 82 (1) (a) , (2) or (3) the contravention by a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator of section 35 (1) is also a ground for starting a disciplinary proceeding against the person in the tribunal.
However, under section 97 , either of the following actions may be taken, but not both—
a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator may be dealt with by way of a disciplinary proceeding;
the commissioner or injured person may make an application under section 78 (2) .
The applicant must, at least 14 days before making the application, give notice of the intention to make the application to—
if the commissioner intends to make the application—any person the commissioner reasonably believes may have suffered financial loss because of the contravention, if practicable; and
if an injured person intends to make the application—the commissioner.
The commissioner or an injured person may make a joint application under subsection (2) , or may join in a proceeding started by the other.
(sec.78-ssec.1) This section applies if an inbound tour operator or tour guide is alleged to have contravened section 35 (1) .
(sec.78-ssec.2) The commissioner, or a person (the injured person ) who claims to have suffered financial loss because of the contravention, may apply to the District Court for an order requiring the inbound tour operator or tour guide— to pay a money penalty to the State; or to pay an amount to the injured person as compensation.
(sec.78-ssec.3) An application by the commissioner may be made together with an application made by the commissioner under part 8 . Under section 82 (1) (a) , (2) or (3) the contravention by a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator of section 35 (1) is also a ground for starting a disciplinary proceeding against the person in the tribunal. However, under section 97 , either of the following actions may be taken, but not both— a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator may be dealt with by way of a disciplinary proceeding; the commissioner or injured person may make an application under section 78 (2) .
(sec.78-ssec.4) The applicant must, at least 14 days before making the application, give notice of the intention to make the application to— if the commissioner intends to make the application—any person the commissioner reasonably believes may have suffered financial loss because of the contravention, if practicable; and if an injured person intends to make the application—the commissioner.
(sec.78-ssec.5) The commissioner or an injured person may make a joint application under subsection (2) , or may join in a proceeding started by the other.
(a) to pay a money penalty to the State; or
(b) to pay an amount to the injured person as compensation.
(a) a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator may be dealt with by way of a disciplinary proceeding;
(b) the commissioner or injured person may make an application under section 78 (2) .
(a) if the commissioner intends to make the application—any person the commissioner reasonably believes may have suffered financial loss because of the contravention, if practicable; and
(b) if an injured person intends to make the application—the commissioner.
sec.79
Orders District Court may make
sec.79 Orders District Court may make
This section applies if the District Court is satisfied the inbound tour operator or tour guide has contravened section 35 (1) .
The court may order the inbound tour operator or tour guide to pay to the State, as a money penalty, an amount up to the limit of the court’s civil jurisdiction for each contravention.
If satisfied a person has suffered financial loss because of the contravention, the court may order the inbound tour operator or tour guide to pay to the person, as compensation, an amount, decided by the court, up to the limit of the court’s civil jurisdiction.
If—
the court proposes to order an inbound tour operator or tour guide to pay a money penalty under subsection (2) and compensation under subsection (3) ; and
the inbound tour operator or tour guide does not have the resources to pay both;
the court must prefer to make an order for compensation.
If—
the court orders a corporation to pay a money penalty under subsection (2) or compensation under subsection (3) ; and
the corporation does not have the resources to pay either or both;
the executive officers of the corporation are jointly and severally liable to pay any amount not paid by the corporation.
It is a defence to a liability under subsection (5) for an executive officer to prove that—
if the officer was in a position to influence the conduct of the corporation in relation to the conduct in question—the officer exercised reasonable diligence to ensure the corporation did not contravene section 35 (1) ; or
the officer was not in a position to influence the conduct of the corporation in relation to the conduct in question.
For subsection (1) or (3) , if the court is to be satisfied of a matter, the court need only be satisfied of the matter on the balance of probabilities.
In relation to an inbound tour operator who is a registrant, the court may also make any other order the tribunal could make in a disciplinary proceeding for a contravention of section 35 (1) .
(sec.79-ssec.1) This section applies if the District Court is satisfied the inbound tour operator or tour guide has contravened section 35 (1) .
(sec.79-ssec.2) The court may order the inbound tour operator or tour guide to pay to the State, as a money penalty, an amount up to the limit of the court’s civil jurisdiction for each contravention.
(sec.79-ssec.3) If satisfied a person has suffered financial loss because of the contravention, the court may order the inbound tour operator or tour guide to pay to the person, as compensation, an amount, decided by the court, up to the limit of the court’s civil jurisdiction.
(sec.79-ssec.4) If— the court proposes to order an inbound tour operator or tour guide to pay a money penalty under subsection (2) and compensation under subsection (3) ; and the inbound tour operator or tour guide does not have the resources to pay both; the court must prefer to make an order for compensation.
(sec.79-ssec.5) If— the court orders a corporation to pay a money penalty under subsection (2) or compensation under subsection (3) ; and the corporation does not have the resources to pay either or both; the executive officers of the corporation are jointly and severally liable to pay any amount not paid by the corporation.
(sec.79-ssec.6) It is a defence to a liability under subsection (5) for an executive officer to prove that— if the officer was in a position to influence the conduct of the corporation in relation to the conduct in question—the officer exercised reasonable diligence to ensure the corporation did not contravene section 35 (1) ; or the officer was not in a position to influence the conduct of the corporation in relation to the conduct in question.
(sec.79-ssec.7) For subsection (1) or (3) , if the court is to be satisfied of a matter, the court need only be satisfied of the matter on the balance of probabilities.
(sec.79-ssec.8) In relation to an inbound tour operator who is a registrant, the court may also make any other order the tribunal could make in a disciplinary proceeding for a contravention of section 35 (1) .
(a) the court proposes to order an inbound tour operator or tour guide to pay a money penalty under subsection (2) and compensation under subsection (3) ; and
(b) the inbound tour operator or tour guide does not have the resources to pay both;
(a) the court orders a corporation to pay a money penalty under subsection (2) or compensation under subsection (3) ; and
(b) the corporation does not have the resources to pay either or both;
(a) if the officer was in a position to influence the conduct of the corporation in relation to the conduct in question—the officer exercised reasonable diligence to ensure the corporation did not contravene section 35 (1) ; or
(b) the officer was not in a position to influence the conduct of the corporation in relation to the conduct in question.
sec.80
Criteria for deciding amount to be ordered
sec.80 Criteria for deciding amount to be ordered
To decide an amount an inbound tour operator or tour guide should be ordered to pay under section 79 , the District Court may consider any or all of the following—
the inbound tour operator or tour guide’s conduct before and after the contravention;
whether the conduct was deliberate;
the period over which the conduct happened;
the amount of financial loss caused by the contravention;
any similar past conduct of the inbound tour operator or tour guide, including conduct happening before the commencement of this section;
whether the conduct could have been prevented;
if the inbound tour operator is a corporation—the extent to which the executive officers of the corporation knew or should have known of the contravention;
any action the inbound tour operator took to remedy the contravention including, for example, compensating persons who suffered financial loss because of it;
the extent to which the inbound tour operator or tour guide cooperated with the commissioner to remedy the contravention and prevent future contraventions;
the inbound tour operator’s or tour guide’s financial position;
any other relevant factor.
(a) the inbound tour operator or tour guide’s conduct before and after the contravention;
(b) whether the conduct was deliberate;
(c) the period over which the conduct happened;
(d) the amount of financial loss caused by the contravention;
(e) any similar past conduct of the inbound tour operator or tour guide, including conduct happening before the commencement of this section;
(f) whether the conduct could have been prevented;
(g) if the inbound tour operator is a corporation—the extent to which the executive officers of the corporation knew or should have known of the contravention;
(h) any action the inbound tour operator took to remedy the contravention including, for example, compensating persons who suffered financial loss because of it;
(i) the extent to which the inbound tour operator or tour guide cooperated with the commissioner to remedy the contravention and prevent future contraventions;
(j) the inbound tour operator’s or tour guide’s financial position;
(k) any other relevant factor.
pt.10
Disciplinary proceedings
Disciplinary proceedings
sec.81
Tribunal may conduct disciplinary proceeding
sec.81 Tribunal may conduct disciplinary proceeding
The tribunal may, on application by the commissioner, conduct a proceeding (a disciplinary proceeding ) to decide whether a disciplinary ground is established.
sec.82
Grounds for starting disciplinary proceedings
sec.82 Grounds for starting disciplinary proceedings
Each of the following is a ground (a disciplinary ground ) for starting a disciplinary proceeding against a registrant—
the registrant has contravened this Act;
the registrant obtained registration, or a renewal of registration, because of a materially false or misleading representation or declaration;
the registrant is not, or is no longer, a suitable person to be registered;
See section 14 .
the registrant has contravened a condition of the registrant’s registration;
if the registrant’s registration is suspended under section 29 , the contravention and detriment relating to the suspension.
It is a ground (a disciplinary ground ) for starting a disciplinary proceeding against a tour guide that the tour guide has contravened this Act.
It is a ground (a disciplinary ground ) for starting a disciplinary proceeding against an inbound tour operator that the inbound tour operator has contravened this Act.
If the contravention of this Act by a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator is also an offence against this Act, under section 97 (2) the person may then be prosecuted for the offence or dealt with under this part, but not both.
s 82 amd 2008 No. 69 s 102
(sec.82-ssec.1) Each of the following is a ground (a disciplinary ground ) for starting a disciplinary proceeding against a registrant— the registrant has contravened this Act; the registrant obtained registration, or a renewal of registration, because of a materially false or misleading representation or declaration; the registrant is not, or is no longer, a suitable person to be registered; See section 14 . the registrant has contravened a condition of the registrant’s registration; if the registrant’s registration is suspended under section 29 , the contravention and detriment relating to the suspension.
