Scan your way to healthier food choices.
19 Jan 2012 |
Consumers can now use their iPhones to scan food barcodes and instantly see traffic light information thanks to an app developed by The George Institute and BUPA.
Where are your products made? It's unlikely that you'll find a major product manufactured that is made wholly in one country.
11 Jan 2012 |
CHOICE lists country of origin on whitegoods and appliances and other non-food products due to our members' wishes.
We take a look at the implications of weak labelling requirements for sustainable seafood.
20 Dec 2011 |
Are the big supermarkets’ sustainable fish-sourcing strategies bona fide or merely a marketing hook?
The results are a mixed bag.
13 Dec 2011 |
Ministers have handed down their decisions on the future of food labelling, and the menu contains mixed results for consumers.
23 Sep 2011 |
The food industry’s response to CHOICE’s Shame the Claim campaign has missed the point and simply added to consumers’ confusion.
Nutrition claims on food labels often don't tell the full story.
15 Sep 2011 |
Seductive labels on food that promise less saturated fat, no added sugar or a bumper amount of wholegrains often don't tell the whole nutritional story.
Coalition supports Xenophon on palm oil
24 Jun 2011 |
CHOICE says consumers look likely to benefit with the Federal coalition joining independent Senator Nick Xenophon in agreeing to support legislation for mandatory labelling of palm oil in all Australian foods.
The jargon surrounding country of origin confuses consumers.
10 May 2011 |
Our survey revealed Australian consumers are passionate about buying Aussie products, but do they understand claims about the origin of the food they are purchasing?
The jargon surrounding country of origin confuses consumers.
10 May 2011 |
Our survey revealed Australian consumers are passionate about buying Aussie products, but do they understand claims about the origin of the food they are purchasing?
The jargon surrounding country of origin confuses consumers.
10 May 2011 |
Our survey revealed Australian consumers are passionate about buying Aussie products, but do they understand claims about the origin of the food they are purchasing?
The jargon surrounding country of origin confuses consumers.
10 May 2011 |
Our survey revealed Australian consumers are passionate about buying Aussie products, but do they understand claims about the origin of the food they are purchasing?
CHOICE welcomes new legislation on country of origin claims, but believes the standards could be stronger.
11 Jan 2011 |
CHOICE welcomes new legislation on country of origin claims, but believes the standards could be stronger.
More than 1000 CHOICE members reveal their top gripes.
1 Oct 2010 |
Hidden fees, faulty products, endless phone menus - Australians' biggest complaints are consumer and/or product-related.
We trawled the supermarket aisles and found 21 brands of toilet paper, then star-rated them according to their sustainability claims.
28 Sep 2010 |
Toilet paper packaging sports a massive amount of greenwash, so which green claims are true?
CHOICE wants the implemention of a system that helps the greatest number of consumers.
15 Dec 2009 |
An approach to front-of-pack labelling that helps consumers make healthier food choices.
You can't judge a book by its cover – what about food by its label?
20 Jan 2009 |
Food labelling can be a minefield of confusion and misinformation. Labelling legislation offers some relief, but often isn't sufficiently enforced.
You'll be surprised at how well-travelled your food is.
28 Oct 2008 |
Food miles advocates are calling for localised eating to counter the number of imported products on our supermarket shelves. But is it even possible to eat well on food grown within about 160km of where you live?
Supermarket items make all sorts of green claims but can you trust them?
6 May 2008 |
CHOICE is campaigning to make sure green claims are honest and useful, because consumers should be able to sort the true green products from the greenwash.
Save water and money by choosing water efficient products.
15 Mar 2008 |
The water efficiency label allows consumers to compare the water efficiency of different products.
Check the label - your choice can influence your energy bill for years.
8 Jan 2008 |
Choosing an energy-efficient model will save you money. And because most electricity generation produces greenhouse gases, it’s better for the environment too.
If you buy free-range, how do you make sure you get what you pay for?
6 Mar 2007 |
Free-range can mean a variety of things — the only common bottom line is that the general welfare requirements under state-based animal welfare acts and codes must be met.
All new cars sold must carry a fuel consumption label — so it's easier to compare and buy a fuel-efficient one.
28 May 2006 |
All new passenger cars, 4WDs and commercial vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes have to show the new fuel consumption label, we explain how it works.
