Alleged au pair scam leaves an Aussie mum out of pocket
- Replies 3
In the quest for reliable and nurturing childcare, many Aussie families turn to au pair services, expecting a blend of cultural exchange and personalised attention for their little ones.
A recent incident involving an Aussie mum has cast a shadow over the industry, raising concerns about the trustworthiness of some au pair agencies.
Lara Pimenta's partner works on a dynamic schedule that makes traditional daycare unsuitable for their child, Mateo.
Her search for an alternative childcare led her to Blossom Au Pair Service Australia, which she discovered on social media.
The business, which has been registered to Reannon Jade Gibson, who has been residing in France since 2019, seemed like a beacon of hope to the desperate mother.
Later, she came forward with the distressing claim that she is now $1000 out of pocket after engaging with the agency.
‘I thought she really wanted to help me, and that's the only reason I paid her before the service was given,’ Pimenta said.
‘She said she had three girls ready to start at the end of the week.’
Pimenta asserted that her initial payment of $1000 seemingly vanished without receiving any service from the company.
Consumer Protection's investigations revealed that, despite several Perth-based addresses listed for the business, Gibson has not set foot in Australia since moving to Europe.
Gibson responded to the allegations, stating that her business model had suffered during the COVID pandemic.
‘There was no intention to defraud,’ Gibson added.
‘If any family feels like they have been wronged, please contact me for resolution.’
Pimenta's case was part of a larger pattern of grievances, with 37 individuals lodging similar complaints with Western Australia Consumer Protection against the same company.
Trish Blake, WA's Consumer Protection Commissioner, suspected that the number of affected families could be in the hundreds, with cases stretching across the country.
‘People are desperate for good child care at the moment; they pay the money, mostly on average $1000–1500 per person, and then from there on in, they are ghosted,’ Blake said.
The company has been officially reported to law enforcement.
'I would absolutely recommend that anybody steer well clear of Blossom Au Pairs,' Blake warned.
For our readers who may be considering an au pair for their grandchildren to help their parents, it's essential to remember that while there are many reputable agencies out there, it's crucial to do your research.
To prevent falling prey to scams, Consumer Protection suggested using a credit card for payments instead of cash and thoroughly reviewing online feedback.
Look for agencies with a strong track record, transparent processes, and clear communication.
Don't hesitate to ask for references and to speak directly with families who have used their services.
Moreover, you can visit the SDC Forum’s Scam Watch section to identify dubious businesses and remain vigilant.
Have you had an experience with an au pair service, good or bad? We'd love to hear your stories and any advice you might have for your fellow grandparents. Share your thoughts in the comments below.
A recent incident involving an Aussie mum has cast a shadow over the industry, raising concerns about the trustworthiness of some au pair agencies.
Lara Pimenta's partner works on a dynamic schedule that makes traditional daycare unsuitable for their child, Mateo.
Her search for an alternative childcare led her to Blossom Au Pair Service Australia, which she discovered on social media.
The business, which has been registered to Reannon Jade Gibson, who has been residing in France since 2019, seemed like a beacon of hope to the desperate mother.
Lara Pimenta finds traditional daycare unsuitable for her child Credit: iStock
Later, she came forward with the distressing claim that she is now $1000 out of pocket after engaging with the agency.
‘I thought she really wanted to help me, and that's the only reason I paid her before the service was given,’ Pimenta said.
‘She said she had three girls ready to start at the end of the week.’
Pimenta asserted that her initial payment of $1000 seemingly vanished without receiving any service from the company.
Consumer Protection's investigations revealed that, despite several Perth-based addresses listed for the business, Gibson has not set foot in Australia since moving to Europe.
Gibson responded to the allegations, stating that her business model had suffered during the COVID pandemic.
‘There was no intention to defraud,’ Gibson added.
‘If any family feels like they have been wronged, please contact me for resolution.’
Pimenta's case was part of a larger pattern of grievances, with 37 individuals lodging similar complaints with Western Australia Consumer Protection against the same company.
Trish Blake, WA's Consumer Protection Commissioner, suspected that the number of affected families could be in the hundreds, with cases stretching across the country.
‘People are desperate for good child care at the moment; they pay the money, mostly on average $1000–1500 per person, and then from there on in, they are ghosted,’ Blake said.
The company has been officially reported to law enforcement.
'I would absolutely recommend that anybody steer well clear of Blossom Au Pairs,' Blake warned.
For our readers who may be considering an au pair for their grandchildren to help their parents, it's essential to remember that while there are many reputable agencies out there, it's crucial to do your research.
To prevent falling prey to scams, Consumer Protection suggested using a credit card for payments instead of cash and thoroughly reviewing online feedback.
Look for agencies with a strong track record, transparent processes, and clear communication.
Don't hesitate to ask for references and to speak directly with families who have used their services.
Moreover, you can visit the SDC Forum’s Scam Watch section to identify dubious businesses and remain vigilant.
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