(sec.82-ssec.2) It is a ground (a disciplinary ground ) for starting a disciplinary proceeding against a tour guide that the tour guide has contravened this Act.
(sec.82-ssec.3) It is a ground (a disciplinary ground ) for starting a disciplinary proceeding against an inbound tour operator that the inbound tour operator has contravened this Act. If the contravention of this Act by a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator is also an offence against this Act, under section 97 (2) the person may then be prosecuted for the offence or dealt with under this part, but not both.
(a) the registrant has contravened this Act;
(b) the registrant obtained registration, or a renewal of registration, because of a materially false or misleading representation or declaration;
(c) the registrant is not, or is no longer, a suitable person to be registered; Note— See section 14 .
(d) the registrant has contravened a condition of the registrant’s registration;
(e) if the registrant’s registration is suspended under section 29 , the contravention and detriment relating to the suspension.
sec.83
Orders the tribunal may make
sec.83 Orders the tribunal may make
If the tribunal decides a disciplinary ground under this Act is established in relation to a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator, it may make 1 or more of the following orders—
an order reprimanding the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator;
an order that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator pay to the commissioner, within the time stated in the order, a penalty of not more than an amount equal to—
if the only disciplinary ground concerned is that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator contravened this Act and the contravention is an offence—the maximum penalty for the offence; or
otherwise—200 penalty units;
an order suspending the registrant’s registration for a stated period;
an order cancelling the registrant’s registration;
an order imposing conditions on, or amending or revoking the conditions of, the registrant’s registration;
an order that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator pay to a person who has suffered financial loss because of an act or omission of the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator, as compensation, an amount, decided by the tribunal, up to the limit of a Magistrates Court’s civil jurisdiction;
another order the tribunal considers appropriate to ensure a further disciplinary ground relating to the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator does not happen.
The tribunal may make an order under subsection (1) (b) or (f) against a person only on the basis of evidence, submissions and other information received in accordance with the evidentiary law and practice applicable to a civil proceeding in a Magistrates Court.
If—
the tribunal proposes to order a person to pay an amount to the commissioner under subsection (1) (b) and compensation under subsection (1) (f) ; and
the person does not have enough financial resources to pay both;
the tribunal must prefer to make an order for compensation.
(sec.83-ssec.1) If the tribunal decides a disciplinary ground under this Act is established in relation to a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator, it may make 1 or more of the following orders— an order reprimanding the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator; an order that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator pay to the commissioner, within the time stated in the order, a penalty of not more than an amount equal to— if the only disciplinary ground concerned is that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator contravened this Act and the contravention is an offence—the maximum penalty for the offence; or otherwise—200 penalty units; an order suspending the registrant’s registration for a stated period; an order cancelling the registrant’s registration; an order imposing conditions on, or amending or revoking the conditions of, the registrant’s registration; an order that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator pay to a person who has suffered financial loss because of an act or omission of the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator, as compensation, an amount, decided by the tribunal, up to the limit of a Magistrates Court’s civil jurisdiction; another order the tribunal considers appropriate to ensure a further disciplinary ground relating to the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator does not happen.
(sec.83-ssec.2) The tribunal may make an order under subsection (1) (b) or (f) against a person only on the basis of evidence, submissions and other information received in accordance with the evidentiary law and practice applicable to a civil proceeding in a Magistrates Court.
(sec.83-ssec.3) If— the tribunal proposes to order a person to pay an amount to the commissioner under subsection (1) (b) and compensation under subsection (1) (f) ; and the person does not have enough financial resources to pay both; the tribunal must prefer to make an order for compensation.
(a) an order reprimanding the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator;
(b) an order that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator pay to the commissioner, within the time stated in the order, a penalty of not more than an amount equal to— (i) if the only disciplinary ground concerned is that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator contravened this Act and the contravention is an offence—the maximum penalty for the offence; or (ii) otherwise—200 penalty units;
(i) if the only disciplinary ground concerned is that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator contravened this Act and the contravention is an offence—the maximum penalty for the offence; or
(ii) otherwise—200 penalty units;
(c) an order suspending the registrant’s registration for a stated period;
(d) an order cancelling the registrant’s registration;
(e) an order imposing conditions on, or amending or revoking the conditions of, the registrant’s registration;
(f) an order that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator pay to a person who has suffered financial loss because of an act or omission of the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator, as compensation, an amount, decided by the tribunal, up to the limit of a Magistrates Court’s civil jurisdiction;
(g) another order the tribunal considers appropriate to ensure a further disciplinary ground relating to the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator does not happen.
(i) if the only disciplinary ground concerned is that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator contravened this Act and the contravention is an offence—the maximum penalty for the offence; or
(ii) otherwise—200 penalty units;
(a) the tribunal proposes to order a person to pay an amount to the commissioner under subsection (1) (b) and compensation under subsection (1) (f) ; and
(b) the person does not have enough financial resources to pay both;
sec.84
Criteria for deciding amount to be ordered
sec.84 Criteria for deciding amount to be ordered
To decide the amount a person may be ordered to pay under section 83 (1) (b) or (f) , the tribunal may consider any or all of the following—
the person’s conduct before and after the disciplinary ground concerned happened;
whether the conduct was deliberate;
the period over which the conduct happened;
the amount of financial loss caused by the disciplinary ground;
any similar past conduct of the person, including conduct happening before the commencement of this section;
whether the conduct could have been prevented;
if the person is a corporation—the extent to which the executive officers of the corporation knew or should have known of the existence of the disciplinary ground;
any action the person took to remedy the disciplinary ground including, for example, compensating persons who suffered financial loss because of it;
the extent to which the person cooperated with the commissioner to remedy the disciplinary ground and prevent future disciplinary grounds happening;
the person’s financial position;
any other relevant factor.
(a) the person’s conduct before and after the disciplinary ground concerned happened;
(b) whether the conduct was deliberate;
(c) the period over which the conduct happened;
(d) the amount of financial loss caused by the disciplinary ground;
(e) any similar past conduct of the person, including conduct happening before the commencement of this section;
(f) whether the conduct could have been prevented;
(g) if the person is a corporation—the extent to which the executive officers of the corporation knew or should have known of the existence of the disciplinary ground;
(h) any action the person took to remedy the disciplinary ground including, for example, compensating persons who suffered financial loss because of it;
(i) the extent to which the person cooperated with the commissioner to remedy the disciplinary ground and prevent future disciplinary grounds happening;
(j) the person’s financial position;
(k) any other relevant factor.
pt.11
Review of certain decisions
Review of certain decisions
sec.85
Review by tribunal
sec.85 Review by tribunal
An applicant for registration may apply, as provided under the QCAT Act , to the tribunal for review of the commissioner’s decision to refuse to grant the registration.
A person may apply, as provided under the QCAT Act , to the tribunal for review of a decision of the commissioner to—
suspend the person’s registration; or
cancel the person’s registration; or
refuse to renew the person’s registration; or
impose a condition on the person’s registration; or
refuse to replace the person’s registration certificate.
s 85 amd 2009 No. 24 s 806 ; 2014 No. 8 s 178
(sec.85-ssec.1) An applicant for registration may apply, as provided under the QCAT Act , to the tribunal for review of the commissioner’s decision to refuse to grant the registration.
(sec.85-ssec.2) A person may apply, as provided under the QCAT Act , to the tribunal for review of a decision of the commissioner to— suspend the person’s registration; or cancel the person’s registration; or refuse to renew the person’s registration; or impose a condition on the person’s registration; or refuse to replace the person’s registration certificate.
(a) suspend the person’s registration; or
(b) cancel the person’s registration; or
(c) refuse to renew the person’s registration; or
(d) impose a condition on the person’s registration; or
(e) refuse to replace the person’s registration certificate.
pt.12
Offences and evidence
Offences and evidence
sec.86
Proceeding for offence
sec.86 Proceeding for offence
A proceeding for an offence against this Act must be taken in a summary way under the Justices Act 1886 .
The proceeding must start within the later of—
1 year after the offence is committed; or
1 year after the offence comes to the complainant’s knowledge, but within 2 years after the offence is committed.
s 86 amd 2007 No. 36 s 2 sch
(sec.86-ssec.1) A proceeding for an offence against this Act must be taken in a summary way under the Justices Act 1886 .
(sec.86-ssec.2) The proceeding must start within the later of— 1 year after the offence is committed; or 1 year after the offence comes to the complainant’s knowledge, but within 2 years after the offence is committed.
(a) 1 year after the offence is committed; or
(b) 1 year after the offence comes to the complainant’s knowledge, but within 2 years after the offence is committed.
sec.87
Orders court may make on conviction of registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator
sec.87 Orders court may make on conviction of registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator
This section applies if a court convicts a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator of an offence against this Act.
In addition to any penalty imposed for the offence, the court may make 1 or more of the following orders—
if the offender is a registrant—
an order suspending the registrant’s registration for a stated period; or
an order cancelling the registrant’s registration; or
an order imposing conditions on, or amending or revoking the conditions of, the registrant’s registration;
in any case—an order that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator pay a stated amount as compensation to a stated person who has suffered financial loss because of the registrant’s, tour guide’s or inbound tour operator’s conduct relating to the offence.
An order under subsection (2) (b) may be made on the application of the prosecution or the person who has suffered financial loss.
This section does not limit the court’s powers under the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 or another law.
Under section 82 (1) (a) , (2) or (3) the contravention by a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator of this Act is a ground for starting a disciplinary proceeding against the person in the tribunal.
