Optus sold vulnerable Australians

Australia's competition watchdog, the ACCC, has launched a federal court case against Singtel-owned Optus, accusing the telecommunications company of engaging in unconscionable conduct while selling mobile phones and plans to vulnerable customers, including many First Nations people. The allegations involve 429 customers, primarily from Darwin and Mount Isa, who were sold goods they did not want or need, with some pursued for debts resulting from these sales. ACCC chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb stated that Optus's sales practices were incentivized by commission-based remuneration for staff, disproportionately impacting consumers with disabilities or financial disadvantages. The ACCC seeks penalties, consumer redress, and compliance measures from Optus, which has acknowledged the issues and indicated steps to remediate affected customers. Optus has stated that it has taken disciplinary action against responsible staff and is working to address the concerns raised by the ACCC. The case highlights serious concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable Australians in consumer sales practices.