A-Z Guide

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Babies

Bassinet reviews

We've tested 24 bassinets ranging in price from $65 to $530.

17 May 2013 | Our review reveals which models, including those from Boori, Childcare, Natures Purest and Tasman Eco, are safe, sound and easy to use.

Stroller and pram reviews  

We've tested 128 strollers for safety, durability and ease of use.

15 May 2013 | Find out which strollers, including newly tested Baby Jogger, Bugaboo, Childcare and Steelcraft models, meet our exacting safety standards.

Vaccinations

There are nine diseases that are preventable by childhood immunisation.

1 May 2013 | By immunising your child, you are offering her the safest and most effective form of protection against many serious diseases - the benefit of this protection far outweighs the rare complications associated with immunisation.

Ten things not to buy your kids

Some common toys and children's products pose a risk to your child's safety.

1 May 2013 | All parents want the best for their children and there's a huge range of products out there to choose from. But beware — some could do more harm than good.

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Cot reviews

We provide test results for 83 cots, including 10 newly tested models.

8 Mar 2013 | The mandatory Australian standard aims to benchmark all cots to a safe level, but some failures slip through the cracks.

Baby monitor reviews

Monitor your baby's call.

28 Feb 2013 | A baby monitor is useful and will give you peace of mind, but do you really need all the extra features?

Babies and kids marketing

Making anxious first-time parents feel guilty is big business.

31 Jan 2013 | How can parents determine which products are essential, what’s nice to have, and what’s not needed?

Contraception options

There are plenty of options beyond the pill.

15 Jan 2013 | We take a look at the contraceptive options available in Australia, including long-acting reversible methods, hormonal injections, IUD, the pill and emergency contraception.

Safety gate and barrier reviews

Sealing off certain rooms or stairs is key when your baby becomes mobile.

18 Dec 2012 | Test results for 41 safety gates and barriers priced from $20 to $199

Modern cloth nappies

Cloth nappies have come a long way since the terry squares of yesteryear but disposables still reign the shopping cart.

1 Dec 2012 | We surveyed hundreds of online parents to find out their experiences with different types of nappies.

Woolworths slammed for selling "baby juice"

The Bebi fruit drink range claims to be the world’s first infant suitable beverage.

23 Nov 2012 | Parents are angered that Woolworths is stocking the Bebi brand juice to infants as young as six months old.

Toy safety reviews

We tested 23 toys against safety standards, and over half of them failed.

12 Nov 2012 | Australia now has a single regulatory product safety system covering all states and territories - but unsafe products, including toys, can still appear in stores.

Booster seat reviews

Many children have restraints that are too big for them and graduate to adult seatbelts too early.

12 Sep 2012 | We review 12 new booster seats suitable for children aged from about four to eight years, looking at ease of use and ease of fitting.

Double stroller reviews  

Which type of double stroller is for you?

9 Aug 2012 | We put nine double strollers of various types to the test, plus results for 18 previously tested models.

Child car restraint reviews

These restraints all meet the stringent requirements of the Australian standard, but some are easier to install and use than others

5 Jul 2012 | Installing a child car restraint correctly is essential for preventing injuries to your child in a crash

Baby carrier and sling reviews  

Try before you buy when choosing a baby carrier or sling.

4 Jun 2012 | With a baby carrier or sling, you can keep your baby close and secure while leaving your hands free for other tasks.

Baby-safety-week

A week dedicated to new and expectant parents and the safety of their new bundle of joy.

21 May 2012 | Whether it’s rolling strollers along our custom made rig for hours on end in the CHOICE labs, or checking for sharp edges and finger traps, safety is at the forefront of all we do.

Kids' bank accounts review

Changes to tax rules mean little savers can be hit with a big tax bill.

15 May 2012 | We review ten savings accounts designed for children and teenagers, including products offered by ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB and Westpac.

Beaba Babycook first look

The Beaba Babycook claims to make preparing healthy meals for your baby easy.

1 May 2012 | This handy appliance can steam, blend, reheat and defrost all in the one compact unit - but is it necessary?

Change table reviews

We test 22 baby change tables for stability, strength of construction and safety.

26 Apr 2012 | Babies need their nappies changed several times a day, and a good change table can make the job much easier - and safer.

Planning for baby

Going from two salaries to one and the costs of baby items can be daunting, but you can keep within budget.

9 Feb 2012 | Use our planning for baby guide to find out what you really need and ways to stay within your budget with our interactive budget tool.

Convertible car seat reviews

Installing a child restraint correctly is the best way to prevent injuries to your child in a crash

2 Feb 2012 | We review 10 children's convertible car seats, suitable from birth to four years of age and priced from $149 to $659.

How to find good-quality child care

Finding good, affordable childcare can be a tough gig.

2 Feb 2012 | We've surveyed more than 200 parents and found fewer than half of parents with children in long day care are satisfied with the quality of care.

Playpen reviews

Of the 16 playpens tested, only one is recommended.

5 Dec 2011 | As there is no current mandatory or voluntary Australian standard for playpens, some models currently on the market may pose potential safety risks to your child.

Organic baby food reviews

Not all organic baby food is created equal.

30 Nov 2011 | Our review of 136 baby food varieties for under 1s has found there’s more to (or sometimes less of) these products than meets the eye.

Valco Stroller Roller first look

This stroller accessory aims to make transporting your stroller easier.

26 Oct 2011 | This stroller bag gives your stroller a neat and tidy look, however packing and unpacking could be potentially time consuming.

Kidsafe targeting road safety

The annual event aims to increase awareness about unintentional childhood injuries and their prevention

25 Oct 2011 | The aim of this year's event is to remind parents to take all precautions to protecting their children.

Baby Jogger toddler seat recall

The stroller may become unstable in some circumstances when the toddler seat is attached.

20 Oct 2011 | The Amazing Baby Company is recalling Baby Jogger toddler seats sold between September 2008 and September 2011.

Child safety devices fact sheet

What do you need to make your home toddler-safe?

17 Oct 2011 | CHOICE looks at household child safety devices and finds that combining sensible safety practices with a few key devices is enough for most homes.

Introwall Children's Nightgowns recall

Incorrect labelling can result in consumers not being aware of the fire danger.

14 Oct 2011 | Introwall Pty Ltd is recalling children's nightgowns as the incorrect labelling could result in consumers not being aware of the fire danger.

Bugaboo Bee Stroller recall

The front wheels may suddenly lock up whilst the stroller is in motion, causing the stroller to topple.

4 Oct 2011 | Bugaboo Bee strollers manufactured between January 2011 and 15 September 2011 may have a front swivel wheel that can lock up during use.

Baby Jogger City Select stroller recall

The strollers have been supplied online directly from the United States and fail to comply with the Australian mandatory standard.

4 Oct 2011 | i Retail USA Baby Jogger City Select strollers have been recalled, because the strollers do not have wrist tethers for the carer, or red coloured brakes.

Chibebe Slumber Pod Baby Bean Bag recall

A child could gain access to the beads, posing a risk of suffocation as well as inhalation and ingestion.

28 Sep 2011 | Chibebe is recalling Slumber Pod Baby Bean Bags sold nationally between 1st September and 7th September this year.

Valiant Enterprises Tafli Bath Seat recall

The warning label may not be adequately affixed to the bath seat.

26 Sep 2011 | Valiant Enterprises recalls Tafli Bath Seats sold between 15 January 2010 and 22 September 2011 because warning labels may not be adequately affixed.

Pregnancy multivitamin supplements

Are they essential, or just a pricey gimmick?

1 Sep 2011 | There are plenty of specialist multivitamin on the market for conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Can they be beneficial or are they just a gimmick?

Oobi-Pumpkin-growsuit-recall

Non-labelling can result in consumers being unaware of possible fire safety risks

22 Aug 2011 | The Oobi Pty Ltd pumpkin growsuit does not have a Fire Safety Label as required by the mandatory standard for children's nightwear.

Rafferty's Garden Italian lasagne baby food recall

Plastic has been found in the 170g baby food satchels

22 Aug 2011 | Plastic matter has been found in Rafferty's Garden Italian Lasagne Premium Baby Food for 10 months+, which could cause injury if consumed.

Velour-Studsuits-recall

Clever Clothing Enterprise has issued a recall on its velour studsuits for babies

17 Aug 2011 | Incorrect labelling can result in consumers not being aware of the fire risk associated wth the Marquise velour studsuits for babies.

Isofix on its way

Australian parents will soon be able to buy baby seats using an Isofix-like restraint system.

2 Aug 2011 | The Australian Standard for car child restraints will likely allow the use of an international child restraint system called Isofix, from 2013.

Nutrition guide for breastfeeding mothers  

Maintaining mother's good health is one of the keys to successful breastfeeding.

20 May 2011 | How much more do breastfeeding mothers need to eat and which foods they should focus on to stay as healthy as possible?

Portable high chair reviews

Harnesses, boosters and clip-on seats are compact alternatives to a standard high chair.

13 May 2011 | 15 portable high chairs - including clip-on, booster and harness types - tested for safety and durability.

Disposable nappies review and compare

Our trialists put 14 disposable nappy brands and five different types of cloth nappies to the test.

16 Mar 2010 | A typical baby goes through about 6000 nappies. The total cost can vary between about $1700 and $4650, so it pays to find the smartest buys.

Dangerous-plastic-banned

Australia takes a step towards banning toys and baby products containing DEHP.

27 Jan 2010 | Australia may eventually catch up with the US and the UE and ban toys and baby products containing DEHP.

Child car restraints

New national laws will ensure safer travelling for your children.

2 Dec 2009 | A nationally agreed reform on child car restraints is to be rolled out across Australia in 2010, with new laws designed to provide greater protection for children when travelling.

Maclaren recall in USA

One million strollers have been recalled in the USA for safety reasons.

10 Nov 2009 | The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a voluntary recall of Maclaren strollers, due to the stroller’s hinge mechanism posing a fingertip amputation and laceration hazard to a child when the stroller is being unfolded.

Stroller buying guide

What to look for when buying a pram or stroller.

6 Oct 2009 | Buying a stroller can be a complicated exercise. Use our checklist to make sure you get the right one for your situation.

Strollers, carriers, car and bicycle restraints

Strollers, carriers, car and bicycle seats: we tell you what to look for.

3 Oct 2009 | No matter how you prefer to transfer baby, we've tested them for safety and ease of use. Use our recommendations before your next purchase.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding provides significant health benefits for mother and baby.

5 Sep 2009 | The Australian government and the World Health Organisation recommend babies are exclusively breastfeed until six months of age.

Furniture: Cots, cradles, playpens, highchairs

Don't purchase a cot, cradle, playpen or highchair until you've read our informative guide.

4 Sep 2009 | Use our checklist to make sure you have taken all necessary steps to guarantee your baby’s safe sleeping and playing environment.

Nappies and toilet training

Babies will need nappies until some time into their second or third year.

2 Sep 2009 | This makes choosing and using nappies a major part of their life, and yours. Our guide covers the types of nappies available as well as associated products such as change tables and baths.

Child care options

How do you find quality child care that matches your requirements?

1 Sep 2009 | Long waiting lists and lack of choice over which days, the number of days and the type of child care available are the major problems when looking for child care.

Cots review and compare

New cots are becoming safer – eight out of 10 cots passed all our safety tests.

27 Nov 2008 | The good news is that cots are getting safer. Only two of the 10 cots on test had a safety failure. Compare this to our 2002 test, where only one of nine cots was recommended.

Strollers compare and review 3 and 4 wheel prams

CHOICE tested a mix of three-wheel and four-wheel strollers and prams for safety, durability and ease of use.

24 Aug 2008 | How can you tell whether the model you're considering is safe, durable, and easy to use? We can help you make the right choice.

Children and sleep

We look at some common causes and solutions to a child's sleepless nights.

9 Jul 2008 | There are many causes of sleep difficulties, so it’s important to get the diagnosis right.

CHOICE's toy industry survey

Our survey that safety is only part of the complex issues we face when buying toys for our children.

6 Jun 2008 | CHOICE investigate how seriously corporate social responsibility is taken in the toy industry.

Portable cots review and compare

Of the 10 portable cots we tested, only three passed all our safety tests.

25 Oct 2007 | How can you tell which portable cots are safest? What features should you look for? Are accessories like change tables useful, or a potential hazard? We can help you make the right choice.

Four-wheel strollers review and compare  

Nine out of the 12 strollers we tested passed safety and durability tests — a good result.

20 Aug 2007 | It can be hard to choose a good stroller, but how can you be sure that it’s safe and durable?

Disposable nappies review and compare

Our readers and their babies give us the verdict on which nappies rate the best.

24 Feb 2007 | Almost 100 volunteers and their babies trialled disposable nappies, each rating 10 'daytime' nappies from seven different brands.

Cots review and compare

Do cots meet the updated standard?

1 Aug 2006 | Eight of the models we tested this time had no major failures – a large improvement on our last test of cots in 2005.

Your baby - getting ready

You don't need to mortgage the house to prepare for your new arrival.

24 Feb 2006 | As tempting and exciting as it is to buy a nursery full of baby gear before the birth, it's probably wiser to buy a few essentials and then spend carefully as the need arises.

Stroller seats

Toddler seats are a quick way to turn your jogger stroller into a two-seater, but are they safe?

28 Apr 2005 | You've got a toddler and a baby, but just one single seat stroller. A quick solution is to convert it into a twin-stroller by attaching a toddler seat.

Bottle feeding

If you're bottlefeeding your baby here's what you need to know about formula and equipment.

24 Jul 2003 | If you don’t breastfeed your baby you’ll need to choose a formula; cow’s milk shouldn't be used as the primary milk drink in the first year of life.

Nappies

What's best - cloth or disposable? We'll tell you about the environment effects and other issues.

22 Jul 2003 | Most babies don't get to the toilet training stage until their second or third year. This makes nappies a major part of their life, and yours.

Baby clothing

Here's a guide to help you make a decision when buying clothes for your baby.

22 Jul 2003 | Many of us go on a spending spree when we're expecting but your little one is going to grow fast so avoid buying expensive things and stick to the basics.

Breastfeeding

Breast milk is the ideal food for newborn babies — it’s perfectly designed to nourish your baby.

15 Jul 2003 | There are a number of reasons why breast is best.

Babybjorn

High chair reviews  

We've tested 13 new high chairs, including models from Childcare, Ikea and Stokke.

25 Mar 2013 | CHOICE has tested 34 high chairs, priced from $30 to $600, to the Australian standard. Find out which models we recommend.

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Baby carrier and sling reviews  

Try before you buy when choosing a baby carrier or sling.

4 Jun 2012 | With a baby carrier or sling, you can keep your baby close and secure while leaving your hands free for other tasks.

Baby carriers

Small travel cots review

We reveal which of these lightweight travel cots, priced between $80 and $396, are the safest for your baby.

13 May 2013 | We review four portable travel cots from brands including Baby Bjorn, Childcare, Goldbug and Phil & Teds.

Booster seat reviews

Many children have restraints that are too big for them and graduate to adult seatbelts too early.

12 Sep 2012 | We review 12 new booster seats suitable for children aged from about four to eight years, looking at ease of use and ease of fitting.

Baby carrier and sling reviews  

Try before you buy when choosing a baby carrier or sling.

4 Jun 2012 | With a baby carrier or sling, you can keep your baby close and secure while leaving your hands free for other tasks.

Baby-safety-week

A week dedicated to new and expectant parents and the safety of their new bundle of joy.

21 May 2012 | Whether it’s rolling strollers along our custom made rig for hours on end in the CHOICE labs, or checking for sharp edges and finger traps, safety is at the forefront of all we do.

Baby Jogger toddler seat recall

The stroller may become unstable in some circumstances when the toddler seat is attached.

20 Oct 2011 | The Amazing Baby Company is recalling Baby Jogger toddler seats sold between September 2008 and September 2011.

Bugaboo Bee Stroller recall

The front wheels may suddenly lock up whilst the stroller is in motion, causing the stroller to topple.

4 Oct 2011 | Bugaboo Bee strollers manufactured between January 2011 and 15 September 2011 may have a front swivel wheel that can lock up during use.

Baby Jogger City Select stroller recall

The strollers have been supplied online directly from the United States and fail to comply with the Australian mandatory standard.

4 Oct 2011 | i Retail USA Baby Jogger City Select strollers have been recalled, because the strollers do not have wrist tethers for the carer, or red coloured brakes.

ACCC-action-on-baby-slings

The ACCC considers imposing mandatory standards on baby-carrying slings

21 Sep 2011 | After the death of a 2-day-old infant in South Australia, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) says it’s considering filling a crucial regulatory void by imposing mandatory standards on baby-carrying slings.

Taga convertible stroller  

This ingeniously designed bike/stroller sadly doesn’t meet the grade in either mode.

21 Jan 2011 | CHOICE puts the eye-catching Taga bike/stroller to the test.

Child car restraints

New national laws will ensure safer travelling for your children.

2 Dec 2009 | A nationally agreed reform on child car restraints is to be rolled out across Australia in 2010, with new laws designed to provide greater protection for children when travelling.

Strollers, carriers, car and bicycle restraints

Strollers, carriers, car and bicycle seats: we tell you what to look for.

3 Oct 2009 | No matter how you prefer to transfer baby, we've tested them for safety and ease of use. Use our recommendations before your next purchase.

Stroller seats

Toddler seats are a quick way to turn your jogger stroller into a two-seater, but are they safe?

28 Apr 2005 | You've got a toddler and a baby, but just one single seat stroller. A quick solution is to convert it into a twin-stroller by attaching a toddler seat.

Babyco

Portable cot reviews

Portable cots are handy if you're on the move, but there are some safety issues to keep in mind.

1 Aug 2012 | Two of the new models are recommended and one is worth considering – the rest fail either a mandatory requirement or what we consider to be a major safety issue.

baby dan

Safety gate and barrier reviews

Sealing off certain rooms or stairs is key when your baby becomes mobile.

18 Dec 2012 | Test results for 41 safety gates and barriers priced from $20 to $199

Playpen reviews

Of the 16 playpens tested, only one is recommended.

5 Dec 2011 | As there is no current mandatory or voluntary Australian standard for playpens, some models currently on the market may pose potential safety risks to your child.

Baby-First

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Baby carrier and sling reviews  

Try before you buy when choosing a baby carrier or sling.

4 Jun 2012 | With a baby carrier or sling, you can keep your baby close and secure while leaving your hands free for other tasks.

Baby food

High chair reviews  

We've tested 13 new high chairs, including models from Childcare, Ikea and Stokke.

