The perfect gift for Mother’s Day can be hard to come by. Before you begin the search, take a look at our tips.
- Preparation is key
Don’t just buy the first product you find for mum.
Research is crucial - compare prices and seek reviews about other customer’s experiences. Make sure to review the terms and conditions and any extra charges for delivery or cancellation.
Don’t wait until the last minute to order the gift. Be aware of delivery timeframes and allow extra time for the gift to arrive.
- Website security
If a website doesn’t seem quite right, you may be right to trust your instinct. Lots of fake websites pose as legitimate retailers so stay aware.
Make sure the website is secure by looking for the closed padlock symbol next to the address. Also, make sure the website begins with https (not just http) before you begin the payment process.
Once the transaction is complete, save copies of documentation including screenshots confirming the purchase and details. See more tips for shopping safely online.
- Unsure of Mum’s gift?
Whether it’s the size, colour, or you just worry you’re off base this year, you should check the retailer’s refund and exchange policy before you buy.
Be aware you don’t have an automatic right to a refund if you change your mind or buy the incorrect item. Some businesses may exchange or refund for any reason as a gesture of goodwill, but this is more than the Australian Consumer Law requires.
As a consumer, most products and services you buy have consumer guarantees. If a guarantee isn’t met you may be entitled to a refund, repair or having the goods replaced, depending on the nature of the problem.
Regardless of whether you bought the item online or in a store, these rights still apply. Read more about your consumer rights and guarantees.
- Check gift card T’s and C’s
Gift cards can allow mum to select the perfect gift for herself. But remember, the terms and conditions that come with gift vouchers can vary for every business, so it’s best to check before you buy.
Businesses cannot charge post-purchase fees or administration charges such as activation, account-keeping and balance enquiry fees.
A minimum three-year expiry period should be displayed on most gift cards along with the expiry date. Place a reminder of the expiry date in a phone or calendar, so mum won’t miss out.
Read more advice about gift cards.
