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Why is it so hard to cancel subscriptions or end ‘free’ trials? Report shows how companies trap you into paying

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katharine-kemp-402096">Katharine Kemp</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-sydney-1414">UNSW Sydney</a> Many businesses are trapping Australian consumers in paid subscriptions by making them hard to cancel, hiding important details and offering “free” trials that auto-renew with hefty charges. We need law reform to tackle this continuing problem. <a href="https://cprc.org.au/report/let-me-out">A new report</a> shows 75% of Australian consumers have had negative experiences when trying to cancel a subscription, according to the Consumer Policy Research Centre (CPRC). It shows businesses use “<a href="https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-spot-avoid-dark-patterns/">dark patterns</a>”, which are designs that hinder consumers who try to act in their own best interests. Subscription traps are often called “<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog/2022/11/checking-out-ftcs-100-million-settlement-vonage">Hotel California</a>” techniques, referring to The Eagles’ famous lyric: “you can check out any time you want, but you can never leave”. In some of these cases, consumers may have remedies under our existing consumer law, including for misleading conduct. But we need law reform to capture other <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/consultation/c2023-430458">unfair practices</a>. In the meantime, the CPRC’s research also gives examples of businesses with fair, consumer-friendly subscription practices. These also benefit the business. <h2>Examples of unfair subscription traps</h2> <a href="https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinessdevelopmentcouncil/2022/09/12/the-evolution-of-the-subscription-model-and-whats-on-the-horizon/">Subscription business models</a> have become common – many products are now provided in the form of software, an app or access to a website. Some of these would once have been a physical book, newspaper, CD or exercise class. Most people who use online services have experienced the frustration of finding a credit card charge for an unwanted, unused subscription or spending excessive time trying to cancel a subscription. <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/615486/original/file-20240826-16-fp57es.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/615486/original/file-20240826-16-fp57es.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/615486/original/file-20240826-16-fp57es.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=643&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/615486/original/file-20240826-16-fp57es.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=643&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/615486/original/file-20240826-16-fp57es.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=643&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/615486/original/file-20240826-16-fp57es.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=808&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/615486/original/file-20240826-16-fp57es.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=808&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/615486/original/file-20240826-16-fp57es.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=808&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Infographic with a few statistics from the report." /></a><figcaption><a class="source" href="https://cprc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/CPRC_LetMeOut_SubsTraps_Report_FINAL.pdf">CPRC, Let me out – Subscription trap practices in Australia, August 2024</a></figcaption></figure> Businesses can make it difficult for consumers to stop paying for unwanted subscriptions. Some do this by allowing consumers to start a subscription with a single click, but creating multiple obstacles if you want to end the subscription. This can include obscuring cancellation options in the app, requiring consumers to phone during business hours or making them navigate through multiple steps and offers before terminating. The report points out many of the last-ditch discounts offered in this process are only short term. One survey respondent said: <blockquote> I wasn’t able to cancel without having to call up and speak to someone. Their business hours meant I had to call up during my work day and it took some time to action. </blockquote> Other businesses badger consumers with frequent emails or messages after they cancel. One respondent said a business made “the cancellation process impossible by making you call and then judging your reason for cancellation”. <h2>What does consumer law say?