More than a thousand products, including toys, have been removed from store shelves in Victoria after the state’s consumer watchdog found them too dangerous for sale.
Consumer Affairs Victoria has been inspecting both small and large retailers across Australia, as well as online sellers, ahead of Christmas. The recalled items include sunglasses, cosmetics and clothing without proper material labels, along with several hazardous toys.
Toys containing button batteries are a major concern due to the severe risks they pose to young children. Executive Director Nicole Rich said the action is being taken to protect children’s safety, not to spoil Christmas. “There’s just no excuse. Button batteries are a known killer. If a child swallows one, it can cause serious harm or even death within hours,” she stressed.
Consumer Affairs Minister Nick Staikos supported the move, saying, “We’ll do the worrying, so families and children can have a happy and, most importantly, safe Christmas.” He added that removing unsafe items is not just a seasonal effort but part of a broader commitment to protecting all Victorians.
On-the-spot fines are being issued to retailers who breach safety laws, while efforts continue to monitor online sellers. Rich noted that no particular retailers were repeatedly violating rules but emphasized that everyone has a responsibility to keep Australians safe. “Whether you are deliberately ignoring the law or simply unaware of your obligations, it’s not acceptable to put people—especially children—at risk,” she said.