However, under section 97 , a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator can not be both prosecuted for an offence against the Act and dealt with by way of disciplinary proceedings for the one contravention.
(sec.87-ssec.1) This section applies if a court convicts a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator of an offence against this Act.
(sec.87-ssec.2) In addition to any penalty imposed for the offence, the court may make 1 or more of the following orders— if the offender is a registrant— an order suspending the registrant’s registration for a stated period; or an order cancelling the registrant’s registration; or an order imposing conditions on, or amending or revoking the conditions of, the registrant’s registration; in any case—an order that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator pay a stated amount as compensation to a stated person who has suffered financial loss because of the registrant’s, tour guide’s or inbound tour operator’s conduct relating to the offence.
(sec.87-ssec.3) An order under subsection (2) (b) may be made on the application of the prosecution or the person who has suffered financial loss.
(sec.87-ssec.4) This section does not limit the court’s powers under the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 or another law. Under section 82 (1) (a) , (2) or (3) the contravention by a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator of this Act is a ground for starting a disciplinary proceeding against the person in the tribunal. However, under section 97 , a registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator can not be both prosecuted for an offence against the Act and dealt with by way of disciplinary proceedings for the one contravention.
(a) if the offender is a registrant— (i) an order suspending the registrant’s registration for a stated period; or (ii) an order cancelling the registrant’s registration; or (iii) an order imposing conditions on, or amending or revoking the conditions of, the registrant’s registration;
(i) an order suspending the registrant’s registration for a stated period; or
(ii) an order cancelling the registrant’s registration; or
(iii) an order imposing conditions on, or amending or revoking the conditions of, the registrant’s registration;
(b) in any case—an order that the registrant, tour guide or inbound tour operator pay a stated amount as compensation to a stated person who has suffered financial loss because of the registrant’s, tour guide’s or inbound tour operator’s conduct relating to the offence.
(i) an order suspending the registrant’s registration for a stated period; or
(ii) an order cancelling the registrant’s registration; or
(iii) an order imposing conditions on, or amending or revoking the conditions of, the registrant’s registration;
sec.88
Evidence
sec.88 Evidence
This section applies to a proceeding under this Act.
A signature purporting to be the signature of the commissioner is evidence of the signature it purports to be.
A certificate purporting to be signed by the commissioner and stating any of the following matters is evidence of the matter—
that a specified document is a registration certificate, or copy of a registration certificate, granted under this Act;
that on a specified day, or during a specified period, a specified person was or was not registered;
that registration—
was or was not granted for a specified term; or
was or was not in force on a specified day or during a specified period; or
was or was not subject to conditions or a specified condition;
that a document is a copy of a record kept under this Act.
s 88 amd 2014 No. 8 s 179
(sec.88-ssec.1) This section applies to a proceeding under this Act.
(sec.88-ssec.2) A signature purporting to be the signature of the commissioner is evidence of the signature it purports to be.
(sec.88-ssec.3) A certificate purporting to be signed by the commissioner and stating any of the following matters is evidence of the matter— that a specified document is a registration certificate, or copy of a registration certificate, granted under this Act; that on a specified day, or during a specified period, a specified person was or was not registered; that registration— was or was not granted for a specified term; or was or was not in force on a specified day or during a specified period; or was or was not subject to conditions or a specified condition; that a document is a copy of a record kept under this Act.
(a) that a specified document is a registration certificate, or copy of a registration certificate, granted under this Act;
(b) that on a specified day, or during a specified period, a specified person was or was not registered;
(c) that registration— (i) was or was not granted for a specified term; or (ii) was or was not in force on a specified day or during a specified period; or (iii) was or was not subject to conditions or a specified condition;
(i) was or was not granted for a specified term; or
(ii) was or was not in force on a specified day or during a specified period; or
(iii) was or was not subject to conditions or a specified condition;
(d) that a document is a copy of a record kept under this Act.
(i) was or was not granted for a specified term; or
(ii) was or was not in force on a specified day or during a specified period; or
(iii) was or was not subject to conditions or a specified condition;
sec.89
Executive officers must ensure corporation complies with Act
sec.89 Executive officers must ensure corporation complies with Act
s 89 om 2013 No. 51 s 200
pt.13
Other matters
Other matters
sec.90
Treatment of partnerships
sec.90 Treatment of partnerships
Subject to this section, this Act applies to a partnership as if the partnership were a person.
For an application by, or registration or renewal of registration of, a partnership—
part 3 , division 2 applies as if each partner were an applicant; and
if a partner is not a suitable person to hold registration, the partnership is not a suitable person.
An obligation or liability that, apart from this subsection, would be imposed by this Act on a person that is a partnership is imposed on each partner, but may be discharged by any of the partners.
An amount that, apart from this subsection, would be payable under this Act by a person that is a partnership is jointly and severally payable by the partners.
If, because of the operation of subsection (1) , a contravention of, or an offence against a provision of, this Act is taken to have been committed by a partnership, the contravention or offence is taken to have been committed by each of the partners.
However, it is a defence for a partner to prove—
if the partner was in a position to influence the conduct of the partnership in relation to the contravention or offence—the partner exercised reasonable diligence to ensure the partnership complied with the provision; or
the partner was not in a position to influence the conduct of the partnership in relation to the contravention or offence.
(sec.90-ssec.1) Subject to this section, this Act applies to a partnership as if the partnership were a person.
(sec.90-ssec.2) For an application by, or registration or renewal of registration of, a partnership— part 3 , division 2 applies as if each partner were an applicant; and if a partner is not a suitable person to hold registration, the partnership is not a suitable person.
(sec.90-ssec.3) An obligation or liability that, apart from this subsection, would be imposed by this Act on a person that is a partnership is imposed on each partner, but may be discharged by any of the partners.
(sec.90-ssec.4) An amount that, apart from this subsection, would be payable under this Act by a person that is a partnership is jointly and severally payable by the partners.
(sec.90-ssec.5) If, because of the operation of subsection (1) , a contravention of, or an offence against a provision of, this Act is taken to have been committed by a partnership, the contravention or offence is taken to have been committed by each of the partners.
(sec.90-ssec.6) However, it is a defence for a partner to prove— if the partner was in a position to influence the conduct of the partnership in relation to the contravention or offence—the partner exercised reasonable diligence to ensure the partnership complied with the provision; or the partner was not in a position to influence the conduct of the partnership in relation to the contravention or offence.
(a) part 3 , division 2 applies as if each partner were an applicant; and
(b) if a partner is not a suitable person to hold registration, the partnership is not a suitable person.
(a) if the partner was in a position to influence the conduct of the partnership in relation to the contravention or offence—the partner exercised reasonable diligence to ensure the partnership complied with the provision; or
(b) the partner was not in a position to influence the conduct of the partnership in relation to the contravention or offence.
sec.91
Complaint about conduct that contravenes this Act
sec.91 Complaint about conduct that contravenes this Act
A person aggrieved by another person’s conduct that the person believes contravenes this Act may make a written or oral complaint to the commissioner about the conduct.
The commissioner may investigate the complaint and, if satisfied this Act has been contravened, may start an offence proceeding or another proceeding under this Act against the other person for the contravention.
The commissioner may require that an oral complaint be put in writing before it is investigated.
The investigation may take place and a proceeding may be started and continued against a person who was an inbound tour operator, registrant or tour guide when the matter of complaint arose even though the person is no longer an inbound tour operator, registrant or tour guide.
For subsection (4) , part 9 or 10 applies as if a reference in the part to an inbound tour operator, registrant or tour guide included a reference to a former inbound tour operator, registrant or tour guide mentioned in the subsection and with other necessary changes.
(sec.91-ssec.1) A person aggrieved by another person’s conduct that the person believes contravenes this Act may make a written or oral complaint to the commissioner about the conduct.
(sec.91-ssec.2) The commissioner may investigate the complaint and, if satisfied this Act has been contravened, may start an offence proceeding or another proceeding under this Act against the other person for the contravention.
(sec.91-ssec.3) The commissioner may require that an oral complaint be put in writing before it is investigated.
(sec.91-ssec.4) The investigation may take place and a proceeding may be started and continued against a person who was an inbound tour operator, registrant or tour guide when the matter of complaint arose even though the person is no longer an inbound tour operator, registrant or tour guide.
(sec.91-ssec.5) For subsection (4) , part 9 or 10 applies as if a reference in the part to an inbound tour operator, registrant or tour guide included a reference to a former inbound tour operator, registrant or tour guide mentioned in the subsection and with other necessary changes.
sec.92
Language of complaint
sec.92 Language of complaint
The complaint may be in a language other than English if it is written and the complainant is unable to make it in English.
sec.93
Public warning statements
sec.93 Public warning statements
The Minister or commissioner may make or issue a public statement identifying, and giving warnings or information about, any of the following—
contraventions of this Act that have resulted in disciplinary proceedings and persons who commit the contraventions;
conduct engaged in by inbound tour operators, whether or not they are registrants, or tour guides, that in all the circumstances the Minister or commissioner considers unconscionable;
the commission of offences against this Act and persons who commit the offences.
The statement may identify particular contraventions, business practices, unconscionable conduct, offences and persons.
The Minister or commissioner must not issue a public statement or give a warning under this section unless satisfied that it is in the public interest to do so.
(sec.93-ssec.1) The Minister or commissioner may make or issue a public statement identifying, and giving warnings or information about, any of the following— contraventions of this Act that have resulted in disciplinary proceedings and persons who commit the contraventions; conduct engaged in by inbound tour operators, whether or not they are registrants, or tour guides, that in all the circumstances the Minister or commissioner considers unconscionable; the commission of offences against this Act and persons who commit the offences.