</h2> Some subscription traps already fall foul of the Australian Consumer Law and warrant investigation by the <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-warns-consumers-to-beware-of-subscription-traps">Australian Competition & Consumer Commission</a> (ACCC). Consumers may have remedies where the business has engaged in misleading conduct or imposes an unfair contract term. For example, the ACCC is <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-court-action-against-eharmony-for-alleged-misleading-online-dating-membership-statements#:%7E:text=The%20ACCC%20has%20today%20commenced%20proceedings%20in%20the,the%20pricing%2C%20renewal%20and%20duration%20of%20its%20memberships.">suing dating site eHarmony</a> for its allegedly misleading subscription practices. In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/06/ftc-takes-action-against-adobe-executives-hiding-fees-preventing-consumers-easily-cancelling">has filed a complaint against software company Adobe</a> for allegedly using dark patterns in its subscription practices. The Federal Trade Commission has alleged that “Adobe pushed consumers toward the ‘annual paid monthly’ subscription without adequately disclosing that cancelling the plan in the first year could cost hundreds of dollars”. Adobe <a href="https://news.adobe.com/news/news-details/2024/Adobes-Recent-Statement-Regarding-Updated-Federal-Trade-Commission-Complaint-/default.aspx">issued a statement</a> arguing the commission’s complaint “mischaracterises” its business. The litigation is ongoing. <h2>We need an unfair practices prohibition</h2> Some subscription traps would fall outside the existing consumer law. This is because they don’t meet the test for misleading conduct or unfair contract terms, but make it practically very difficult to cancel. The <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-welcomes-consultation-on-possible-unfair-trading-practices-regulatory-reforms">ACCC has advocated</a> for Australia to follow other countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States to enact an unfair practices prohibition to capture conduct like this. <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/615487/original/file-20240826-16-2j23h7.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/615487/original/file-20240826-16-2j23h7.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/615487/original/file-20240826-16-2j23h7.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=769&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/615487/original/file-20240826-16-2j23h7.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=769&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/615487/original/file-20240826-16-2j23h7.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=769&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/615487/original/file-20240826-16-2j23h7.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=966&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/615487/original/file-20240826-16-2j23h7.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=966&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/615487/original/file-20240826-16-2j23h7.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=966&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="" /></a><figcaption>The shift businesses can make today. <a class="source" href="https://cprc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/CPRC_LetMeOut_SubsTraps_Report_FINAL.pdf">CPRC, Let me out – Subscription trap practices in Australia, August 2024</a></figcaption></figure> <h2>Better practices benefit businesses too</h2> The CPRC report also revealed that 90% of Australians would likely purchase from the same organisation if cancelling a subscription process was quick and simple. Businesses focused on a short-sighted cash grab fail to realise that consumers might cancel but later return if treated well. The CPRC highlights businesses that are doing a good job. For instance, the habit change app Atoms (based on James Clear’s book Atomic Habits) has a genuinely free trial. It doesn’t require credit card details, doesn’t auto-renew, and lets consumers know how many trial days remain. The CPRC says the charity World Vision doesn’t auto-renew annual sponsorships, but reminds supporters about when the sponsorship will lapse. Importantly, some businesses – such as Netflix – use their data for good in this context. They notice when users are paying for the service without using it and help them unsubscribe. These practices should be applauded. But we need an unfair practices prohibition for businesses who don’t follow suit and recognise the long-term benefits of treating customers fairly.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/237236/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katharine-kemp-402096">Katharine Kemp</a>, Associate Professor, Faculty of Law & Justice; Lead, UNSW Public Interest Law & Tech Initiative, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-sydney-1414">UNSW Sydney</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-is-it-so-hard-to-cancel-subscriptions-or-end-free-trials-report-shows-how-companies-trap-you-into-paying-237236">original article</a>. </div>

