Whether you received a dud Christmas present from a distant aunt or you bought it yourself, consumers have the same rights to a refund, a consumer watchdog says.
"No refund" signs at post-Christmas sales are also illegal, consumer-rights group Choice says.
Under Australian consumer law, all consumers are entitled to a refund, replacement or repair if the product fails to do the job it was meant to.
Choice spokesperson Tom Godfrey says the person who bought the item does not have to be the returnee.
"If you received a gift that is broken or does not work as it is meant to, you can claim the refund or ask for it to be repaired or replaced," he said in a statement.
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"Whoever takes the faulty item back just has to make sure they can provide proof of purchase - a receipt, credit card statement or even the retailer's swing tag."
Ahead of shoppers turning out in droves for Boxing Day sales, Mr Godfrey said shoppers should not be put off by "No refund" signs.
He said unless a product was marked as a second or discounted because of defects made clear at the time of purchase, a consumer's right to a refund, repair or replacement still stood.
"In some circumstances, retailers are not obliged to offer a refund," Mr Godfrey said.
"If you change your mind about the colour or if it doesn't fit, the store isn't compelled to give you your money back or exchange the item."