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.
We take a sneak peek at the 17.3” Medion Akoya laptop.
21 Nov 2011 |
We get in early to take a sneak peek at the latest Medion Akoya laptop from Aldi, ahead of its release this Saturday.
Some of these general purpose family laptops offer unprecedented performance and value.
11 Nov 2011 |
We test 12 laptops that suit the whole family, with models ranging between $730 and $2100.
The world wide web is your stage with these eight high definition webcams.
9 Nov 2011 |
Thanks to the Internet age, creating and sharing video content is as simple as talking to a camera on top of your PC.
This media streaming device allows you to put small pictures on the big screen.
20 Oct 2011 |
Streaming high definition video from your laptop to your TV has never been this easy.
A hands-on look at Dell's stylish 15-inch laptop
17 Oct 2011 |
Dell's 15-inch XPS15z laptop exudes an image of professionalism, but how does it perform?
We test 11 desktop computers including all-in-ones and stand-alone models.
23 Jun 2011 |
Should you buy a stand-alone tower computer or an all-in-one? We test 11 desktop computers to see how they compare.
We test 23 models across nine brands to help you decide which tablet computer best suits your needs and budget.
7 Jun 2011 |
How does the flood of new tablets on the market measure up to the iconic iPad?
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.
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.
Can you save money by using cheaper ink alternatives, and are they as good as the manufacturer’s own inks?
15 Mar 2011 |
Non-genuine ink may be a money-saving option, depending on your printer.
This cleaning gel cleans the improbable.
7 Mar 2011 |
This cleaning gel claims to remove the grime found in keyboards and other electronic devices.
We test 10 go-anywhere laptops that won't weigh you down.
28 Feb 2011 |
It’s the holy grail of laptop computing – a compact device you can carry everywhere, but with all the features you need at a reasonable price.
We review the offerings of the most popular providers to reveal the best options.
3 Dec 2010 |
Wireless broadband is now faster and cheaper than ever before.
Is bigger really better? We test 10 laptops with screens 17 inches and more.
11 Nov 2010 |
Sometimes there’s just no substitute for more screen real estate.
These mini PCs and all-in-ones start from about $580 and are a good solution for basic home computing needs.
24 May 2010 |
Most people can do just fine with the new wave of compact and inexpensive PCs for the desktop.
We test 10 laptops that give you good bang for your hard-earned buck.
24 Aug 2009 |
CHOICE tested 10 budget laptops that provide a good combination of power and features at a reasonable price.
How do your desktop and laptop, printer and digital camera stack up?
13 Jan 2009 |
The results for this year’s reliability survey are in — the good news is there's been an improvement for some products, but there are a few disappointing figures too.
Ultraportable laptops can do most of your computing tasks while on the go.
16 Oct 2008 |
If you’re always on-the-go and don’t want to leave your home or office behind, you need a laptop that won’t weigh you down — and that’s where the ultraportable category shines.
There are desktop and roaming plans but is it the high-speed internet alternative for you?
1 Oct 2008 |
Wireless internet is broadband internet access that doesn't use a telephone line or cable network.
Our tests review the latest generation multimedia laptops.
13 Jun 2008 |
If you’re looking for a successor to your trusty old desktop computer but don’t want the bulk of a traditional PC, you might want to consider a portable multimedia powerhouse instead.
Fans of Linux will appreciate this new offering from Asus — a linux-based laptop.
9 Apr 2008 |
cool, compact and cheap. At just under $500, it’s the cheapest full-featured laptop on the market.
A 19” LCD monitor will help you make the most of multimedia computing.
30 Apr 2006 |
Our research shows that prices vary by hundreds of dollars, but the more expensive brands we tested weren’t necessarily the top performers.
There are many things to consider when choosing a washing machine. CHOICE runs through the main factors for you.
11 Jan 2012 |
In our updated test we put 45 washing machines through their paces in our labs to give you independent buying advice.
There is an increased risk of the mixer leaking and in rare cases the handle & cartridge assembly may disengage from the body of the mixer.
21 Oct 2011 |
Starion Industries is recalling kitchen and laundry mixer taps sold nationally between 1st February 2010 and the 5th October 2011.
You’ll be steaming through the ironing in no time with this new steam station from Philips.