Money & Banking

Streaming service giant pays woman 5 figures to watch content

If you think you spend too much time on Amazon Prime, think again as one lucky lady has snatched up her “dream” job with the streaming service. The woman, Alex Bain, 36, has been dubbed Prime Video’s “Buff”, and her job entails reviewing content for Amazon Prime, which came after the platform searched nationwide to fill the role of watching new content. Here’s the real kicker, the 36-year-old will be paid $40,000 for three months of viewing new content and sharing her opinions. She is not new to the scene of content review as she frequently posts to her Instagram, TikTok and Youtube reviewing various TV shows and movies. Upon seeing the advertisement from Amazon Prime, one of Bain’s friends encouraged her to apply. “Everything on it, it was like seeing a list of what would be my ideal job,” Ms Bain told NCA NewsWire. “I’m 36, so I want to do something I’m passionate about, so I decided to just go for it. “I got a phone call from Amazon saying I’d been short-listed, and I was like, ‘Oh my God!’” She said the time between applying for the role and being told she was successful went “so quickly”. Not long after, she received the news she was the lucky one chosen to fill the role. Image credit: Instagram

Loyal service dog's emotional final flight

A service dog has been honoured on her final flight after being diagnosed with an untreatable cancer. German Shepherd Kaya was trained to support veterans suffering post-traumatic stress disorder and was in the care of handler Cole Lyle. After years of loyal service to Cole, Kaya was diagnosed with terminal cancer and recently boarded a South West Airlines flight in the US to live out her final days at home by Cole's side. Kaya received the very best treatment on the flight, and was honoured by the pilot and her fellow passengers in a heart-warming moment that has since gone viral online. "We have a special guest on today's flight," the pilot said. "Kays is a German Shepherd service dog who has been with her handler, Cole, since 2014. She was specifically trained to help veterans cope with mental health issues." "Since the integration of the PAWS act, it is federal law that allows us to unify service dogs with Veterans with post-traumatic stress which was signed into law in 2021," continued the pilot. <div class="embed" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 617px; max-width: 100%; outline: none !important;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7197534710090812715&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40southwestair%2Fvideo%2F7197534710090812715&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign.tiktokcdn-us.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-useast5-p-0068-tx%2Fea43bd3c48f54df8b328f42f35d8665a_1675806650%3Fx-expires%3D1676246400%26x-signature%3Drrq5YNMF5lC2JmunRKdaFD4SFQ4%253D&key=5b465a7e134d4f09b4e6901220de11f0&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> "Sadly, Kaya was recently diagnosed with an untreatable cancer so we have the solemn honour of taking her on what will be her last flight as she goes home to rest where she was born and first met Cole." The pilot then encouraged the passengers to "show her some love", as cheering and applauding erupted for Kaya. The tear-jerking moment was captured and posted to TikTok by the airline, with the video racking up over 18 million views. The video was shared along with the caption:"We were honoured to fly our loyal friend and hero, Kaya, home to rest after a lifetime of hard work. Throughout her career, Kaya flew with us over 250 times to help establish the PAWS Act which united Veterans with service dogs." "We are so grateful to be a part of her legacy, and we thank her and her owner, Cole, for their many years of service." The comments were flooded with praise for the canine, with one person writing, "Bawling my eyes out. God bless you Kaya". Another wrote, "I'm literally in a puddle we Stan kaya she's so beautiful and perfect we love you sweet girl." "We don't deserve dogs," another simply said. It was later revealed in the comments of the video the Kaya had passed away at home by Cole's side. Image credits: TikTok

Family & Pets

"We hit another plane"

Emergency service personnel have rushed to the tarmac at Heathrow Airport as two planes accidentally bumped into each other while taxiing on the runway. The incident occurred at 8 pm on September 27, at the London airport which handles more than 80 million international travellers each year. It is believed that Korean flight 777 clipped an Icelandair 767 while taxing. The Korean Airport flight was scheduled to leave London at 7:35pm. A passenger posted to Twitter from on board one of the aircraft: “Pretty sure we scrapped another plane with our wing tip while taxiing." <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Any details? I think I'm on one of aircraft. Pretty sure we scrapped another plane with our wing tip while taxiing. — Richard (@TaylorGRichard) <a href="https://twitter.com/TaylorGRichard/status/1575206249808814080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2022</a></blockquote> “We have been told that we are going back to the gate due to a technical issue." “But that was 15 mins ago and we haven’t moved.” Another passenger added: “We hit another plane while taxiing. I saw it out the window. Wingtip scrapped the tail of another plane.” While a third said: “Surrounded by about ten police cars and a couple of fire engines. “Apparently the plane has ‘a technical problem’.” Footage of the emergency response was shared to Twitter, with the initial count of “4 or 5” emergency vehicles quickly updated to “6 or 7”. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Is this normal for Heathrow? Got to be 4 or 5 different emergency service vehicle with blue lights flashing on the tarmac. <a href="https://t.co/IkNmGkFTC4">pic.twitter.com/IkNmGkFTC4</a> — Steve Smith - Broke Britannia (@BrokeBritannia) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrokeBritannia/status/1575202997399064576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2022</a></blockquote> Heathrow has since confirmed that the collision took place, but said that it wasn’t “full on”. Image: Getty

