‘I would have thought this was common sense’: BIG W’s new returns policy has shoppers talking

Shoppers have been hit with a major update to the retailer's returns policy, leaving some items off the list of what can be returned for a change of mind.

What might seem like a routine update has caused quite the stir among customers, with many expressing mixed reactions to the new rules.

Here’s a closer look at the items now excluded from BIG W’s popular returns policy and what it means for shoppers.


BIG W recently made headlines after announcing a significant change to its returns policy, with several items now excluded from the ‘change of mind’ return option.

The updated terms were brought to light by a shopper from BIG W Eastgardens, who shared a photo of the new signage on social media.

‘Please be aware of the new regulations at BIG W Eastgardens when wanting to return something,’ they wrote, urging others to take note.


image1.png
BIG W updates returns policy, sparking shopper reactions. Image source: Pexel/RDNE Stock project


The retailer’s return policy, which had previously allowed more lenient returns, now excludes a range of items from 3 February 2025.

These include cosmetics (if the hygiene seal is broken), beauty products, hosiery, underwear (excluding bras), and swimwear.

Also excluded are printer cartridges and personalised printing material.

Bedding and accessories with opened seals or packaging are no longer eligible for returns.

Tents, trampolines, and furniture, if the packaging has been opened or components used, are also excluded from the returns policy.


Some social media users were quick to approve of the changes, with one commenting: ‘All 100 per cent fair enough. I wouldn’t want to buy any of these items that had been returned.’

One user even suggested: ‘There should be “no change of mind returns” at all.’

Another agreed: ‘I would have thought this was common sense and already in place.’


BIG W’s official website noted that the retailer would continue to accept returns under its 90-day change of mind policy, as long as the item was not on the exclusion list.

Other products no longer eligible for returns include food items, digital downloads, prepaid cards, vouchers, personalised products, and clearance items.

Additionally, products purchased from BIG W Market, MyDeal, Everyday Market, Everyday Rewards Shop, and eBay are not eligible for returns.

The update serves as a reminder for shoppers to review return policies carefully, especially when making purchases of certain goods.


In a previous story, we covered another significant change in the retail world that had shoppers talking.

This time, Coles made waves with an update to their packaging, sparking debate across social media.

Curious to see how customers reacted? Be sure to check out the full story here.


Stay in the loop with the latest BIG W updates.


Key Takeaways
  • BIG W has updated its returns policy, excluding several items from the “change of mind” return option from 3 February 2025.
  • Excluded items now include cosmetics (if the hygiene seal is broken), beauty products, hosiery, underwear (excluding bras), swimwear, printer cartridges, personalised printing material, bedding and accessories with opened seals, and opened tents, trampolines, and furniture.
  • Social media users have expressed mixed reactions, with some approving of the changes, while others suggest there should be no change of mind returns at all.
  • Other excluded products include food items, digital downloads, prepaid cards, vouchers, personalised products, clearance items, and those purchased from BIG W Market, MyDeal, Everyday Market, Everyday Rewards Shop, and eBay.

With so many changes to BIG W’s returns policy, how do you feel about the new exclusions?

Share your thoughts in the comments!
 

Seniors Discount Club

Sponsored content

Info
Loading data . . .
I agree with BigW 👍, who wants to buy goods that have been used, tried on etc.
Especially underwear, people should know what size underwear they use, surely. I can't even comprehend why they think they can return them.
People should be way more mindful before purchasing these items and I'm sure these return exclusions are in many other stores as well.
 
I agree with BigW 👍, who wants to buy goods that have been used, tried on etc.
Especially underwear, people should know what size underwear they use, surely. I can't even comprehend why they think they can return them.
People should be way more mindful before purchasing these items and I'm sure these return exclusions are in many other stores as well.
Even if you do know your size, there is no guarantee that the size on the label is correct. I once bought 3 T-shirts all the same brand, size, same label and all 3 were different. That's why so much is returned, it's Asian crap.
 
Even if you do know your size, there is no guarantee that the size on the label is correct. I once bought 3 T-shirts all the same brand, size, same label and all 3 were different. That's why so much is returned, it's Asian crap.
 
I agree with BigW 👍, who wants to buy goods that have been used, tried on etc.
Especially underwear, people should know what size underwear they use, surely. I can't even comprehend why they think they can return them.
People should be way more mindful before purchasing these items and I'm sure these return exclusions are in many other stores as well.
Most of these items have been on the non-returns list for many years, and are self explanatory.
 
  • Like
Reactions: SGH
I agree with BigW 👍, who wants to buy goods that have been used, tried on etc.
Especially underwear, people should know what size underwear they use, surely. I can't even comprehend why they think they can return them.
People should be way more mindful before purchasing these items and I'm sure these return exclusions are in many other stores as well.
Well l hope they throw these items out and not put them on special:censored:
 
Well l hope they throw these items out and not put them on special:censored:
You would be surprised what people think they can return. Then they shout and make a fuss when they are rejected. That is why stores are now putting up signs about abusing the staff. What we think is common sense, is not to many 'entitled' people.
 
I agree with BigW 👍, who wants to buy goods that have been used, tried on etc.
Especially underwear, people should know what size underwear they use, surely. I can't even comprehend why they think they can return them.
People should be way more mindful before purchasing these items and I'm sure these return exclusions are in many other stores as well.
l agree with the no refund on underwear.
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else
  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×