Melbourne 24/7 gym continues to charge member fees during lockdown

Derrimut 24/7 Gym in Pakenham is reported to have upset members by continuing to charge them membership fees despite the harsh lockdown

As reported by the Herald Sun, the 24/7 club on the Princes Highway has not ceased deducting fortnightly payments from its members during Victoria’s latest lockdown, despite the gym being unable to open and clients banned from using it.

One member, who did not wish to be named, told the Herald Sun “I just shoudn’t be paying for a place I can’t use”.

The client, who is on a 12-month lock-in contract, said that he has been charged $51 in the past two weeks by Derrimut.

In an e-mail seen by the Herald Sun, the gym told members on 5th August that “to help keep us keep the dream going, we have decided to keep your direct debit active until further notice.

“As part of our compensation, we will be offering a credit of your gym membership fee at the end of its term.

“We understand that this is not ideal, but with your help, we will get through this together.”

Under ‘Covid-19 update’ on the Gym’s website, it states “if you are in a current lock-in contract, you are NOT eligible to cancel your current contract.”

The Herald Sun reported having seen "numerous comments" online by customers who have sought to cancel their contract with the gym, but have failed to do so.

Derrimut 24/7 Gym, which was started in 2010, has 12 gyms across Victoria, as well as 10 in South Australia and one in Queensland.

Commenting on the issue, a spokesperson from Consumer Affairs Victoria advised “businesses should have clear refund policies and processes in place to ensure they meet their obligations, and we encourage all businesses to work with consumers in good faith during the pandemic to find an outcome that is suitable for all.”

Derrimut Gym 24/7 did not respond to the Herald Sun's request for comment.

Image: Derrimut 24/7 Gym Pakenham. Credit: Facebook/Derrimut 24/7 Gym Pakenham.