In 2015-16, Consumer Affairs Victoria was contacted more than 3,600 times regarding refunds and returns, more than 10,000 times about defective goods and more than 400 times about gift cards.
Acting Minister for Consumer Affairs Lily D’Ambrosio explained that if you buy or receive a gift that turns out to be faulty you are entitled to a repair. If the item can’t be fixed you are entitled to a refund or replacement, even if it was bought on sale. You don’t need to have the original packaging to return the item.
Acting Minister D’Abmbrosio also said that consumers should also be wary of deals that seem too good to be true hiding amongst Boxing Day bargains. Deals sold as ‘interest-free’ often come with ongoing fees, and an ‘extended warranty’ may not give you any rights not already covered by the Australian Consumer Law. While gift cards are a quick and easy present for a picky relative or friend, it is easy to forget the expiry date and shops are not required to honour them after this time.
“Download the free MyShopRights app to store photos of your receipts and help keep track of gift card expiry dates, lay-bys and warranties.” Acting Minister D’Abmbrosio commented.

To download the MyShopRights app