Rights and responsibilities

Did you know you have basic consumer rights when buying goods or services?

All goods and services you buy come with a basic consumer guarantee. 

In addition, all goods you purchase must comply with any product information and safety standards.

It is illegal for retailers to mislead you about products or use high-pressure selling tactics.

Every time you buy goods or services, you are forming a contract which gives certain rights and responsibilities to you and the trader. For example, you enter a contract when buying a house, car, TV, lounge or making other everyday purchases.

The contract may be in the form of a receipt, invoice or other document outlining terms and conditions which you and the trader are agreeing to such as deposits, cancellation fees, consumer guarantees, warranties, delivery and product/service details, price, payment arrangements and more depending on the type of purchase you make. It is your responsibility to read and understand the terms and conditions of contracts so you know what you are agreeing to.

Always keep a copy of receipts, dockets, invoices or contracts in a safe place as you may need them if you want to return, repair or exchange the goods.

International consumer rights - read about the United Nations guidelines for consumer protection.

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