Media releases

December

23 December 2024 – Aviation Charter of Rights needs more to take off: CHOICE

Consumer group responds to proposed new airline customer rights.

17 December 2024 – Tips to avoid unsafe products this holiday season: CHOICE

3 in 4 people mistakenly believe businesses are required to ensure products are safe.

10 December 2024 – Coles and Woolworths provide best deal on leg of lamb ahead of Christmas: CHOICE

Aldi remains cheapest supermarket overall in grocery basket comparison.

5 December 2024 – Five festive foods hit by shrinkflation

CHOICE reveals Woolworths, Aldi and Lindt products that are smaller and more expensive.

3 December 2024 – What’s the best-tasting Christmas ham?

IGA takes top spot while Coles ham scores lowest.

November

29 November 2024 – Consumer groups welcome passing of buy now, pay later regulations

Key loophole in credit laws will be closed.

28 November 2024 – Products to avoid in the Black Friday sales: CHOICE

TV, earbuds and stick vac among the lowest ranking.

25 November 2024 – Two in three people say they’ve incurred a card surcharge without knowing: CHOICE

It shouldn’t cost to pay with your own money.

21 November 2024 – CHOICE reveals the best and worst appliance stores ahead of Black Friday

Appliances Online and E&S Trading take top spots, while Big W and Kogan rank lowest.

19 November 2024 – Bunnings breached Privacy Act with facial recognition use

CHOICE responds to results of OAIC investigation. 

18 November 2024 – Should you buy home insurance from the major supermarkets?

CHOICE compares policies from Coles, Woolworths and Aldi.

13 November 2024 – Meta fails at scam protection, grounding socks make unearthly promises, and NIB squeezes single parents: CHOICE Shonky Awards 2024

Shonkys also go to green juices without vegies, and the worst stick vacuum we’ve ever tested. 

October

31 October 2024 – Groceries cost more than twice as much in some remote First Nations communities

CHOICE compares grocery prices in parts of WA and NT to capital cities.

16 October 2024 – CHOICE welcomes commitment to make unfair business practices illegal 

New laws should stop common tricks and traps that cost consumers time and money. 

15 October 2024 – CHOICE welcomes Federal Government’s plan to ban debit card surcharges

Excessive extra fees need to go.

15 October 2024 – 15 Temu products fail safety tests: CHOICE

Kids tutu, animal watch and spinning top among dangerous products.

9 October 2024 – CHOICE reveals which car brands are tracking you

Hyundai, Kia, Tesla rank worst for data privacy. 

3 October 2024 – CHOICE welcomes Federal Government announcement to strengthen unit pricing rules

CHOICE calls for ‘shrinkflation’ notices. 

September

30 September 2024 – CHOICE reveals the best choc chip cookies

Coles and Woolworths take out top three spots.

26 September 2024 – Second quarterly supermarket survey highlights importance of shopping around for specials: CHOICE

Plus, expert tips on how to save on your groceries.

23 September 2024 – Coles and Woolworths put trust on sale: CHOICE

Response to ACCC announcement on Coles and Woolworths allegedly breaching consumer law.

12 September 2024 – CHOICE welcomes new privacy laws, but consumers expected more

Federal Government’s reforms a small step to modernise the Privacy Act.

12 September 2024 – Home and contents insurance policies to avoid: CHOICE

CGU, Bupa, AHM, and Guild score poorly in latest review.

August

29 August 2024 – Best and worst laundry detergents revealed: CHOICE

Omo takes out first place for front loaders, Aldi product best for top loaders.

26 August 2024 – CHOICE welcomes new aviation complaints scheme and clearer customer rights

Consumer advocate responds to the Government’s Aviation White Paper.

8 August 2024 – 3 in 4 consumers experienced poor customer service: CHOICE

Survey of 6000 consumers reveals many businesses are giving consumers the run-around. 

July

18 July 2024 – CHOICE reveals top takeaways from air fryer test

Are multi-cookers the new air fryers?

2 July 2024 – CHOICE welcomes appointment as one of the first designated complainants

New ‘super complaints’ function will shine a light on the most pressing consumer problems.

June

26 June 2024 – Best extras health insurance policies for under $15 a month: CHOICE

The best cheap health insurance policies to help you save money.

20 June 2024 – CHOICE releases first quarterly report on supermarket prices

New research finds Aldi has the cheapest groceries nationwide. 

11 June 2024 – Products to avoid in the end of financial year sales: CHOICE

Plus, our top tips for shopping the sales.

5 June 2024 – Health insurance premiums skyrocket, some by 15% or more: CHOICE

Should you consider self-insurance? Plus other tips to save.

May

31 May 2024 – Update to CHOICE’s media phone hours

29 May 2024 – Passing the buck: CHOICE report finds scam victims unfairly carry the burden of scams

3 in 5 scam victims have lost confidence in doing financial transactions online. 