Travel Trouble

“People are going to die”: Over 1000 uncared for after council aged care services end

More than 1000 elderly residents on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula have been left without care after the local council stopped providing care services and made more than 110 staff redundant. In July, private aged care service providers took over the care of more than 3500 residents who had previously been cared for by the council, with 2063 people transferred to Mecwacare and 1554 to Bolton Clarke, per <a href="https://www.watoday.com.au/national/victoria/nobody-s-checked-i-m-alive-more-than-1000-stranded-as-council-retreats-from-aged-care-20220808-p5b81l.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WA Today</a>. Aimee Bonfield, a spokeswoman for Bolton Clarke, said “essential services” were being provided for 300 residents, with services starting or scheduled for another 200. “All remaining clients have been contacted and we remain in touch on a regular basis to update on progress and to address any immediate needs,” she said. “Bolton Clarke has a strong track record of understanding local needs and supporting wellbeing and independence for older people on the Mornington Peninsula.” But, at least 1000 residents have been left without care, including Barbara Rimington, who has a fused back from spinal surgery and has undergone surgery for lung cancer and was receiving assistance with cleaning from the council. Since Bolton Clarke took over on July 1, the 77-year-old said she hasn’t received any care and is “one of the luckier ones” because she is still relatively independent. “The council said they are monitoring,” she said. “Pig’s arse they are. Nobody has contacted me to see if I am still alive.” Rimington said she was worried for others who needed help with shopping, since there are limited delivery options available on the peninsula. “Are any of these people eating?” she said. “People are going to die. Some people are totally isolated. It’s an indictment on the whole of society.” 89-year-old Michael Nolan said he and his wife, 85, were left in the lurch by Mecawacare and haven’t received care for more than a month. The council used to provide assistance to Nolan once a fortnight, helping with cleaning and tasks around the home, such as checking smoke alarms, changing light bulbs, and changing bed sheets. “[Mecwacare] has been on the job since July 1 and nothing is happening,” he said. “We have to try and do the cleaning ourselves and we tackle it a little bit at a time, but it takes us days and days to do because I can’t bend down, otherwise I fall over. “Mecwacare has had months and months to prepare for this. “It is typical of the former federal government, they want to give everything over to private enterprise.” Anthony Marsh, the mayor of Mornington Peninsula, said the council decided to “transition” away from using its own staff to prepare for the federal government’s open-market system, and that the council had no say in the providers that would replace them. “The peninsula had no provider other than council delivering these services and we needed to ensure our residents had choice and the advantage of a competitive market environment,” he said. “We did not get a say in the appointment of new providers; that was done by the federal government.” Marsh said the council was assured by both providers and the government that essential services would continue from July 1, and that an offer to keep some staff on “to help with the transition” was turned down. “The welfare of our older residents is a major priority for council, and we will continue to advocate to the federal government to make sure older people receive the support they need to remain independent and involved in the community,” he said. A government spokesman said the government was “continually reviewing” the transition and selection process for councils that chose to exit the Commonwealth home support program and was aware of the situation on Mornington Peninsula. “The department is aware of the transition of clients from Mornington Peninsula Shire council to Mecwacare and Bolton Clarke and is actively working with My Aged Care and the providers on outstanding transition issues,” he said. Image: Getty Images

Legal

A heated steering wheel for $20 a month? What’s driving the subscriptions economy

