Fiji’s Driving Schools Under Fire: Consumer Complaints Signal Troubling Trends

The Consumer Council of Fiji has reported receiving 57 complaints against driving schools in the country, involving nearly $21,430 in payments. Council CEO Seema Shandil stated that the grievances range from disappearing instructors to “ghost-written” contracts, indicating a troubling trend in driver education.

Complaints have highlighted several concerning issues, including the failure of driving schools to provide written contracts, withholding receipts for payments, and not delivering the agreed number of driving classes. Additionally, many complaints detail instructors neglecting mandatory workbook completion and exhibiting aggressive behavior. Shandil expressed that these problems are not isolated, presenting a significant risk to both consumer rights and the integrity of driver education.

Many complainants have reportedly paid substantial sums without any formal agreements, leaving them without proper recourse when issues arise. “Some driving schools are literally taking consumers for a ride,” Shandil warned. She urged consumers to thoroughly investigate driving schools’ credentials and to ensure that all agreements are documented in writing before making payments.

In response to the wave of complaints, the council is increasing its outreach and monitoring efforts to uphold fair trading practices within the driver education sector. Shandil encourages consumers facing difficulties with driving schools to reach out to the Council for support, highlighting the importance of vigilance in such transactions.

This troubling situation mirrors broader concerns in the Fijian education and transport sectors, where compliance and accountability are increasingly becoming focal points due to prior enforcement actions by the Land Transport Authority against non-compliant driving schools. The collective push for reforms is aimed at enhancing safety and ensuring consumer protection, providing hope for an improved future in driver education standards in Fiji.

Overall, while the challenges faced by consumers are significant, ongoing monitoring and reform efforts from both the Consumer Council and regulatory bodies suggest a proactive approach toward ensuring safer and more reliable driving education systems in Fiji.