Skip to main content
 
Law

You Can Sometimes Return Goods You Never Had a Chance to Examine

The Consumer Protection Act allows a consumer to reject goods and receive a refund in specific circumstances, including where goods were delivered from a direct-marketing agreement, weren't able to be examined before delivery, or were supplied for a particular purpose and found unsuitable within the applicable period.

Online shopping and delivery services have changed how consumers purchase goods — you may pay for an item before seeing or physically examining it. Consumer law recognises certain circumstances where this creates rights beyond the standard six-month defective-goods warranty.

Source: Consumer Protection Act

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return every online purchase simply because I changed my mind?

No — specific statutory circumstances apply.

What if I ordered something for a particular purpose and it does not work for that purpose?

The CPA provides a specific remedy in qualifying circumstances.

Should I inspect goods when they are delivered?

Yes — inspecting goods promptly can help you identify problems and exercise applicable rights.

← More Did You Know facts