QLD Queensland Police Badge / Logo - Misleading Representation?

[HOS]

Is it legal for a private company providing services (as a exclusive contractor) to the Queensland Police to use the Qld police logo on their invoices, website and letterhead?

Personally I believe they are attempting to mislead the public into thinking they are a part of the Qld Police.

Thanks for any light someone may be able to shed about this.

 

[Ivy]

Hi there,

It depends. If they are communicating on behalf of the police and have delegated authority to do so and use the police logo then it should be fine. It is common for consultants for example to produce reports on behalf of government departments and the government department symbol is put on the report.

 

[HOS]

If they are communicating on behalf of the police and have delegated authority to do so and use the police logo then it should be fine.

I would understand if they were communicating on behalf of the Qld. Police, however they are not, they are also not producing any reports or printing brochures or other material on behalf of or for the police.
They are a private company who are seeking vehicle impound fees by way of invoice.
The invoice is has the police badge/logo and also quotes "IMPOUND PENALTY TAX INVOICE" Under which is has written " POLICE POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ACT 2000" in a slightly smaller font.
They are only a Police service provider.

 

[Ivy]

Hmm, in that case you may want to notify the police! I know that you're not allowed to use government names in naming your business but I couldn't find anything about trademark or other infringement associated with appropriating government logos. There would be some penalty, so I would call the police and if they can't help then maybe call IP Australia and go from there. Let us know how you go.

 

[Tim W]

Yes, the contract towies who took your car away can use the logo.

 

[HOS]

Yes, the contract towies who took your car away can use the logo.

Hi Tim, under what law can they use the Police Badge/Logo ?

 

[Tim W]

Hi Tim, under what law can they use the Police Badge/Logo ?

The ordinary law of contract.
Why? For the reasons stated by Ivy above.
Approval/ authority to use the arms of the Queensland Police
will be one of the terms of the contract between them and the towie.

 

[HOS]

Thank you.

 

[HOS]

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