A 67-year-old Seaview Downs man has been fined $20,000 after admitting to selling used cars without a licence.

Ronald Joseph Buttigieg admitted to breaching the Second Hand Vehicle Dealers Act, after selling two cars and offering another ten for sale for between $2000 and $6000 each within a 12 month period.

In South Australia, anyone who carries on business as a second hand vehicle dealer must be licensed under the Act.

The court heard some of the cars advertised for sale were housed on a vacant lot on Anzac Highway, suggesting Buttigieg’s sales operation went beyond that of a simple ‘back yard’ dealer.

Buttigieg, who has a prior conviction for carrying on business unlicensed, was fined $20,000.

His partner, 54 year old Louise Sampson of Netley also admitted to breaching the Act, selling four cars and purchasing another within the space of 12 months.

She was convicted and placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond.

Commissioner for Consumer Affairs Dini Soulio urged consumers looking to buy a second-hand car to ensure they were buying from a licensed dealer.

“Buying from an unlicensed dealer just simply isn’t worth the risk,” he said.

“When you buy from a licensed second hand vehicle dealer, your rights as a consumer are enshrined by law and you are entitled to certain protections.”

To check if a dealer is licensed, contact Consumer and Business Services on 131882 or visit the public register at https://secure.cbs.sa.gov.au/OccLicPubReg/LicenceSearch.php