(sec.93-ssec.2) The statement may identify particular contraventions, business practices, unconscionable conduct, offences and persons.
(sec.93-ssec.3) The Minister or commissioner must not issue a public statement or give a warning under this section unless satisfied that it is in the public interest to do so.
(a) contraventions of this Act that have resulted in disciplinary proceedings and persons who commit the contraventions;
(b) conduct engaged in by inbound tour operators, whether or not they are registrants, or tour guides, that in all the circumstances the Minister or commissioner considers unconscionable;
(c) the commission of offences against this Act and persons who commit the offences.
More sections below
Source text: opening excerpt
Sourced from Queensland Legislation (legislation.qld.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.
pt.1 Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1 Short title
sec.1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the Tourism Services Act 2003 .
sec.2 Commencement
sec.2 Commencement
This Act commences on a day to be fixed by proclamation.
sec.3 Act binds all persons
sec.3 Act binds all persons
This Act binds all persons including the State and, as far as the legislative power of the Parliament permits, the Commonwealth and the other States.
Subsection (1) does not make the State, the Commonwealth or another State liable to be prosecuted for an offence or proceeded against for a relevant contravention.
(sec.3-ssec.1) This Act binds all persons including the State and, as far as the legislative power of the Parliament permits, the Commonwealth and the other States.
(sec.3-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not make the State, the Commonwealth or another State liable to be prosecuted for an offence or proceeded against for a relevant contravention.
sec.4 Main purpose of Act
sec.4 Main purpose of Act
The main purpose of this Act is to provide for fair trading in the tourism services industry by—
establishing a registration system for inbound tour operators; and
providing for codes of conduct for inbound tour operators and tour guides including the setting of minimum standards for—
carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator; or
tour guides; and
prohibiting unconscionable conduct by inbound tour operators and tour guides; and
promoting sound business practices by inbound tour operators and tour guides.
(a) establishing a registration system for inbound tour operators; and
(b) providing for codes of conduct for inbound tour operators and tour guides including the setting of minimum standards for— (i) carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator; or (ii) tour guides; and
(i) carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator; or
(ii) tour guides; and
(c) prohibiting unconscionable conduct by inbound tour operators and tour guides; and
(d) promoting sound business practices by inbound tour operators and tour guides.
(i) carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator; or
(ii) tour guides; and
sec.5 Non-application of Act
sec.5 Non-application of Act
This Act does not apply to a person to the extent the person merely provides a travel package, or guiding services for tourists—
on a not for profit basis; or
for a community purpose if all net proceeds from the package or services are applied solely to furthering the community purpose.
In this section—
community purpose means—
a benevolent or philanthropic purpose, including, for example, the promotion of art, charity, culture, education, medicine, religion or science; or
a sporting or recreational purpose.
not for profit basis , for providing a travel package or guiding services, means the provision of the package or service—
does not have a significant commercial purpose or character; and
does not primarily seek to make a profit for anyone.
(sec.5-ssec.1) This Act does not apply to a person to the extent the person merely provides a travel package, or guiding services for tourists— on a not for profit basis; or for a community purpose if all net proceeds from the package or services are applied solely to furthering the community purpose.
(sec.5-ssec.2) In this section— community purpose means— a benevolent or philanthropic purpose, including, for example, the promotion of art, charity, culture, education, medicine, religion or science; or a sporting or recreational purpose. not for profit basis , for providing a travel package or guiding services, means the provision of the package or service— does not have a significant commercial purpose or character; and does not primarily seek to make a profit for anyone.
The Act’s stated main purpose is to provide for fair trading in the tourism services industry by establishing registration, codes of conduct, prohibiting unconscionable conduct and promoting sound business practices (s 4). That is an explicit purpose clause, but the Act implements it through registration, codes that may set minimum standards (s 38), a specific statutory unconscionability prohibition (s 35), investigatory powers, remedial undertakings, and a range of civil and administrative sanctions.
Main concepts
Inbound tour operator, tour guide, registration, unconscionable conduct, associated person and effective control. These are the conceptual building blocks that determine who is regulated, what behaviour is prohibited, and which enforcement tools can be used.
Inbound tour operator (s 9). The Act defines an inbound tour operator broadly. A person is an inbound tour operator if they alone or with others sell, to specified overseas entities, travel packages for an inclusive price that include persons visiting or travelling in Queensland (s 9(1)(a)), hold themselves out as carrying on such a business (s 9(1)(b)), or are entitled to share in the income of such a business (s 9(1)(c)). The definition is explicitly location‑neutral: it is immaterial whether the person has a place of business in Queensland or whether they provide other tourism services directly in Queensland (s 9(2)). A person who sells primarily within Australia may be exempted by the exemption test in s 12(3) (see below), and shareholders merely entitled to share in corporate income are not taken to be inbound operators solely on that basis (s 9(4)).
Tour guide (s 10). A tour guide is an individual who personally supplies guiding services to tourists for reward, with reward defined broadly to include payments or benefits regardless of who pays or where the payment occurs (s 10(1)-(2)). Work experience that is intended to function as unpaid training can be treated as supplying services for reward (s 10(3)). Services supplied for only part of tourists’ time in Queensland still fall within the definition (s 10(4)).
Associated person and effective control (s 8). The Act treats as associated persons those who are, or would be if registration were granted, in effective control of the applicant’s or registrant’s business (s 8(1)-(2)). Effective control is described by practical indicators: regularly in charge, directing staff, or able to substantially influence the business (s 8(3)). For corporate applicants, each executive officer is taken to be an associated person (s 8(4)). The definition matters for suitability assessments, disclosure obligations and for potential joint liability outcomes.
Registration and suitability (Part 3). Registration is required to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator unless the person is an exempt person (s 12(1)-(2)). The commissioner may grant registration only if satisfied the applicant is a suitable person (s 13). Suitability includes consideration of criminal history, past orders under Part 9, and convictions under related consumer protection laws within the last five years (s 13(3)). Part 3 sets out application procedures, the register content (s 28), certificates, renewal, surrender, and mechanisms to change conditions (ss 16-28).
Unconscionable conduct (s 35, s 36). A statutory prohibition requires inbound tour operators and tour guides not to engage in conduct that is, in all the circumstances, unconscionable when supplying services to a tourist (s 35(1)). The Act specifies that only reasonably foreseeable circumstances at the time of the alleged contravention should be considered (s 35(2)). Section 36 lists indicative factors the decision‑maker may take into account: the relative bargaining positions, undue pressure, failure to disclose intended conduct or relationships with third parties, cultural or language disadvantages of tourists, alternatives available to tourists, deception or misleading conduct, and compliance with applicable codes (s 36). These factors provide a statutory guide to the factual matrix relevant to unconscionability findings.
Codes of conduct (s 38). Regulations may prescribe industry codes for inbound tour operators and tour guides. Codes can set minimum standards, establish principles for fair dealing, and provide for dispute resolution systems including requiring written dispute policies (s 38). The Act leaves the content and enforcement mechanisms for codes to subordinate regulation.
Remedies and enforcement pathways. The Act provides undertakings accepted by the commissioner (Pt 7, ss 69-71), injunctive relief (Pt 8, ss 73-76), civil penalty and compensation orders in the District Court for contraventions of s 35 (Pt 9, ss 78-80), and disciplinary proceedings before the tribunal with specified orders and monetary limits (Pt 10, ss 81-84). It also provides for criminal summary proceedings under the Justices Act 1886 for offences against the Act (s 86). The Act contains rules about evidence (s 88), confidentiality (s 94), and limits on proceeding types to avoid concurrent discipline and prosecution (s 97).
These concepts interact to determine the regulated population, the behaviour captured by the Act, the investigatory expectations on applicants and registrants, and the available sanctions. The Act gives the commissioner both administrative options (undertakings, conditions, immediate suspension) and judicial options (applications to District Court or tribunal referrals), with statutory interlocks designed to avoid duplicative sanctions for a single contravention (s 97).
Who it affects
The Act designates several categories of persons and institutions that bear rights, duties or exposure to sanctions.
Inbound tour operators (primary regulated class). Defined in s 9, inbound tour operators who sell travel packages to specified overseas entities, hold themselves out as carrying on that business, or share income from such a business, must be registered to carry on the business unless an exemption applies (s 12(1)-(3)). The definition covers persons whether or not they have a place of business in Queensland (s 9(2)). The Act affects their business models, advertising, record keeping and relationships with third parties (s 100(2)(b)-(c)).
Tour guides (secondary regulated class). Individuals supplying guiding services for reward are regulated under the unconscionable conduct prohibition (s 35) and the Act expressly states that a tour guide is an individual supplying services for reward, defined broadly (s 10). Tour guides can be subject to disciplinary proceedings where they contravene the Act (s 82(2)).
Associated persons and executive officers. Associated persons (s 8) and executive officers of corporate applicants are specifically captured in suitability and liability mechanisms. Executive officers of corporations ordered to pay penalties or compensation may be jointly and severally liable if the corporation lacks resources (s 79(5)), subject to a defence of reasonable diligence or lack of ability to influence (s 79(6)).
Corporations, partnerships and small operators. The Act applies to corporations and treats partnerships as persons subject to joint and several obligations (s 90). For partnerships, each partner is treated as an applicant for registration and may be held liable; defences similar to those for executive officers are available (s 90). The registration exemption for persons with limited inbound package sales (s 12(3)) can capture diverse business models; the test compares the number of inbound packages with other travel packages sold.
Tourists. The Act’s protections are directed at tourists who purchase services. The unconscionable conduct prohibition is expressly “in relation to supplying services to a tourist” (s 35(1)). Remedies can include compensation to injured persons who claim financial loss because of contraventions (s 78(2)(b), s 79(3)).
