Shopping

There are a wide variety of quality products on offer in Australia at very competitive prices. When shopping, sightseeing or visiting theme parks on tours, remember you have a choice of where and when to shop. Shop around and compare prices and quality before you buy. This will help you get the great bargains that are available across a range of stores in Australia.

As in other countries, some Australian businesses pay commissions to tour operators and tour guides to bring tour groups to their stores. These costs are often passed on to you, the customer, through higher prices for products and services. If you are on a tour, do not feel you have to buy ONLY from the stores you are taken to. You should have an opportunity to visit and buy from other stores so check your itinerary for free shopping time.

While you are in Australia you are covered by Australia’s consumer protection laws, which require businesses to treat you fairly. All stores must obey these laws. Industry and governments are also working together to introduce standards of professionalism, with these to be embodied in a set of Tourism Export Code of Conduct standards for industry to follow. Your country also has similar laws that protect your consumer rights and govern the professional standards of travel wholesalers and retailers. If you are not satisfied with what you have purchased from them, contact the relevant government authority for travel and tourism in your home country.

In Australia many stores sell duty-free and tax-free products and services. Make sure you keep originals or copies of your passport and travel ticket with you to take advantage of these discounts. If you buy an item and it does not work properly, you have the right to a refund or to have the item replaced or repaired. Also ask about the store’s policy on repairing or returning their products in your home country (keep your receipts). Before buying watches and cameras, check that they have an international warranty valid in your country. Always compare prices and itineraries for optional sightseeing and theme park tours. Restaurants usually have prices on a menu/noticeboard. Check before you order. You are not obliged to give your tour guide a tip.