25 Mar 2013 | CHOICE has tested 34 high chairs, priced from $30 to $600, to the Australian standard. Find out which models we recommend.

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Beaba Babycook first look

The Beaba Babycook claims to make preparing healthy meals for your baby easy.

1 May 2012 | This handy appliance can steam, blend, reheat and defrost all in the one compact unit - but is it necessary?

Organic baby food reviews

Not all organic baby food is created equal.

30 Nov 2011 | Our review of 136 baby food varieties for under 1s has found there’s more to (or sometimes less of) these products than meets the eye.

Rafferty's Garden Italian lasagne baby food recall

Plastic has been found in the 170g baby food satchels

22 Aug 2011 | Plastic matter has been found in Rafferty's Garden Italian Lasagne Premium Baby Food for 10 months+, which could cause injury if consumed.

BPA in canned foods

We found alarming levels of BPA in a range of canned foods – including baby foods.

1 Sep 2010 | CHOICE believes our national food regulator could be more proactive in protecting the health of Australian consumers.

Take action on BPA

We found alarming levels of BPA in a range of canned foods – including baby foods.

30 Aug 2010 | Email Australia’s Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing and tell him that you want all foods made for babies and toddlers to be BFA-free.

Dangerous-plastic-banned

Australia takes a step towards banning toys and baby products containing DEHP.

27 Jan 2010 | Australia may eventually catch up with the US and the UE and ban toys and baby products containing DEHP.

Plasticisers

CHOICE tested foods in glass jars and found contaminants from the plastic used to seal the lids.

12 Jun 2008 | In our test of food in glass jars, half contained the plastic-softening chemicals epoxidised soybean oil or phthalates at levels exceeding EU limits.

Children's milk

Do children really need their own milk?

7 May 2007 | Several milks specifically aimed at children have recently entered the market. But do children really need their own version of milk?

Up-market baby food

All baby foods are not created equal.

23 Feb 2007 | We’ve put up-market, gourmet, and organic baby food for the under 1s under the microscope to see how they stack up.

Bottle feeding

If you're bottlefeeding your baby here's what you need to know about formula and equipment.

24 Jul 2003 | If you don’t breastfeed your baby you’ll need to choose a formula; cow’s milk shouldn't be used as the primary milk drink in the first year of life.

Recipes for toddlers

Here's some quick recipes that are easy to make and sure to please your little one.

24 Jul 2003 | These simple recipes come from CHOICE's popular book title, Practical Cooking for Babies and Toddlers.

Breastfeeding

Breast milk is the ideal food for newborn babies — it’s perfectly designed to nourish your baby.

15 Jul 2003 | There are a number of reasons why breast is best.

Babys' first foods

We look at how to start with solids, what to choose and what to look out for.

15 Jul 2003 | Experts are probably still arguing, but the latest recommendations are that you shouldn’t start your baby on anything other than breast milk or formula before they’re six months old.

Babyhood

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Cot reviews

We provide test results for 83 cots, including 10 newly tested models.

8 Mar 2013 | The mandatory Australian standard aims to benchmark all cots to a safe level, but some failures slip through the cracks.

Babies and kids marketing

Making anxious first-time parents feel guilty is big business.

31 Jan 2013 | How can parents determine which products are essential, what’s nice to have, and what’s not needed?

Babylove

Stroller and pram reviews  

We've tested 128 strollers for safety, durability and ease of use.

15 May 2013 | Find out which strollers, including newly tested Baby Jogger, Bugaboo, Childcare and Steelcraft models, meet our exacting safety standards.

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Safety gate and barrier reviews

Sealing off certain rooms or stairs is key when your baby becomes mobile.

18 Dec 2012 | Test results for 41 safety gates and barriers priced from $20 to $199

Booster seat reviews

Many children have restraints that are too big for them and graduate to adult seatbelts too early.

12 Sep 2012 | We review 12 new booster seats suitable for children aged from about four to eight years, looking at ease of use and ease of fitting.

Double stroller reviews  

Which type of double stroller is for you?

9 Aug 2012 | We put nine double strollers of various types to the test, plus results for 18 previously tested models.

Portable cot reviews

Portable cots are handy if you're on the move, but there are some safety issues to keep in mind.

1 Aug 2012 | Two of the new models are recommended and one is worth considering – the rest fail either a mandatory requirement or what we consider to be a major safety issue.

Convertible car seat reviews

Installing a child restraint correctly is the best way to prevent injuries to your child in a crash

2 Feb 2012 | We review 10 children's convertible car seats, suitable from birth to four years of age and priced from $149 to $659.

Christmas gift guide for the traveller

We round up some of the best buys for your globetrotting friends.

16 Dec 2011 | We pick fun and handy products that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to travel.

Isofix on its way

Australian parents will soon be able to buy baby seats using an Isofix-like restraint system.

2 Aug 2011 | The Australian Standard for car child restraints will likely allow the use of an international child restraint system called Isofix, from 2013.

Baby monitors

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Baby monitor reviews

Monitor your baby's call.

28 Feb 2013 | A baby monitor is useful and will give you peace of mind, but do you really need all the extra features?

Baby-safety-week

A week dedicated to new and expectant parents and the safety of their new bundle of joy.

21 May 2012 | Whether it’s rolling strollers along our custom made rig for hours on end in the CHOICE labs, or checking for sharp edges and finger traps, safety is at the forefront of all we do.

Baby products

Bassinet reviews

We've tested 24 bassinets ranging in price from $65 to $530.

17 May 2013 | Our review reveals which models, including those from Boori, Childcare, Natures Purest and Tasman Eco, are safe, sound and easy to use.

Stroller and pram reviews  

We've tested 128 strollers for safety, durability and ease of use.

15 May 2013 | Find out which strollers, including newly tested Baby Jogger, Bugaboo, Childcare and Steelcraft models, meet our exacting safety standards.

Ten things not to buy your kids

Some common toys and children's products pose a risk to your child's safety.

1 May 2013 | All parents want the best for their children and there's a huge range of products out there to choose from. But beware — some could do more harm than good.

High chair reviews  

We've tested 13 new high chairs, including models from Childcare, Ikea and Stokke.

25 Mar 2013 | CHOICE has tested 34 high chairs, priced from $30 to $600, to the Australian standard. Find out which models we recommend.

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Baby monitor reviews

Monitor your baby's call.

28 Feb 2013 | A baby monitor is useful and will give you peace of mind, but do you really need all the extra features?

Babies and kids marketing

Making anxious first-time parents feel guilty is big business.

31 Jan 2013 | How can parents determine which products are essential, what’s nice to have, and what’s not needed?

Safety gate and barrier reviews

Sealing off certain rooms or stairs is key when your baby becomes mobile.

18 Dec 2012 | Test results for 41 safety gates and barriers priced from $20 to $199

Modern cloth nappies

Cloth nappies have come a long way since the terry squares of yesteryear but disposables still reign the shopping cart.

1 Dec 2012 | We surveyed hundreds of online parents to find out their experiences with different types of nappies.

Portable cot reviews

Portable cots are handy if you're on the move, but there are some safety issues to keep in mind.

1 Aug 2012 | Two of the new models are recommended and one is worth considering – the rest fail either a mandatory requirement or what we consider to be a major safety issue.

Baby carrier and sling reviews  

Try before you buy when choosing a baby carrier or sling.

4 Jun 2012 | With a baby carrier or sling, you can keep your baby close and secure while leaving your hands free for other tasks.

Baby safety - a shopping guide

We've put together a guide to help you with your buying decisions. It focuses on features, safety and ease of use.

21 May 2012 | Shopping for your new baby is a minefield - what's safe, what's not an what's actually useful?

Baby-safety-week

A week dedicated to new and expectant parents and the safety of their new bundle of joy.

21 May 2012 | Whether it’s rolling strollers along our custom made rig for hours on end in the CHOICE labs, or checking for sharp edges and finger traps, safety is at the forefront of all we do.

Beaba Babycook first look

The Beaba Babycook claims to make preparing healthy meals for your baby easy.

1 May 2012 | This handy appliance can steam, blend, reheat and defrost all in the one compact unit - but is it necessary?

Change table reviews

We test 22 baby change tables for stability, strength of construction and safety.

26 Apr 2012 | Babies need their nappies changed several times a day, and a good change table can make the job much easier - and safer.

Christmas gift guide for the traveller

We round up some of the best buys for your globetrotting friends.

16 Dec 2011 | We pick fun and handy products that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to travel.

Playpen reviews

Of the 16 playpens tested, only one is recommended.

5 Dec 2011 | As there is no current mandatory or voluntary Australian standard for playpens, some models currently on the market may pose potential safety risks to your child.

Organic baby food reviews

Not all organic baby food is created equal.

30 Nov 2011 | Our review of 136 baby food varieties for under 1s has found there’s more to (or sometimes less of) these products than meets the eye.

Valco Stroller Roller first look

This stroller accessory aims to make transporting your stroller easier.

26 Oct 2011 | This stroller bag gives your stroller a neat and tidy look, however packing and unpacking could be potentially time consuming.

Child safety devices fact sheet

What do you need to make your home toddler-safe?

17 Oct 2011 | CHOICE looks at household child safety devices and finds that combining sensible safety practices with a few key devices is enough for most homes.

Introwall Children's Nightgowns recall

Incorrect labelling can result in consumers not being aware of the fire danger.

14 Oct 2011 | Introwall Pty Ltd is recalling children's nightgowns as the incorrect labelling could result in consumers not being aware of the fire danger.

Chibebe Slumber Pod Baby Bean Bag recall

A child could gain access to the beads, posing a risk of suffocation as well as inhalation and ingestion.

28 Sep 2011 | Chibebe is recalling Slumber Pod Baby Bean Bags sold nationally between 1st September and 7th September this year.

Valiant Enterprises Tafli Bath Seat recall

The warning label may not be adequately affixed to the bath seat.

26 Sep 2011 | Valiant Enterprises recalls Tafli Bath Seats sold between 15 January 2010 and 22 September 2011 because warning labels may not be adequately affixed.

ACCC-action-on-baby-slings

The ACCC considers imposing mandatory standards on baby-carrying slings

21 Sep 2011 | After the death of a 2-day-old infant in South Australia, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) says it’s considering filling a crucial regulatory void by imposing mandatory standards on baby-carrying slings.

Kaleidoscope Twirlla rattle recall

Kaleidoscope Australia Pty Ltd recalls Twirlla wooden rattle.

22 Aug 2011 | The Twirlla rattle does not comply with the mandatory standard for toys for children up to and including 36 months of age.

Velour-Studsuits-recall

Clever Clothing Enterprise has issued a recall on its velour studsuits for babies

17 Aug 2011 | Incorrect labelling can result in consumers not being aware of the fire risk associated wth the Marquise velour studsuits for babies.

Isofix on its way

Australian parents will soon be able to buy baby seats using an Isofix-like restraint system.

2 Aug 2011 | The Australian Standard for car child restraints will likely allow the use of an international child restraint system called Isofix, from 2013.

Portable high chair reviews

Harnesses, boosters and clip-on seats are compact alternatives to a standard high chair.

13 May 2011 | 15 portable high chairs - including clip-on, booster and harness types - tested for safety and durability.

Take action on BPA

We found alarming levels of BPA in a range of canned foods – including baby foods.

30 Aug 2010 | Email Australia’s Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing and tell him that you want all foods made for babies and toddlers to be BFA-free.

Dangerous-plastic-banned

Australia takes a step towards banning toys and baby products containing DEHP.

27 Jan 2010 | Australia may eventually catch up with the US and the UE and ban toys and baby products containing DEHP.

BPA-alert

US food regulator reinforces concerns over BPA chemical.

22 Jan 2010 | The regulator has called for more research into BPA, the chemical often found in baby bottles.

Varicose veins

A new treatment for varicose veins looks promising but there’s a danger unqualified operators could benefit at the expense of patients.

26 May 2009 | Varicose veins can be painful, uncomfortable and lead to serious health consequences if left untreated.

Cots review and compare

New cots are becoming safer – eight out of 10 cots passed all our safety tests.

27 Nov 2008 | The good news is that cots are getting safer. Only two of the 10 cots on test had a safety failure. Compare this to our 2002 test, where only one of nine cots was recommended.

Disposable nappies review and compare

Our readers and their babies give us the verdict on which nappies rate the best.

24 Feb 2007 | Almost 100 volunteers and their babies trialled disposable nappies, each rating 10 'daytime' nappies from seven different brands.

Your baby - getting ready

You don't need to mortgage the house to prepare for your new arrival.

24 Feb 2006 | As tempting and exciting as it is to buy a nursery full of baby gear before the birth, it's probably wiser to buy a few essentials and then spend carefully as the need arises.

Stroller seats

Toddler seats are a quick way to turn your jogger stroller into a two-seater, but are they safe?

28 Apr 2005 | You've got a toddler and a baby, but just one single seat stroller. A quick solution is to convert it into a twin-stroller by attaching a toddler seat.

Nappies

What's best - cloth or disposable? We'll tell you about the environment effects and other issues.

22 Jul 2003 | Most babies don't get to the toilet training stage until their second or third year. This makes nappies a major part of their life, and yours.

Baby safety

Bassinet reviews

We've tested 24 bassinets ranging in price from $65 to $530.

17 May 2013 | Our review reveals which models, including those from Boori, Childcare, Natures Purest and Tasman Eco, are safe, sound and easy to use.

Stroller and pram reviews  

We've tested 128 strollers for safety, durability and ease of use.

15 May 2013 | Find out which strollers, including newly tested Baby Jogger, Bugaboo, Childcare and Steelcraft models, meet our exacting safety standards.

Ten things not to buy your kids

Some common toys and children's products pose a risk to your child's safety.

1 May 2013 | All parents want the best for their children and there's a huge range of products out there to choose from. But beware — some could do more harm than good.

High chair reviews  

We've tested 13 new high chairs, including models from Childcare, Ikea and Stokke.

25 Mar 2013 | CHOICE has tested 34 high chairs, priced from $30 to $600, to the Australian standard. Find out which models we recommend.

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Cot reviews

We provide test results for 83 cots, including 10 newly tested models.

8 Mar 2013 | The mandatory Australian standard aims to benchmark all cots to a safe level, but some failures slip through the cracks.

Baby monitor reviews

Monitor your baby's call.

28 Feb 2013 | A baby monitor is useful and will give you peace of mind, but do you really need all the extra features?

Babies and kids marketing

Making anxious first-time parents feel guilty is big business.

31 Jan 2013 | How can parents determine which products are essential, what’s nice to have, and what’s not needed?

Safety gate and barrier reviews

Sealing off certain rooms or stairs is key when your baby becomes mobile.

18 Dec 2012 | Test results for 41 safety gates and barriers priced from $20 to $199

Booster seat reviews

Many children have restraints that are too big for them and graduate to adult seatbelts too early.

12 Sep 2012 | We review 12 new booster seats suitable for children aged from about four to eight years, looking at ease of use and ease of fitting.

Double stroller reviews  

Which type of double stroller is for you?

9 Aug 2012 | We put nine double strollers of various types to the test, plus results for 18 previously tested models.

Portable cot reviews

Portable cots are handy if you're on the move, but there are some safety issues to keep in mind.

1 Aug 2012 | Two of the new models are recommended and one is worth considering – the rest fail either a mandatory requirement or what we consider to be a major safety issue.

Baby carrier and sling reviews  

Try before you buy when choosing a baby carrier or sling.

4 Jun 2012 | With a baby carrier or sling, you can keep your baby close and secure while leaving your hands free for other tasks.

Baby safety - a shopping guide

We've put together a guide to help you with your buying decisions. It focuses on features, safety and ease of use.

21 May 2012 | Shopping for your new baby is a minefield - what's safe, what's not an what's actually useful?

Baby-safety-week

A week dedicated to new and expectant parents and the safety of their new bundle of joy.

21 May 2012 | Whether it’s rolling strollers along our custom made rig for hours on end in the CHOICE labs, or checking for sharp edges and finger traps, safety is at the forefront of all we do.

Change table reviews

We test 22 baby change tables for stability, strength of construction and safety.

26 Apr 2012 | Babies need their nappies changed several times a day, and a good change table can make the job much easier - and safer.

Convertible car seat reviews

Installing a child restraint correctly is the best way to prevent injuries to your child in a crash

2 Feb 2012 | We review 10 children's convertible car seats, suitable from birth to four years of age and priced from $149 to $659.

Playpen reviews

Of the 16 playpens tested, only one is recommended.

5 Dec 2011 | As there is no current mandatory or voluntary Australian standard for playpens, some models currently on the market may pose potential safety risks to your child.

Antibacterial products

CHOICE goes beyond the health hype of cleaners and sanitisers.

10 Nov 2011 | These cleaners are a popular choice in the battle against bacteria, but they're often no more effective than soap and water.

Valco Stroller Roller first look

This stroller accessory aims to make transporting your stroller easier.

26 Oct 2011 | This stroller bag gives your stroller a neat and tidy look, however packing and unpacking could be potentially time consuming.

The 2011 Shonky awards  

CHOICE's awards for the shoddiest services and the shonkiest products.

24 Oct 2011 | CHOICE's annual showcase of the worst of the worst consumer products and services.

Baby Jogger toddler seat recall

The stroller may become unstable in some circumstances when the toddler seat is attached.

20 Oct 2011 | The Amazing Baby Company is recalling Baby Jogger toddler seats sold between September 2008 and September 2011.

Child safety devices fact sheet

What do you need to make your home toddler-safe?

17 Oct 2011 | CHOICE looks at household child safety devices and finds that combining sensible safety practices with a few key devices is enough for most homes.

Introwall Children's Nightgowns recall

Incorrect labelling can result in consumers not being aware of the fire danger.

14 Oct 2011 | Introwall Pty Ltd is recalling children's nightgowns as the incorrect labelling could result in consumers not being aware of the fire danger.

Bugaboo Bee Stroller recall

The front wheels may suddenly lock up whilst the stroller is in motion, causing the stroller to topple.

4 Oct 2011 | Bugaboo Bee strollers manufactured between January 2011 and 15 September 2011 may have a front swivel wheel that can lock up during use.

Baby Jogger City Select stroller recall

The strollers have been supplied online directly from the United States and fail to comply with the Australian mandatory standard.

4 Oct 2011 | i Retail USA Baby Jogger City Select strollers have been recalled, because the strollers do not have wrist tethers for the carer, or red coloured brakes.

Chibebe Slumber Pod Baby Bean Bag recall

A child could gain access to the beads, posing a risk of suffocation as well as inhalation and ingestion.

