Don't disappoint loved ones this Valentine's Day with online flowers or gifts that don't arrive in time, or arrive in time but are not what you ordered.
If you have left your shopping to the last minute, make sure to seek delivery guarantees when ordering online, so you know your flowers or gifts will arrive in time.
For gifts that arrive but aren't what was advertised online, such as flowers that are significantly different to the photo on the website, or are wilted, under Australian Consumer Law - you have a right to a remedy - such as a refund, replacement or repair.
Consumer guarantees kick in on products purchased through Australian-based stores including online. Guarantees also apply on products purchased through overseas traders, however it is much harder to enforce, so keep this in mind when doing your shopping. If you do have issues with products once they arrive or they are delivered late, speak with the retailer first to see what they can do for you.
If a loved one doesn't like their Valentine's Day gift and want to return or exchange it, retailers are not legally obliged to offer a remedy for a 'change of mind'. Before buying a gift, it's a good idea to check the store's return policy just in case.
Consumers should continue to be vigilant to scammers when shopping online. In 2022, online shopping scams claimed the highest number of victims in Western Australia with 274 people losing a combined $867,774.
