23/04/2025
An unlicensed tow truck operator has been found guilty of 174 offences and fined $159,480 after operating a towing business despite being deemed by NSW Fair Trading as not a ‘Fit and Proper Person’ to hold a tow truck licence.
The individual proceeded to advertise towing services through social media without a tow truck licence.
NSW Fair Trading took action and issued a “Section 84 Direction” for him to cease operating a tow truck for the purpose of towing motor vehicles. However, he continued to operate his towing business, posting images on social media of several vehicles he had towed.
NSW Fair Trading took further action and charged the operator with 174 offences. The Magistrate found him guilty on 42 advertising offences and fined him $56,420. On the remaining 132 offences the person was placed on a Community Corrections Order for 2 years. He was fined a further $39,620, costs and disbursements of $63,440. A total financial liability of $159,480, the highest a magistrate has ever issued for unlicensed towing.
This is a timely reminder of what you may be liable for if you operate as an unlicensed tow truck operator.