28 Sep 2011 | Chibebe is recalling Slumber Pod Baby Bean Bags sold nationally between 1st September and 7th September this year.

ACCC-action-on-baby-slings

The ACCC considers imposing mandatory standards on baby-carrying slings

21 Sep 2011 | After the death of a 2-day-old infant in South Australia, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) says it’s considering filling a crucial regulatory void by imposing mandatory standards on baby-carrying slings.

Kaleidoscope Twirlla rattle recall

Kaleidoscope Australia Pty Ltd recalls Twirlla wooden rattle.

22 Aug 2011 | The Twirlla rattle does not comply with the mandatory standard for toys for children up to and including 36 months of age.

Isofix on its way

Australian parents will soon be able to buy baby seats using an Isofix-like restraint system.

2 Aug 2011 | The Australian Standard for car child restraints will likely allow the use of an international child restraint system called Isofix, from 2013.

Portable high chair reviews

Harnesses, boosters and clip-on seats are compact alternatives to a standard high chair.

13 May 2011 | 15 portable high chairs - including clip-on, booster and harness types - tested for safety and durability.

BPA in canned foods

We found alarming levels of BPA in a range of canned foods – including baby foods.

1 Sep 2010 | CHOICE believes our national food regulator could be more proactive in protecting the health of Australian consumers.

Children's painkillers review and compare

What products are out there, and how to give them safely.

20 Aug 2010 | The choice in over-the-counter painkillers for children is restricted to ibuprofen or Paracetamol.

BPA-alert

US food regulator reinforces concerns over BPA chemical.

22 Jan 2010 | The regulator has called for more research into BPA, the chemical often found in baby bottles.

Stroller buying guide

What to look for when buying a pram or stroller.

6 Oct 2009 | Buying a stroller can be a complicated exercise. Use our checklist to make sure you get the right one for your situation.

Shadecloths

CHOICE has uncovered an alarming gap between the level of protection stated on a typical shadecloth and the reality once it is installed.

12 Dec 2008 | CHOICE has found that the UVR rating of the shadecloth is only half the story.

Cots review and compare

New cots are becoming safer – eight out of 10 cots passed all our safety tests.

27 Nov 2008 | The good news is that cots are getting safer. Only two of the 10 cots on test had a safety failure. Compare this to our 2002 test, where only one of nine cots was recommended.

Strollers compare and review 3 and 4 wheel prams

CHOICE tested a mix of three-wheel and four-wheel strollers and prams for safety, durability and ease of use.

24 Aug 2008 | How can you tell whether the model you're considering is safe, durable, and easy to use? We can help you make the right choice.

Plasticisers

CHOICE tested foods in glass jars and found contaminants from the plastic used to seal the lids.

12 Jun 2008 | In our test of food in glass jars, half contained the plastic-softening chemicals epoxidised soybean oil or phthalates at levels exceeding EU limits.

Product safety

CHOICE has released a research report calling for a national product safety system

18 Feb 2008 | CHOICE believes the inclusion of a General Safety Provision (GSP) is essential to Australia's product safety regime.

Portable cots review and compare

Of the 10 portable cots we tested, only three passed all our safety tests.

25 Oct 2007 | How can you tell which portable cots are safest? What features should you look for? Are accessories like change tables useful, or a potential hazard? We can help you make the right choice.

Four-wheel strollers review and compare  

Nine out of the 12 strollers we tested passed safety and durability tests — a good result.

20 Aug 2007 | It can be hard to choose a good stroller, but how can you be sure that it’s safe and durable?

Disposable nappies review and compare

Our readers and their babies give us the verdict on which nappies rate the best.

24 Feb 2007 | Almost 100 volunteers and their babies trialled disposable nappies, each rating 10 'daytime' nappies from seven different brands.

Playground surfaces

The surface children fall onto in playgrounds makes a big difference to their safety.

4 Jan 2007 | Having an appropriate landing surface that is well maintained significantly lowers the risk of injury should children fall.

Cots review and compare

Do cots meet the updated standard?

1 Aug 2006 | Eight of the models we tested this time had no major failures – a large improvement on our last test of cots in 2005.

Your baby - getting ready

You don't need to mortgage the house to prepare for your new arrival.

24 Feb 2006 | As tempting and exciting as it is to buy a nursery full of baby gear before the birth, it's probably wiser to buy a few essentials and then spend carefully as the need arises.

Baby clothing

Here's a guide to help you make a decision when buying clothes for your baby.

22 Jul 2003 | Many of us go on a spending spree when we're expecting but your little one is going to grow fast so avoid buying expensive things and stick to the basics.

Baby-Solutions

High chair reviews  

We've tested 13 new high chairs, including models from Childcare, Ikea and Stokke.

25 Mar 2013 | CHOICE has tested 34 high chairs, priced from $30 to $600, to the Australian standard. Find out which models we recommend.

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Backpacks

School backpacks buying guide

An ergonomic backpack can reduce back and neck pain, but only if carried correctly.

11 Nov 2005 | The stuff high-school students carry around some days can certainly add up. That’s where a good, versatile backpack comes in.

Backup software

Backup software reviews

Backing up your important digital information is essential.

18 May 2012 | We test 18 backup software packages that promise to keep your data safe.

Backyard

BBQ reviews  

We test 23 barbecues priced between $179 and $2200 for performance and ease of use.

13 Nov 2012 | CHOICE reviews portables, balcony sized, and large four to six burners to suit most situations.

Lawn trimmer reviews

Petrol, cordless or electric? We outline which lawn trimmer is best for your backyard.

7 Sep 2012 | We test 28 petrol, electric and cordless lawn trimmers (also known as whipper snippers), ranging from $49 to $399.

Pressure cleaner reviews

These high-pressure water cleaners blast away grit and grime.

9 Dec 2011 | They all do the job, but some take longer than others. We test 17 high-pressure water cleaners, priced between $99 and $749.

Gift ideas for the kitchen

These gift ideas will please any budding amateur chef.

29 Nov 2011 | CHOICE picks the kitchen gadgets that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to cook.

Bamix

Handheld blender reviews

These handy appliances can blend soups and prepare baby food.

18 May 2012 | We review 26 stick blenders, priced from $10 to $209, including models from Bamix, Breville, Philips and Sunbeam.

B&W

Soundbar reviews

We've tested nine soundbars that help improve your TV's sound.

13 Nov 2012 | All the soundbars on test deliver better sound than you’ll get from your TV, but some demand a lot more money than others for the privilege.

Bank accounts

Mortgage debt

Australian households have experienced a spike in debt over the last two decades.

12 Apr 2013 | We look into the trend of a rising debt-to-income ratio in Australia. What's behind it, and what can you do to minimise your own mortgage debt?

Unclaimed booty reaches $677 million

Australians are missing out of millions of dollars of their own money.

21 Nov 2012 | The amount of unclaimed money collected from inactive bank accounts and life insurance policies by ASIC has hit a record $677 million.

Banks respond to new credit card reforms

Not all banks are applying the new credit card reforms.

17 Aug 2012 | Banks are applying new reforms to existing cards in a variety of ways

1 July 2012 - changes that affect you

The new financial year sees the introduction of a number of reforms aimed at helping consumers.

27 Jun 2012 | We outline some key consumer reforms that will come into place on 1 July 2012.

Qantas surcharge rip-off

CHOICE estimates Qantas collects at least $204 million in payment surcharges yearly.

18 May 2012 | We're concerned that the Qantas payment surcharge is being used to disguise the real cost of an airline ticket.

Kids' bank accounts review

Changes to tax rules mean little savers can be hit with a big tax bill.

15 May 2012 | We review ten savings accounts designed for children and teenagers, including products offered by ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB and Westpac.

Move your money

Help shift the balance of power in banking back towards consumers.

14 Mar 2012 | Sign the Move Your Money petition and deliver a message to the ‘big four’ bank CEOs that enough is enough.

Banks mine free transaction account gold

Australians are giving the Big Four a free kick.

2 Mar 2012 | Australian consumers are giving the big four banks a free kick, with an estimated $166.4 billion sitting in transaction accounts that earn little or no interest.

CHOICE Better Banking campaign 2011 milestones

The fight for efficient, flexible and responsive banking has some key wins.

22 Dec 2011 | Our campaign has galvanised overwhelming public desire for better, more flexible and responsive banking in Australia.

Bank satisfaction survey 2011

This year's survey shows the big four banks have not lifted their game since our 2010 report.

2 Dec 2011 | Most participants in our survey have long-term relationships with one of the big four banks, but the loyalty has yielded very little satisfaction.

US consumers flee big banks

How a single Facebook post sparked a major consumer movement against the big banks.

9 Nov 2011 | Thousands of US citizens have walked away from big banks in a consumer revolt as part of Bank Transfer Day.

Give consumers power in the way they pay

5 Sep 2011 | CHOICE says a review by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) into changes in the way people can pay for goods and services is an opportunity to put the consumer first.

RBA adjusts penalty fees

RBA made an eye-opening adjustment to its assessment of banking fees in its most recent bulletin

25 Aug 2011 | After reporting in June 2010 that deposit account penalty fees had dropped from $516 million in 2008 to $476 million in 2009, the reserve bank issued a correction. Fees actually dropped from $701 million to $688 million over that period.

Personal financial software

We look at some of the way you can use personal financial software to manage your home budget.

19 Aug 2011 | Everyone has money concerns, but can personal financial packages help track expenses and manage your budget? We look at some of the online alternatives.

Best high interest savings account

Who will provide the most bang for your buck when it comes to hard-earned savings?

31 Mar 2011 | To determine the winner, we looked at 150 savings accounts and the rates they've been offering over the past 12 months.

Best low fee bank account

Transaction fees are disappearing fast, but only two accounts have abolished penalty fees.

31 Mar 2011 | Penalty fees, or lack thereof, became the ultimate decider of this award.

Move-your-money

To celebrate World Consumer Rights Day, move your money from accounts that simply top up the profits of banks.

14 Mar 2011 | $153 billion worth of Australian money currently sits in everday transaction accounts that earn little or no interest.

Tell your bank how you feel

Help CHOICE keep the pressure on the Government and the big four banks.

10 Feb 2011 | CHOICE is calling on consumers to write the CEO of their bank to get a better deal.

Senate inquiry into banking competition

Our submission to the Senate Economics Committee makes several key recommendations for impoving competition in the Australian banking sector.

6 Dec 2010 | CHOICE's submission to the Senate Economics Committee makes several key recommendations for increasing competition in the Australian banking sector.

Bank satisfaction survey 2010

The Big Four again rank bottom for customer satisfaction, but we found they are quite open to giving discounted rates - when asked.

1 Sep 2010 | If you're not getting an interest rate saving of at least 0.7% then you're probably paying too much.

How to switch bank account

Yesterday the CBA announced a record profit of 6.1 billion dollars.

27 Jul 2010 | If you're not happy about their profit, and your fees, ask for a better deal. CHOICE shows you how to find the fairest bank account and then switch to save.

The low down on penalty fees

The announcement of a class action against Australia's big banks for fee gouging reinforces why customers need to scrutinise their statements.

12 May 2010 | Make sure you're not being stung by high penalties for overdrawing your account, paying your credit card bill a day late, or trying to pay in a cheque that bounces.

Australian credit cards fail UK standards

Unfair interest and irresponsible practices abound in the Australian banking sector. In the UK, many of these practices could soon be illegal.

22 Mar 2010 | We compared our banks' standard practices with consumer protection for UK credit card customers, and found Australian consumers are treated far less fairly.

ING Direct Orange review

ING Direct's latest account is set to raise the bar for everyday banking.

10 Mar 2010 | The account isn't completely fee-free and it doesn't pay interest, but most everyday transactions are free and there are incentives that will be attractive to many customers.

Bankwest Zero review

Here's a new twist on bank fees: an account that refunds some of the fees other banks charge to you.

18 Jan 2010 | The new Bankwest Zero account refunds its customers the fees that the big four banks charge when you use their ATM machines.

Bank satisfaction survey

So which institutions came out on top for bank accounts, credit cards and homeloans in our survey?

30 Sep 2009 | Over the past year, ANZ, Commonwealth, NAB and Westpac have increased market share but our survey reveals they haven't increased in popularity.

Cheque, savings or credit?

When paying with a debit card, you're given a choice of cheque, savings or credit. What should you choose?

9 Jul 2009 | Many financial institutions now offer debit cards that can be used for transactions through the MasterCard, Visa and EFTPOS systems.

Term deposits

You need to consider lengths as well as rates when it comes to choosing a term deposit.

9 Jul 2008 | If you’re prepared to lose access to your money for a period from three months to two years, term deposits are a pretty good option.

High interest savings accounts guide

Traditional and internet savings accounts compared.

15 Jan 2008 | If you've got money parked in an everyday transaction account paying next to nothing interest, you could be earning much more by switching to an account with a better rate.

Picking the right bank account

Get yourself the right bank account and save hundreds of dollars a year.

4 Jan 2006 | When shopping for a bank account it’s difficult to know whether to go for one with up-front fees or take the risk that you won’t exceed your rebate or free transaction limit.

Bank fees

Mortgage debt

Australian households have experienced a spike in debt over the last two decades.

12 Apr 2013 | We look into the trend of a rising debt-to-income ratio in Australia. What's behind it, and what can you do to minimise your own mortgage debt?

Unclaimed booty reaches $677 million

Australians are missing out of millions of dollars of their own money.

21 Nov 2012 | The amount of unclaimed money collected from inactive bank accounts and life insurance policies by ASIC has hit a record $677 million.

ACCC-makes-ATM-fee-announcement

The ACCC has approved the move to abolish fees in remote communities.

16 Nov 2012 | Following recommendations from the ATM Taskforce Report, the ACCC has authorised the scrapping of some ATM fees in remote Indigenous communities.

ANZ faces class action lawsuit

Australian consumers fight unfair bank fees in the High Court.

6 Sep 2012 | A class action lawsuit is fighting for over $220 million in unfair bank fees collected from Australian consumers.

Households paying less in bank fees

New data from the RBA shows households are saving on bank fees.

21 Jun 2012 | Consumer power succeeds as RBA data shows households paying 7% less in bank fees.

FoFA passes parliament

Passage of the Future of Financial Advice reforms in the Senate signals a sea change in the advice industry.

20 Jun 2012 | Consumers can celebrate a partial but important victory with the passage of Future of Financial Advice reforms in the Senate.

Government ATM announcement falls short

The federal government responds to recommendations on ATM fees.

25 May 2012 | The announcement is a missed opportunity because the government has ignored many of the pressing issues affecting Australians using ATMs.

Kids' bank accounts review

Changes to tax rules mean little savers can be hit with a big tax bill.

15 May 2012 | We review ten savings accounts designed for children and teenagers, including products offered by ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB and Westpac.

Travel money card comparisons

Avoiding fees is the first order of business when it comes to pre-paid travel money cards.

27 Mar 2012 | The travel card market has expanded in the last couple of years, with a range of new products released to the market, but the fees can still pack a sting.

Banks mine free transaction account gold

Australians are giving the Big Four a free kick.

2 Mar 2012 | Australian consumers are giving the big four banks a free kick, with an estimated $166.4 billion sitting in transaction accounts that earn little or no interest.

CHOICE Better Banking campaign 2011 milestones

The fight for efficient, flexible and responsive banking has some key wins.

22 Dec 2011 | Our campaign has galvanised overwhelming public desire for better, more flexible and responsive banking in Australia.

Bank satisfaction survey 2011

This year's survey shows the big four banks have not lifted their game since our 2010 report.

2 Dec 2011 | Most participants in our survey have long-term relationships with one of the big four banks, but the loyalty has yielded very little satisfaction.

US consumers flee big banks

How a single Facebook post sparked a major consumer movement against the big banks.

9 Nov 2011 | Thousands of US citizens have walked away from big banks in a consumer revolt as part of Bank Transfer Day.

RBA adjusts penalty fees

RBA made an eye-opening adjustment to its assessment of banking fees in its most recent bulletin

25 Aug 2011 | After reporting in June 2010 that deposit account penalty fees had dropped from $516 million in 2008 to $476 million in 2009, the reserve bank issued a correction. Fees actually dropped from $701 million to $688 million over that period.

Supercharged Surcharges

CHOICE finds credit card surcharges are money for jam for some retailers.

9 Jun 2011 | Retailers are increasingly imposing surcharges on credit card transactions – but the RBA may finally be taking action.

Better Banking campaign  

Send a message the ‘big four’ banks can’t ignore.

6 May 2011 | Following the latest stand-off in passing on RBA interest rate cuts, it's no surprise the ‘big four’ banks are well and truly on the nose with consumers.

CHOICE Awards 2011

Read which products and services were voted best of the best in our second annual CHOICE Awards.

31 Mar 2011 | The CHOICE Awards recognise companies developing innovative, quality products and services.

Best low fee bank account

Transaction fees are disappearing fast, but only two accounts have abolished penalty fees.

31 Mar 2011 | Penalty fees, or lack thereof, became the ultimate decider of this award.

Move-your-money

To celebrate World Consumer Rights Day, move your money from accounts that simply top up the profits of banks.

14 Mar 2011 | $153 billion worth of Australian money currently sits in everday transaction accounts that earn little or no interest.

Banking-report

CHOICE heads to Canberra to deliver its report to Swan and Senate.

2 Mar 2011 | The report marks a major milestone in our campaign for fairer banking.

ATM-fees  

A new report jointly published by CHOICE confirms the need for greater transparency around ATM fees.

16 Feb 2011 | Consumers continue to pay up to $4 when they visit “foreign” ATMs.

Tell your bank how you feel

Help CHOICE keep the pressure on the Government and the big four banks.

10 Feb 2011 | CHOICE is calling on consumers to write the CEO of their bank to get a better deal.

Senate inquiry into banking competition

Our submission to the Senate Economics Committee makes several key recommendations for impoving competition in the Australian banking sector.

6 Dec 2010 | CHOICE's submission to the Senate Economics Committee makes several key recommendations for increasing competition in the Australian banking sector.

Bank satisfaction survey 2010

The Big Four again rank bottom for customer satisfaction, but we found they are quite open to giving discounted rates - when asked.

1 Sep 2010 | If you're not getting an interest rate saving of at least 0.7% then you're probably paying too much.

Bank penalty fee income

New statistics reveal reductions in bank account penalty fees have been offset by an increase in penalties charged on loans and credit cards.

10 Jun 2010 | The Reserve Bank of Australia's annual bank fees report reveals there has been a shift in banks' household penalty fee income from deposit accounts towards loans.

