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Know Your Refund Rights for End of Financial Year Sales

Victorian shoppers looking for bargains at the mid-year sales should know their refund rights.

Consumer Affairs Minister Tony Robinson said many consumers and retailers are confused about refunds, particularly on sale items.

“At sale time, some retailers may display signs or otherwise indicate there are no refunds on sale items, because they mistakenly believe sale items are different or of less quality than full-priced goods.”

“But when it comes to refunds, sale items must be treated in the same way as full price items,” Mr Robinson said.

Under the Fair Trading Act 1999, consumers are entitled to refunds if:

• an item is faulty and the buyer did not know about the fault at the time of purchase
• the item is not fit for purpose, or
• the item does not match a description or sample the buyer was given.

A business may offer to repair, exchange or provide a credit note instead of a refund, but the buyer has the right to demand a refund if the product does not meet the conditions of purchase.

Mr Robinson also advised consumers to think carefully before making any purchases and to keep their receipts after the excitement of the mid-year sales.

“Shoppers should enjoy the sales but remember that shops don’t have to refund your money if you have simply changed your mind or found the same item cheaper elsewhere,” Mr Robinson said.

“Also, hang on to receipts as stores do not have to provide a refund if you cannot supply proof of purchase.”

The state’s consumer watchdog, Consumer Affairs Victoria, regularly inspects retail outlets to ensure their refund policies comply with consumer protection laws.

Businesses found in breach of the refund provisions of the Fair Trading Act 1999 risk prosecution and fines.