Post-Christmas sales, especially the Boxing Day rush, bring an avalanche of bargains for eager shoppers. But amidst the excitement, it’s vital to stay aware of your consumer rights—because snagging a great deal shouldn’t mean compromising on quality.

Receipts Are Your Best Ally

Whether you’re buying for yourself or gifting others, keeping receipts or asking for gift receipts can be a lifesaver. If something goes wrong with a product, having proof of purchase makes it significantly easier to claim a refund, repair, or replacement.

What You’re Entitled To

Under Australian Consumer Law, if a product is faulty, doesn’t match its description, or fails to perform as intended, you’re entitled to a remedy. This applies to items bought on sale as well as gifts. Nicole Rich, Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria, reminds shoppers, “A great deal should save you money, not cost you your rights.”

Returns Aren’t Always Guaranteed

It’s crucial to understand the boundaries of your rights. Changing your mind, ordering the wrong product, or finding a better deal elsewhere are not valid reasons for a return under consumer law. Always check the store’s return policy to avoid disappointment.

Online vs. In-Store Shopping

Shopping online can be a convenient way to dodge post-Christmas crowds, and the good news is that your rights are identical to those for in-store purchases. However, there’s a catch: consumer guarantees don’t apply to private sellers on platforms like Gumtree, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace. When buying pre-loved items from individuals, proceed with caution.

Gift Cards: Know the Rules

Gift cards are an increasingly popular choice, but they come with specific rules. By law, gift cards must have a minimum three-year expiry period, and the expiry date must be clearly displayed. If the expiry date is earlier than three years, the law still grants you the full period.

The Trader’s Perspective

Retailers are also expected to comply with the law. Misrepresenting consumer rights, such as refusing a legitimate refund, can result in severe penalties. For individuals, the fines can go up to $2.5 million, while businesses could face penalties of up to $50 million. Consumer Affairs Victoria provides resources to help traders set up compliant policies and avoid disputes.

Statistics Speak Volumes

Refund and return issues remain a top concern for Victorian shoppers. In 2023–24 alone, over 6,600 consumers sought help from Consumer Affairs Victoria for problems related to their shopping rights.

A Message for Victorians

“Christmas is a time for joy and celebration,” said Ms. Rich. “We want everyone to feel confident about their rights, whether shopping in-store or online. And for traders, clear and fair policies can go a long way in building trust and avoiding disputes.”

Key Takeaways for a Stress-Free Shopping Experience

• Keep receipts and gift receipts handy for easy claims.
• Understand that consumer guarantees don’t cover change-of-mind returns.
• When shopping online, verify seller terms, especially for high-value items.
• Be cautious when buying from private sellers, as rights don’t apply to them.
• Know that gift cards must have a minimum three-year validity.

Post-Christmas shopping can be a joyful experience if you stay informed. By knowing your rights and acting wisely, you can make the most of the sales while avoiding unnecessary stress.