CHOICE

CHOICE is an Australian not for profit consumer advocacy organisation. It is an independent membership-based organisation founded in 1959 that researches and campaigns on behalf of Australian consumers. It is the largest consumer organisation in Australia.

My wife and I have been members of CHOICE for many years. When we need to replace an appliance, we go to the CHOICE website to compare the best appliances independently. For example, when we recently needed a new dishwasher, we went straight to the product comparison and chose a dishwasher high on the list. It wasn't necessarily the most expensive, but it scored highly on cleaning power, drying and energy usage. We have been thrilled with our choice.

CHOICE will also campaign on consumer issues, such as water efficiency standards, product safety laws, travel refunds and much more. But, as an independent organisation, they are funded by their members. So my wife and I are happy to pay a monthly fee to access sound independent consumer advice.

CHOICE also holds the annual "Shonky Awards" that highlight questionable or dishonest behaviour from companies. The awards identify the worst and name and shame the companies who release the shonkiest products.

The good thing is we haven't bought any shonky appliances recently, thanks to CHOICE.
Sounds like the Australian version of Consumer Reports, although there is some controversy about how that organization is funded.
2021-08-06 12:47:17
Do you trust Consumer Reports at all? I just assumed they were ad funnels.
2021-08-07 11:30:36
I don't use CR as my sole source of information. For items that are outside my wheelhouse, e.g., dishwashers, I look at their reviews and recommendations. 
2021-08-07 12:45:10