Rebate scams and pressure selling: how to protect yourself

Common warning signs

• “Free” or “government” upgrades from callers or door-knockers you didn’t contact.
• “Rebate ends Friday” deadlines used to rush you into signing.
• Claims to be from the government — programs are delivered by accredited businesses, not government sales teams.
• Vague quotes without brands, model numbers or a clear incentive line.
• Large upfront deposits before eligibility is confirmed.

Your rights

Under Australian Consumer Law, unsolicited sales — door-to-door or phone sales you didn’t ask for — generally come with a 10 business day cooling-off period. Businesses must also not make false or misleading claims about rebates or savings.

How to check an offer

• Look up the program on its official website (we link to them in every post).
• Check the business is accredited for that program.
• Ask for a written, itemised quote with each incentive shown separately.
• Check installer licences and accreditations.
• Get at least two or three quotes before deciding.

When deadlines are real

Program rules do change — for example the federal battery discount became tiered on 1 May 2026, and solar STCs step down each January. But the rules usually depend on the installation date, and the regulator has warned retailers not to promise dates they can’t meet. Get the installation date in writing.

Where to get help

If you think you’ve been misled, contact the business first, then your state’s consumer protection agency or the ACCC. Comparing quotes from installers who service your area — like those we match you with — is a simple way to check you’re getting a fair offer.

Sources

• ACCC — consumer rights
• Clean Energy Regulator — Battery rebates are changing 1 May 2026
• energy.gov.au — Rebates and assistance finder

Frequently asked questions