Almost 40 per cent of people who have bought goods or services online experienced problems with their purchase, according to a recent NSW Fair Trading survey. About half the issues related to goods being delivered late or damaged, or not arriving at all. Other common problems included faulty products; items being different to those advertised; and unexpected charges. Those who purchased from overseas also reported a lack of clarity about currency; high shipping costs; communication issues; and fraudulent use of their credit card.
“Australians spend more than $11 billion every year shopping online so it’s really important to remember you have the same rights buying online from an Australian supplier as you do when you walk into a shop,” said Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Matt Kean MP