Canberrans are being encouraged to shop smart, shop local, and think about both safety and sustainability when buying gifts for the coming Christmas season.
Minister for Consumer Affairs, Shane Rattenbury said everyone in the community could help keep Canberra liveable, sustainable, and looking its best.
“Sustainable gifts are better for the environment and are often better for our region too,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“Support local traders and businesses, shop smart and consider gifting experiences, rather than items to reduce waste to landfill,” he said.
He said smart and sustainable gifts could include choosing products sourced from the greater Canberra region; giving nature-based presents such as a worm farm or potted plants; giving second-hand items from op shops or online; or by giving to a family in need and supporting Canberra businesses through the GIVIT Support CBR – Christmas Appeal.
Mr Rattenbury also encouraged Canberrans to understand their rights as consumers and be aware of any risks pertaining to purchased products, particularly when buying gifts for children.
“When buying toys, it’s important to check that the gifts for young children are age appropriate and don’t pose a choking hazard,” he said.
The Minister said people could check a toy’s safety on the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Product Safety website to ensure it hadn’t been recalled and ensure gifts didn’t pose a choking hazard by using the ACCC’s Choke Check tool.
The ACCC’s Product Safety website can be accessed at this PS News link and its Choke Check tool at this link.
