Regulation

Who regulates second-hand dealers and pawnbrokers in Victoria?

Three government agencies regulate second-hand dealers and pawnbrokers in Victoria:

• Consumer Affairs Victoria handles consumer complaints and inspects pawnbroker businesses to monitor compliance with the law
• Victoria Police:
  • enforces laws applying to second-hand dealers, including handling allegations about unregistered second-hand dealers
  • shares responsibility with Consumer Affairs Victoria for enforcing laws applying to pawnbrokers.
• The Business Licensing Authority registers second-hand dealers, endorses pawnbrokers and maintains the public register of second-hand dealers and pawnbrokers.

For more information about individuals, businesses and goods which are exempt from regulation, view our Exemptions from registration page.

Where to next:

• Find out if you or your business are exempt from registration
• Register or maintain your registration
• Learn about fees and download forms
• View the public register of second-hand dealers and pawnbrokers
• Make a complaint about a second-hand dealer or pawnbroker