Belle Gibson launched an app and published a book off the back of her false claim that she had cured her cancer with a gluten and sugar-free diet and alternative therapies, as opposed to conventional medicine, inspiring thousands of people around the world . She also claimed she had cancer of the blood, spleen, uterus and liver.
But Gibson, a mother of one, later admitted her claims about having terminal cancer were untrue, and it became apparent that funds from sales that she had pledged to donate to charity had allegedly not been distributed.
The Consumer Affairs Victoria Watchdog is now looking to prosecute Gibson for allegedly breaking consumer laws. The watchdog said in a statement : "The alleged contraventions relate to false claims by Ms Gibson and her company concerning her diagnosis with terminal brain cancer , her rejection of conventional cancer treatment in favour of natural remedies, and donation of proceeds to various charities".
Simon Cohen, the director of CAV,said their action is an important step in ensuring "consumers receive only verified information and are not deceived, particularly where serious matters of health and medical treatment are concerned"
Consumer Affairs Victoria is a portfolio group within the Depatment of Justice in Victoria State, Australia, which helps you know your rights and responsibilities as a consumer or trader.
Credit: Independent and CAV website
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