The low down on penalty fees

The announcement of a class action against Australia's big banks for fee gouging reinforces why customers need to scrutinise their statements.

12 May 2010 | Make sure you're not being stung by high penalties for overdrawing your account, paying your credit card bill a day late, or trying to pay in a cheque that bounces.

Unfair bank penalty fees

Some banks impose unfair or even unlawful fees on their customers, but you don't have to blindly accept them. Fight back!

23 Apr 2010 | Read your rights and some effective tools you can use to fight back. The time has come for banks to get rid of some fees and make others fairer.

Australian credit cards fail UK standards

Unfair interest and irresponsible practices abound in the Australian banking sector. In the UK, many of these practices could soon be illegal.

22 Mar 2010 | We compared our banks' standard practices with consumer protection for UK credit card customers, and found Australian consumers are treated far less fairly.

Low-fee transaction account reviews

Say goodbye to bank fees by simply switching to a different transaction account.

12 Mar 2010 | Switching to a new transaction account with no monthly fees and low transaction costs may save you more than $200 per year. CHOICE selects the picks of the crop.

ING Direct Orange review

ING Direct's latest account is set to raise the bar for everyday banking.

10 Mar 2010 | The account isn't completely fee-free and it doesn't pay interest, but most everyday transactions are free and there are incentives that will be attractive to many customers.

Credit card interest

Financial institutions are using unfair practices to squeeze every last cent of interest from customers.

25 Jan 2010 | CHOICE reveals which providers are bucking this trend to treat their customers fairly.

Bankwest Zero review

Here's a new twist on bank fees: an account that refunds some of the fees other banks charge to you.

18 Jan 2010 | The new Bankwest Zero account refunds its customers the fees that the big four banks charge when you use their ATM machines.

NAB drops more fees

NAB leads the Big Four pack, becoming the first bank to provide fair fees.

15 Oct 2009 | Following a campaign for fair fees from CHOICE and the Consumer Action Legal Centre, the National Australia Bank has become the first of the Big Four banks to offer consumers fair fees.

Bank satisfaction survey

So which institutions came out on top for bank accounts, credit cards and homeloans in our survey?

30 Sep 2009 | Over the past year, ANZ, Commonwealth, NAB and Westpac have increased market share but our survey reveals they haven't increased in popularity.

Big banks fee reduction could be better

The Commonwealth Bank, Westpac and St George have announced they will reduce their penalty fees on some accounts – but CHOICE doesn’t think this goes far enough.

3 Aug 2009 | While CHOICE welcomes the announcement that from October penalty fees for some Commonwealth, Westpac and St George customers will be reduced, the justification for charging added costs remains a concern for the consumer group.

First home saver accounts

A new government scheme provides incentives for new home buyers, but watch for traps.

3 Aug 2009 | To provide incentives for people to save for their first home, the federal government launched the first home saver account (FHSA) scheme.

Article

The National Australia Bank (NAB) is scrapping penalty fees for customers who overdraw or incur dishonours on their transaction accounts.

29 Jul 2009 | CHOICE and the Consumer Action Law Centre (CALC) congratulate the National Australia Bank (NAB) for showing leadership by scrapping penalty fees for customers who overdraw or incur dishonours on their transaction accounts.

CHOICE's tax tips

We reveal items you may not realise you can claim on your tax return.

25 Jun 2009 | Budgets are stretched and times are tough for many people. But there are simple ways you can reduce your taxable income to save money.

Mortage stress your alternatives

Are tougher economic times squeezing your household budget? Know your options and rights if you're struggling to make mortgage repayments.

3 Feb 2009 | In this report, we explain a range of options available if you’re experiencing mortgage difficulties.

Banking

ASIC's new regulations

New ASIC regulations that make it simpler to switch between banks and limit the length of PDSs may mean more favourable outcomes for consumers.

29 Apr 2013 | The government regulator has been making moves that could not only straighten out the finance sector but also make life easier for consumers.

Mortgage debt

Australian households have experienced a spike in debt over the last two decades.

12 Apr 2013 | We look into the trend of a rising debt-to-income ratio in Australia. What's behind it, and what can you do to minimise your own mortgage debt?

Overseas money transfers

When transferring money overseas, it pays to avoid the banks.

3 Apr 2013 | Unexpected fees and a poor exchange rate could cost you hundreds of dollars in the course of an international money transfer.

ACCC-makes-ATM-fee-announcement

The ACCC has approved the move to abolish fees in remote communities.

16 Nov 2012 | Following recommendations from the ATM Taskforce Report, the ACCC has authorised the scrapping of some ATM fees in remote Indigenous communities.

Compare, ditch and switch

If your bank isn't giving you the very best deal then it's time to Compare, Ditch and Switch.

8 Oct 2012 | The RBA has once again cut the cash rate, but has your bank followed suit? If not it's time to Compare, Ditch, Switch and save!

End to 'Financial Counselling' confusion

The terms ‘financial counsellor’ and ‘financial counselling’ have been restricted to not-for-profit organisations.

17 Sep 2012 | New reforms means that dodgy for-profit enterprises can no longer claim to be ‘financial counsellors’ or to provide ‘financial counselling’.

Disappointment over pay-day loan reforms

Government reforms receive a mixed response from consumer advocates .

28 Jun 2012 | Consumer advocates are left disappointed, after industry lobbyists water-down the Governments pay-day loan reforms.

1 July 2012 - changes that affect you

The new financial year sees the introduction of a number of reforms aimed at helping consumers.

27 Jun 2012 | We outline some key consumer reforms that will come into place on 1 July 2012.

Compare, ditch, switch & save

Cut through the interest rate confusion with our Compare, Ditch & Switch comparison tool.

12 Jun 2012 | Cut through the interest rate confusion with our Compare, Ditch & Switch comparison tool.

Government ATM announcement falls short

The federal government responds to recommendations on ATM fees.

25 May 2012 | The announcement is a missed opportunity because the government has ignored many of the pressing issues affecting Australians using ATMs.

Kids' bank accounts review

Changes to tax rules mean little savers can be hit with a big tax bill.

15 May 2012 | We review ten savings accounts designed for children and teenagers, including products offered by ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB and Westpac.

Move your money

Help shift the balance of power in banking back towards consumers.

14 Mar 2012 | Sign the Move Your Money petition and deliver a message to the ‘big four’ bank CEOs that enough is enough.

Banks mine free transaction account gold

Australians are giving the Big Four a free kick.

2 Mar 2012 | Australian consumers are giving the big four banks a free kick, with an estimated $166.4 billion sitting in transaction accounts that earn little or no interest.

Home loan fact sheet shadow shop

The results of our key facts sheet shadow shop were unpleasantly surprising.

19 Feb 2012 | While most of the institutions we visited do provide key fact sheets on their websites, overall it seems that bank staff have little or no idea the fact sheets even exist.

No justification for banks to raise interest rates

The Big Four are playing by their own rules, and you can too.

16 Feb 2012 | There is plenty of competition in the Australian market, which is why raising rates is just bad business.

CHOICE Better Banking campaign 2011 milestones

The fight for efficient, flexible and responsive banking has some key wins.

22 Dec 2011 | Our campaign has galvanised overwhelming public desire for better, more flexible and responsive banking in Australia.

Bank satisfaction survey 2011

This year's survey shows the big four banks have not lifted their game since our 2010 report.

2 Dec 2011 | Most participants in our survey have long-term relationships with one of the big four banks, but the loyalty has yielded very little satisfaction.

Simpler mortgage-speak

Small but crucial victory for prospective homeowners.

11 Nov 2011 | The fight for plain English and full disclosure on financial products is far from over but there have been some wins.

US consumers flee big banks

How a single Facebook post sparked a major consumer movement against the big banks.

9 Nov 2011 | Thousands of US citizens have walked away from big banks in a consumer revolt as part of Bank Transfer Day.

Global reach promises greater financial protection

CHOICE on board with Consumers International.

8 Nov 2011 | Consumers International has received support from the G20 for greater financial consumer protection.

The Big Bank Switch is on - offers now open

26 Sep 2011 | CHOICE says that One Big Switch (OBS) is ready to put mortgage offers to the 40,000 people who registered their interest in the Big Bank Switch.

Give consumers power in the way they pay

5 Sep 2011 | CHOICE says a review by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) into changes in the way people can pay for goods and services is an opportunity to put the consumer first.

Reforms to payday lending

The Government has announced significant changes to payday lending regulations

30 Aug 2011 | Last week the government announced significant changes to the regulation of High Cost Short Term Lending, better known as Payday Lending.

RBA adjusts penalty fees

RBA made an eye-opening adjustment to its assessment of banking fees in its most recent bulletin

25 Aug 2011 | After reporting in June 2010 that deposit account penalty fees had dropped from $516 million in 2008 to $476 million in 2009, the reserve bank issued a correction. Fees actually dropped from $701 million to $688 million over that period.

Intelligent-design-for-your-mortgage-data

A creative proposal to make mortgage statements more consumer-friendly

23 Aug 2011 | Do bank statements make your eyes glaze over? Two creative types from Brisbane are tackling the complexity of the banking sector with an interesting proposal to “fix” mortgage statements.

Personal financial software

We look at some of the way you can use personal financial software to manage your home budget.

19 Aug 2011 | Everyone has money concerns, but can personal financial packages help track expenses and manage your budget? We look at some of the online alternatives.

New laws better protect credit card holders

Consumers have more control over credit cards

6 Jul 2011 | The National Consumer Credit Protection Amendment (Home Loans and Credit Cards) Bill was passed by Federal Parliament on 4 July 2011, giving consumers more control over their plastic.

Supercharged Surcharges

CHOICE finds credit card surcharges are money for jam for some retailers.

9 Jun 2011 | Retailers are increasingly imposing surcharges on credit card transactions – but the RBA may finally be taking action.

Better Banking campaign  

Send a message the ‘big four’ banks can’t ignore.

6 May 2011 | Following the latest stand-off in passing on RBA interest rate cuts, it's no surprise the ‘big four’ banks are well and truly on the nose with consumers.

CHOICE Awards 2011

Read which products and services were voted best of the best in our second annual CHOICE Awards.

31 Mar 2011 | The CHOICE Awards recognise companies developing innovative, quality products and services.

Best high interest savings account

Who will provide the most bang for your buck when it comes to hard-earned savings?

31 Mar 2011 | To determine the winner, we looked at 150 savings accounts and the rates they've been offering over the past 12 months.

Mortgage exit fees ban becomes law

New law is a victory for consumers and for CHOICE

24 Mar 2011 |

Move-your-money

To celebrate World Consumer Rights Day, move your money from accounts that simply top up the profits of banks.

14 Mar 2011 | $153 billion worth of Australian money currently sits in everday transaction accounts that earn little or no interest.

Banking-report

CHOICE heads to Canberra to deliver its report to Swan and Senate.

2 Mar 2011 | The report marks a major milestone in our campaign for fairer banking.

ATM-fees  

A new report jointly published by CHOICE confirms the need for greater transparency around ATM fees.

16 Feb 2011 | Consumers continue to pay up to $4 when they visit “foreign” ATMs.

Tell your bank how you feel

Help CHOICE keep the pressure on the Government and the big four banks.

10 Feb 2011 | CHOICE is calling on consumers to write the CEO of their bank to get a better deal.

Senate inquiry into banking competition

Our submission to the Senate Economics Committee makes several key recommendations for impoving competition in the Australian banking sector.

6 Dec 2010 | CHOICE's submission to the Senate Economics Committee makes several key recommendations for increasing competition in the Australian banking sector.

Bank satisfaction survey 2010

The Big Four again rank bottom for customer satisfaction, but we found they are quite open to giving discounted rates - when asked.

1 Sep 2010 | If you're not getting an interest rate saving of at least 0.7% then you're probably paying too much.

Bank penalty fee income

New statistics reveal reductions in bank account penalty fees have been offset by an increase in penalties charged on loans and credit cards.

10 Jun 2010 | The Reserve Bank of Australia's annual bank fees report reveals there has been a shift in banks' household penalty fee income from deposit accounts towards loans.

Mobile banking

The popularity of the iPhone is changing the face of mobile banking.

30 Apr 2010 | The latest Nielsen research has found that 61% of online consumers who use a mobile phone will consider an iPhone in the next year.

Unfair bank penalty fees

Some banks impose unfair or even unlawful fees on their customers, but you don't have to blindly accept them. Fight back!

23 Apr 2010 | Read your rights and some effective tools you can use to fight back. The time has come for banks to get rid of some fees and make others fairer.

Low-fee transaction account reviews

Say goodbye to bank fees by simply switching to a different transaction account.

12 Mar 2010 | Switching to a new transaction account with no monthly fees and low transaction costs may save you more than $200 per year. CHOICE selects the picks of the crop.

Credit card interest

Financial institutions are using unfair practices to squeeze every last cent of interest from customers.

25 Jan 2010 | CHOICE reveals which providers are bucking this trend to treat their customers fairly.

Bankwest Zero review

Here's a new twist on bank fees: an account that refunds some of the fees other banks charge to you.

18 Jan 2010 | The new Bankwest Zero account refunds its customers the fees that the big four banks charge when you use their ATM machines.

First home saver accounts

A new government scheme provides incentives for new home buyers, but watch for traps.

3 Aug 2009 | To provide incentives for people to save for their first home, the federal government launched the first home saver account (FHSA) scheme.

EFTPOS loses ground

MasterCard and Visa debit cards are gaining in popularity, but at what price?

9 Jul 2009 | The international card companies MasterCard and Visa are rapidly encroaching on EFTPOS’ territory, the Australian debit card system, with their own debit cards. But while scheme debit card transactions are generally free for consumers, other costs lie beneath the surface.

Cheque, savings or credit?

When paying with a debit card, you're given a choice of cheque, savings or credit. What should you choose?

9 Jul 2009 | Many financial institutions now offer debit cards that can be used for transactions through the MasterCard, Visa and EFTPOS systems.

CBA bank scam alert

Commonwealth Bank customers warned to be beware of scams that could cost them thousands.

25 Jun 2009 | Commonwealth Bank (CBA) customers are urged to be on alert following a chain of scam attempts targeting people via telephone and SMS.

Online bank fraud

How to stay safe when banking online.

26 Sep 2008 | Have you ever received an email that looked like it came from your bank, instructing you to urgently click on a link because of a security upgrade or some other matter?

Ins and outs of direct debits

More and more merchants offer incentives if you pay via direct debit. We tell you how to avoid the pitfalls.

17 Apr 2007 | A direct debit is a transfer of control to a third party so it's important to read the agreement carefully before you sign it.

Picking the right bank account

Get yourself the right bank account and save hundreds of dollars a year.

4 Jan 2006 | When shopping for a bank account it’s difficult to know whether to go for one with up-front fees or take the risk that you won’t exceed your rebate or free transaction limit.

Credit cards fact sheet

Choosing the wrong type of credit card can end up costing you a fortune in interest.

15 Nov 2000 | Some cards charge 18% to 20% annually, while others charge interest rates below 10%, so it's well worth shopping around.

Bank penalties

Mortgage debt

Australian households have experienced a spike in debt over the last two decades.

12 Apr 2013 | We look into the trend of a rising debt-to-income ratio in Australia. What's behind it, and what can you do to minimise your own mortgage debt?

Unclaimed booty reaches $677 million

Australians are missing out of millions of dollars of their own money.

21 Nov 2012 | The amount of unclaimed money collected from inactive bank accounts and life insurance policies by ASIC has hit a record $677 million.

ANZ faces class action lawsuit

Australian consumers fight unfair bank fees in the High Court.

6 Sep 2012 | A class action lawsuit is fighting for over $220 million in unfair bank fees collected from Australian consumers.

US consumers flee big banks

How a single Facebook post sparked a major consumer movement against the big banks.

9 Nov 2011 | Thousands of US citizens have walked away from big banks in a consumer revolt as part of Bank Transfer Day.

RBA adjusts penalty fees

RBA made an eye-opening adjustment to its assessment of banking fees in its most recent bulletin

25 Aug 2011 | After reporting in June 2010 that deposit account penalty fees had dropped from $516 million in 2008 to $476 million in 2009, the reserve bank issued a correction. Fees actually dropped from $701 million to $688 million over that period.

Best low fee bank account

Transaction fees are disappearing fast, but only two accounts have abolished penalty fees.

31 Mar 2011 | Penalty fees, or lack thereof, became the ultimate decider of this award.

Banking-report

CHOICE heads to Canberra to deliver its report to Swan and Senate.

2 Mar 2011 | The report marks a major milestone in our campaign for fairer banking.

ATM-fees  

A new report jointly published by CHOICE confirms the need for greater transparency around ATM fees.

16 Feb 2011 | Consumers continue to pay up to $4 when they visit “foreign” ATMs.

Tell your bank how you feel

Help CHOICE keep the pressure on the Government and the big four banks.

10 Feb 2011 | CHOICE is calling on consumers to write the CEO of their bank to get a better deal.

Bank satisfaction survey 2010

The Big Four again rank bottom for customer satisfaction, but we found they are quite open to giving discounted rates - when asked.

1 Sep 2010 | If you're not getting an interest rate saving of at least 0.7% then you're probably paying too much.

How to switch bank account

Yesterday the CBA announced a record profit of 6.1 billion dollars.

27 Jul 2010 | If you're not happy about their profit, and your fees, ask for a better deal. CHOICE shows you how to find the fairest bank account and then switch to save.

Bank penalty fee income

New statistics reveal reductions in bank account penalty fees have been offset by an increase in penalties charged on loans and credit cards.

10 Jun 2010 | The Reserve Bank of Australia's annual bank fees report reveals there has been a shift in banks' household penalty fee income from deposit accounts towards loans.

The low down on penalty fees

The announcement of a class action against Australia's big banks for fee gouging reinforces why customers need to scrutinise their statements.

12 May 2010 | Make sure you're not being stung by high penalties for overdrawing your account, paying your credit card bill a day late, or trying to pay in a cheque that bounces.

Unfair bank penalty fees

Some banks impose unfair or even unlawful fees on their customers, but you don't have to blindly accept them. Fight back!

23 Apr 2010 | Read your rights and some effective tools you can use to fight back. The time has come for banks to get rid of some fees and make others fairer.

Australian credit cards fail UK standards

Unfair interest and irresponsible practices abound in the Australian banking sector. In the UK, many of these practices could soon be illegal.

22 Mar 2010 | We compared our banks' standard practices with consumer protection for UK credit card customers, and found Australian consumers are treated far less fairly.

