The ACL guarantees all goods:

• are of acceptable quality;
• match the description, sample or demonstration model;
• are fit for their disclosed purpose;
• come with clear title, unless otherwise stated;
• do not have undisclosed securities;
• come with a right to undisturbed possession;
• will have spare parts and repairs available for a reasonable amount of time after purchase unless otherwise stated; and
• with express warranties, are honoured.

When goods fail to meet a guarantee, a consumer has a right to a ‘remedy’ – an attempt to put the situation right. Depending on whether it is a major or minor failure, a consumer may be entitled to a repair, replacement, refund or compensation.

For example:

• James buys a plasma television for $3,000, which has a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. It stops working two years later. James may be entitled to a remedy on the basis that the television is not of acceptable quality. A reasonable consumer would expect more than two years’ use from a $3,000 television. The supplier must provide a remedy of the customer’s choice free of charge.

Consumers are guaranteed that services will be:

• provided with due care and skill
• fit for any disclosed purpose
• completed within a reasonable time

The following types of warranties are in addition to the rights awarded to consumers under the ACL:

• Manufacturer’s warranty
• Express warranty
• Extended warranty