From gym memberships to music and movies, to razors, toilet paper, meal kits and clothes, there’s seemingly no place the subscription economy can’t go. Having conquered the software market – where it gets its own acronym, SaaS (Software as a Service) – the subscription model is now moving into hardware. Car makers are among the first cabs off the rank, using software to turn on and off optional extras. German auto maker BMW is offering “<a href="https://www.theverge.com/2022/7/12/23204950/bmw-subscriptions-microtransactions-heated-seats-feature" target="_blank" rel="noopener">in-car microtransactions</a>” to access options for car buyers in Britain, Korea, Germany, New Zealand and South Africa. A heated steering wheel, for example, has a monthly cost of NZ$20 in New Zealand, and £10 in the UK. Other markets <a href="https://www.drive.com.au/news/bmw-australia-monthly-subscriptions-detailed/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">including Australia</a> will soon follow. In the UK, seven of 13 “digital services” – from heated seats to automatic high beam and driving assistance – are now available in subscription form. “Welcome to microtransaction hell” is how <a href="https://www.pcgamer.com/welcome-to-microtransaction-hell-buy-a-bmw-pay-monthly-for-the-cars-features/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">one headline</a> put it. But that’s probably overselling the onset of a corporate dystopia where “you will own nothing”. BMW’s motives are pretty straightforward – as is most of what’s driving the subscription economy. What is the subscription model? The subscription model means paying a fee for periodical access to a service or product. Until a decade or so ago, it was largely confined to a few select industries, such as the delivery of milk, newspapers and magazines. <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="From milk and magazines, subscription services have proliferated with digital technology." /><figcaption>From milk and magazines, subscription services have proliferated with digital technology. Shutterstock</figcaption></figure> Other business models had similarities – such as rental businesses – but the point of the subscription model was different. It was not about meeting a demand for a service someone only wanted to use temporarily or could not afford to own outright. It was about locking in a continuing relationship, to maximise “customer lifetime value”. As <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/042715/how-do-subscription-business-models-work.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Investopedia puts it</a>, the subscription model’s focus is on customer retention over customer acquisition: <blockquote> In essence, subscription business models focus on the way revenue is made so that a single customer pays multiple payments for prolonged access to a good or service instead of a large upfront one-time price. </blockquote> This in large part explains why subscription services are now being adopted in markets outside their more obvious fit for things such as streaming news and entertainment. In a broad sense, consumers can now be divided into two groups. One group comprises the “transactional shopper”, who interacts with the vendor once or twice, then disappears. The other group comprises customers whose connection and “investment” in the brand is maintained through their subscriptions. <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="The subscriptions model emphasises customer retention over customer acquisition." /><figcaption>The subscriptions model emphasises customer retention over customer acquisition. Shutterstock</figcaption></figure> E-commerce and access Part of the growth in the subscription economy has come from companies riding the e-commerce wave, delivering goods such as meal kits, wine, coffee, baby supplies, pet food, cleaning products, razors and toilet paper. Consultant firm McKinsey has estimated the subscription e-commerce market is <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/technology-media-and-telecommunications/our-insights/thinking-inside-the-subscription-box-new-research-on-ecommerce-consumers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">doubling in value</a> every year – though that was before the pandemic. It could be well be more now. The other part of the market is represented by BMW’s approach, offering extra features to customers that can only be accessed for a fee. In some cases this may involve standard “upsell” techniques. For example, when you buy a new Peloton exercise bike you’ll be enticed with <a href="https://www.onepeloton.com.au/membership" target="_blank" rel="noopener">subscription offers</a>, such as virtual classes and “customised” training programs, to “reach your goals”. Or increasingly, as with BMW’s heated seats and steering wheels, it can be done with software turning actual bits of hardware on or off. What is BMW’s game? Is BMW’s purpose to gouge its customers for more money through getting them to pay an ongoing fee for something instead of owning it outright? This is not what its subscription structure indicates. The opposite, in fact. Customers can still buy these options outright. A heated steering wheel in the UK, for example, costs <a href="https://www.bmw.co.uk/en/shop/ls/dp/Steering_Wheel_Heating_SFA_gb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">£200</a>, and in New Zealand <a href="https://www.bmw.co.nz/en/shop/ls/dp/Steering_Wheel_Heating_SFA_nz" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ$350</a>. But now they can also pay a subscription – for three years (£150, NZ$250), annually (£100, NZ$250) or monthly (£10, NZ$20). These prices represent a strong signal – that the cost of outright ownership is the most economical. It’s unlikely BMW expects anyone to sign up for the annual or three-yearly options. These are probably just to make the outright cost look more attractive. The monthly offering, on the other hand, may lure owners to try out a feature they would otherwise have rejected buying outright at the time of purchase. Indeed, car makers argue the reason they offer so many options as extras is because most owners don’t want them. So this mostly looks like BMW offering a “try before you buy” option. The pitfalls of over-subscribing That said, companies don’t need to have sinister motives for us to have concerns about the spread of the subscription model. The more things we pay for with “micro-payments”, the harder it becomes to keep track of payments. Many of us continue to pay for products and services we don’t use. A survey of 1,000 Australian adults in 2021, for example, found about a third wasted money on unused subscriptions or memberships – losing an average of about <a href="https://www.savings.com.au/savings-accounts/unused-lockdown-subscriptions-are-costing-aussies-200-a-year" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A$200 a year</a>. Deep psychological associations can influence these decisions. Experiments by US marketing professors Jennifer Savary and Ravi Dhar suggests people with lower “<a href="https://academic.oup.com/jcr/article-abstract/46/5/887/5498871" target="_blank" rel="noopener">self-concept</a>” are less likely to sign up for subscriptions – but also less likely to cancel subscriptions they are not using. We may see the subscription model increasingly used in other sectors – including the health and justice systems. For example, a subscription payment may provide a better level of nutritious food for a resident in an aged care facility, or a hospital or even a prison. This is not dissimilar to the way private health insurance premiums are managed, but still presents important justice and equity concerns. So while there’s no reason to exaggerate the dangers of the subscription economy, it’s also prudent for consumers, advocacy groups and governments to ask “What next?”.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/186913/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/louise-grimmer-212082" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Louise Grimmer</a>, Senior Lecturer in Retail Marketing and Associate Head Research Performance, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-tasmania-888" target="_blank" rel="noopener">University of Tasmania</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/a-heated-steering-wheel-for-20-a-month-whats-driving-the-subscriptions-economy-186913" target="_blank" rel="noopener">original article</a>. Image: Getty Images

