ACCC accuses HP of violating Aussie consumer law

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has launched a Federal Court case against HP Australia for allegedly "misrepresenting consumer rights."

A wholly owned subsidiary of HP, HP Australia has been accused of violating the Australian Consumer Law and Fair Trading Act 2012 by making false or misleading representations to customers over warranties and their rights.

This includes leading customers to believe that they are only entitled to a replacement product if it has been repaired multiple times by HP, that consumers would have to pay for repairs done outside of the express warranty period, and that products bought through the company's online store cannot be returned or exchanged unless agreed upon by HP at its own discretion.

The ACCC also claimed that HP Australia has led retailers to believe that they would not be compensated by the vendor if they give customers a refund or replacement of an HP product without the vendor's prior authorisation.

The ACCC is seeking a number of court orders against HP Australia, including injunctions and requirement to implement a warranty-compliance program. It also wants HP to pay up for its alleged infractions.

The consumer watchdog said it is currently investigating other large manufacturers and retailers for possible breaches of the Australian consumer legislation.