Automatic Consumer guarantees on products and services
Since 1 January 2011, the following consumer guarantees on products and services apply.
Products must be of acceptable quality, that is:
- safe, lasting, with no faults;
- look acceptable; and
- do all the things someone would normally expect them to do.
Acceptable quality takes into account what would normally be expected for the type of product and cost.
Products must:
- match descriptions made by the salesperson, on packaging and labels, and in promotions or advertising;
- match any demonstration model or sample you asked for;
- be fit for the purpose the business told you it would be fit for and for any purpose that you made known to the business before purchasing;
- come with full title and ownership;
- not carry any hidden debts or extra charges;
- come with undisturbed possession, so no one has a right to take the goods away or prevent you from using them;
- meet any extra promises made about performance, condition and quality, such as life time guarantees and money back offers; and
- have spare parts and repair facilities available for a reasonable time after purchase unless you were told otherwise.
Services must:
- be provided with acceptable care and skill or technical knowledge and taking all necessary steps to avoid loss and damage;
- be fit for the purpose or give the results that you and the business had agreed to; and
- be delivered within a reasonable time when there is no agreed end date.
Consumer guarantees on products and services also apply to:
- bundled products and services;
- gifts with proof of purchase;
- sale items;
- online products and services bought from Australian businesses; and
- second-hand products from businesses, taking into account age and condition.
Exceptions do apply.
Source: ACCC website.
Important Notice:
This FAQ is intended for general interest + information only.
It is not legal advice, nor should it be relied upon or used as such.
We recommend you always consult a lawyer for legal advice specifically tailored to your needs & circumstances.