Dads can be notoriously hard to buy for, so what do you do if your dad was a bit disappointed with the Father's Day jocks you picked out, or the new shirt was the wrong size, style or colour?
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D'Ath said consumers should brush up on their refund rights before making a purchase this Father's Day.
"If you are hoping to get your money back or exchange a Father's Day gift, it starts with having proof of purchase so keep your receipt or have a copy of your bank statement that shows where and when you purchased the gift," she said.
"Ask about the trader's returns policy when buying an item. It's important consumers know retailers aren't required to offer a refund if they purchase the wrong size, colour or type of shirt, for example.
"Some stores try to generate goodwill and return business by offering a refund or exchange if a gift is not suitable, however they are not legally obliged to do so.
"However, if a product is faulty, damaged, different to how it was described or dangerous you may be entitled to a remedy such as a refund, replacement or repair.
"You also can return an item if it doesn't do what you'd reasonably expect it to or if it isn't of acceptable quality.
"In this case you don't need to have the original packaging and the store can't charge you for fixing it.
"Retailers also can't direct you to the manufacturer if you have a problem with an item, they are required to resolve your issue.
"Signs saying 'no refunds on sale items' are illegal – consumers have the same rights whether an item is on sale or not."
If you believe you are entitled to a refund or remedy, consumers are advised to approach the business in the first instance and try to resolve the issue.
Failing that they are encouraged to lodge a complaint with the OFT online at fairtrading.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