10 Oct 2011 |
This no-fuss iron comes out ahead of most of the conventional irons tested by CHOICE, but it has an expensive price tag.
OMO says these liquid capsules contain its ‘most advanced liquid ever’ – but does it deliver?
6 Oct 2011 |
CHOICE finds out whether these water soluble pods are any different to a standard liquid detergent.
Liquid or powder? CHOICE determines which detergents we should be going home with.
15 Jul 2011 |
We compare laundry detergent concentrates to find out which perform better, give the best value for money and are better for our environment.
We test 20 dryers, including a gas dryer, condenser and three electric heat pump condenser models.
24 Jan 2011 |
We put the latest dryers through a rigorous six-week test in our labs.
You don’t need to spend big bucks to get a good iron – but steer clear of the really cheap ones.
2 Dec 2010 |
CHOICE tests 11 steam irons, priced $14 to $140.
A washer/dryer combo is a tempting option when you've limited space, but there are some drawbacks.
1 Jul 2010 |
Combined washing machine and dryer units sound like the ultimate laundry convenience — you put dirty clothes in and take out clean, dry clothes.
Front loader or top loader? CHOICE tells you what to look for in a new washing machine.
1 Jul 2010 |
Use our quick buying guide to decide which type is right for you and what features you need.
Water from washing machines could end up harming your precious plants.
21 Oct 2009 |
Using grey water on your garden could save hundreds of litres of water per day. We tested wash and rinse water for potentially harmful chemicals.
Do small packets of super-concentrated laundry detergent give the same wash as their bigger brothers?
21 May 2009 |
But as the scoops supplied in both packs look similar, does less detergent mean we’re getting less wash runs for our dollar?
A six star energy-efficient dryer is now on the market, but you’ll have to dig deep upfront.
2 Apr 2009 |
Miele claims this technology saves up to 46 percent of energy used in comparable condensor dryers.
A rainy day solution or an expensive clothes rack?
16 Jun 2008 |
An unheated-clothes rack obviously costs nothing to run but you may find your clothes left to dry overnight are still damp when you need them in the morning.
The LG uses more water to dry clothes than to wash them.
8 Jun 2007 |
If you’ve listened to the marketing, you might be thinking the LG Combined Steam Washer and Dryer makes wash day more environmentally friendly.
OMO says these liquid capsules contain its ‘most advanced liquid ever’ – but does it deliver?
6 Oct 2011 |
CHOICE finds out whether these water soluble pods are any different to a standard liquid detergent.
Liquid or powder? CHOICE determines which detergents we should be going home with.
15 Jul 2011 |
We compare laundry detergent concentrates to find out which perform better, give the best value for money and are better for our environment.
Water from washing machines could end up harming your precious plants.
21 Oct 2009 |
Using grey water on your garden could save hundreds of litres of water per day. We tested wash and rinse water for potentially harmful chemicals.
Do small packets of super-concentrated laundry detergent give the same wash as their bigger brothers?
21 May 2009 |
But as the scoops supplied in both packs look similar, does less detergent mean we’re getting less wash runs for our dollar?
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.
This automated lawnmower will save you time and keep your lawn looking its best - but comes with a hefty pricetag.
27 Sep 2011 |
Husqvarna's robotic answer to the sheep could be a good option for the time-poor home-owner.
The engine may overheat and in some instances, the surrounding plastic could melt creating the risk of fire.
21 Sep 2011 |
The cooling fan installed on top of the front mounted Kawasaki engine in the lawn tractor can break, causing risk of fire.
The engine may overheat and in some instances, the surrounding plastic could melt creating the risk of fire.
21 Sep 2011 |
The cooling fan installed on top of the front mounted Kawasaki engine in the lawn tractor can break, causing risk of fire.
Mulcher mowers can give you a greener lawn and greener environment.
20 Sep 2011 |
In our updated test of 14 petrol-powered mulcher and catcher lawnmowers, we reveal which models keep your lawn looking its best.
John Deere recalls its 1600 and 1620 mowers because of safety hazards with the blades
13 Jul 2011 |
Some of the John Deere 1600 and 1620 Turbo WAMs may allow the mower blades to rotate while the decks are in the raised position. If this occurs there is a risk serious injury or death.