Money & Banking

Daniel Johns ordered to complete community service over drunk driving incident

Daniel Johns has narrowly avoided jail time with a 10-month intensive corrections order to be served in the community over a high-range drink-driving car crash. The former Silverchair frontman has also been disqualified from driving for seven months and ordered to fit an alcohol-reading interlock device to his car for 24 months when he gets his driver's licence back. In March this year, Johns was charged with high-range drink driving after a head-on crash at North Arm Cove, north of Newcastle. When tested, he returned a blood alcohol reading three times the legal limit. The police report states that Johns was heading north when his SUV crossed onto the wrong side of the Pacific Highway and collided with a light commercial truck travelling in the opposite direction. Both vehicles ended up on a nearby nature strip, with the 51-year-old driver of the van and his 55-year-old female passenger being treated at the scene by paramedics. Johns entered rehabilitation of his own will for four weeks after the crash and the court was told he had not touched alcohol since. In his sentencing submission, defence lawyer Bryan Wrench said his client suffered from complex mental health issues from his time as a child musical star. "He was a very successful musician. He was 14 when that came to him in an unwanted fashion and that came with attacks and vitriol," Mr Wrench said. "He is a recluse, his house is his only safe place." These defence submissions are what helped Johns avoid time behind bars, as Magistrate Ian Cheetham said Johns was best served to continue with psychiatric treatment in the community. "There is no doubt a custodial sentence will not achieve an appropriate result for him or the community," Magistrate Cheetham said. Image credits: Getty Images

Legal

Loved ones remember newlywed bride who died on her honeymoon in moving funeral service