Credit card interest

Financial institutions are using unfair practices to squeeze every last cent of interest from customers.

25 Jan 2010 | CHOICE reveals which providers are bucking this trend to treat their customers fairly.

NAB drops more fees

NAB leads the Big Four pack, becoming the first bank to provide fair fees.

15 Oct 2009 | Following a campaign for fair fees from CHOICE and the Consumer Action Legal Centre, the National Australia Bank has become the first of the Big Four banks to offer consumers fair fees.

Bank satisfaction survey

So which institutions came out on top for bank accounts, credit cards and homeloans in our survey?

30 Sep 2009 | Over the past year, ANZ, Commonwealth, NAB and Westpac have increased market share but our survey reveals they haven't increased in popularity.

Big banks fee reduction could be better

The Commonwealth Bank, Westpac and St George have announced they will reduce their penalty fees on some accounts – but CHOICE doesn’t think this goes far enough.

3 Aug 2009 | While CHOICE welcomes the announcement that from October penalty fees for some Commonwealth, Westpac and St George customers will be reduced, the justification for charging added costs remains a concern for the consumer group.

Banks

Mortgage debt

Australian households have experienced a spike in debt over the last two decades.

12 Apr 2013 | We look into the trend of a rising debt-to-income ratio in Australia. What's behind it, and what can you do to minimise your own mortgage debt?

The banks have been ranked

Big banks are graded on their response to customers in financial hardship.

5 Nov 2012 | The Financial and Consumer Rights Council has ranked the big banks on their performance in helping customers in financial hardship.

ANZ faces class action lawsuit

Australian consumers fight unfair bank fees in the High Court.

6 Sep 2012 | A class action lawsuit is fighting for over $220 million in unfair bank fees collected from Australian consumers.

Banks respond to new credit card reforms

Not all banks are applying the new credit card reforms.

17 Aug 2012 | Banks are applying new reforms to existing cards in a variety of ways

Households paying less in bank fees

New data from the RBA shows households are saving on bank fees.

21 Jun 2012 | Consumer power succeeds as RBA data shows households paying 7% less in bank fees.

Compare, ditch, switch & save

Cut through the interest rate confusion with our Compare, Ditch & Switch comparison tool.

12 Jun 2012 | Cut through the interest rate confusion with our Compare, Ditch & Switch comparison tool.

Government ATM announcement falls short

The federal government responds to recommendations on ATM fees.

25 May 2012 | The announcement is a missed opportunity because the government has ignored many of the pressing issues affecting Australians using ATMs.

Thousands to farewell the big four banks

On World Consumer Rights Day, we're calling on all Australians to join the global Move Your Money campaign.

15 Mar 2012 | We're marking World Consumer Rights Day by delivering a giant farewell card to the big four banks on behalf of thousands of Australians.

Move your money

Help shift the balance of power in banking back towards consumers.

14 Mar 2012 | Sign the Move Your Money petition and deliver a message to the ‘big four’ bank CEOs that enough is enough.

Banks mine free transaction account gold

Australians are giving the Big Four a free kick.

2 Mar 2012 | Australian consumers are giving the big four banks a free kick, with an estimated $166.4 billion sitting in transaction accounts that earn little or no interest.

No justification for banks to raise interest rates

The Big Four are playing by their own rules, and you can too.

16 Feb 2012 | There is plenty of competition in the Australian market, which is why raising rates is just bad business.

CHOICE Better Banking campaign 2011 milestones

The fight for efficient, flexible and responsive banking has some key wins.

22 Dec 2011 | Our campaign has galvanised overwhelming public desire for better, more flexible and responsive banking in Australia.

US consumers flee big banks

How a single Facebook post sparked a major consumer movement against the big banks.

9 Nov 2011 | Thousands of US citizens have walked away from big banks in a consumer revolt as part of Bank Transfer Day.

Reforms to payday lending

The Government has announced significant changes to payday lending regulations

30 Aug 2011 | Last week the government announced significant changes to the regulation of High Cost Short Term Lending, better known as Payday Lending.

RBA adjusts penalty fees

RBA made an eye-opening adjustment to its assessment of banking fees in its most recent bulletin

25 Aug 2011 | After reporting in June 2010 that deposit account penalty fees had dropped from $516 million in 2008 to $476 million in 2009, the reserve bank issued a correction. Fees actually dropped from $701 million to $688 million over that period.

Intelligent-design-for-your-mortgage-data

A creative proposal to make mortgage statements more consumer-friendly

23 Aug 2011 | Do bank statements make your eyes glaze over? Two creative types from Brisbane are tackling the complexity of the banking sector with an interesting proposal to “fix” mortgage statements.

Mortgage exit fees ban becomes law

New law is a victory for consumers and for CHOICE

24 Mar 2011 |

Banking-report

CHOICE heads to Canberra to deliver its report to Swan and Senate.

2 Mar 2011 | The report marks a major milestone in our campaign for fairer banking.

ATM-fees  

A new report jointly published by CHOICE confirms the need for greater transparency around ATM fees.

16 Feb 2011 | Consumers continue to pay up to $4 when they visit “foreign” ATMs.

Tell your bank how you feel

Help CHOICE keep the pressure on the Government and the big four banks.

10 Feb 2011 | CHOICE is calling on consumers to write the CEO of their bank to get a better deal.

Bank satisfaction survey 2010

The Big Four again rank bottom for customer satisfaction, but we found they are quite open to giving discounted rates - when asked.

1 Sep 2010 | If you're not getting an interest rate saving of at least 0.7% then you're probably paying too much.

Bank penalty fee income

New statistics reveal reductions in bank account penalty fees have been offset by an increase in penalties charged on loans and credit cards.

10 Jun 2010 | The Reserve Bank of Australia's annual bank fees report reveals there has been a shift in banks' household penalty fee income from deposit accounts towards loans.

Unfair bank penalty fees

Some banks impose unfair or even unlawful fees on their customers, but you don't have to blindly accept them. Fight back!

23 Apr 2010 | Read your rights and some effective tools you can use to fight back. The time has come for banks to get rid of some fees and make others fairer.

Australian credit cards fail UK standards

Unfair interest and irresponsible practices abound in the Australian banking sector. In the UK, many of these practices could soon be illegal.

22 Mar 2010 | We compared our banks' standard practices with consumer protection for UK credit card customers, and found Australian consumers are treated far less fairly.

NAB drops more fees

NAB leads the Big Four pack, becoming the first bank to provide fair fees.

15 Oct 2009 | Following a campaign for fair fees from CHOICE and the Consumer Action Legal Centre, the National Australia Bank has become the first of the Big Four banks to offer consumers fair fees.

Dont get bitten by the card sharks

The cash rate has fallen dramatically, yet banks are failing to pass on the savings to consumers and have hiked up credit card interest rates.

11 Jun 2009 | At a time when more people are struggling with debt and relying on credit to see them through, banks are nudging up credit card interest rates.

Debt relief

If you lose your job, how will you pay your bills? CHOICE outlines your options.

20 Apr 2009 | Debt relief companies are reporting extreme cases of consumers carrying up to $400,000 in credit card debt on 50 separate credit cards.

Fixed rate loan pain

Home owners who locked in their loans 12 months ago now pay about 30% more interest than those on variable rates.

6 Feb 2009 | Fixed rates have now come down to about their lowest point in the past 10 years.

Home loans switch and save

Find the best mortgage. Here's how to save thousands on your home loan.

2 Oct 2008 | The best savings were achieved by switching to a credit union or an online subsidiary of a major bank – and you can’t get any of those loans through mortgage brokers.

Control your credit card

We explain how to make the most of your credit card and keep out of debt.

20 May 2008 | At a time when more people are struggling with debt and relying on credit to see them through, banks are nudging up credit card interest rates.

BankWest

Mortgage debt

Australian households have experienced a spike in debt over the last two decades.

12 Apr 2013 | We look into the trend of a rising debt-to-income ratio in Australia. What's behind it, and what can you do to minimise your own mortgage debt?

Kids' bank accounts review

Changes to tax rules mean little savers can be hit with a big tax bill.

15 May 2012 | We review ten savings accounts designed for children and teenagers, including products offered by ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB and Westpac.

Credit card travel insurance reviews

Can you trust the complimentary travel insurance that comes with your credit card? We decipher the small print.

13 Dec 2011 | Many gold and platinum credit cards offer travel insurance, but the cover can vary.

Barbeques

Appliance reliability survey

Our 2013 update reveals how our members rate common technology products and appliances for reliability.

18 Mar 2013 | CHOICE regularly surveys our members, asking them about how reliable they've found their appliances.

BBQ reviews  

We test 23 barbecues priced between $179 and $2200 for performance and ease of use.

13 Nov 2012 | CHOICE reviews portables, balcony sized, and large four to six burners to suit most situations.

Gift ideas for the kitchen

These gift ideas will please any budding amateur chef.

29 Nov 2011 | CHOICE picks the kitchen gadgets that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to cook.

Christmas gift guide

We've trawled our test results to bring you a range of great gift ideas.

16 Nov 2011 | From digital cameras to kitchen gadgets, our gift ideas cater to all budgets.

Barbecue safely

Stay safe around the barbie.

9 Nov 2011 | Don't spoil your holiday - here are some tips on safe backyard entertaining.

BBQ mushrooms

A great vegetarian option at your next barbecue

2 Mar 2011 | A tasty recipe for BBQ mushrooms with herbs.

Digital utensils quick review

Digital utensils: handy or hopeless?

30 Dec 2010 | How much value does digital technology bring to conventional cooking utensils?

Mothers-day-guide

This Mother’s Day, we want to give our hardworking mums a gift to thank them for all the ways they make our lives great.

24 Dec 2010 | Our busy mums are faced with a myriad of decisions every day. We believe they should have the best advice at their fingertips this Mothers' Day.

Barbecue chicken

CHOICE recipe for a mouth-watering barbecue chicken

4 Nov 2010 | Use your barbecue this summer to cook a whole chicken

Barbecue chicken

CHOICE recipe for a mouth-watering barbecue chicken

4 Nov 2010 | Use your barbecue this summer to cook a whole chicken

Organic meat in question

You pay the price for organic meat, but can you be sure that what you're getting is the real deal?

30 Jul 2009 | Organic meat is expensive to produce so you’ll pay more. But how can you be sure you’re getting what you pay for? CHOICE investigates.

Small barbeques review and compare  

We test two-burner barbecues designed for small spaces.

11 Nov 2008 | When you're shopping for one, how can you tell which models will cook your food evenly? Will an electric BBQ perform as well as gas? Which will be the easiest to use?

Smart BBQ Cordless Power Grill Brush Review

An essential barbecue tool, or just a wasteful gimmick?

9 Sep 2008 | We put the SMART BBQ Cordless Power Grill Brush, which claims to have "powerful brass bristle rotary brush action" to the test.

Barbecues review and compare  

With summer here, it's the perfect time to get sizzling.

2 Nov 2007 | We tell you what to look for in a barbecue, how to maintain them, how to cook the perfect steak — and we tell you which models are the best from our test of seven 4-burner gas barbecues with hoods.

Barnes-and Noble

Christmas gift guide for the traveller

We round up some of the best buys for your globetrotting friends.

16 Dec 2011 | We pick fun and handy products that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to travel.

Basco

Cake mix reviews

Cake mixes are convenient, but making a cake from scratch can be just as easy.

9 May 2012 | We taste-tested 19 chocolate and eight vanilla cake mixes, including varieties from White Wings, Betty Crocker and Coles.

Bathroom cleaners

Antibacterial products

CHOICE goes beyond the health hype of cleaners and sanitisers.

10 Nov 2011 | These cleaners are a popular choice in the battle against bacteria, but they're often no more effective than soap and water.

Bathroom cleaner reviews

Our home testers tried out seven popular bathroom cleaners. Which did they prefer?

4 Mar 2008 | We trialed seven widely available commercial bathroom cleaners that claim to remove and/or prevent mould and soap scum buildup.

Bath-Seats

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Valiant Enterprises Tafli Bath Seat recall

The warning label may not be adequately affixed to the bath seat.

26 Sep 2011 | Valiant Enterprises recalls Tafli Bath Seats sold between 15 January 2010 and 22 September 2011 because warning labels may not be adequately affixed.

Batteries

Rechargeable AA battery reviews

How well do "ready to use" rechargeable AA batteries compare?

21 Nov 2012 | Our latest test results rate 15 NiMH rechargeable batteries, to see which hold their capacity and last longer in storage.

Uniross Emergency Two Way Charger

This little charger could become an essential travelling companion.

10 Sep 2008 | Keeping your mobile phone or MP3 player charged when you're travelling can be a hassle, especially when you’re in remote areas away from a convenient power point.

High capacity batteries

Finding the best way to keep your digital gadgets going.

14 Jun 2008 | Rechargeable batteries are the most economical option if you frequently use appliances that consume a lot of power, such as a digital camera. However, lithium batteries lasted the longest in our test.

Baumatic

Gas cooktop reviews

We've tested 11 new gas cooktops, including Blanco, Bosch, Electrolux and Miele models.

14 Mar 2013 | We have test results for 39 gas cooktops ranging in price from $329 to $3389. Which are the best performers?

Electric built-in oven reviews

Most electric ovens do a pretty good job in our tests, but if you want perfection our recommended models stand out from the pack.

5 Dec 2012 | We compare over 48 ovens, with and without self-cleaning features, priced from $629 to $3999.

BBQs

Appliance reliability survey

Our 2013 update reveals how our members rate common technology products and appliances for reliability.

18 Mar 2013 | CHOICE regularly surveys our members, asking them about how reliable they've found their appliances.

BBQ reviews  

We test 23 barbecues priced between $179 and $2200 for performance and ease of use.

13 Nov 2012 | CHOICE reviews portables, balcony sized, and large four to six burners to suit most situations.

Gift ideas for the kitchen

These gift ideas will please any budding amateur chef.

29 Nov 2011 | CHOICE picks the kitchen gadgets that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to cook.

Christmas gift guide

We've trawled our test results to bring you a range of great gift ideas.

16 Nov 2011 | From digital cameras to kitchen gadgets, our gift ideas cater to all budgets.

Beaba

Beaba Babycook first look

The Beaba Babycook claims to make preparing healthy meals for your baby easy.

1 May 2012 | This handy appliance can steam, blend, reheat and defrost all in the one compact unit - but is it necessary?

BéBé

Stroller and pram reviews  

We've tested 128 strollers for safety, durability and ease of use.

15 May 2013 | Find out which strollers, including newly tested Baby Jogger, Bugaboo, Childcare and Steelcraft models, meet our exacting safety standards.

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Cot reviews

We provide test results for 83 cots, including 10 newly tested models.

8 Mar 2013 | The mandatory Australian standard aims to benchmark all cots to a safe level, but some failures slip through the cracks.

Bedding

Electric blanket reviews

We test 10 electric blankets, priced between $52 and $345

18 Apr 2012 | We put a range of electric blankets to test for all of you who can never seem to get warm enough during those cold winter nights.

Buying guide mattresses

How to buy a mattress you’ll love sleeping on.

20 May 2010 | There’s no scientific consensus on what makes a good mattress. People around the world sleep comfortably on all sorts of beds.

Twisting the truth on thread count

Don't choose a product on thread count alone – CHOICE has discovered this popular marketing term carries little credibility.

19 Feb 2009 | Ever wondered what’s in your 400 thread count sheets? Or why your 350 thread count sheets feel coarser than those with a lower thread count?

Pillows

A good pillow can make for a great night's sleep.

1 Jul 2008 | When you consider that the average person will spend approximately one third of their life asleep, having a comfortable and good quality pillow is important.

Beds

Electric blanket reviews

We test 10 electric blankets, priced between $52 and $345

18 Apr 2012 | We put a range of electric blankets to test for all of you who can never seem to get warm enough during those cold winter nights.

Portela-Group-bunkbed-recall

The bed does not meet the mandatory safety standard

21 Sep 2011 | Due to failures in meeting the mandatory safety standards, there is a risk of possible entrapment in the frame of the desk unit.

Pitfalls for tall consumers

Despite the fact that Australians are getting taller, it seems retailers are yet to catch up.

23 Jun 2011 | Tall consumers are getting the short end of the stick in everything from buying clothes to travelling on planes, trains and in cars.

Electric blanket

With a modern electric blanket you’ll not only sleep warmly but also more safely – if you take safety precautions.

15 Jul 2010 | When temperatures drop, the idea of an electric blanket begins to sound more and more appealing.

Buying guide mattresses

How to buy a mattress you’ll love sleeping on.

20 May 2010 | There’s no scientific consensus on what makes a good mattress. People around the world sleep comfortably on all sorts of beds.

Cots review and compare

Do cots meet the updated standard?

1 Aug 2006 | Eight of the models we tested this time had no major failures – a large improvement on our last test of cots in 2005.

Anti-snoring-products

Is there any evidence to support claims for over-the-counter anti-snoring products?

27 Apr 2006 | According to the Guiness Book of Records, the loudest snores recorded reached 93 decibels — about the volume of a business engine.

Insomnia

We spend a third of our lives, or an average of 24 years sleeping – and yet up to 95% of us at some time have trouble sleeping.

23 May 2000 | Dr Alison Vickers examines the causes and offers advice on returning to a regular sleeping pattern.

Beefeater

Gift ideas for the kitchen

These gift ideas will please any budding amateur chef.

29 Nov 2011 | CHOICE picks the kitchen gadgets that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to cook.

Christmas gift guide

We've trawled our test results to bring you a range of great gift ideas.

16 Nov 2011 | From digital cameras to kitchen gadgets, our gift ideas cater to all budgets.

Beer

Parallel import beer taste test

How do premium imported beers shape up against the locally brewed versions?

28 Aug 2012 | We've tasted Peroni, Stella, Heineken and other imported favourites to find how the premium imports match up against their locally brewed versions.

Supermarket wines

We investigate the sale and marketing of private label wines at Coles and Woolworths.

17 May 2012 | There’s no easy way for consumers to know who makes their wine, short of searching online or checking the Australian trademark database.

Cider taste test

Move over beer and wine, it's the summer of cider.

31 Jan 2012 | Whether you’re after sweet, sparkling, English-style or other, there’s a cider out there for everyone, as results of our blind taste test show.

Wine taste test

Australian and New Zealand sauvignon blancs and pinot noirs go head to head.

23 Nov 2011 | Australian and New Zealand sauvignon blancs and pinot noirs go head to head in this year’s wine taste test.

