First OzBargain (albeit forum) post, super impressed with the suggestions/tips when typing a title!
Am I the only OzBargainer getting sucked into the 'free' Telstra accessories upon purchase of a contract. Obviously they're not going out of their way to give you something for free but…
Take my current situation:
Approximately 22 months ago I signed up for a new iPhone on a plan at Telstra (I have been a customer for 18+ years)
As a 'thankyou' for being a loyal customer, the consultant 'threw in' a bunch of free accessories (screen protector, car charger etc. valued at $150 'Telstra dollars' = $30 everywhere else) but as told by the consultant: they're 'free' so can't complain
Obviously you are advised at this point, you'll see an accessory payment on your bill, but that amount will be credited, making it 'free' (example, $10 charge - $10 credit = $0 Accessory charge) and that's the end of that discussion.
Fast forward to now when I go to cancel the plan 2 months early to hear: you'll be charged an extra $10 per month x 2 months = $20 for the accessories.
Odd as I recall the sales assistant informing that they were a) 'free' for being a loyal Telstra customer and/or b) 'credited on your bill making it free'.
So that $10 charge is an ongoing charge, and even though the cost to Telstra is no different upon cancelling (as they're giving you an identical credit every month anyway) they'll charge you without the 'promised credit' nonetheless
So in actual fact, they're only 'free' if you stay contracted for 24 months. I understand this as a way Telstra are trying to keep you as a customer, essentially tying you in for another 24 months ('future loyalty') however I believe it's a misrepresentation of 'free' accessories.
You can't offer a "freebie" that, after the fact, has conditions you're not told about at point of sale.
My question is: Would a reasonable consumer, going into a Telstra store, buying a device and getting 'upsold' with 'free' accessories, know that these 'free' accessories are only free if you stick around for 24 months? Did I just get a dodgy salesperson, and you are usually told if you cancel your contract ahead of time you won't receive any credit?
Side note: this reminds me too much of the ANZ Barbara from Bank World here on YouTube… "Ahh yes, that was 'know' with a silent 'k' as in you may not know about the fees until the fees are charged"
Optus does the same thing with the FREE Modem on wireless broadband plans, but it uses the same Pay $10/month less $10/month device credit. I am sure it is in the terms and conditions if you take a careful look, but dont expect them to read the 20 pages to you upon purchase.
So it looks like everyone does it and all we can do now is be wiser in the future.