Choice Shonky Awards 2025: A snapshot of consumer grievances
Australia’s consumer advocacy group Choice has released its annual Shonky Awards, spotlighting products, services, and brands that have fallen short on value, honesty, and quality. The 2025 list features a mix of familiar culprits and surprising newcomers, underscoring that consumer trust is a moving target in a rapidly changing marketplace. From banking and health insurance to e-commerce and fashion, the awards aim to spark accountability and better business practices.
Big names on the Shonky list: CommBank, Temu, and HCF among the targets
Among the honorees, a trio of well-known brands drew sharp criticism. Commonwealth Bank (CommBank) was called out for practices seen as opaque or unfair to customers, reminding the public that even established financial institutions must prioritize transparency and fair treatment. The Shonky verdicts on banks typically hinge on product disclosure, fees, and the perceived value of services offered to everyday customers. While banks often market stability, Choice argues that some offerings fail to align with genuine consumer outcomes.
Temu, the online marketplace known for aggressive pricing and global reach, also made the list. Critics say Temu’s low prices can mask questionable supply chain ethics, misleading product descriptions, or unclear warranty terms. The Shonky spotlight on Temu reflects a broader concern about how ultra-cheap goods affect consumer confidence, product quality, and responsible commerce in a crowded online market.
Health fund HCF (Healthcare & Medical Insurance) was another prominent entrant. In this space, Choice highlighted gaps in member value, confusing policy terms, and situations where the price did not clearly translate into tangible patient benefits. Insurance shonks often revolve around how well a policy actually covers routine care, hospital admissions, and out-of-pocket costs—issues that hit households at stressful moments.
What usually lands a brand on the Shonky shortlist?
The Shonky Awards assess products and services based on several criteria: value for money, clarity of information, fairness, honesty, and whether the offering helps or hinders consumer decision-making. A key thread in 2025’s criticisms is transparency—whether brands disclose all fees, terms, and limitations—and consistency in upholding advertised promises. Choice also looks at whether a product genuinely improves consumer welfare or merely leverages hype and clever marketing to obscure weaknesses.
Other notable winners and themes
Beyond the headline brands, Choice highlighted issues across sectors such as fashion, electronics, and household services. Shonky picks often reveal broader market trends: confusing energy pricing, misleading warranty language, and fashion items with quality misrepresentation. The 2025 winners serve as a reminder that consumer protection remains a relevant priority as Australians navigate a marketplace increasingly defined by digital convenience and aggressive marketing.
What this means for shoppers
While a Shonky Award is a public shaming exercise, it also serves as a practical guide for consumers. Readers are encouraged to scrutinize product disclosures, compare total costs over time, and demand clearer explanations from brands. For those who encounter confusing terms, Choice offers resources on how to read plans, compare offers, and report questionable practices. The ongoing dialogue between consumer groups and industry players is essential for elevating standards and restoring trust.
Where to learn more
Choice publishes full reports, case studies, and consumer tips linked to the Shonky Awards. By subscribing to updates, shoppers can stay informed about evolving practices, new offenders, and the actions brands take in response. The awards don’t just name and shame; they invite constructive reform and better shopping experiences for Australians.