Milk price war extends to beer

Foster's withholds supply of beer to Coles and Woolworths liquor retailers.

24 Mar 2011 | The Senate inquiry into milk prices will unofficially extend to beer when Coles and Woolworths are questioned next week.

Belle

Gift ideas for the kitchen

These gift ideas will please any budding amateur chef.

29 Nov 2011 | CHOICE picks the kitchen gadgets that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to cook.

Christmas gift guide

We've trawled our test results to bring you a range of great gift ideas.

16 Nov 2011 | From digital cameras to kitchen gadgets, our gift ideas cater to all budgets.

Bellissimo

Dishwasher reviews  

We take the guesswork out of buying your next dishwasher, with models from Asko, Bosch, Miele and Westinghouse among those on test.

9 Apr 2013 | We've rated 20 dishwashers on their washing and drying performance, energy and water efficiency.

Electric built-in oven reviews

Most electric ovens do a pretty good job in our tests, but if you want perfection our recommended models stand out from the pack.

5 Dec 2012 | We compare over 48 ovens, with and without self-cleaning features, priced from $629 to $3999.

Benchtop mixers

Food processor reviews

When it comes to food processors, is price an indicator of quality?

14 Sep 2012 | While all these things can be done with a chopping board and knife or a grater, hand whisk and so on, food processors are much quicker.

Handheld blender reviews

These handy appliances can blend soups and prepare baby food.

18 May 2012 | We review 26 stick blenders, priced from $10 to $209, including models from Bamix, Breville, Philips and Sunbeam.

Benchtop mixer reviews

A benchtop mixer is worth your while if you're an avid baker.

14 May 2012 | We have test results for 18 benchtop mixers, priced from $139 to $999.

Handheld mixer reviews

Handheld mixers are compact and efficient helpers for the baking enthusiast.

10 May 2012 | We've reviewed 17 handheld mixers and found they are one of the handiest appliances to have in your kitchen.

Cake mix reviews

Cake mixes are convenient, but making a cake from scratch can be just as easy.

9 May 2012 | We taste-tested 19 chocolate and eight vanilla cake mixes, including varieties from White Wings, Betty Crocker and Coles.

Thermochef first look

How does the Thermochef stack up against its famous rival, the Thermomix?

25 Jan 2012 | The Thermochef performed well, but how does it stack up against its rival, the Thermomix?

Gift ideas for the kitchen

These gift ideas will please any budding amateur chef.

29 Nov 2011 | CHOICE picks the kitchen gadgets that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to cook.

Christmas gift guide

We've trawled our test results to bring you a range of great gift ideas.

16 Nov 2011 | From digital cameras to kitchen gadgets, our gift ideas cater to all budgets.

Benchtops

Kitchen benchtops

Showing the way through the choice of kitchen benchtop materials.

1 Jul 2008 | The kitchen is often described as the heart of the family home. No longer just a place for cooking and washing-up, it’s become one of the key entertaining areas.

Bendigo Bank

Kids' bank accounts review

Changes to tax rules mean little savers can be hit with a big tax bill.

15 May 2012 | We review ten savings accounts designed for children and teenagers, including products offered by ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB and Westpac.

Beracove

Ceiling fan reviews

CHOICE compares 24 ceiling fans priced between $154 and $899.

5 Sep 2012 | If you don’t want to spend big bucks on air conditioning, ceiling fans offer a cheaper, energy-efficient cooling solution.

Berri

Fruit juice popper reviews  

Is there a place for fruit poppers in your child’s lunchbox?

30 Apr 2012 | We review 100 different varieties of fruit juice poppers available in major supermarkets and found a few factors worth considering before you pop one in your kids lunchbox.

Best flights

Flight comparison websites

Don't assume you'll always find the cheapest flights on the most well-known sites.

9 Aug 2011 | We surfed more than a dozen Australian flight comparison websites and found savings of up to $369 for flights leaving to and from the same destination on the same dates.

Betty Crocker

Cake mix reviews

Cake mixes are convenient, but making a cake from scratch can be just as easy.

9 May 2012 | We taste-tested 19 chocolate and eight vanilla cake mixes, including varieties from White Wings, Betty Crocker and Coles.

Beverages

Smoothies and frappés

You might be surprised by the sugary punch packed by some of these fruit-based drinks.

14 Jan 2013 | With up to 2600kJ in one serving, the hidden sugar in some smoothies and frappés places them in the category of a junk food snack rather than a healthy drink.

Wacky water

We take a look at the science behind various "enhanced" waters on the market, including hexagonal water and sports waters.

7 Jan 2013 | The market is awash with "enhanced" waters making claims about their superior chemistry. But do they offer any advantages over normal water?

New poll shows bottle half full for Australia drinkers

Two thirds of Australian drinkers underestimate what a standard drink is

23 Apr 2012 | Two thirds of Australian drinkers underestimate the number of standard drinks in a bottle of wine, according to the results of a new poll.

Bundaberg Burgundee Creaming Soda recall

An increased pH level in the beverage may cause fermentation and a risk of the product shattering.

20 Oct 2011 | Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Pty Ltd is recalling Burgundee Creaming Soda because of an increased risk of the product shattering.

Woolworths-Homebrand-and-Apple-Time-Juice-recall

Asahi has recalled the beverages due to the possible presence of foreign matter (metal shavings).

21 Sep 2011 | Beverages containing metal may cause injury if consumed.

Little-Creatures-Beer-recall

An Australia-wide recall of Little Creatures beers has been issued due to possible glass contamination

21 Sep 2011 | There is the potential for glass contamination from weakened glass bottles in the Little Creatures Pale Ale, Bright Ale and Dreadnaught Single Batch, and food products containing glass may cause injury if consumed.

MyPressi Twist Quick Review

How effective is this handheld gadget at making a good cup of coffee?

23 Feb 2011 | Despite their convenience, handheld espresso makers still don't make a decent cup of coffee.

Lattemento quick review

High price for a poor quality froth.

4 Aug 2010 | Why spend money on a milk frother, when for a little more you can buy an espresso machine that froths milk as well as makes a great cuppa?

Tefal Quick Cup BR review

If you find yourself playing the waiting game for your favourite beverage, this kettle may be for you.

10 Apr 2008 | These days many of us are time-poor and environment aware, so any help we get to speed up a chore and reduce our energy footprint is welcome. The Tefal Quick Cup claims to help, producing hot water for a tea or coffee in a mere three seconds.

Premium beer reviews

Fancy a coldie? Our expert tasters rate 46 premium beers.

30 Jul 2007 | Two mainstrem brews included for comparison (Victoria Bitter and Tooheys New) scored higher than plenty of more expensive premium beers.

Energy drinks

They're the drink of choice for many children but are they suitable?

9 Jan 2005 | They’re fizzy drinks with a difference. What most of them in fact do is give you a caffeine fix with plenty of sugar.

Bic

Women's razor reviews

Which women's razors shed those unwanted hairs and leave your skin silky smooth?

23 Nov 2012 | We have test results for 13 women's razors from Gillette Venus, Schick and Bic, priced from $0.70 to $16.

Men's razor reviews

Which men's razors achieve a smooth result without damaging your skin?

14 Nov 2012 | The results for this test are shared among several consumer organisations.

Bicycles

Bike lights review

We've tested 45 new bike lights, including models from Cateye, NiteRider and Lezyne.

1 May 2013 | Find out which of the 70 bike lights, priced from $15 to $320, we recommend.

Answer Dagger Pro 20 inch Bicycle Forks recall

The stem may detach from the bicycle, leading to loss of control and resulting in fall injuries.

13 Jan 2012 | Elite Cycle Imports is recalling Answer Dagger Pro 20" Bicycle Forks sold between 1 December 2010 and 13 January 2012.

Electric bicycle reviews

Ride On test 18 electric bike options ranging in price from $950 to $3050.

16 Dec 2011 | Ride On has allowed us to re-produce their test results of 18 electric bike options ranging in price from $950 to $3050

Giant Bicycle Co Pty Ltd models recall

Giant Defy Advanced 2, Defy Advanced 3 & Avail Advanced 2 bicycles models from 2012 have been recalled.

8 Dec 2011 | Giant Bicycle Co Pty Ltd is recalling Giant Defy Advanced 2, Defy Advanced 3 & Avail Advanced 2 bicycles models from 2012.

Bicycle GPS first look

CHOICE takes a look at two GPS Bike offerings

1 Nov 2011 | We put two GPS devices designed for bicycles through their paces to see what's on offer at the expensive and inexpensive ends of the market.

How to buy a kid's bike

Getting the right bicycle for your child can help make cycling fun — and safe.

14 Oct 2011 | Getting their first bike is a big moment in many a child’s life. A safe and comfortable bike, along with lessons in cycling safety, can mean opening up a whole new world of fun, freedom and independence.

Specialized-Australasia-Sirrus-Vita-and-Tricross Bicycles-recall

The bonded inserts on the carbon fork legs could crack and de-bond from the fork.

21 Sep 2011 | The defect could cause the brake assembly to come loose from the fork and potentially make contact with the wheel spokes. This could lead to a fall and potential injury to the user.

Taga convertible stroller  

This ingeniously designed bike/stroller sadly doesn’t meet the grade in either mode.

21 Jan 2011 | CHOICE puts the eye-catching Taga bike/stroller to the test.

Bike accessory reviews

See our round-up and recommendations for all the hottest accessories, including lights, locks, baskets, racks and floor pumps.

7 Aug 2010 | CHOICE joins forces with our friends at Bicycle Victoria to give you the bike riding essentials.

Kids' bike reviews  

Take care when choosing your child's bike.

6 Jul 2010 | Spending big on a bike for your child doesn't necessarily guarantee you're getting the safest bike.

Bike child seats and trailers review and compare

Choose the best child seat or bicycle trailer for taking your toddler for a ride.

4 Jun 2009 | With so many child seats and bicycle trailers on the market, which is the right one for you and your child?

Getting around on a bike

Cycling is booming in Australia — not just for recreation but for transport.

29 Feb 2008 | Cycling for transport is on the increase. CHOICE tells you how to find your way around, and keep safe on the roads.

Mini folding bike quick review

This A-bike may have a clever design, but our testers considered it a B-grade ride.

2 Jan 2008 | At first glance, this mini aluminium folding bike seems like a great alternative to a scooter

Folding bike reviews  

Cycling is a great way to save time, save money and get a bit of exercise. But are folding bikes up to the challenge?

11 Dec 2007 | CHOICE tested seven folding bikes with a range of designs and prices, to see what sort of quality and ride you get.

Kids' bicycle helmets

All models passed our impact tests.

6 Feb 2006 | Protecting a young cyclist’s head doesn’t have to cost a lot, as long as the helmet fits well.

BidFun

Penny auction investigation

We delve into the murky world of penny auctions.

18 Nov 2011 | CHOICE looks into reports of dodgy dealings in online penny auctions, where you may win items for low prices.

Bigpond

ISP satisfaction survey

CHOICE's latest survey reveals the ISPs worth celebrating.

27 Oct 2011 | The survey results show which internet sevice providers performed best, how satisfied users were with service, speed, costs and billing, and trends in our use of the internet.

Big-W

The pros and cons of lay-by

Lay-by can be a cheap and convenient way to budget but you should be aware of the pitfalls.

22 Oct 2012 | Lay-by can take the sting out of Christmas shopping, but the fine print can sometimes include tricky conditions such as expensive cancellation fees.

Customer service shadow shop

Our customer service shadow shop produces mixed results for major retailers.

26 Sep 2012 | How do Australia's bricks and mortar retailers stack up when it comes to customer service? We shadow shop Australia's 10 most popular retailers.

Abode Multi-Functional Blender recall

If damaged, the rubber seal may possibly mix with food and pose an ingestion hazard.

12 Oct 2011 | Big W is recalling Abode Multi-Functional Blenders sold nationally between 25th April 2010 and 6th October 2011.

Bike lights

Bike lights review

We've tested 45 new bike lights, including models from Cateye, NiteRider and Lezyne.

1 May 2013 | Find out which of the 70 bike lights, priced from $15 to $320, we recommend.

Bikes

Bike lights review

We've tested 45 new bike lights, including models from Cateye, NiteRider and Lezyne.

1 May 2013 | Find out which of the 70 bike lights, priced from $15 to $320, we recommend.

Tricycle reviews

We test eight tricycles with parent handles, priced $49 to $349.

5 Dec 2012 | We put tricycles with parent handles to the test. Are they a substitute for a stroller?

Answer Dagger Pro 20 inch Bicycle Forks recall

The stem may detach from the bicycle, leading to loss of control and resulting in fall injuries.

13 Jan 2012 | Elite Cycle Imports is recalling Answer Dagger Pro 20" Bicycle Forks sold between 1 December 2010 and 13 January 2012.

Electric bicycle reviews

Ride On test 18 electric bike options ranging in price from $950 to $3050.

16 Dec 2011 | Ride On has allowed us to re-produce their test results of 18 electric bike options ranging in price from $950 to $3050

Giant Bicycle Co Pty Ltd models recall

Giant Defy Advanced 2, Defy Advanced 3 & Avail Advanced 2 bicycles models from 2012 have been recalled.

8 Dec 2011 | Giant Bicycle Co Pty Ltd is recalling Giant Defy Advanced 2, Defy Advanced 3 & Avail Advanced 2 bicycles models from 2012.

Bicycle GPS first look

CHOICE takes a look at two GPS Bike offerings

1 Nov 2011 | We put two GPS devices designed for bicycles through their paces to see what's on offer at the expensive and inexpensive ends of the market.

Bike trailers

Bicycle GPS first look

CHOICE takes a look at two GPS Bike offerings

1 Nov 2011 | We put two GPS devices designed for bicycles through their paces to see what's on offer at the expensive and inexpensive ends of the market.

Taga convertible stroller  

This ingeniously designed bike/stroller sadly doesn’t meet the grade in either mode.

21 Jan 2011 | CHOICE puts the eye-catching Taga bike/stroller to the test.

Bike accessory reviews

See our round-up and recommendations for all the hottest accessories, including lights, locks, baskets, racks and floor pumps.

7 Aug 2010 | CHOICE joins forces with our friends at Bicycle Victoria to give you the bike riding essentials.

Kids' bike reviews  

Take care when choosing your child's bike.

6 Jul 2010 | Spending big on a bike for your child doesn't necessarily guarantee you're getting the safest bike.

Bike child seats and trailers review and compare

Choose the best child seat or bicycle trailer for taking your toddler for a ride.

4 Jun 2009 | With so many child seats and bicycle trailers on the market, which is the right one for you and your child?

Folding bike reviews  

Cycling is a great way to save time, save money and get a bit of exercise. But are folding bikes up to the challenge?

11 Dec 2007 | CHOICE tested seven folding bikes with a range of designs and prices, to see what sort of quality and ride you get.

Bills

Global roaming SIMs

Don't get stung by bill shock when travelling overseas with your mobile phone.

18 Dec 2012 | Curb bill shock with a pre-paid roaming SIM and our useful tips for limiting phone calls and data usage while overseas.

Intelligent-design-for-your-mortgage-data

A creative proposal to make mortgage statements more consumer-friendly

23 Aug 2011 | Do bank statements make your eyes glaze over? Two creative types from Brisbane are tackling the complexity of the banking sector with an interesting proposal to “fix” mortgage statements.

Save energy, save on bills  

Energy prices are on the rise around Australia but there are steps you can take to cut energy use and save on bills.

1 Jul 2011 | In this video, we take you behind the scenes at the CHOICE labs to get some expert advice from our testers on appliance energy savings.

Call for national energy efficiency program

Action needed to cut bills

20 Jun 2011 | CHOICE has joined calls for a national energy efficiency program to reduce household energy bills.

Take the 10 percent challenge

A campaign to help Australian households and businesses reduce their energy and fuel use by 10%.

3 Jun 2011 | CHOICE has joined forces with advocacy group DoSomething! to launch the 10% Challenge.

Legal billing

When you need to see a solicitor, how do you know if you’ve been overcharged – and what can you do about it?

11 Aug 2009 | CHOICE outlines what you can do to minimise the risk of legal overcharging and the steps to take if you suspect you’ve been ripped off.

Multifunction power meter

If you're looking for ways to save energy around the home, it helps to know which appliances are sucking the most power.

29 Dec 2007 | Power meters measure energy use of household appliances. This helps you lower your power bill and reduce carbon emissions.

Ins and outs of direct debits

More and more merchants offer incentives if you pay via direct debit. We tell you how to avoid the pitfalls.

17 Apr 2007 | A direct debit is a transfer of control to a third party so it's important to read the agreement carefully before you sign it.

Bing

The business of search engines  

The internet is a world of information, which we rely on search engines to help us find. But does this free service come with a catch?

3 Feb 2012 | With billions of pages on the internet, the ability to search accurately for information is vital. But there are some factors to consider before your next search.

Bird's Eye

Frozen fish product reviews

We trawl the supermarket freezers to find your best frozen fish options.

21 Mar 2012 | We review over 100 frozen fish products, including uncoated, seasoned, battered and crumbed varieties to uncover your best options.

Bissell

Steam mop reviews  

Steam mop ads seem to be on a loop on daytime TV, but does the reality match the hype?

18 Oct 2012 | We review 13 steam mops, priced from $49 to $299, including models from Karcher, Hoover and Kenwood.

Black-and-Decker

Lawn trimmer reviews

Petrol, cordless or electric? We outline which lawn trimmer is best for your backyard.

7 Sep 2012 | We test 28 petrol, electric and cordless lawn trimmers (also known as whipper snippers), ranging from $49 to $399.

Black & Gold

Breakfast cereal reviews  

Which cereals make the nutritional grade?

4 Oct 2012 | We look beyond the names and claims to uncover the breakfast cereals that provide the most nutritious start to your day.

Cake mix reviews

Cake mixes are convenient, but making a cake from scratch can be just as easy.

9 May 2012 | We taste-tested 19 chocolate and eight vanilla cake mixes, including varieties from White Wings, Betty Crocker and Coles.

Fruit juice popper reviews  

Is there a place for fruit poppers in your child’s lunchbox?

30 Apr 2012 | We review 100 different varieties of fruit juice poppers available in major supermarkets and found a few factors worth considering before you pop one in your kids lunchbox.

Milk alternatives review

If you can't or won't drink cow's milk, what are your options?

26 Apr 2012 | We review soy, rice, oat, coconut and almond non-dairy milk alternatives to see how they stack up nutritionally.

Black and Stone

Black and stone multi-purpose cooker

This all-in-one appliance is great for busy people.

