Returns and refund policies of Australia’s biggest retailers explained
We’ve all unwrapped a Christmas present that wasn’t quite right – but don’t be fooled into thinking you’ll automatically get a refund.
Retail
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The final mad rush to get our Christmas shopping done is now well and truly underway – but all that buying comes with a risk.
That’s because the returns policies of retailers vary from store to store, meaning you could easily get stuck with a dud gift you can’t return or replace.
And it’s all the more worrying given new research by comparison site finder.com.au has revealed the typical household is planning to spend $969 this Christmas, reaching a staggering national total of $18.8 billion.
Finder money expert Bessie Hassan said it was important to read the fine print before buying gifts.
“It’s wise to ask about the store’s exchange or refund policy for Christmas gifts – there’s nothing worse than being stuck with a gift that you can’t use,” she said.
“Many stores now do gifts receipts. It’s a receipt that extends the return period but doesn’t show the price. If you’re buying clothing or something you’re not sure the person might like, it’s always worth getting.
“Some stores won’t refund or return on final markdowns, so make sure you ask if you’re buying something on clearance.
“When in doubt, it’s safer to go for a gift card or even cash. While it’s not a tangible gift for Christmas Day, it does mean the person will be able to get more bang for their buck in the Boxing Day sales and avoid any issues with returns.”
Here’s a round up of the returns policies of the country’s biggest retailers, and everything you need to know to avoid being stung.
MYER
At Myer, the standard return period is 30 days for change of mind returns.
“Customers and their gift recipients will have until January 31 to change their mind on purchases made in November or December,” a Myer spokesman said.
“Simply present your receipt or present the transaction on your MYER one app.”
BEST & LESS
Best & Less offers a 100 Day Quality Guarantee, which means returns are available within 100 days.
THE ICONIC
Purchases in the lead up to Christmas are subject to The Iconic’s refund policy of 30 day free returns.
KMART
Kmart usually offers change of mind returns within 28 days of purchase provided you produce proof of purchase, the item is in re-saleable condition in its original packaging and is in its original condition.
But some items are excluded, including cosmetics, beauty products, underwear, swimwear and other items.
BUNNINGS
According to Debbie Poole, Bunnings chief operating officer, Bunnings staff will “happily assist customers who wish to return or exchange goods purchased from any of our stores across Australia or online”.
“We try to make it as easy as possible for customers and we’re happy to offer a return or exchange if customers change their mind and return the product unused and in its original packaging,” she said.
“We ask customers to keep their receipt to make this process easy. Customers can find more details on our returns policy on our website.”
REBEL SPORTS
Shoppers are entitled to a replacement, credit or refund if items have a fault, has been wrongly described or is different from a sample shown to you – although Rebel Sports is not required to replace your product if you simply change your mind.
BIG W
A Big W spokeswoman told news.com.au the chain had a range of return options.
“Big W will happily give customers a refund or exchange within 90 days of purchase, provided they have a proof of purchase and the product is still in its original and saleable condition and packaging with all accessories included has not been worn or used, and if a perishable product is not expired,” the spokeswoman said.
“There are no returns on a personalised item, digital download, prepaid card, voucher or clearance items.
“In the case of returning a gift, we are working on a gift receipt solution for customers that will be introduced in the near future.”
TARGET
The discount department store is extending its refund period until January 15, 2020 on any purchases made during November and December 2019 to give Christmas shoppers a helping hand.
All other refund policies apply, and customers should visit the Target website for more details.
RED BALLOON
Refunds at the gift site are available on experience vouchers within 14 days of the purchase date, excluding any delivery or transaction fees paid at the time of purchase.
RedBalloon experience vouchers can be exchanged for any other experience or product on the site, and are valid for three years, while gift vouchers of a particular denomination are also valid for three years from the date of purchase.
THE GOOD GUYS, JB HI-FI, DAVID JONES
The Good Guys, David Jones and JB Hi-Fi did not respond to news.com.au’s request for information.
Originally published as Returns and refund policies of Australia’s biggest retailers explained