2023-12-21
With Christmas only days away, Canberrans are being urged to know their consumer rights when buying any last-minute gifts.
“Often we are buying for others – be it friends or family – and some of our choices may not always be the best, so knowing your rights around returns and refunds is important for a stress-free shopping experience,” explained Minister for Consumer Affairs Shane Rattenbury.
“While businesses are not legally obligated to provide a refund or exchange for change of mind purchases, many businesses offer flexible returns policies over the holiday period. If you are unsure if a recipient may like a gift, check with the store about their refund arrangements.”
Under consumer law, a customer can choose a refund or exchange if an item has a major problem.
This is when the item:
- is unsafe;
- has either one serious problem or several smaller problems that would stop someone buying the product if they knew about them beforehand;
- is significantly different from the sample or description; or
- doesn’t do what it was said it would do, or what the customer asked for and can’t be easily fixed.
In Australia gift cards are required by law to have a three-year expiry date, however, it is still important to check the terms and conditions of a gift card before purchasing.
Canberrans are also reminded to stay safe online this Christmas and be aware of scams.
Be on the lookout for online shopping scams such as scammers pretending to be legitimate online sellers, either with a fake website that looks legitimate, or a fake ad on a genuine retailer site.
To report a scam or find out more about what you can do to protect yourself visit Scamwatch.com.au
Consumers are encouraged to think about the safety aspects of the items they purchase such as purchasing age-appropriate toys for young children to prevent injury and choking.
Some key items to consider include:
- Button batteries: Buttons can be deadly if swallowed. Always check to ensure the battery compartment is secure on items before buying.
- Trampolines: check and maintain your trampoline and always watch young children as they bounce.
- Portable pools: remember, children can drown in portable pools. Always watch them carefully.
- Pool toys and floatation: aids are for fun, not safety. Stay close and supervise children.
- eRideables: children should only ride age-appropriate devices, wear a helmet and have one person per device.
- Lithium-ion products: Always monitor and unplug lithium-ion batteries once items are charged to avoid fires and injuries.
“Safety is also a key consideration at this time of the year – particularly when buying for children,” Mr Rattenbury said.
Canberrans can visit the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) website for more information on product recalls and item safety.
“By knowing your consumer rights and being aware of safety with toys and aquatic products you can have a festive and safe season,” Mr Rattenbury said.
For more information on consumer guarantees, warranties and refunds please visit the Access Canberra website.