21 Dec 2011 | This eight-function cooker has settings for steaming, baking, and slow cooking.

Blackberry

Smartphone reviews  

Our latest test includes the iPhone 5, Samsung Galaxy SIII and HTC One XL, plus one of the first available Windows 8 phones.

21 Dec 2012 | We review the Apple iPhone 5, Samsung Galaxy S III and HTC One XL, all of which deliver screen sizes of four inches and larger. Plus one of the first available Windows 8 mobiles.

Tablet computer reviews  

Which tablet computer best suits your needs and budget?

12 Dec 2012 | Tablets are taking over personal computing. We test 57 models you can buy in Australia.

Technology reliability survey

Just how reliable are your tech devices?

13 Nov 2012 | The CHOICE technology reliability survey reports on what types of problems can go wrong with common computer devices.

Next G mobile phone reviews  

We help you take the guesswork out of buying a next generation phone

6 Jul 2012 | Our review of 17 phones available on the Next G 850MHz network includes a reception test in the Australian outback

Blanco

Dishwasher reviews  

We take the guesswork out of buying your next dishwasher, with models from Asko, Bosch, Miele and Westinghouse among those on test.

9 Apr 2013 | We've rated 20 dishwashers on their washing and drying performance, energy and water efficiency.

Gas cooktop reviews

We've tested 11 new gas cooktops, including Blanco, Bosch, Electrolux and Miele models.

14 Mar 2013 | We have test results for 39 gas cooktops ranging in price from $329 to $3389. Which are the best performers?

Electric built-in oven reviews

Most electric ovens do a pretty good job in our tests, but if you want perfection our recommended models stand out from the pack.

5 Dec 2012 | We compare over 48 ovens, with and without self-cleaning features, priced from $629 to $3999.

Ceramic cooktop reviews

Ceramic cooktops have the looks, and they perform well too.

2 Oct 2012 | Ceramic cooktops have easy-to-clean surfaces and a mid-range price tag. Which ones perform best?

Induction cooktop reviews

Fast heating and safety are big pros for this kitchen appliance.

14 Feb 2012 | The initial purchase price is high but the features of an induction cooktop might make it worth your while.

Freestanding electric cooker reviews

Modern freestanding cookers look streamlined compared to their retro counterparts, but how do they perform?

10 Nov 2011 | These all-electric cookers look sleek, with controls at the front so your splashback can run across the whole wall.

Blenders

Vitamix first look

The Vitamix is said to make healthy living easy and claims to replace 10 kitchen appliances

27 Sep 2012 | It can juice, cook, freeze, blend, chop, grind and also has a self-cleaning function

Food processor reviews

When it comes to food processors, is price an indicator of quality?

14 Sep 2012 | While all these things can be done with a chopping board and knife or a grater, hand whisk and so on, food processors are much quicker.

Soup makers home test

CHOICE member Winsome Hall tests three soup makers.

21 Jun 2012 | Homemade soups are a winter favourite, and having a warm, quick and healthy meal on the table is always welcome.

Handheld blender reviews

These handy appliances can blend soups and prepare baby food.

18 May 2012 | We review 26 stick blenders, priced from $10 to $209, including models from Bamix, Breville, Philips and Sunbeam.

Benchtop blender reviews

Make cocktails, crush ice or create smoothies with ease.

16 May 2012 | We tested 10 benchtop blenders, priced from $20 to $379 and found the most expensive models performed the best.

Abode Multi-Functional Blender recall

If damaged, the rubber seal may possibly mix with food and pose an ingestion hazard.

12 Oct 2011 | Big W is recalling Abode Multi-Functional Blenders sold nationally between 25th April 2010 and 6th October 2011.

Homemaker 17 Piece Mini Blender recall

In some circumstances the gasket (rubber seal) may become caught in the blender blades during use.

6 Oct 2011 | Kmart Australia Ltd is recalling Homemaker 17 Piece Mini Blenders sold nationally between 1st March 2010 and 22nd September 2011.

Kenwood Multipro Libra FP950 Food Processor

A first look at this new processor.

9 Nov 2007 | Every good cook needs a kitchen scale and having one integrated into your food processor can make food preparation a breeze.

Bloom

High chair reviews  

We've tested 13 new high chairs, including models from Childcare, Ikea and Stokke.

25 Mar 2013 | CHOICE has tested 34 high chairs, priced from $30 to $600, to the Australian standard. Find out which models we recommend.

Blue-V

Brenlea Blue-V sunglasses recall

The right lens doesn't meet the mandatory standard, and could affect the ability to judge the distance of objects.

23 Sep 2011 | The right lens doesn't meet the mandatory standard, and could affect the ability to judge the distance of objects, particularly moving objects.

Blu-ray

Home theatre projectors

The best home theatre projectors can produce some very impressive images.

19 Mar 2013 | We've tested 10 home theatre projectors, ranging in price from $1799 to $3999, to reveal which have the best picture quality and are easiest to use.

Blu-ray player reviews

Our testing reveals whether 34 Blu-ray players live up to the hype.

3 Dec 2012 | Blu-ray players are the next step up from the DVD player, but how effective is the evolution?

Home theatre system reviews  

Marketing claims on boxes don't live up to the reality.

11 Sep 2012 | We test the latest all-in-one home theatre systems, priced from $399 to $799.

Gadget gift guide for Christmas

Gadgets and gizmos always make great presents for the tech-savvy and tech-curious.

23 Nov 2011 | We round up the best technology buys, from tablets, to televisions, to MP3 players, to eBook readers.

Widescreen monitor reviews

We test 13 widescreen monitors from 21" to 27".

21 Jun 2011 | We put 13 widescreen desktop monitors to the test, across three size categories – 21.5”, 23”-24” and 27” – to see how they compare.

TV redemptions

CHOICE puts the redemption process to the test.

7 Apr 2011 | With so many hoops to jump through, are the free goodies offered by redemption promotions really worth it?

Energy efficient home guide

We look at energy savings everyone can make.

30 Mar 2011 | We've used our CHOICE testing to bring you a comprehensive list of energy-efficient products for your home.

Sony PlayTV

This add-on device for PlayStation3 owners has its limitations.

3 Dec 2009 | The Sony PlayTV struggles to provide an effective two-in-one games console and personal video recorder machine.

Samsung HT-BD review

The Samsung HT-BD2 is the first of a new category: the Blu-ray home theatre system.

17 Jul 2008 | CHOICE tested it alongside several other models that were Blu-ray players only to see how it would rate as a player.

Board

CHOICE Council elections 2010

CHOICE has a new Council member following elections, the results of which were announced at our AGM on Friday, 26 November.

1 Dec 2010 |

Bodicheck

Digital baby thermometer reviews

A good thermometer is a must-have for any home with kids.

25 Jul 2012 | We review 10 digital probe thermometers that are suitable for babies and toddlers, as well as older children and adults.

Bodum

Handheld mixer reviews

Handheld mixers are compact and efficient helpers for the baking enthusiast.

10 May 2012 | We've reviewed 17 handheld mixers and found they are one of the handiest appliances to have in your kitchen.

Bodyboards

Surfboards  

Find out which is best with CHOICE’s round up of the latest surfboard options.

10 Dec 2007 | Recently, a new type of mass produced epoxy surfboard arrived on the market which the makers claim is more suitable for novice surfers than the traditional fibreglass surfboard.

Bodyboards buying guide

Bodyboards are more affordable, less tiring, safer and easier to transport than surfboards.

29 Oct 2007 | Bodyboards are a great way to hit the surf without going through the hard yards of learning to surf.

Body numbers

Body numbers

We run through the top five numbers and what you should be aiming for as a healthy adult.

28 Nov 2007 | There are lots of numbers and measurements used to describe health. We explain what they all mean.

Body-paint

Horror make-up set recall

If children absorb lead through their skin, they can suffer significant and sometimes permanent health effects.

28 Oct 2011 | PJ SAS Trading Pty Ltd is recalling horror make-up sets sold in various discout variety stores.

Bonsoy

Milk alternatives review

If you can't or won't drink cow's milk, what are your options?

26 Apr 2012 | We review soy, rice, oat, coconut and almond non-dairy milk alternatives to see how they stack up nutritionally.

Books

Borders-and-Angus-and-Robertson-declare-dividends-for-gift-card-holders

Creditors announce the only dividend for gift card holders of the now defunct booksellers

12 Aug 2011 | Borders and Angus & Robertson Gift card holders must complete a gift card claim form by September 1 to receive their dividend.

Book Buying Guide

It's little surprise that overseas shopping sites are turning up some of the best bargains.

5 Apr 2011 | Chain, independent or online book retailers – we size up the options.

Retailers to stop accepting gift cards

Borders and Angus & Roberston customers must also use gift cards before 3 April.

24 Mar 2011 | Borders and Angus & Roberston will stop accepting gift cards from the beginning of April.

Boori

CHOICE Expectant Parents Guide

A one-stop shop for parents in the making

12 Mar 2013 | Prepare for the arrival of your little bundle with our comprehensive guide for parents to be.

Cot reviews

We provide test results for 83 cots, including 10 newly tested models.

8 Mar 2013 | The mandatory Australian standard aims to benchmark all cots to a safe level, but some failures slip through the cracks.

booster-seats

Booster seat reviews

Many children have restraints that are too big for them and graduate to adult seatbelts too early.

12 Sep 2012 | We review 12 new booster seats suitable for children aged from about four to eight years, looking at ease of use and ease of fitting.

Borrowing

Move your money

Help shift the balance of power in banking back towards consumers.

14 Mar 2012 | Sign the Move Your Money petition and deliver a message to the ‘big four’ bank CEOs that enough is enough.

Home loan fact sheet shadow shop

The results of our key facts sheet shadow shop were unpleasantly surprising.

19 Feb 2012 | While most of the institutions we visited do provide key fact sheets on their websites, overall it seems that bank staff have little or no idea the fact sheets even exist.

Refinancing-your-home-loan

We uncover the path to finding the best mortgage and making the most of your money.

16 Sep 2011 | Switch and save and take a fresh look at the interest rates on your home loan. We take you through the basics and present some easy options to put you on the fast track to a better deal.

Reverse mortgages

A reverse mortgage can help fund your retirement. CHOICE outlines the risks.

2 Nov 2010 | Reverse mortgages target homeowners aged 60 and older who want to borrow money against the value of their property.

How to cope with interest rate increases

Rates are on the rise again.

6 Apr 2010 | The RBA increased interest rates by 0.25% in April 2010.

Dont get bitten by the card sharks

The cash rate has fallen dramatically, yet banks are failing to pass on the savings to consumers and have hiked up credit card interest rates.

11 Jun 2009 | At a time when more people are struggling with debt and relying on credit to see them through, banks are nudging up credit card interest rates.

Debt relief

If you lose your job, how will you pay your bills? CHOICE outlines your options.

20 Apr 2009 | Debt relief companies are reporting extreme cases of consumers carrying up to $400,000 in credit card debt on 50 separate credit cards.

Reward cards review and compare

CHOICE crunches the numbers to find the most rewarding cards for frequent flyer, shopping and cash rewards.

19 Mar 2009 | We analysed 63 reward credit and charge cards, looking at frequent flyer points, shopping vouchers and cash rewards.

Credit protection insurance sham

Credit protection insurance makes an easy dollar for lenders and insurers, but for consumers there are far smarter options.

2 Mar 2009 | Our investigation concludes that credit protection insurance is a rip-off, as other options give you far better and cheaper cover.

Fixed rate loan pain

Home owners who locked in their loans 12 months ago now pay about 30% more interest than those on variable rates.

6 Feb 2009 | Fixed rates have now come down to about their lowest point in the past 10 years.

Mortage stress your alternatives

Are tougher economic times squeezing your household budget? Know your options and rights if you're struggling to make mortgage repayments.

3 Feb 2009 | In this report, we explain a range of options available if you’re experiencing mortgage difficulties.

Home loans switch and save

Find the best mortgage. Here's how to save thousands on your home loan.

2 Oct 2008 | The best savings were achieved by switching to a credit union or an online subsidiary of a major bank – and you can’t get any of those loans through mortgage brokers.

Control your credit card

We explain how to make the most of your credit card and keep out of debt.

20 May 2008 | At a time when more people are struggling with debt and relying on credit to see them through, banks are nudging up credit card interest rates.

How to choose a home loan

Use our tips to negotiate the mortgage maze.

19 May 2008 | For some people, flexibility and peace of mind are important, and there are a range of home loan options that offer such benefits.

Using mortgage brokers

How to avoid the traps and get the most from a mortgage broker when shopping around for a home loan.

21 Apr 2008 | If brokers’ advertisements and claims are to be believed, they’re the answer for anyone seeking a loan to suit their circumstances.

Fast-track your mortgage

The best way to own your home sooner is to get a cheap loan and make higher payments, more often.

1 Mar 2008 | Extra repayments can have a huge effect. Our case studies were amazed at how modest extra payments could save tens of thousands in interest.

Margin loans

Borrowing to invest can make your money work harder but it's a risky strategy in a volatile market.

7 Feb 2008 | The margin loan is secured against the investment you make with it and/or other investments you have.

Risky home loans

We expose the traps of new types of loans, including 40-year mortgages and no-deposit home loans.

5 Jan 2008 | With first homes averaging $430,000 and housing affordability at a record low, new types of loan may seem tempting — but are they safe?

Reverse mortgage shadow shop

Our shadow shop revealed poor advice and information from reverse mortgage sellers.

27 Feb 2007 | Originally reverse mortgages were sold directly by the lender, but in the last few years mortgage brokers have started to offer these products.

Credit cards fact sheet

Choosing the wrong type of credit card can end up costing you a fortune in interest.

15 Nov 2000 | Some cards charge 18% to 20% annually, while others charge interest rates below 10%, so it's well worth shopping around.

bosch

Washing machine reviews  

We’ve tested more than 50 washing machines, including models from Samsung, Fisher & Paykel, LG and Midea.

10 May 2013 | Find out which models compare favourably when assessed for dirt removal, rinse performance and water and energy efficiency.

Dishwasher reviews  

We take the guesswork out of buying your next dishwasher, with models from Asko, Bosch, Miele and Westinghouse among those on test.

9 Apr 2013 | We've rated 20 dishwashers on their washing and drying performance, energy and water efficiency.

Clothes dryer reviews

We put 24 clothes dryers to the test, including vented, condenser and electric heat pump condenser models, and one gas dryer.

3 Apr 2013 | We put the latest clothes dryers through rigorous tests in our labs. Find out which are the best performers.

Fridge reviews  

We put the major refrigerators through their paces in our laboratories.

8 Feb 2013 | See performance results for fridges from major brands including Westinghouse, Fisher and Paykel, Electrolux, LG and Samsung.

Electric built-in oven reviews

Most electric ovens do a pretty good job in our tests, but if you want perfection our recommended models stand out from the pack.

5 Dec 2012 | We compare over 48 ovens, with and without self-cleaning features, priced from $629 to $3999.

Ceramic cooktop reviews

Ceramic cooktops have the looks, and they perform well too.

2 Oct 2012 | Ceramic cooktops have easy-to-clean surfaces and a mid-range price tag. Which ones perform best?

Stick vacuum cleaner reviews

We test 12 stick vacuums, ranging in price between $100 and $459.

26 Sep 2012 | These stick vacuums are handy around the home and most separate into a handheld vac as well.

Lawn trimmer reviews

Petrol, cordless or electric? We outline which lawn trimmer is best for your backyard.

7 Sep 2012 | We test 28 petrol, electric and cordless lawn trimmers (also known as whipper snippers), ranging from $49 to $399.

Hedge trimmer reviews

We check out cordless battery-powered and electric hedge trimmers priced from $59 to $299.

27 Aug 2012 | Electric and battery-powered hedge trimmers are handy for keeping wayward hedges at bay - but which type should you go for?

Induction cooktop reviews

Fast heating and safety are big pros for this kitchen appliance.

14 Feb 2012 | The initial purchase price is high but the features of an induction cooktop might make it worth your while.

Expensive vacuum cleaner reviews

We test high-end vacuum cleaners priced from $600 to $1099.

24 Nov 2011 | CHOICE reveals which expensive vacuum cleaners earn their keep, and whether it's necessary to spend up to $1000 on a model.

Dual fuel 90cm stove reviews

These sleek stoves are designed for use as either freestanding units or to fit between cabinets.

14 Oct 2011 | CHOICE reviews dual fuel freestanding 90cm stoves, with test results for 6 dual-fuel ranges priced from $1999 to $3699.

Bose

Wireless speakers reviews  

Wireless speakers let you play music while keeping your smartphone or music player close to hand.

17 Apr 2013 | We review 16 wireless speakers, priced from $199 to $799, including models from Sony, Bose Pioneer, Sonos and Logitech.

Headphones and earphones reviews

Headphones have become a fashion accessory, but there’s a lot more to them than whether they match your threads.

10 Apr 2013 | CHOICE reviews 16 pairs of headphones, priced from $198 to $300, including models from Beats, Bose, Fanny Wang and Ultrasone.

Soundbar reviews

We've tested nine soundbars that help improve your TV's sound.

13 Nov 2012 | All the soundbars on test deliver better sound than you’ll get from your TV, but some demand a lot more money than others for the privilege.

Noise-cancelling headphones and earphones reviews

These gadgets keep the music happening without driving your neighbours mad.

4 Apr 2012 | Test results for seven noise-cancelling headphones and six noise-cancelling earphones.

iPod speaker dock reviews

Some can be used as a sound system for a flat, but most will struggle if you turn them up.

1 Mar 2012 | Price is no guarantee of quality when it comes to iPod docks.

Boston-Acoustics

Soundbar reviews

We've tested nine soundbars that help improve your TV's sound.

13 Nov 2012 | All the soundbars on test deliver better sound than you’ll get from your TV, but some demand a lot more money than others for the privilege.

Bowers & Wilkins

Wireless speakers reviews  

Wireless speakers let you play music while keeping your smartphone or music player close to hand.

17 Apr 2013 | We review 16 wireless speakers, priced from $199 to $799, including models from Sony, Bose Pioneer, Sonos and Logitech.

iPod speaker dock reviews

Some can be used as a sound system for a flat, but most will struggle if you turn them up.

1 Mar 2012 | Price is no guarantee of quality when it comes to iPod docks.

Braun

Handheld blender reviews

These handy appliances can blend soups and prepare baby food.

18 May 2012 | We review 26 stick blenders, priced from $10 to $209, including models from Bamix, Breville, Philips and Sunbeam.