The commissioner and departmental staff. The commissioner administers registration, suitability inquiries and enforcement functions, and may delegate powers to appropriately qualified officers in the Fair Trading administration (s 96). The commissioner may request criminal history reports from the commissioner of police service for suitability checks (s 15).
The tribunal, District Court and other courts. The tribunal (QCAT) conducts disciplinary proceedings under Part 10 (s 81). The District Court adjudicates applications for injunctions and civil penalty/compensation orders under Part 9 (ss 73, 78). Magistrates Courts’ civil jurisdiction is the monetary limit for tribunal compensation orders (s 83(1)(f)).
The Minister and public. The Minister or commissioner may issue public warning statements identifying contraventions, practices or persons, subject to a public interest test (s 93). The public can inspect registers of registrations and undertakings on payment of any prescribed fee (ss 28, 72).
Inspectors under the Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014. Inspectors appointed under the FTI Act for this Act hold powers that are additional to any under this Act unless otherwise provided (s 6A). This means enforcement activity may be exercised by designated inspectors with a common suite of powers.
Who pays and who decides. Registrants pay application, issuance and renewal fees prescribed by regulation and may be required to pay reasonable costs for criminal history reports (s 20, s 15A). The commissioner decides suitability, conditions, suspension and acceptance of undertakings (ss 13, 17, 29, 69). The tribunal and courts decide disciplinary and civil penalty outcomes. Tourists may be the recipients of compensation awards where financial loss is proven (ss 79(3), 83(1)(f)).
Key duties and rights
This section sets out the principal affirmative duties imposed by the Act on regulated persons and corresponding rights available to them and to third parties.
Key duties
Duty to hold registration to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator (s 12(1)). A person must not carry on that business unless a registrant whose registration is not suspended. The maximum penalty for breach is 200 penalty units (s 12(1)). There is a statutory defence if the person proves they are an exempt person under the tests in s 12(3).
Suitability disclosures and cooperation (ss 13-15). An applicant must state names and business addresses of all associated persons when applying (s 20(2)(b)), and the commissioner may inquire into the applicant’s or associated persons’ criminal history (s 15). The applicant may have to pay reasonable costs for obtaining police reports (s 15A). Information supplied under s 15 is limited to suitability assessment and must be destroyed when no longer needed (s 15(5)-(6)).
Notification of prescribed changes (s 33). Registrants must notify the commissioner within 30 days of a change in circumstances prescribed by regulation. Failure attracts a maximum penalty of 50 penalty units.
Return of registration certificate on demand or on changes (ss 19, 25, 31, 32). A registrant must produce or return the registration certificate where required following changes in conditions, surrender (s 25), suspension (s 29), or cancellation after conviction (s 32). Failure to comply carries specified penalties (s 19(2) and s 25(3) and s 32(2)).
Compliance with codes and dispute resolution where prescribed (s 38(2)(c)). Regulations may require inbound tour operators or tour guides to have a written policy about resolving disputes.
Prohibitions and standards
Prohibition of unconscionable conduct in supplying services to tourists (s 35(1)). The section is intended to be an additional remedy to common law or other statutory remedies (s 35(3)). For deciding unconscionability, only reasonably foreseeable circumstances at the time should be considered (s 35(2)). Section 36 lists matters that may indicate unconscionable conduct and thus serves as a guide to the applicable standard.
Other regulatory offences. The Act contains more specific penalties for failing to comply with registration retrievals, surrender obligations, and confidentiality.
Rights and procedural protections
Right to apply for registration and renewal and to specify 1 or 3 year terms (ss 20(3), 22(3)). The commissioner must grant renewal for the term stated if the renewal is granted (ss 21(3), 23(3)).
Right to be informed and make submissions before certain condition changes (s 18(5)). On the commissioner’s own initiative to change a condition, the registrant must be notified and given at least 14 days to make written submissions (s 18(5)-(6)).
Access to review. An applicant can apply to the tribunal under the QCAT Act for review of certain commissioner decisions such as refusal to grant or renew registration, suspension, cancellation or imposition of conditions, and refusal to replace certificates (s 85). Additionally, the commissioner must provide QCAT information notices within 14 days for specified refusals and condition changes (ss 17(3), 18(4), 21(4), 23(4)).
Undertakings bar to other proceedings. If the commissioner accepts a written undertaking given under s 69 and the terms are complied with, other proceedings (offence proceedings or proceedings under Parts 9 or 10) cannot be started for that contravention unless the commissioner withdraws acceptance (s 69(3)). The commissioner can vary or withdraw acceptance on stated grounds (s 70).
Protection for officials. Officials, defined as the Minister and the commissioner, are not civilly liable for acts done honestly and without negligence under the Act; liability transfers to the State where this protection applies (s 95).
Limit on double treatment. A person cannot be both prosecuted for an offence and dealt with by disciplinary proceedings for the same contravention (s 97(2)). For contraventions of s 35 by registrants, tour guides or inbound tour operators, either disciplinary proceedings or a Part 9 application may be taken, but not both (s 97(3)).
These duties and rights structure compliance expectations and the procedural routes for registrants, tour guides and aggrieved persons. The Act sets out statutory timelines for notices and responses in many places (for example 14 day periods in ss 17(3), 18(5), 21(4), 23(4)), which directly affects operational and administrative compliance.
Penalties and enforcement
The Act creates an enforcement architecture employing administrative, civil and criminal mechanisms. Penalties are expressed in penalty units and in procedural remedies. The Act allocates responsibilities across the commissioner, tribunal, District Court and magistrates courts.
Sanctions and monetary exposure
Criminal summary offences and penalty units. The Act makes carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator without registration a criminal offence carrying a maximum penalty of 200 penalty units (s 12(1)). Other specified maximum penalties include 100 penalty units for failing to return a registration certificate after certain events (s 19(2) and s 32(2) penalty references) and 20 penalty units for failing to return a certification on surrender (s 25(3)). A regulation may prescribe offences with a maximum of 20 penalty units (s 100(3)).
Civil penalties and compensation in the District Court for contraventions of s 35. The commissioner or an injured person may apply to the District Court for orders requiring payment of a money penalty to the State or compensation to the injured person (s 78(2)). The District Court may order payment to the State as a penalty up to the court’s civil jurisdictional limit and may order compensation up to that same limit (s 79(2)-(3)). The court must prefer compensation over penalty where both are sought but the respondent cannot pay both (s 79(4)). If a corporation cannot pay, its executive officers may be jointly and severally liable for unpaid amounts, subject to defences (s 79(5)-(6)). The standard of proof for liability under ss 79(1) or (3) is the balance of probabilities (s 79(7)).
Tribunal orders in disciplinary proceedings. The tribunal may make a range of orders if a disciplinary ground is established, including reprimand, suspension, cancellation, imposing conditions, and ordering payment of penalties or compensation (s 83(1)). Monetary orders under s 83(1)(b) or (f) are limited to amounts not exceeding the Magistrates Court civil jurisdiction. Again, where resources are insufficient the tribunal must prefer compensation over payment to the commissioner (s 83(3)).
Administrative enforcement tools
Immediate suspension. The commissioner may suspend a registrant’s registration immediately for up to 28 days where, on reasonable grounds, the registrant is contravening (or has contravened) this Act, the Fair Trading Act, the Competition and Consumer Act or a corresponding law and tourists may suffer detriment as a result (s 29(1)-(2)). Suspension is effected by a QCAT information notice that operates immediately (s 29(3)). The registrant must return their certificate within 14 days under penalty for non‑compliance (s 29(4)).
Suspension continuation during proceedings. Where disciplinary proceedings or District Court applications are started while a suspension is in force, the suspension continues until the disciplinary process concludes, is withdrawn, or is ordered to end by the tribunal or District Court (s 30).
Cancellation after conviction. Registration is automatically cancelled if the person is convicted of a defined “serious offence” or an order under Part 9 is made against them (s 32(1)). The definition of “serious offence” cross‑refers to specified provisions of the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) and comparable laws elsewhere and is tied to significant maximum penalties (s 32(3)).
Undertakings and enforcement. The commissioner may solicit undertakings where the commissioner believes on reasonable grounds an inbound operator or tour guide has contravened the Act (s 69). Acceptance of an undertaking can prevent subsequent proceedings for that contravention while the undertaking is complied with (s 69(3)). If the undertaker breaches an accepted undertaking, the commissioner may apply to the District Court which may then order compliance, payment of amounts up to the direct or indirect financial benefit attributable to the contravention, compensation, requirement to provide security bonds, or other appropriate orders (s 71).
Injunctive and equitable relief
Injunctions. The commissioner and any person aggrieved by conduct of an inbound tour operator or tour guide may apply to the District Court for injunctions restraining contraventions, attempts to contravene, aiding or counselling contraventions, or concerted conduct that would contravene the Act (ss 73-74). The District Court can grant prohibitory or mandatory injunctions in such terms as it considers appropriate, including restraining a person from carrying on the business of an inbound tour operator for a period or except on stated conditions (s 76).
Procedural constraints and timelines
Proceedings for offences must be started in summary form under the Justices Act 1886 and within limitation periods: the later of 1 year after the offence or 1 year after it comes to the complainant’s knowledge, but within 2 years after the offence (s 86(1)-(2)).
The Act contains a non‑duplication rule: a person may be prosecuted for an offence or dealt with by disciplinary proceedings for the same contravention but not both (s 97(2)). For contraventions of s 35, either disciplinary proceedings or an application under s 78 may be taken, but not both (s 97(3)).
