Some of Australia's most trusted brands have been publicly shamed in the 2025 CHOICE Shonky Awards, with consumer advocates calling out everything from misleading health claims to questionable banking practices.
The Dubious Honours List
This year's winners of Australia's most unwanted awards include some household names that have left consumers feeling short-changed:
Commonwealth Bank: The Fee That Never Sleeps
Australia's largest bank copped criticism for its 'inactivity fees' that continue to charge customers even when accounts show zero activity. Consumer advocates labelled the practice as 'charging for nothing' and questioned why fees should apply when customers aren't actually using banking services.
Temu: The False Economy
The ultra-fast fashion and homewares giant found itself in the spotlight for products that might look like bargains but often fail to deliver. CHOICE highlighted concerns about product quality, misleading pricing strategies, and the environmental impact of throwaway consumerism.
HCF: The Health Insurance Head-Scratcher
One of Australia's major health insurers received a Shonky for policy complexity that leaves customers confused about what they're actually covered for. The awards panel noted that navigating the fine print felt like 'needing a medical degree just to understand your coverage.'
Why These Awards Matter
The CHOICE Shonky Awards have become a respected - and feared - institution in Australian consumer advocacy. Unlike traditional awards that celebrate excellence, the Shonkys highlight practices and products that undermine consumer trust or deliver poor value.
'These awards serve as a powerful reminder that even big brands need to be held accountable,' said a CHOICE representative. 'When companies prioritise profits over people, we believe Australian consumers deserve to know.'
Protecting Yourself as a Consumer
With rising cost-of-living pressures, the Shonky Awards underscore the importance of being an informed consumer. Experts recommend:
- Always read the fine print, especially with financial products and insurance
- Research beyond the marketing claims before making significant purchases
- Check independent reviews from trusted sources like CHOICE
- Question whether 'bargain' prices might mean compromised quality
The 2025 Shonky Awards serve as both a warning to businesses and an empowerment tool for consumers, proving that when it comes to getting value for money, vigilance is the best policy.