Family and friends have gathered to commemorate the “kind-hearted spirit” and “unconditional love” of the newlywed bride who tragically died in a golf buggy accident on her honeymoon in an emotional funeral service Marina Morgan, 29, had only been married to husband Robbie Morgan for 10 days when she died in a freak accident on the couples honeymoon in Hamilton Island. At 9 am on Saturday the 2nd of July, hundreds of friends and family filled St Mary & St Merkorious Coptic Orthodox Church in Rhodes – the same place Marina and Robbie were married. A funeral notice posted to the church’s Facebook page in Arabic and English referred to her as the “bride of heaven”. Several men, including her husband, carried her coffin into the building and onto the altar, where a photo of Marina on her wedding day was placed on top of the casket. After prayers filled the church, friends and family shared their memories of Marina’s life. Marina’s brother, Mark Hanna, described his sister as a “sweet, young, independent woman who was loved by everyone.” “She was beautiful inside and out, loved to laugh, and always had a positive outlook on life.” In his emotional eulogy, Mr Hanna described the strong bond he shared with his sister. “I've lost someone who I shared so many things … we always shared with each other our hidden fears, and now it feels as though I’ve lost a part of myself, leaving a wound that stretches from the middle of my ribcage to the bottom of my gut,” he said. “It’s very difficult to accept that our gorgeous Marina is no longer here with us. “I will do my best to not let this scar be the death of me,” he promised as he broke down in tears. “Mum, dad, husband Robbie, me, your extended families, cousins, uncles, aunts, friends and everyone who knew you will never forget you.” While Mr Morgan did not stand to speak during the funeral, he briefly spoke to media after. “I can’t explain the sadness in my heart, my wife was loved by so many,” Mr Morgan said told reporters after the funeral. Cousin Miriam remembered her “partner in crime” who lived her life “fearlessly” and vowed to do the same. In a bespoke poem, Miriam also described how Marina fulfilled her life’s goal of getting married, filling her family with pride. “We never thought that day would be your last,” she recited. “To marry her soulmate Robbie and to be a bride, while always filling her family with so much love and so much pride While Mr Morgan did not get up to speak, the priest told the church how he had recalled the couple’s last few days together. “Please see this as a celebration. She is in a better place now alongside God and his angels.” Mrs Morgan’s casket was carried outside and placed into the back of a hearse, before it was driven to Rookwood Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest. Images: Facebook

