Knowing your consumer rights can save you money - here's five tips recommended by the to help you avoid getting ripped off.
Keep your receipts
Minor gain from GST fed tax cuts:Treasury
Make sure you ask for a receipt or proof of purchase when buying products or services. Also, always keep your records of your purchases in a safe place because you might need it in the future. Businesses must provide you with a receipt for anything over $75.
Ask for a repair, replacement or refund
The Australian Consumer Law give you the right to ask for a repair, replacement or refund.
Understand the contract before you sign
Every time you you buy goods or services, you are entering into a contract. Before you do, make sure you understand what you are agreeing to.
Watch out for misleading prices
Food price wars take toll on retail trade
In Australia all prices should be genuine and displayed so you can easily see the total price. Watch out for multiple prices on a product or in advertising. The seller should fix the display or sell you the item at the lowest price.
Be aware of online shopping scams
More than 80 per cent of Australians aged 55 and over shop online, according to an eCommerce survey. (AAP)
Be careful where and how you shop online! Scammers can set up fake websites or fake advertisements on genuine retailers’ sites.
Organisations who can help you:
The is the national competition regulator and consumer law guardian. The ACCC promotes competition and fair trading to make markets work for everyone. .
investigates consumer issues and helps consumers take action and make complaints. .
is the government agency where travellers who believe they have been treated unfairly by a business while in Australia can lodge a complaint. .
The provides advice on Australia’s competition and consumer policy framework. .