Collection and public information
Registers. The commissioner must keep a public register containing specified details for each registrant, including associated persons and any conditions, cancellation or suspension particulars. Entries are available for inspection or reproduction on payment of any prescribed fee (s 28).
Public warnings. The Minister or commissioner may publish public warning statements identifying contraventions, business practices and persons where satisfied it is in the public interest (s 93).
The Act thus sets layered enforcement options ranging from negotiated undertakings and administrative suspension to court‑ordered civil penalties and compensation, with statutory limits on concurrent remedies to constrain duplication.
How it interacts with other laws
The Act is designed to sit within a broader consumer protection and administrative law ecosystem. The text itself contains multiple cross‑references and express subordinations.
Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014. Section 6A states that the Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014 enacts common provisions for this Act and particular other fair trading Acts. Inspector powers under the FTI Act are additional to any powers the inspector may have under this Act unless this Act provides otherwise (s 6A(2)). The Act identifies that an inspector in this context is a person who holds office under the FTI Act for this Act (s 6A(3)). The FTI Act therefore supplies a common investigatory framework and personnel for enforcement.
Fair Trading Act 1989 and the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland). The Act treats contraventions of the Fair Trading Act 1989 (which includes the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland)) as relevant conduct for suspension and for defining “serious offence” (ss 29(1), 32(3)). Section 13 lists convictions under the Fair Trading Act 1989 as a factor in determining suitability within the last five years. This anchors the Act within established consumer protection law and enables importation of precedent and offences from those regimes into suitability and sanction considerations.
Criminal Code extra‑territorial application. Section 6 notes that Criminal Code sections 12 to 14 include provisions that apply Queensland criminal law to particular acts outside Queensland. This signals that certain offences under the Act may be amenable to prosecution even where elements occur extraterritorially, subject to the Criminal Code provisions.
Corporations Act. Section 14(e) treats corporations that are Chapter 5 bodies corporate under the Corporations Act as not suitable persons for registration. The Act also imports the concept of executive officers and provides for joint and several liability for executive officers where corporate penalties or compensation are unpaid (s 79). The Act borrows corporate governance concepts and accountability for directors/executive officers.
QCAT Act. Review rights are made subject to the QCAT Act (s 85). The tribunal’s evidentiary procedures in disciplinary proceedings are to follow evidentiary law and practice applicable to a civil proceeding in a Magistrates Court when making monetary orders (s 83(2)). The Act therefore integrates administrative review with the tribunal regime.
Justices Act 1886 and Penalties and Sentences Act 1992. Offence proceedings are to be taken summarily under the Justices Act 1886 with specific limitation periods prescribed (s 86). Courts retain powers under the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 or other laws in sentencing and orders in addition to those specified in the Act (s 87(4)).
Right to Information Act 2009. Section 94(3) expressly states that the confidentiality provision does not limit the Right to Information Act 2009. Accordingly, disclosures required or permitted under the RTI Act may still occur despite otherwise broad confidentiality protections under s 94.
Corresponding laws and inter‑jurisdictional cooperation. Section 94 allows disclosure with the approval of the commissioner to a person administering a corresponding law, and s 15 allows the commissioner to obtain police reports through arrangements with police services of the Commonwealth or another State. The Act contemplates inter‑jurisdictional cooperation with corresponding regulators.
Regulations and subordinate instruments. The Governor in Council may make regulations about fees, record keeping, and advertising by inbound tour operators, including form and content (s 100). Such regulations can impose additional obligations on operators. The Act also anticipates codes of conduct to be prescribed by regulation (s 38).
These interactions mean compliance must be considered across multiple statutory regimes. Suitability decisions, suspensions and “serious offence” thresholds will often draw on conduct assessed under the Australian Consumer Law (Queensland) and court actions may rely on the procedural rules of the Justices Act, the QCAT Act and general civil and corporate law doctrines as they apply to the persons and matters within the Act.
Amendment history
The source text contains statutory amendment notes and insertion/omission markers. The Act as presented shows a sequence of amendments and omissions recorded inline. The following is a summary of the amendment annotations appearing in the text, cited as given in the Act.
2005 amendments: Several sections note amendments or schedules referencing 2005 No. 14 (for example s 28 amd 2005 No. 14 s 2 sch; s 65 and s 66 amendments noted as amd 2005 No. 14 s 2 sch). These references indicate that the Act received changes in or about 2005, affecting register requirements and other provisions.
2007 amendments: Section 86 was amended by 2007 No. 36 s 2 sch (limitation periods).
2008 amendments: Sections such as s 15 and s 15A show insertions and amendments with references to 2008 No. 69 s 98-99 (for example s 15 amd 2008 No. 69 s 98; s 15A ins 2008 No. 69 s 99). Section 82 was also amended 2008 No. 69 s 102. These entries indicate changes to criminal history reporting and suitability inquiries, and disciplinary grounds.
2009 amendments: Multiple sections were amended by 2009 No. 24, including s 17 (amd 2009 No. 24 s 798), s 18 (amd 2009 No. 24 s 799), s 19 (part of 2009 No. 24 s 804 references), s 21 and s 23 decisions, and several others noted with s numbers 800-806 and s 804 and s 802 in the transitional provisions. Section 71 and various procedural sections also include 2009 amendment notes. These appear to refine procedural requirements, notices and powers to change conditions.
2010 amendments: Sections such as s 13 and s 14, and s 32 show amendments referencing 2010 No. 54 s 67 sch. Section 96 was amended in 2010 No. 54 s 67 sch. Such amendments relate to suitability, corporate body definitions, and delegation language.
2013 and 2014 amendments: Section 89 is noted as omitted by 2013 No. 51 s 200. A substantial set of sections are marked “om 2014 No. 8 s 177” or similar, indicating omission of sections 39-66, 67-68 and many others as part of the 2014 No. 8 amendment. Section 6A was inserted by 2014 No. 8 s 175, linking the FTI Act. Section 85 shows an amendment reference 2014 No. 8 s 178.
2020 amendments: Section 14 lists 2020 No. 15 s 213 among its amendment notes; s 103 was inserted by 2020 No. 15 s 217 to address existing applications.
2023 amendments: Section 14 also lists 2023 No. 23 s 247 sch 1 s 2(3) and section 94 was amended by 2023 No. 32 s 141 sch 1 pt 2. These entries indicate further updates to suitability tests and confidentiality provisions.
The Act’s text records insertions, omissions and amendments by citation. No further legislative history, debates or external explanatory memoranda are contained within the text provided. Section 98 requires the Minister to review the operation of ss 9 and 12 within 18 months after that review provision commences, which itself is a transitional instruction for further policy review.
Note: the above list strictly follows amendment annotations present in the supplied text. The source does not contain the content of the amending Acts or exposition beyond the inline amendment citations.
Litigation history
The Act text supplied does not list judicial decisions or reported litigation that interprets its provisions. Therefore this section sets out the statutory routes and standards that will frame likely litigation, using only material in the Act.
Courts and tribunals with jurisdictional roles
District Court. The Act empowers the District Court to decide applications for civil penalties and compensation in relation to contraventions of s 35 (Pt 9, ss 78-79) and to make orders enforcing undertakings (s 71). The District Court also hears injunction applications under Pt 8 (ss 73-76). Where the District Court is to be satisfied of matters under ss 79(1) or (3), the civil standard of proof applies (balance of probabilities) as specified in s 79(7).
Tribunal (QCAT). The tribunal conducts disciplinary proceedings on application by the commissioner (s 81) and may make a range of administrative orders including monetary orders up to the Magistrates Court civil jurisdiction (s 83). Review of several commissioner decisions (for example refusal to grant registration, suspension, cancellation, conditions) is to be made under the QCAT Act (s 85).
Standards and evidential rules
Standard of proof in civil penalty and tribunal monetary orders. The Act expressly requires the District Court to be satisfied on the balance of probabilities for matters under ss 79(1) and (3) (s 79(7)). The tribunal’s monetary orders must be based on evidence, submissions and other information received in accordance with evidentiary law and practice applicable to a civil proceeding in a Magistrates Court (s 83(2)). This indicates the tribunal’s monetary determinations require civil standard procedures albeit in an administrative forum.
Evidence recognition. Section 88 provides that certificates signed by the commissioner evidencing registration status, dates, conditions and copies of records are admissible as evidence. Signatures purporting to be the commissioner’s are also evidence (s 88(2)-(3)). These provisions minimise documentary evidentiary disputes about registry status in proceedings under the Act.
Procedural constraints and remedies
Non‑duplication constraint. Litigation strategy is affected by s 97, which prevents a person from being both prosecuted and disciplined for the same contravention. For contraventions of s 35, either disciplinary proceedings or a civil penalty/compensation application may be pursued, but not both (s 97(3)). That statutory bar will influence decisions whether to litigate in the District Court or proceed administratively in the tribunal.
Undertakings and enforcement. Acceptance of an undertaking by the commissioner bars starting an offence proceeding or a proceeding under Part 9 or 10 for the contravention while the undertaking remains accepted and complied with (s 69(3)). The commissioner may apply to the District Court to enforce undertakings and seek orders including disgorgement of benefits or compensation (s 71).
Practical litigation touchpoints
Issues likely to generate disputes and litigation include suitability assessments for registration (ss 13-15), immediate suspensions where the commissioner asserts reasonable grounds and detriment (s 29), cancellation after conviction for “serious offences” (s 32), tribunal disciplinary findings and conditions (Pt 10), and civil penalty/compensation claims for unconscionable conduct (Pt 9).
The Act provides for statutory review paths to the tribunal (s 85), and the tribunal’s practice of exercising evidentiary discipline for monetary orders is specified (s 83(2)). Certificates from the commissioner are admissible evidence (s 88), which will influence proof strategies about registration status in litigation.