CHOICE tested 19 lawn trimmers, also known as whipper snippers, ranging in price from $50 to $369.
5 Jul 2010 |
While the average whipper-snipper is not great, the better-performing models may be all you need for a small backyard.
What type of mower for you? Petrol, electric, battery?
17 May 2009 |
What type of mower for you? Petrol, electric, battery? Generally petrol have the best cutting performance, though many electric models now come close.
Which lawn mower will not only cut your grass well but also have the least environmental impact?
29 Sep 2008 |
CHOICE tested both types of mowers for their performance and ease of use and checked the noise and safety of the petrol mowers as well.
Petrol trimmers outgun their cordless cousins.
1 Aug 2006 |
We tested grass trimmers for a number of things including horizontal trimming along fences and walls and ease of use.
Mulching the grass you cut makes a lot of sense, not just for environmental reasons.
9 Jan 2006 |
Most of the mowers performed well, but one of the cheaper models impressed on all fronts.
You can get a good petrol lawnmower for less than $400.
27 Oct 2005 |
Most of the models on test cut grass very well, but not all are easy to use.
CHOICE puts large HD plasma and LCD televisions to the test.
3 Feb 2012 |
Not all big HD TVs are 1920 x 1080, but that doesn't mean you can't get a good picture on a slightly lower resolution.
Our update reviews the latest models and newest technology.
31 Jan 2012 |
Get unbiased test results for the latest 81cm LCD televisions, priced from $497 to $1399.
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.
Don’t be swayed by the latest tech-speak when shopping for a new TV – just look at the picture.
31 Oct 2011 |
CHOICE reviews the latest 117cm LCD and plasma TVs, priced $1199 to $3799.
The television may ignite internally and emit smoke while in use.
14 Oct 2011 |
Sony Australia Limited is recalling some BRAVIA LCD TVs sold nationally between July 2007 and December 2008.
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.
Large screen HD plasma and LCD televisions on test. Review and compare models to find the best TV.
1 Feb 2011 |
We take the guesswork out of buying the major television brands by putting them through their paces in our specialised laboratories.
Buy the best TV. Find information on picture and sound quality, screen type, size and ease of use.
27 Jul 2010 |
Plasma or LCD TV? Buying a TV in the 21st century is no mean feat. CHOICE suggests some things to consider before you buy.
We take the guesswork out of buying the major television brands by putting them through their paces.
26 Apr 2009 |
CHOICE reveals which TVs have the best picture quality, have the best sound quality, are the easiest to use and use the least energy on standby.
A 19” LCD monitor will help you make the most of multimedia computing.
30 Apr 2006 |
Our research shows that prices vary by hundreds of dollars, but the more expensive brands we tested weren’t necessarily the top performers.
Lenders will check your credit report when you apply for credit.
18 Oct 2011 |
If you plan to apply for credit in the near future - for example, if you’re looking to buy a house - it’s a good idea to check your credit file.
CHOICE has partnered with Maurice Blackburn Lawyers to give members access to a new legal service.
26 Jul 2011 |
CHOICE Help is a pilot project for CHOICE Plus Members running until July 2012 to provide access to affordable, reliable preliminary consumer legal advice.
CHOICE campaign on consumer law has helped make significant changes implemented in the new consumer law.
1 Feb 2011 |
New laws coming into effect give Australians the same consumer rights regardless of which state they live in.
CHOICE welcomes new legislation on country of origin claims, but believes the standards could be stronger.
11 Jan 2011 |
CHOICE welcomes new legislation on country of origin claims, but believes the standards could be stronger.
The National Legal Profession Reform Taskforce wants your views on proposed reforms
20 Jul 2010 |
Many people support the idea of organ donation, but their wishes may go unfulfilled unless they take appropriate steps.
15 Jun 2010 |
It's not enough to sign a register or a tick a box to signal your intent, talk to your family about your wishes.
DIY will kits are a low-cost option for drafting a simple will. CHOICE put four to the test and found big differences.
24 Mar 2010 |
An up-to-date, detailed will is essential for protecting your loved ones. We look at the basics you need to have covered.
We look at nine common scenarios and show you how to assert your rights.
12 Jan 2010 |
What can you do when you know you’re getting a raw deal, but don't know what to do about it? Read on.
