Can I Cancel Course Enrolments and Avoid Fees Due to a Bipolar Manic Episode in Victoria, Australia?

Question from B, Can I Cancel Course Enrolments and Avoid Fees Due to a Bipolar Manic Episode in Victoria, Australia?

Answer from AI:

In Australia, the law provides some protections for consumers who enter into contracts while suffering from a mental illness, such as bipolar disorder. However, the specifics of your situation, including the timing, the nature of the contracts, and the evidence of your mental state at the time, can all affect the outcome.

Consumer Protections in Australia

Under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), there are provisions that may protect consumers who were unable to understand a contract due to a mental illness. The ACL states that a contract is “unfair” if it causes a significant imbalance in the parties’ rights and obligations, is not reasonably necessary to protect the legitimate interests of the party who would be advantaged by the term, and would cause detriment to a party if it were applied or relied on.

Proving Unfairness

To prove that a contract is unfair due to a bipolar manic episode, you would generally need to demonstrate that:

• You were experiencing a manic episode at the time you signed the contract
• The manic episode impaired your ability to understand the contract
• The course providers knew or should have known about your condition

Seeking Legal Advice

This is a complex area of law, and the outcome can depend on many factors. It’s important to seek legal advice to understand your options and the potential consequences. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, understand the relevant laws, and negotiate with the course providers.

Resources

You may find the following resources helpful:

• The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission provides information about consumer rights and protections.
• The Victoria Legal Aid offers free legal advice and services.

Please note: This information is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with a legal professional for personalized advice.