The consumer guarantees protect anyone who acquires either:

  • a good or service that costs $100,000 or less; or
  • a good or service costing more than $100,000 that is normally bought for personal, domestic or household use or consumption.

For purchases made before 1 July 2021, the consumer guarantees apply to goods and services that cost $40,000 or less rather than $100,000 or less.

Business vehicles and trailers are also covered, irrespective of cost, provided they are used mainly to transport goods on public roads.

Consumer guarantees apply regardless of any voluntary or extended warranties given by a seller or manufacturer of goods or services, or if such a warranty expires.

Businesses that acquire goods for re-supply, or to use them up in a manufacturing or production process, are not covered by this definition.

The consumer guarantees also don't apply if a consumer got what they asked for but simply changed their mind or saw the product or service cheaper elsewhere.

Protected

  • Someone who purchases household goods or services.

  • A business that buys office furniture totalling $22,000.

  • A printing company that leases a printer for $35,000 for use in its business.

  • A furniture removal company that purchases a new vehicle for its business.

  • A farmer who purchases a tractor for $60,000, after 1 July 2021.

Not protected

  • A farmer who purchased a tractor for $60,000 before 1 July 2021.

  • A furniture maker who purchases timber for $20,000 for use in its business.