Ticketmaster, Virgin Australia, and Hisense Named in 2026 Shonky Awards
Consumer advocacy group CHOICE has released its 21st annual list of Shonky Awards, identifying products and services it deems to be among the worst in Australia. The 2026 list targets companies across the travel, entertainment, and appliance sectors, citing practices ranging from restrictive credit policies to misleading energy efficiency claims.
According to CHOICE, the awards are intended to highlight consumer harm during a persistent cost-of-living crisis. The selection process relies on consumer feedback and investigations into business practices that the group claims prioritize corporate profit over basic consumer rights.
Ticketmaster and Ticketek Face Scrutiny Over Dynamic Pricing
Ticketmaster and Ticketek were singled out for their use of “in-demand” or variable pricing models for live events. CHOICE reported that these systems allow prices to fluctuate based on supply and demand, often resulting in significant cost increases for fans. Data reported by The Guardian noted instances where “in-demand” tickets were priced $50 higher than regular seats in the same section.
Virgin Australia Retains $75 Million in Expired Credits
Virgin Australia received a Shonky award regarding its handling of flight credits issued during the COVID-19 pandemic. CHOICE stated that the airline recorded $75 million in expired credits as part of its 2026 net profits.
These credits originated from flights cancelled between April 21, 2020, and July 31, 2022. While Virgin initially set a booking deadline of June 30, 2026, the airline later extended the travel deadline to May 27, 2027, following public pressure. A Virgin spokesperson told The Guardian that more than 93% of these credits were redeemed by guests, and that the company communicated expiry dates repeatedly over the four-year period.
Hisense Washer-Dryer Combo Advertised with 13.5-Hour Cycle
The Hisense 8i Washer Dryer Combo was awarded a Shonky for its energy efficiency marketing. CHOICE found that the appliance only achieves its advertised 8-star energy rating when using a specific “Eco” drying setting.
Tests conducted by the consumer group revealed that this setting requires 13.5 hours to dry a full 8kg load. When combined with the washing cycle, the total process can exceed 25 hours. Hisense stated to The Sydney Morning Herald that its energy ratings are determined in accordance with the Australian government’s regulated Energy Rating Scheme and Greenhouse and Energy Minimum Standards (GEMS) requirements.
Sony Digital Licensing Concerns for Gamers
Sony Interactive Entertainment was named for its digital-only strategy, which CHOICE argues prevents consumers from truly owning the content they purchase. The group pointed to a June 2026 announcement where Sony removed 500 previously purchased movies from digital libraries in the UK and Europe due to an expiring licensing agreement.
Looking ahead, Sony has confirmed that all new games on PlayStation will be digital-only starting in January 2028. CHOICE expressed concern that this move leaves consumers vulnerable to account suspensions or network outages that could result in the permanent loss of access to purchased games.
Petcover Policy Exclusions for Existing Conditions
Petcover’s Economy policy was criticized for its definition of pre-existing conditions. CHOICE reported that the insurer classifies any condition sharing the same “clinical signs” as a previous illness as pre-existing, effectively excluding them from coverage.
The group also highlighted that the policy limits coverage for any single condition to 12 months. After this period, any ongoing treatment for chronic illnesses becomes the responsibility of the pet owner.
Questions Cover Deleted Movie Libraries and Appliance Ratings
Sony removed approximately 500 Studio Canal movies from digital libraries in the UK and Europe in June 2026 after its licensing agreement with the distributor expired, according to CHOICE.
What is the issue with Hisense energy ratings? CHOICE reported that the 8-star rating for the Hisense 8i Washer Dryer Combo is only achieved on an “Eco” drying program that takes 13.5 hours, which the group argues does not reflect standard household usage.
How much did Virgin Australia retain from expired credits? Virgin Australia reported $75 million in expired COVID-19-era flight credits as part of its 2026 net profits, according to figures cited by CHOICE.
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