State member for Logan Linus Power has called on retailers to extend the expiry dates on gift cards during this Christmas season.
“We’ve all experienced it – you finally find the time to get into town to use a shopping gift card from the previous Christmas just to find out it has expired the day before,” Mr Power said.
“Every year millions and millions of unspent dollars on gift cards expire.
“Millions in dollars wasted by gift givers and millions lost in potential shopping.”
Consumer group Choice has estimated $200 million is lost from unused gift cards every single year, representing lost Christmas gifts and Birthday presents in households across the country.
“This is $200 million of your money which you or your loved ones should have the freedom to spend,” Mr Power said.
“Gift cards shouldn’t be a sneaky revenue ploy by big retailers banking on you forgetting to use your Christmas gift cards.
“New South Wales has introduced three year minimum expiry dates on gift cards and we need to have the same in Queensland.
“It’s good for shoppers and would be great for families in our community who don’t have the time to get into town regularly.”