Because the supplied text does not list decided cases, the litigation history in this note is framed by the statutory architecture and procedural standards that will determine how disputes and judicial review play out under the Act.
Gotchas
The Act contains several provisions that create compliance traps for operators, and practical points where misunderstanding can lead to regulatory exposure. These items are grounded in the statutory text and indicate operational areas requiring attention.
Broad definition of inbound tour operator and location neutrality. Section 9 is broad and treats as immaterial whether an operator has a place of business in Queensland (s 9(2)). Operators based outside Queensland may nevertheless be captured if they sell packages to specified overseas entities for inclusive prices or hold themselves out as carrying on that business (s 9(1)). Businesses that sell some packages overseas and some domestically must apply the exemption test in s 12(3) carefully. The exemption test compares the proportion of inbound packages to total packages over a 12 month period or estimates for a newly commenced business (s 12(3)). Miscalculation can convert a business from “exempt” to an unregistered operator in breach of s 12(1) and expose it to 200 penalty units.
Associated person and executive officer reach. The Act treats each executive officer of a corporate applicant or registrant as an associated person for registration purposes (s 8(4)). Those associated persons appear on the public register (s 28(2)(g)) and are caught by suitability tests (ss 13-15). Executive officers may also face joint and several liability if a corporation cannot satisfy a monetary order (s 79(5)). The defence available to executive officers requires proof of reasonable diligence to ensure corporate compliance or an inability to influence the conduct (s 79(6)). Executive officers therefore face both disclosure obligations and possible personal financial exposure.
Undertaking acceptance has preclusive consequences. Acceptance by the commissioner of a written undertaking bars starting offence proceedings or proceedings under Parts 9 or 10 for that contravention unless the commissioner withdraws acceptance (s 69(3)). That can be helpful to the operator, but if the undertaking is breached, enforcement remedies can include disgorgement of the direct or indirect financial benefits attributable to the contravention, compensation and security bonds (s 71). Operators should ensure undertakings are precise and practicable.
Immediate suspension standard and detriment threshold. The commissioner can suspend registration immediately for up to 28 days on reasonable grounds that a registrant is contravening specified laws and tourists may suffer detriment as a result (s 29(1)-(2)). The Act does not define detriment. Practically, a suspension can be effected by QCAT information notice and operates immediately (s 29(3)). Registrants must produce certificates on demand under penalty (s 29(4)). The immediacy and the requirement to return certificates within 14 days create operational and reputational risks during investigation.
Double remedy constraint affects strategic choices. Section 97 prohibits being both prosecuted and dealt with by disciplinary proceedings for the same contravention (s 97(2)). For contraventions of s 35, either disciplinary action in the tribunal or a Part 9 court application may be taken, but not both (s 97(3)). This legal bar means that complainants and the commissioner must choose the enforcement track, and defendants faced with a choice must understand implications for remedies and review routes.
Confidentiality exceptions and RTI. Section 94 makes information gained in administering the Act confidential and criminalises disclosure subject to exceptions (s 94(1)-(2)). However, s 94(3) clarifies that the provision does not limit the Right to Information Act 2009. Practically, regulated persons should assume information may be disclosed under RTI or in legal proceedings, and avoid assuming absolute confidentiality.
Registration certificate mechanics. Various actions require the registrant to return the registration certificate on change of condition, suspension, surrender or cancellation, with specified penalties for failure (ss 19, 25, 32). Administrative missteps such as not returning a certificate within prescribed timeframes can attract penalties distinct from the substantive regulatory dispute.
Record keeping and advertising regulations. The Governor in Council may make regulations about record keeping and form and content of advertising (s 100(2)(b)-(c)). Absent the text of those regulations in the supplied source, operators cannot rely on assumptions about permitted advertising forms. Non‑compliant advertising could be regulated and penalised under regulation provisions of up to 20 penalty units (s 100(3)).
Limitation period for offences. Offence proceedings must start within the later of 1 year after the offence or 1 year after knowledge of the offence, but within 2 years after the offence (s 86(2)). That limitation applies to criminal prosecutions under the Act but not explicitly to civil proceedings under Parts 8-10. Parties should act promptly to preserve rights.
Partnership exposure. Partnerships are treated as persons for the Act and obligations and liabilities may be imposed on each partner, with amounts payable by the partnership jointly and severally (s 90). Partners can discharge obligations but may still face liability; the statutory defence for partners mirrors that for executive officers and requires proof of reasonable diligence or lack of influence (s 90(6)).
These “gotchas” point to areas where commercial and compliance advice is especially valuable. The statutory text brings operational matters such as business model, corporate governance, documentation of trainings and policies, advertising content, and careful drafting of undertakings into regulatory focus.
How to comply
This section sets out an operational compliance checklist mapped to the statutory prescriptions of the Act. Each item cites the relevant provisions from the Act text so compliance steps are traceable to statutory duties.
Determine whether your activities fall within the definitions
Test against s 9 to determine if you are an inbound tour operator. The test looks at selling travel packages to specified overseas entities for an inclusive price, holding out as carrying on that business, or entitlement to share in income (s 9(1)). Note s 9(2) that it is immaterial whether you have a place of business in Queensland.
If you are an individual guiding tourists for reward, check s 10 to determine if you are a tour guide; include unpaid work experience if it functions as training (s 10(3)).
Apply the exemption test before assuming registration is not required
If you also sell packages within Australia, apply s 12(3)’s percentage test to see whether you are an exempt person. For existing operations consider the 12 month retrospective test; for new operations prepare a documented forecast to support an alternative test under s 12(3)(c)(ii).
Register if required and follow the application rules
Lodge applications in the approved form, listing names and business addresses of all associated persons and paying application and registration issue fees as prescribed (s 20(1)-(2)). Choose the 1 or 3 year term on the application (s 20(3)).
Be prepared to provide further information or documents within at least 14 days if requested; failure to comply is treated as withdrawal and can trigger a refund of the registration issue fee (s 20(4)-(5)).
Manage suitability and criminal history processes
Expect the commissioner to make enquiries about applicants and associated persons and to request police criminal history reports (s 15). If asked, the commissioner of the police service must provide a report (s 15(2)).
Budget for the reasonable actual costs of obtaining police reports per s 15A, and note the refund rules if the application is refused without a report or if you withdraw before the report is asked for (s 15A).
Disclose associated persons and control structures
Use s 8’s effective control criteria to identify associated persons. Disclose executive officers for corporate applicants because they are taken to be associated persons (s 8(4)). Maintain up‑to‑date records for the public register (s 28).
Prepare to meet codes of conduct and dispute resolution requirements
Anticipate code obligations if regulations prescribe them under s 38. Codes may set minimum standards and require written dispute resolution policies (s 38(2)(a) and (c)). Draft and maintain a dispute resolution policy that aligns with any prescribed code and prepare to demonstrate adherence.
Implement conduct risk management to avoid unconscionable conduct
Use s 36 as a compliance checklist for avoiding unconscionable conduct: avoid exerting undue pressure, disclose relationships with third parties, disclose intended conduct that can affect tourist interests, avoid deception and ensure tourists have reasonable opportunity to choose where to eat, shop and stay (s 36(1)(a)-(l)). Document staff training, scripts and disclosure statements to evidence compliance.
Maintain records and advertising controls
Keep records as required by regulation (s 100(2)(b)). Ensure advertisements comply with any regulations about form and content (s 100(2)(c)). Keep contemporaneous records of customer transactions and any commissions or benefits received from third parties to enable prompt response to inquiries.
Observe notice and return obligations
If the commissioner changes a condition under s 18 on their own initiative, respond to the notice and make written submissions within the stated 14 day minimum period (s 18(5)). Maintain a process to return registration certificates promptly when required under sections 19, 25, 29 and 32 to avoid separate administrative penalties.
Prepare for investigations and disciplinary processes
If the commissioner issues a notice seeking an undertaking under s 69, evaluate whether to give a written undertaking and ensure any undertaking is realistic and monitored. Remember that acceptance of an undertaking bars further proceedings for that contravention while it is being complied with (s 69(3)).
Retain legal counsel familiar with tribunal hearings because disciplinary monetary orders must respect evidentiary standards comparable to a Magistrates Court civil proceeding (s 83(2)).
Corporate governance and executive officer risk
Executive officers should document and evidence reasonable diligence measures to prevent contraventions because they may face joint and several liability for unpaid corporate penalties or compensation if the corporation cannot pay (s 79(5)-(6)). Keep board minutes, compliance policies and oversight records.
Partnerships
Apply s 90 to partnerships. Treat each partner as an applicant for registration and document delegation and monitoring arrangements. Partners should be prepared to invoke the statutory defences if accused of contraventions.
Engage early with regulators and keep dispute timelines in mind
If you are notified of proposed action, act within statutory timelines, and consider seeking QCAT review under s 85 for reviewable commission decisions. For civil or criminal prosecutions, note the limitation periods in s 86.
Confidentiality and RTI
Train staff on confidentiality obligations under s 94 and the exceptions, including RTI disclosures and public statements under s 93. Keep a record of all information disclosures and approvals given by the commissioner where relevant.
Insurance and financial planning
Given the possibility of compensation orders and joint and several liability (ss 79(3), 79(5)), ensure professional indemnity and appropriate corporate insurance cover for executive officers. Budget for possible security bonds ordered by courts enforcing undertakings (s 71(2)(d)).
Checklist for an initial compliance pack
Register status check and exemption calculation for the last 12 months or forecast for new business (s 12(3)).
Completed registration application with associated persons, term selection, and fees (s 20).