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.
Ever wondered how to contest unjust parking and speed camera fines?
15 Sep 2009 |
CHOICE found 30% of parking fine appeals to the NSW Treasury’s Office of State Revenue were successful. So what are your options?
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.
Proposed legislation will give consumers uniform protection from unfair contracts.
18 Feb 2009 |
Currently most consumer contracts in Australia include non-negotiable terms and conditions. Sometimes these include unfair terms.
Consumer protection laws are not being enforced as well as they could be.
10 Dec 2008 |
Consumer protection laws exist to ensure markets operate fairly. Good quality regulation is essential to the fair and practical operation of markets.
It's time to modernise Australia's consumer policy framework.
20 May 2008 |
Do Australia’s consumer policy settings meet consumers’ needs in the 21st century?
This diverse crop of eBook readers delivers improved screen technology, battery life and better performance.
20 Dec 2011 |
Models tested include the latest Amazon Kindles and three tablet computers including the iPad 2.
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.
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.
Some of these general purpose family laptops offer unprecedented performance and value.
11 Nov 2011 |
We test 12 laptops that suit the whole family, with models ranging between $730 and $2100.
CHOICE puts large HD plasma and LCD televisions to the test.
3 Feb 2012 |
Not all big HD TVs are 1920 x 1080, but that doesn't mean you can't get a good picture on a slightly lower resolution.
Our updated report looks at the latest HD plasma and LCD televisions.
2 Feb 2012 |
CHOICE puts the latest 102-107cm HD plasma and LCD televisions through their paces.
Our update reviews the latest models and newest technology.
31 Jan 2012 |
Get unbiased test results for the latest 81cm LCD televisions, priced from $497 to $1399.
There are many things to consider when choosing a washing machine. CHOICE runs through the main factors for you.
11 Jan 2012 |
In our updated test we put 45 washing machines through their paces in our labs to give you independent buying advice.
We head to Las Vegas to check out some of the innovative products shaping consumer technology.
11 Jan 2012 |
We take a look at some of the latest gadgets, gizmos and technologies at CES 2012.
A flatbed microwave is convenient but it's those with the turntables that still dominate the list.
19 Dec 2011 |
We review 27 microwaves priced from $109 to $490 to find out which models perform the best, and are the easiest to use.
Our testing reveals whether 22 Blu-ray players live up to the hype.
13 Dec 2011 |
Blu-ray players are the next step up from the DVD player, but how effective is the evolution?
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.
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.
Don’t be swayed by the latest tech-speak when shopping for a new TV – just look at the picture.
31 Oct 2011 |
CHOICE reviews the latest 117cm LCD and plasma TVs, priced $1199 to $3799.
Our results reveal the most effective and energy-efficient air conditioner.
22 Sep 2011 |
We review seven large air conditioners priced $1649 to $2919, to find out top scorer.
LG recalls side-by-side fridges manufactured between 2002 and 2006.
1 Jul 2011 |
LG has discovered the micro-switch inside the ice maker has the potential to deteriorate, causing the ice-maker to malfunction. Risk of fire in extreme cases.
The lights have no approval marking as evidence of mandatory testing.
9 Jan 2012 |
Aus LED Lighting is recalling LED Decorative Fairy Lights sold in Queensland.
CFLs are now common in most homes, but LEDs are beginning to move in.
4 Nov 2011 |
We test 14 CFLs plus one LED lamp, including screw and bayonet fittings in a variety of shapes.
Is this the next big thing in energy-efficient home lighting?
17 Jun 2011 |
The Philips LEDbulb is one of the first LED lamps designed for standard household light fittings.
Visibility is vital when riding a bike at night, but which bike lights are the best?
10 May 2011 |
The primary role of bike lights isn’t to help you see your way in the dark, but rather to make you visible to other road users.
Performance and price have greatly improved since our last test of CFLs.
4 Aug 2010 |
We test 15 "warm white" CFL bulbs of about 15W, including screw and bayonet fittings in a variety of shapes.
20 Sep 2011 |
The Consumer Action Law Centre, Financial Counselling Australia and the Consumer Credit Legal Centre NSW have launched a campaign to end the exploitation of vulnerable consumers by High Cost Short Term Lending, better known as 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.