7 May 2024 – Supermarket loyalty programs not a fair price to pay: CHOICE

4 in 5 survey respondents think it’s unfair for supermarkets to charge more if you don’t sign up to member schemes.

6 May 2024 – Compensation for cancelled flights should be the norm: CHOICE

Response to Qantas agreement to compensate 86,000 customers for cancelled flights.

3 May 2024 – CHOICE reveals the best and worst surface cleaners

Seven surface cleaners tie for first place with scores of 95%.

April

30 April 2024 – CHOICE reveals the best and worst frozen chips

Birds Eye and Woolworths top tests. 

23 April 2024 – Coles, Woolworths and Aldi promotional labels are confusing shoppers: CHOICE

1 in 4 people didn’t know whether price labels represented a discount on the usual price.

11 April 2024 – The cheapest ways to heat your home this winter

CHOICE experts share their top tips to save money on your electricity bill.

March

21 March 2024 – CHOICE testing reveals which hot cross buns taste best

Woolworths Luxurious Richly Fruited Hot Cross Buns receive the highest score.

20 March 2024 – 10 products hit by shrinkflation: CHOICE

Hot cross buns, cereal, cleaning products and more get smaller in size but not price.

15 March 2024 – 4 in 5 people believe businesses should ensure artificial intelligence systems are fair and safe

CHOICE calls for AI regulation in line with community expectations this World Consumer Rights Day. 

14 March 2024 – CHOICE reveals the best and worst dishwashing liquids 

Aldi products top our tests but also share last place with Coles, Fairy and Earth Choice.

13 March 2024 – Big tech responsible for big losses: 249% increase in social media scam losses since 2020

CHOICE calls for strong rules to force digital platforms to rein in scams.

12 March 2024 – Consumer groups welcome step towards treating Buy Now, Pay Later as credit

Regulation of Buy Now, Pay Later a step closer, but concerns remain over details.

7 March 2024 – CHOICE spills the tea on the best-tasting black tea

Aldi takes first place, with Tetley and Coles tying for second.

5 March 2024 – CHOICE’s top Easter travel tips

Advice on booking accommodation, domestic travel insurance and avoiding travel scams.

February

20 February 2024 – 4 in 5 survey respondents think some Coles and Woolworths ‘specials’ make it hard to tell if you’re getting a genuine discount 

CHOICE calls for fair and transparent grocery pricing. 

15 February 2024 – Health insurers are increasing their top-level policy prices by over 30%

CHOICE reveals sneaky tactics health insurers are using to increase their Gold hospital cover.

8 February 2024 – New Toyota cars collecting extensive customer data: CHOICE

Vehicle location, driving data, and more could be disclosed to multiple third-parties.

January

31 January 2024 – Consumer advocates call on insurers to act now at flood insurance inquiry 

Urgent changes needed to improve claims handling process.

24 January 2024 – CHOICE reveals how to protect your home from mould and damp this summer

Four tips on how to combat the humidity in your home.

18 January 2024 – How to tell if it’s time for a new pillow 

CHOICE experts reveal five signs to look out for so you can rest easy.

15 January 2024 – CHOICE announces appointment of new CEO

Ashley de Silva to commence in March 2024.

11 January 2024 – How to save $7200 in 2024

CHOICE experts reveal 6 simple changes that could help you save thousands.

December

21 December 2023 – How to use your consumer rights this Christmas 

CHOICE’s top tips on refunds, returns and more! 

19 December 2023 – 2 in 5 survey respondents had a flight cancelled or delayed in past year: CHOICE

Consumers continue to experience difficulties with airlines as busy Christmas season approaches.

12 December 2023 – Global consumer alliance urges governments to require tech companies to protect people from scams

9 out of 10 Australians also support penalties for digital platforms who fail to detect and prevent scams.

7 December 2023 – Which Christmas ham should you add to your shopping list?

IGA takes top spot while Coles ham scores a dismal 21%.

5 December 2023 – 65% of people don’t trust businesses to use their data responsibly: CHOICE 

‘Tis the season for data collection and misuse.

November 

30 November 2023 – Digital platforms on notice over scams failures 

CHOICE welcomes Government’s proposed scams code framework.

29 November 2023 – 7 in 10 people mistakenly believe businesses are already required to treat consumers fairly 

Consumer groups call for strong new fairness laws to close gaps in Australian Consumer Law.

21 November 2023 – How to shop smart and save money during Black Friday: CHOICE

60% of people interested in making a purchase during Black Friday sales.

16 November 2023 – CHOICE reveals the best and worst stain remover sprays

Aldi spray beats many big brands in both price and performance.

9 November 2023 – Five ways to spot a fake review ahead of Black Friday: CHOICE

10% of Australians have been incentivised to write a product review.

2 November 2023 – Coles and Woolies cash in during cost of living crisis, rental platforms demand excessive data, and personal alarms underperform: Shonkys 2023

Plus, Kogan tricks customers with a $99 subscription trap, and the Xbox ‘fridge’ fails at its one job.

