A TWO-STEP online process is all it takes to become a Federal Government-endorsed television set-top box installer.
The Federal Government has attempted to bar shonks from entering the industry by requiring that online applicants provide a series of documents.
But electricians warn the measures will not stop rorting of the online accreditation system under its digital television switch-over program.
Installers fear that elderly Queenslanders could be exposed to insulation-style scams after the Gillard Government's Budget announcement of free set-top boxes to help pensioners enter the digital age.
Individuals can gain Federal Government endorsement by registering online and passing a basic multi-choice questionnaire online.
Those who pass under the no-cost Antenna Installer Endorsement Scheme will have their contact details listed on Federal Government websites used by residents and businesses to shop for a television set-top box installer, making it easier for them to pick up government-funded work.
Once endorsed, an installer can also apply to use the Get Ready for Digital TV logo to advertise that they have government accreditation.
Senator Stephen Conroy has defended the scheme, saying work by contractors under the set-top box program would be continuously reviewed.
But Master Electricians Australia chief executive Malcolm Richards wants the accreditation changed.
He wants it so that only installers with a certificate in digital reception technology can work in the field, to prevent inexperienced workers risking fatal injury by entering roofs.
"We have heard stories of half a dozen people gathered around a computer and ringing their mates to answer the questions," he said.
The online accreditation process requires applicants to satisfy a checklist, including providing an Australian business number, photo identification, signal meter serial number, a referee's contact details and public liability insurance certificate.
But installers yesterday said the checklist could easily be cheated by using an existing installation company's ABN without the company's permission.
Industry sources say applicants supplying the ABN of a company that has already been accredited have not had to resubmit an insurance certificate, making the system easier to rort.
Todd's Hi-Fi sales manager Adin Parrock said customers could buy a high-definition set-top box for less than $200, which included installation by a staff member about $150 less than the average installation cost under the Federal Government's scheme.
"I can only assume that they (the Government) are banking on pensioners needing a lot more assistance operating the machine after the installation or that they are going to need some significant antenna relocation," he said.
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