Documented criminal history consent and budgeting for police report costs (ss 15, 15A).
Written dispute resolution policy and code compliance notes (s 38).
Advertising review against any existing regulations and retention of advertising approvals (s 100).
Records retention policy aligned with future regulations (s 100(2)(b)).
Executive officer compliance file demonstrating oversight and reasonable diligence steps (s 79(6)).
Return and surrender procedures for registration certificates (ss 19, 25, 29, 31, 32).
Confidentiality training and RTI process documentation (s 94).
Following this map aligns business practices with the statutory duties and reduces exposure to suspension, disciplinary action, and civil penalties. Where the Act contemplates regulations and codes not contained in the supplied text, operators should monitor subordinate instruments and regulatory guidance for specific standards and record‑keeping obligations.
(b) for a community purpose if all net proceeds from the package or services are applied solely to furthering the community purpose.
(a) a benevolent or philanthropic purpose, including, for example, the promotion of art, charity, culture, education, medicine, religion or science; or
(b) a sporting or recreational purpose.
(a) does not have a significant commercial purpose or character; and
(b) does not primarily seek to make a profit for anyone.
sec.6 This Act’s interaction with other laws
sec.6 This Act’s interaction with other laws
This Act does not limit any other law.
The Criminal Code , sections 12 to 14 include some of the provisions that apply the criminal law of Queensland to particular acts or omissions occurring outside Queensland.
sec.6A Relationship with Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014
sec.6A Relationship with Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014
The Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014 (the FTI Act ) enacts common provisions for this Act and particular other Acts about fair trading.
Unless this Act otherwise provides in relation to the FTI Act , the powers that an inspector has under that Act are in addition to and do not limit any powers the inspector may have under this Act.
In this section—
inspector means a person who holds office under the FTI Act as an inspector for this Act.
See also the modifying provisions for this Act stated in the FTI Act , section 9 .
s 6A ins 2014 No. 8 s 175
(sec.6A-ssec.1) The Fair Trading Inspectors Act 2014 (the FTI Act ) enacts common provisions for this Act and particular other Acts about fair trading.
(sec.6A-ssec.2) Unless this Act otherwise provides in relation to the FTI Act , the powers that an inspector has under that Act are in addition to and do not limit any powers the inspector may have under this Act.
(sec.6A-ssec.3) In this section— inspector means a person who holds office under the FTI Act as an inspector for this Act. See also the modifying provisions for this Act stated in the FTI Act , section 9 .
pt.2 Interpretation
Interpretation
sec.7 Definitions
sec.7 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 2 defines particular words used in this Act.
sec.8 Meaning of associated person and effective control
sec.8 Meaning of associated person and effective control
An associated person of an applicant for registration or renewal of registration is a person who is not the applicant but nevertheless is, or would be if the registration were granted or renewed, in effective control of the applicant’s business.
An associated person of a registrant is a person who is not the registrant but nevertheless is in effective control of the registrant’s business.
A person who is in effective control of a business includes a person who—
is regularly or usually in charge of the business; or
regularly directs staff of the business in their duties; or
is in a position to control or substantially influence the business.
If an applicant for registration or renewal of registration, or a registrant, is a corporation, each executive officer of the corporation is taken to be an associated person of the applicant or registrant.
(sec.8-ssec.1) An associated person of an applicant for registration or renewal of registration is a person who is not the applicant but nevertheless is, or would be if the registration were granted or renewed, in effective control of the applicant’s business.
(sec.8-ssec.2) An associated person of a registrant is a person who is not the registrant but nevertheless is in effective control of the registrant’s business.
(sec.8-ssec.3) A person who is in effective control of a business includes a person who— is regularly or usually in charge of the business; or regularly directs staff of the business in their duties; or is in a position to control or substantially influence the business.
(sec.8-ssec.4) If an applicant for registration or renewal of registration, or a registrant, is a corporation, each executive officer of the corporation is taken to be an associated person of the applicant or registrant.
(a) is regularly or usually in charge of the business; or
(b) regularly directs staff of the business in their duties; or
(c) is in a position to control or substantially influence the business.
sec.9 Meaning of inbound tour operator and carry on the business of an inbound tour operator
sec.9 Meaning of inbound tour operator and carry on the business of an inbound tour operator
An inbound tour operator is a person who alone or with others—
carries on a business of selling to any of the following entities who are overseas entities, for an inclusive price, travel packages that include persons visiting, or travelling in, Queensland—
wholesalers of travel packages;
retailers of travel packages;
corporate buyers of travel packages, including, for example, an overseas corporation that buys travel packages for its employees; or
holds himself, herself or itself out in any way as carrying on a business mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or
is entitled to share in the income of a business mentioned in paragraph (a) .
For subsection (1) , it is immaterial whether or not the person—
has a place of business in Queensland; or
directly or indirectly provides other tourism services to persons who use a travel package of the inbound tour operator.
A person mentioned in subsection (1) (a) , (b) or (c) is taken to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator .
Despite subsections (1) (c) and (3) , a person is not an inbound tour operator, and is not taken to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator, only because the person is entitled to share, as a shareholder, in the income of the business of an inbound tour operator that is a corporation.
(sec.9-ssec.1) An inbound tour operator is a person who alone or with others— carries on a business of selling to any of the following entities who are overseas entities, for an inclusive price, travel packages that include persons visiting, or travelling in, Queensland— wholesalers of travel packages; retailers of travel packages; corporate buyers of travel packages, including, for example, an overseas corporation that buys travel packages for its employees; or holds himself, herself or itself out in any way as carrying on a business mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or is entitled to share in the income of a business mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(sec.9-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , it is immaterial whether or not the person— has a place of business in Queensland; or directly or indirectly provides other tourism services to persons who use a travel package of the inbound tour operator.
(sec.9-ssec.3) A person mentioned in subsection (1) (a) , (b) or (c) is taken to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator .
(sec.9-ssec.4) Despite subsections (1) (c) and (3) , a person is not an inbound tour operator, and is not taken to carry on the business of an inbound tour operator, only because the person is entitled to share, as a shareholder, in the income of the business of an inbound tour operator that is a corporation.
(a) carries on a business of selling to any of the following entities who are overseas entities, for an inclusive price, travel packages that include persons visiting, or travelling in, Queensland— (i) wholesalers of travel packages; (ii) retailers of travel packages; (iii) corporate buyers of travel packages, including, for example, an overseas corporation that buys travel packages for its employees; or
(i) wholesalers of travel packages;
(ii) retailers of travel packages;
(iii) corporate buyers of travel packages, including, for example, an overseas corporation that buys travel packages for its employees; or
(b) holds himself, herself or itself out in any way as carrying on a business mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or
(c) is entitled to share in the income of a business mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(i) wholesalers of travel packages;
(ii) retailers of travel packages;
(iii) corporate buyers of travel packages, including, for example, an overseas corporation that buys travel packages for its employees; or
(a) has a place of business in Queensland; or
(b) directly or indirectly provides other tourism services to persons who use a travel package of the inbound tour operator.
sec.10 Meaning of tour guide
sec.10 Meaning of tour guide
A tour guide is an individual who, for reward, personally supplies guiding services to tourists.
For subsection (1) , an individual supplies guiding services for reward if the individual receives a payment or other benefit for supplying the services, regardless of—
who makes the payment or provides the other benefit; or
where the payment is made or the other benefit is provided.
provision of accommodation, flights or food
Also, for subsection (1) , an individual is taken to supply guiding services for reward if he or she supplies the services as work experience, regardless of whether or not he or she is, or has an expectation he or she will be, later paid for supplying guiding services.
Further, for subsection (1) , an individual supplies guiding services whether the individual supplies the services for the whole, or only part, of the time the tourists are in Queensland.
(sec.10-ssec.1) A tour guide is an individual who, for reward, personally supplies guiding services to tourists.
(sec.10-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , an individual supplies guiding services for reward if the individual receives a payment or other benefit for supplying the services, regardless of— who makes the payment or provides the other benefit; or where the payment is made or the other benefit is provided. provision of accommodation, flights or food
(sec.10-ssec.3) Also, for subsection (1) , an individual is taken to supply guiding services for reward if he or she supplies the services as work experience, regardless of whether or not he or she is, or has an expectation he or she will be, later paid for supplying guiding services.
(sec.10-ssec.4) Further, for subsection (1) , an individual supplies guiding services whether the individual supplies the services for the whole, or only part, of the time the tourists are in Queensland.
(a) who makes the payment or provides the other benefit; or
(b) where the payment is made or the other benefit is provided.
sec.11 Notes in text
sec.11 Notes in text
s 11 om 2008 No. 69 s 97
pt.3 Registration
Registration
pt.3-div.1 Requirement of registration
Requirement of registration
sec.12 Requirement to be registered
sec.12 Requirement to be registered
A person must not carry on the business of an inbound tour operator unless the person is a registrant whose registration is not suspended.
Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.
It is a defence to an offence against subsection (1) for the person to prove the person is an exempt person.
The provisions of this Act about unconscionable conduct by inbound tour operators apply to all inbound tour operators whether or not they are exempt persons under this section.
A person is an exempt person if—
the person carries on the business of an inbound tour operator; and
also carries on a business of selling to persons in Australia travel packages that include persons visiting or travelling in Queensland; and
either—
the person has carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and the percentage of travel packages sold by the person in carrying on that business in that period is less than 20% of the total number of travel packages sold by the person in that period in carrying on business as mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) ; or
the person has not carried on the business of an inbound tour operator for 12 months immediately preceding the date of the alleged offence and, having regard to the business already carried on, and the business likely to be carried on, by the person in the 12 month period starting when the person started to carry
This is an opening excerpt, not the complete document.