October

25 October 2023 – Over 20 advocates and researchers call for urgent privacy reform

Stronger laws will protect people from data breaches and misuse.

18 October 2023 – What are the best ways to keep your home cool this summer? 

CHOICE experts share tips on how to stay cool while keeping energy costs low.

4 October 2023 – CHOICE reveals the best and worst dishwasher detergents

Aldi topped testing, beating premium brands costing almost 10 times as much.

September

28 September 2023 – CHOICE welcomes proposed improvements to privacy law

Response to Government announcement on Privacy Act Review Report.

27 September 2023 – 2 out of 3 people agree digital platforms aren’t doing enough to protect people from scams: CHOICE

Investigation finds Google, Facebook and Instagram are failing to prevent scammers from posting fake retailer ads.

21 September 2023 – 4 of 10 bassinets fail safety testing: CHOICE

Bassinets from brands such as Kmart, Stokke and Fisher-Price pose serious suffocation risks for babies.

14 September 2023 – Health insurers charging single parents more to insure children: CHOICE 

Single parents often face increases of up to 70% when switching to a family policy.

7 September 2023 – CHOICE reveals the best and worst laundry detergents

Omo takes out first place while an Aldi product performs the same as plain water.

August

25 August 2023 – CHOICE announces departure of CEO Alan Kirkland

23 August 2023 – CHOICE reveals air fryers to avoid buying

Kitchen Couture, Kmart and Sunbeam perform lowest in our testing.

15 August 2023 – “Our Medical” chain of GP clinics forcing patients to share data or pay additional fees

CHOICE calls for urgent Privacy Act reform to better protect consumers. 

8 August 2023 – Broken insurance market failing to protect people in climate crisis: New Report

Urgent government action needed to make home and contents insurance accessible and affordable.

2 August 2023 – 7 out of 10 people wrongly believe buying an extended warranty provides extra protections

CHOICE reveals top tips on using your consumer rights.

July

25 July 2023 – 9 out of 10 people have encountered a scam in past 12 months: CHOICE

Stronger regulations urgently needed to protect consumers.

5 July 2023 – Facial recognition technology being used by major stadiums including Qudos Bank Arena 

Stronger laws urgently needed to regulate controversial technology. 

June

21 June 2023 – The cost of sleep: 62% of Australians have recently made a purchase to get a better night’s rest

CHOICE’s top tips on buying pillows, mattresses and more. 

15 June 2023 – End of financial year sale tips: CHOICE

Expert tips for buying a new appliance while sticking to your budget.

1 June 2023 – Electric heaters to avoid

Heaters from Kogan and Arlec fail to keep you warm this winter.

May

11 May 2023 – The top five ways to save on renters contents insurance

CHOICE experts reveal how much you could save by switching or increasing your excess. 

10 May 2023 – How retail stores are tracking you: CHOICE

Unregulated surveillance technologies reinforce urgent need for Privacy Act reform.

4 May 2023 – How to buy or repair a second-hand appliance: CHOICE 

Expert tips on used whitegoods, electronics and more!

April

27 April 2023 – Are you wasting money on laundry products?

CHOICE experts reveal laundry saving tips.

20 April 2023 – What are the cheapest ways to heat your home this winter?

CHOICE shares tips on how to keep warm during the cooler months.

18 April 2023 – Your data, open for inspection: CHOICE raises alarm on RentTech

41% of renters pressured to apply for a home via third-party platforms such as 2Apply and Snug.

12 April 2023 – How to choose a sustainable appliance: CHOICE

Experts share tips on how to select an environmentally-friendly appliance.

4 April 2023 – How to pick the perfect coffee machine: CHOICE 

Expert advice to help you caffeinate with confidence. 

March

29 March 2023 – On a roll: CHOICE announces best and worst toilet paper

Quilton comes out on top while OoBamboo takes last place. 

16 March 2023 – Australia’s most expensive health insurance policies to avoid: CHOICE

Switching to a better deal could save you hundreds.

9 March 2023 – CHOICE testing reveals the tastiest hot cross buns

Woolworths Traditional Fruit Hot Cross Buns receive first place.

7 March 2023 – “No longer cooking with gas”: Making the change to induction cooktops

CHOICE experts share their tips.

1 March 2023 – CHOICE reveals the best and worst dishwashing liquids

Coles takes out first place while one Morning Fresh product performs the same as plain water.

February

22 February 2023 – CHOICE reviews packaging sustainability of over 30 products

Packaging materials from brands such as Breville, Phillips and Dyson put to the test.

7 February 2023 – CHOICE reveals the best and worst multipurpose cleaners

Bosistos, Citro Clean and Nifti tie for first place, others perform no better than water.

January

31 January 2023 – New data reveals 44% of Australian shoppers surveyed are using unit pricing to reduce grocery spending

CHOICE shares tips to combat rising grocery bills with unit pricing.