scam awareness
Why aren't businesses doing more to stop us from getting scammed?
New CHOICE research reveals four out of five victims received no warning before transferring money.
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The dishwashers you shouldn't be buying
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Latest stories
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Why does a business I left years ago still have my data?
Businesses are supposed to delete your personal info after you're no longer a customer, but that doesn't seem to be happening. -
What is an Instant Pot and should you buy one?
These multifunction marvels have a cult following – what's it all about, and do they live up to the hype? -
4 induction cooktops our experts wouldn't buy
Our experts say these models simmered rather than sizzled in our latest tests. -
Should you buy a Kmart coffee machine?
We've been reviewing and testing Kmart Anko espresso machines for years. Are these budget brewers worth buying? -
7 mistakes to avoid when buying a TV
CHOICE entertainment experts show you how to be a pro when shopping for a new screen.
Take action
Stronger scam protections
With new CHOICE research revealing how businesses leave victims feeling alone, ashamed and carrying the burden of scams, it's time to force businesses to step up and protect people. Scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and anyone can become a victim, but businesses like banks, telcos and digital platforms have the technology and intel to prevent, detect and respond to scams. Together, let's call on the government to get strong scam protections over the line.
Winter
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6 things we love about electric blankets
Myths busted and praises sung – we look at common questions about electric blankets and why you should consider buying one. -
Kmart vs Breville electric blankets – how do they compare?
Should you spend over $300 on an electric blanket? We put cheap and expensive models head to head. -
The air purifiers that rated the lowest in our lab tests
Investing in an air purifier? Don't buy these models if you want to breathe easy. -
How to buy the best heating system for your home
Electric, gas or reverse-cycle air conditioning? We explain the options. -
10 home heating mistakes costing you money
Avoid these everyday errors and reduce your bills.
Feeling the pinch? We are here to help.
Get free expert advice
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Cost of living
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How does the government’s $300 energy rebate work?
Everything you need to know about the rebate, plus some extra tips to keep your bills down. -
Cheapest Basic health insurance policies to save on tax
These policies from HCF, HBF, HCI and more will save you money, but don't rely on them for cover. -
The cleaning products that might be a waste of your money
Our experts dish the dirt on the cleaning products and appliances you could really live without. -
Best value bathroom buys
The budget-friendly tissues, toilet paper and cleaning products performing well in our testing. -
5 tax scams to watch out for this year
The most common types of scam targeting you at tax time and how to avoid them.
Making change together
How you've helped us make things fairer for Australians
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FEB 2024
Support for Youpla/ACBF victims
The Government announces $97 million to the Youpla Support Program to assist some victims. Thanks to ongoing advocacy by First Nations advocates, policyholders, and community organisations.
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DEC 2023
Win for fairness in financial advice
The Government announces that the best interests duty for financial advisers will stay in place, following advocacy to keep it by CHOICE and other groups. The rule ensures customers get helpful advice of a high standard.
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DEC 2023
Coles refunds thousands of customers
Following our complaint to the ACCC about Coles' false 'locked' price claims, the supermarket apologises for raising prices of 20 products before the end of promotional periods and refunds thousands of customers.
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SEPT 2023
Stronger renters’ rights in Vic
After a CHOICE report exposing invasive rent-tech, the Victorian Government commits to strengthening renters' rights, including restrictions on personal information collection and retention.
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SEPT 2023
Bank execs on notice as new rules pass
New legislation, the Financial Accountability Regime (FAR), passes. Once in force, the rules will hold top executives accountable for misconduct by banks, super funds or insurers. They are backed up by strong penalties.
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AUG 2023
Qantas backs down on COVID credits
Qantas removes the expiry date on credits for customers who had flights cancelled due to COVID, and allows them to ask for a refund. This follows our campaigns on travel rights, including awarding Qantas a Shonky for its behaviour in 2022.
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JUNE 2023
Win for victims of financial misconduct
A banking royal commission reform passes after decades of pressure from consumer groups. The compensation scheme of last resort will provide compensation for many victims.
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MAY 2023
Super advocate receives further funding
The Government commits an additional five years of funding to continue consumer advocacy in the superannuation sector.
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MAY 2023
Consumer protections from scams
The Government commits $86.5 million in funding to combat scams, including the establishment of the National Anti-Scams Centre.
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DEC 2022
ACCC takes action on shonky Bloomex
Following its 2022 Shonky Award, Bloomex is taken to court for publishing misleading online star ratings and price representations.
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NOV 2022
Grieving WA consumers now protected
Funeral operators must now display prices publicly and provide key information without requiring people to meet with a sales representative.
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OCT 2022
New fines for breaching consumer rights
Companies who harm, mislead or deceive consumers will face up to 5x greater penalties. For the first time ever, companies who rely on unfair contract terms will also face penalties.
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OCT 2022
Timeshare taken to task
Ultiqa will pay a $900,000 penalty for breaching financial advice protections for consumers thanks to action from ASIC. We raised the alarm in our super complaint in May 2021.
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SEPT 2022
A ban on binary options
These dodgy financial products share many characteristics with high risk gambling. CHOICE supported a ban to prevent consumer harm, and ASIC has extended that ban until 1 October 2031.
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AUG 2022
South Australia joins school banking ban
Private banks are banned from school banking programs in South Australia, joining Victoria, NSW, Queensland and ACT state governments. We awarded Dollarmites a Shonky in 2018.
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