Christmas gift guide

We've trawled our test results to bring you a range of great gift ideas.

16 Nov 2011 | From digital cameras to kitchen gadgets, our gift ideas cater to all budgets.

Men's electric shavers

An electric shaver is all about portability, convenience, and speed, but which one can deliver all this and a smooth shave?

2 Aug 2011 | We recruited four regular electric shaver users to test 5 rotary and 7 foil shavers priced from $59 to $600.

Breakfast

Toaster review

We’ve tested 30 two- and four-slice toasters including models from Breville, Kambrook, Russell Hobbs and Cuisinart.

8 May 2013 | Never mind the bells and whistles, we reveal which models, priced from $20 to $399, perform their most basic function the best.

Breakfast cereal reviews  

Which cereals make the nutritional grade?

4 Oct 2012 | We look beyond the names and claims to uncover the breakfast cereals that provide the most nutritious start to your day.

Milk alternatives review

If you can't or won't drink cow's milk, what are your options?

26 Apr 2012 | We review soy, rice, oat, coconut and almond non-dairy milk alternatives to see how they stack up nutritionally.

Muesli reviews

We reviewed 159 mueslis to find the best ones for you, whatever your preferences.

17 Aug 2011 | CHOICE reviews 159 mueslis from supermarkets and health food stores to find those that meet our criteria for lowest fat, lowest sugar, highest fibre and more.

How to cook crispy bacon

How to get that perfectly crisp bacon.

21 Jan 2011 | Cook's CHOICE shares the tips on how to cook crispy bacon.

Breakfast Plum Cake

CHOICE recipe for Breakfast Plum Cake with lemon syrup

8 Jun 2010 | Known as plum cake, it's tasty and worth going back for more.

Multigrain bread reviews

Multigrain breads can be top scorers for taste and texture, and rate well nutritionally.

6 May 2010 | We size up the main varieties you'll find at your supermarket.

Coffee roasters

True coffee connoisseurs may consider this purchase obligatory.

25 Nov 2009 | Cheaper than buying coffee in a supermarket, roasters also give you fresh coffee on tap.

Milk products compared

So many milk brands, so much marketing hype. CHOICE shows you where to find the real value.

10 Sep 2009 | CHOICE has skimmed off the marketing hype and found that generic brands of milk are much the same as the equivalent big national brands.

Breakfast cereals buying guide

For many of us, ready-to-eat breakfast cereals are a staple food, and a good one can be the perfect kick-start to the day.

29 May 2009 | We looked at over 300 cereals and mueslis to find the ones that are best for you nutritionally.

Jams vs fruit spreads review and compare

In the battle between jam and fruit spreads, CHOICE taste testers discover true value.

20 May 2009 | The term fruit spread sounds so much healthier than jam. The reality is while jam has its own food standard and strict definition, fruit spread doesn’t.

Children's cereal reviews

We highlight the best for everyday eating out of over 40 childrens' cereals.

1 May 2009 | A good breakfast cereal can be the perfect start to the day, but children's cereals among the worst for excessive sugar and salt.

Breadmakers review and compare

If there’s no bakery nearby, why not make your own bread?

9 Jul 2007 | Whether you use a premix or create your bread from scratch, all breadmakers can make bread of many kinds, rolls, pizza dough, focaccia, yeast-free bread, cakes… even jam.

Bread and superbread

Can bread really make you brainier?

15 Sep 2006 | Claims that certain breads keep you regular, are good for your heart, or make your kids brainier are mainly marketing hype. The healthiest breads are those made from whole grains — plain old wholemeal and multigrain.

Four slice toaters review and compare

Will price guarantee a better toaster?

2 Mar 2006 | Today's toasters come in a range of colours and sizes to suit individual needs but how are they at toasting bread?

Breakfast-cereals

Daily intake percentage labels discredited  

A new report finds the front-of-pack labelling system is too confusing for consumers to understand.

28 Nov 2011 | Research has confirmed CHOICE's long-held belief that Percentage Daily Intake labels are confusing and based on inconsistent serving sizes.

Breastfeeding

Pregnancy multivitamin supplements

Are they essential, or just a pricey gimmick?

1 Sep 2011 | There are plenty of specialist multivitamin on the market for conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Can they be beneficial or are they just a gimmick?

Managing pain in pregnancy

With the right advice you can take pain relief without harming your baby.

31 May 2011 | A look at the risks and benefits of taking common over-the-counter pain medications while pregnant or breastfeeding and where to go for advice.

Nutrition guide for breastfeeding mothers  

Maintaining mother's good health is one of the keys to successful breastfeeding.

20 May 2011 | How much more do breastfeeding mothers need to eat and which foods they should focus on to stay as healthy as possible?

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding provides significant health benefits for mother and baby.

5 Sep 2009 | The Australian government and the World Health Organisation recommend babies are exclusively breastfeed until six months of age.

Bottle feeding

If you're bottlefeeding your baby here's what you need to know about formula and equipment.

24 Jul 2003 | If you don’t breastfeed your baby you’ll need to choose a formula; cow’s milk shouldn't be used as the primary milk drink in the first year of life.

Breastfeeding

Breast milk is the ideal food for newborn babies — it’s perfectly designed to nourish your baby.

15 Jul 2003 | There are a number of reasons why breast is best.

Breathalysers

Can you trust personal breathalysers?   

CHOICE trialled electronic and disposable breathalysers and the results were disturbing.

4 Sep 2009 | Personal breathalysers give an indication of a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). CHOICE trialled nine priced below $200.

Breathalysers review and compare

Can you rely on a personal breathalyser to tell when you're over the legal limit?

9 Dec 2005 | While this was a small trial, based on its results we wouldn't recommend buying any of the six tested models.

Brenlea

Brenlea Blue-V sunglasses recall

The right lens doesn't meet the mandatory standard, and could affect the ability to judge the distance of objects.

23 Sep 2011 | The right lens doesn't meet the mandatory standard, and could affect the ability to judge the distance of objects, particularly moving objects.

breville

Pizza makers home test

CHOICE member John Eleftheriou and his family trial four pizza makers.

24 Apr 2013 | Our home tester and his family trialled four pizza makers - find out which one they preferred.

Home espresso coffee machine reviews  

Which machines will deliver the perfect cup of coffee at home?

20 Dec 2012 | We test 23 coffee machines, a mix of semi-automatic, manual and capsule machines priced from $70 to $1750.

Breville Sous Vide First Look

A cooking technique that cooks foods perfectly, but is it a kitchen necessity?

8 Oct 2012 | Sous Vide is a cooking technique that requires foods to be vacuum packed and heated at controlled temperatures over a period of time.

Breville the Fresh Keeper First Look

This appliance allows you to vacuum pack your food at home.

24 Sep 2012 | Breville now has a food sealing device in their range, to complement its Sous Vide appliance.

Handheld blender reviews

These handy appliances can blend soups and prepare baby food.

18 May 2012 | We review 26 stick blenders, priced from $10 to $209, including models from Bamix, Breville, Philips and Sunbeam.

Benchtop blender reviews

Make cocktails, crush ice or create smoothies with ease.

16 May 2012 | We tested 10 benchtop blenders, priced from $20 to $379 and found the most expensive models performed the best.

Handheld mixer reviews

Handheld mixers are compact and efficient helpers for the baking enthusiast.

10 May 2012 | We've reviewed 17 handheld mixers and found they are one of the handiest appliances to have in your kitchen.

CHOICE Awards 2012  

Our experts hand out bouquets to the worthy recipients.

28 Mar 2012 | The third annual CHOICE Awards is our chance to celebrate the people, products, services and brands that improve the lives of consumers every day.

Coffee grinder reviews

They all grind coffee, but which coffee grinder does it best?

17 Feb 2012 | Grinding your coffee beans immediately before making coffee is the best way to extract their full flavour.

Benchtop oven reviews

Benchtop ovens are cheap and convenient but can get dangerously hot.

9 Feb 2012 | CHOICE reviews six small benchtop or toaster ovens, priced $109 to $300.

Gift ideas for the kitchen

These gift ideas will please any budding amateur chef.

29 Nov 2011 | CHOICE picks the kitchen gadgets that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to cook.

Christmas gift guide

We've trawled our test results to bring you a range of great gift ideas.

16 Nov 2011 | From digital cameras to kitchen gadgets, our gift ideas cater to all budgets.

Sandwich press reviews

A sandwich press is a handy appliance if you like cafe-style lunches

21 Sep 2011 | Our latest test reveals which sandwich makers will easily turn your favourite sangers into mouthwatering snacks.

Breville fast slow cooker first look

This reasonably priced appliance is ideal if you’re pressed for time.

5 Aug 2011 | Looking to save time in the kitchen? The Breville fast slow cooker offers four functions in one cooker.

Bridgestone

Car tyre 215/60R16 reviews  

You can’t rely on price, tread pattern or brand name to find the best-performing tyre.

10 May 2012 | We review 18 brands of car tyres (215/60R16) priced from $105 to $229 each.

Britax

Booster seat reviews

Many children have restraints that are too big for them and graduate to adult seatbelts too early.

12 Sep 2012 | We review 12 new booster seats suitable for children aged from about four to eight years, looking at ease of use and ease of fitting.

Broadband

ISP satisfaction survey

CHOICE's latest survey reveals the ISPs worth celebrating.

27 Oct 2011 | The survey results show which internet sevice providers performed best, how satisfied users were with service, speed, costs and billing, and trends in our use of the internet.

Telstra USB 4G broadband modem

It's not the cheapest wireless broadband option, but its one of the fastest.

13 Oct 2011 | Telstra claims its new USB 4G modem is up to 10 times faster than other 3G wireless internet options.

Broadband plan reviews

ADSL and ADSL2 plans can be a minefield of fine print and confusing pricing. Our interactive tables help to make sense of it all.

4 Feb 2010 | CHOICE details the main things to look for in this fiercely competitive market.

Miro review

Is the internet the future of TV? We take a look.

13 Aug 2009 | With thousands of internet TV "channels" available, how do you find something worth watching?

The future of broadband

Plans to upgrade the broadband network need to be carefully considered

29 Apr 2009 | In April 2009 the Federal Government announced it will establish a new company that will invest up to $43 billion over 8 years to build and operate a National Broadband Network.

Broadband basics

Make sense of the bits and bytes.

16 Apr 2008 | CHOICE's simple guide to broadband tells you what you need to know in order to choose the right broadband plan.

Net filtering software review and compare

Keep your child safe from internet nasties with net filtering software.

15 Jan 2008 | Internet filtering software helps to block unwanted content. But is your child really safe to browse the Web unsupervised with one of these programs in place?

ADSL2

ADSL2 is the new kid on the broadband block.

7 Apr 2007 | More households are opting for broadband over dial-up internet services, looking for better speeds and fewer delays and disruptions.

Brother-printers

Colour multifunction printers review

These colour multifunction printers are convenient options, but should you go for inkjet printers or laser printers?

1 Mar 2013 | We review 53 colour multifunction printers including inkjet and laser models, priced from $59 to $1599.

Technology reliability survey

Just how reliable are your tech devices?

13 Nov 2012 | The CHOICE technology reliability survey reports on what types of problems can go wrong with common computer devices.

Browsers

Web TV grows up

The age of streaming TV over the internet is here. How do you take advantage of it?

2 Aug 2011 | More and more TV content is becoming available over the internet, both via browsers and direct to your TV with new hardware.

Build a better browser

CHOICE Computer's pick of the best add-ons for Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome

13 Apr 2011 | All major internet browsers - Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome - come with a host of add-ons to supercharge your browsing.

Shortcut keys for Windows

A quick reference guide to the most useful key combinations.

11 Feb 2011 | This is the quick reference guide to Windows shortcut keys from CC Jan/Feb 2011.

Google Chrome review

Google polishes up its web presence.

1 Oct 2008 | Do we need another web browser, when we already have Interet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Opera and others to choose from?

Budgeting

Personal financial software

We look at some of the way you can use personal financial software to manage your home budget.

19 Aug 2011 | Everyone has money concerns, but can personal financial packages help track expenses and manage your budget? We look at some of the online alternatives.

Ten easy household saving tips

If the GFC taught us anything it's the benefit of saving for a rainy day, here are some simple ways to spend less and save money.

1 Apr 2011 | There are simple ways to modify your everyday spending to ensure your money goes further. CHOICE shows you how.

Getting the most from product warranties  

Use our tools to insist on your rights when products don’t work as they should. And help us pressure retailers to sign our Fair Warranty Charter.

3 Dec 2009 | You have a legal right to ask your retailer to repair or replace faulty goods – or give you a refund.

Building a budget

It's time to work out your budget.

20 Apr 2009 | Most people are getting income from one source — a salary. However, with increasingly complicated employment and the odd savvy person making money from investments, it might not be that simple.

Shoes cost comparison

Is there any excuse for some shoes costing 12 times as much as others?

1 Jul 2008 | If you’ve ever lusted after a pair of designer shoes, you’ve no doubt come up with a long list of reasons why spending $500 on some to-die-for heels is a good idea.

Buffalo

Portable storage drive reviews  

We test 10 portable storage drives including 2.5 inch hard drives and solid-state drives.

26 Mar 2012 | CHOICE tests 10 super-fast high capacity portable storage drives to see how they compare.

Bugaboo

Stroller and pram reviews  

We've tested 128 strollers for safety, durability and ease of use.

15 May 2013 | Find out which strollers, including newly tested Baby Jogger, Bugaboo, Childcare and Steelcraft models, meet our exacting safety standards.

Bugaboo Bee Stroller recall

The front wheels may suddenly lock up whilst the stroller is in motion, causing the stroller to topple.

4 Oct 2011 | Bugaboo Bee strollers manufactured between January 2011 and 15 September 2011 may have a front swivel wheel that can lock up during use.

Bugatti

Home espresso coffee machine reviews  

Which machines will deliver the perfect cup of coffee at home?

20 Dec 2012 | We test 23 coffee machines, a mix of semi-automatic, manual and capsule machines priced from $70 to $1750.

Bundaberg

Bundaberg Burgundee Creaming Soda recall

An increased pH level in the beverage may cause fermentation and a risk of the product shattering.

20 Oct 2011 | Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Pty Ltd is recalling Burgundee Creaming Soda because of an increased risk of the product shattering.

Bunnings

Customer service shadow shop

Our customer service shadow shop produces mixed results for major retailers.

26 Sep 2012 | How do Australia's bricks and mortar retailers stack up when it comes to customer service? We shadow shop Australia's 10 most popular retailers.

BUPA

Guide to switching health insurers

Have you been slugged by the recent rise in premiums? It might be time to review your cover, switch and save.

28 Mar 2013 | As health insurance premiums go up by 5.6% on average, now’s a good time to check that the amount you’re paying is justified by what you’re getting in return.

Health insurance comparisons

Our health insurance reviews are a prescription for painless health cover.

1 Nov 2012 | Annual health insurance premiums are set to rise by 5.6% on average from 1 April 2013.

Buses

Scania K Series Buses recall

Inadequate clamping force in the track rod ball joint clamp could lead to reduced steering control.

14 Oct 2011 | Scania Australia is recalling K Series Buses sold in Victoria and Western Australia.

Mercedes Benz 0500LE Bus recall

Fuel could leak and may ignite, causing an engine fire.

29 Sep 2011 | Mercedes-Benz is recalling 0500 LE Bus vehicles, sold nationally between July 2006 and March 2009.

Bush

Digital radio reviews

Is digital a better option than analog? We review 23 digital radios, priced from $59 to $349, to see how they perform.

4 Feb 2013 | We've tested portable digital radios from Bush, Pure, Roberts and Sangean among others for sound quality, ease of operation and their ability to hold a signal.

PVR reviews   

Take control of your TV with your personal video recorder.

1 Nov 2012 | We review 17 of the latest PVRs including models with DVD/Blu-ray drives, priced between $279 and $999.

HD set-top box reviews  

A high-definition set-top box is an inexpensive way to upgrade to digital TV.

13 Oct 2011 | We put 14 set-top boxes, priced from $80 to $150, through their paces, and find out which ones come out on top.

Business

Responsible businesses honoured

CHOICE is pleased many major companies are committing to greater accountability and doing their best to become more socially and environmentally responsible.

1 Jun 2009 | As consumer demand increases for businesses to become more responsible in areas affecting the community, many companies are rising to the challenge and proving their worth.

Running a small business on eBay

Ordinary people are making big profits using the online auction house.

26 Feb 2008 | According to 2006 ACNielsen research, there are more than 52,700 professional eBay sellers in Australia gaining their primary or secondary income through the site.

Laser printer reviews

We tested 12 budget laser printers to see which ones come up best.

30 Aug 2007 | As price comes down and quality improves, a laser printer is a good choice for small-scale print runs.

Buying a computer

Buying guide desktops

We reveal what you need to consider when buying a desktop computer.

7 May 2013 | Find the right desktop computer within your budget with our comprehensive guide.

Computer recycling

e-waste recycling is vital in preventing toxic materials in old electronic equipment from leaching into the environment. Here's how you can do your bit to help.

1 May 2013 | We look at the environmental impacts of improperly disposing of old electronic equipment, how you can make "greener" purchasing decisions and where you can take your devices to be recycled or refurbished.

Gadget gift guide for Christmas

Gadgets and gizmos always make great presents for the tech-savvy and tech-curious.

23 Nov 2011 | We round up the best technology buys, from tablets, to televisions, to MP3 players, to eBook readers.

Laptops buying guide  

Take the guess work out of choosing your next laptop.

15 Mar 2011 | Our laptop report tells you all you need to know about memory, storage, connections, wireless, the processor, software, power supply and the screen.

Laptops buying guide  

Take the guess work out of choosing your next laptop.

15 Mar 2011 | Our laptop report tells you all you need to know about memory, storage, connections, wireless, the processor, software, power supply and the screen.

Budget computer monitor reviews

Big monitors can outlast your PC and you can pick up a good one for less than $300.

8 Mar 2010 | We tested 16 widescreen displays for performance and ease of use - eight models in the 22-inch class and eight in the 24-inch class.

External 1TB Hard Drive Reviews

One terabyte external hard drives – give your PC a welcome capacity boost for less than $200.

8 Jan 2010 | The quickest and most cost-effective way to add massive storage space to your computer system.

Getting the most from product warranties  

Use our tools to insist on your rights when products don’t work as they should. And help us pressure retailers to sign our Fair Warranty Charter.

3 Dec 2009 | You have a legal right to ask your retailer to repair or replace faulty goods – or give you a refund.