Caring

Why Netflix and TikTok are turning to gaming to secure their future

The <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/05/29/netflix-and-rivals-enter-pivotal-second-act-of-streaming-wars-saga.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">streaming wars</a> are heating up. In March, Disney delayed the release date of <a href="https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/obi-wan-kenobi-release-date-fridays-1235219887/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Obi-Wan Kenobi</a> to May 27 to coincide with the launch of Netflix’s <a href="https://top10.netflix.com/tv" target="_blank" rel="noopener">top show</a>, Stranger Things. This on the back of Google’s announcement YouTube Shorts had <a href="https://mashable.com/article/youtube-shorts-1-5-billion-monthly-users" target="_blank" rel="noopener">matched TikTok’s 1.5 billion subscribers</a> in the short-form video market. Facing increased competition, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2022/apr/20/netflix-shares-fall-losing-subscribers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">falling subscriber numbers</a> and loss of content, Netflix and TikTok are having to diversify. And for this they’re turning to games. With more than three billion players worldwide, and an estimated market share of US$200 billion, the gaming industry is both <a href="https://newzoo.com/insights/articles/games-market-revenues-will-pass-200-billion-for-the-first-time-in-2022-as-the-u-s-overtakes-china#:%7E:text=Yearly%20mobile%20game%20revenues%20will,driven%20growth%20of%20prior%20years." target="_blank" rel="noopener">popular and lucrative</a>. Netflix <a href="https://about.netflix.com/en/news/let-the-games-begin-a-new-way-to-experience-entertainment-on-mobile" target="_blank" rel="noopener">introduced</a> mobile gaming last year for all its subscribers. This included two notable Stranger Things tie-ins. Meanwhile, TikTok has offered games to select users since 2019 and seems very likely to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/exclusive-tiktok-plans-big-push-into-gaming-conducting-tests-vietnam-sources-2022-05-19/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">expand these offerings</a>. <h2>Retaining existing subscribers</h2> Both Netflix and TikTok have transformed the entertainment business. They appear <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/joc/jqac020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">diametrically opposed on the surface</a>. The former gets revenue from subscriptions, and spends millions of dollars on licensing or creating content. The latter makes money by linking viewers to advertisers, with the help of streaming “influencers” who have mastered the art of short-form video. However, the two platforms share some key characteristics. They both: <ol> <li>deliver video content via the internet</li> <li>aim to constantly grow their user base</li> <li>benefit from unique and original content</li> <li>collect user data and use it to improve their services, and</li> <li>face considerable and rising competition from other companies and entertainment media.</li> </ol> Many well-loved films and television series are <a href="https://www.digitaltrends.com/movies/best-movies-leaving-netflix/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">departing Netflix</a> for competitor platforms. At the same time, TikTok is also losing short-form video influencers to other <a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/tiktok-creators-youtube-shorts-amid-insane-subscriber-growth-1235002615/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">platforms</a>. Both platforms are seeking new strategies for subscriber retention, growth, and original content. This is where gaming comes in. According to one consumer insights report, 79% of the world’s online population <a href="https://newzoo.com/insights/trend-reports/how-consumers-are-engaging-with-games-in-2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">engages with games</a> in some form. And millennials rate gaming as either the most popular, or second-most popular entertainment activity – behind watching other people play games on video platforms. <h2>Why is gaming an attractive space?</h2> Games typically afford longer engagement periods than series or movies. This is due to the psychological <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01731" target="_blank" rel="noopener">principles of motivation</a> that underpin most gameplay. People invested in games will often seek out additional narrative (or “lore”) in the form of shows and movies. Alternatively, audiences invested in shows may also look to video games to provide alternative narratives and opportunities for world-building. So shows lead customers to games, and games keep them engaged between season releases. This technique of telling a story across multiple platforms and formats is known as “<a href="https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780191800986.001.0001/acref-9780191800986-e-3472" target="_blank" rel="noopener">transmedia storytelling</a>” and has been used with <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/joeescobedo/2017/07/01/meet-the-man-behind-hollywood-and-fortune-500-firms-transmedia-success/?sh=3766654233da" target="_blank" rel="noopener">great success</a> by broadcast, social media and gaming companies. This is what platforms are banking on to keep audiences locked into their entertainment ecosystems. Content creation has <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2021/11/18/four-reasons-why-the-creator-economy-is-booming/?sh=7534840b53de" target="_blank" rel="noopener">boomed since the pandemic</a>, and younger audiences are spending more time than ever watching user-generated content online. They have been particularly tuned into games such as <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/1782210/Crab_Game/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Crab Game</a> (a fan-made version of the popular Netflix show Squid Game) – which also has <a href="https://sullygnome.com/game/Crab_Game" target="_blank" rel="noopener">millions of view hours</a> on the streaming service Twitch. The rise of Minecraft as a popular <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/mattgardner1/2022/04/07/game-modding-offers-huge-financial-opportunities-for-studios-in-2022/?sh=1f40a3cb590d" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“modding” game</a> (in which players can collectively transform the game space through their own modifications) has also helped video streaming and subscription services. Minecraft-related videos have been streamed more than <a href="https://www.youtube.com/trends/articles/minecraft-trillion/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">one trillion times on YouTube</a>. Transmedia success provides additional avenues for companies looking to leverage their licensed or original copyrighted content. <h2>Intellectual property and data analytics</h2> We know games promote attention, motivation, emotion and socialising among players. Companies such as the game-hosting platform Steam have demonstrated <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/oldnews/2488" target="_blank" rel="noopener">user data can influence</a> the creation of new content by game developers. In fact, this is a market advantage that Netflix and TikTok have over rivals. For example, one could easily imagine that a character who is popular in a game, as revealed through gaming data, would also be more likely to feature in an upcoming show based on that game. <h2>Netflix and TikTok can lose big</h2> When we speak of the streaming wars and greater competition, it’s not a level playing field. There are crucial differences between Netflix and TikTok, and other players such as Disney+, Amazon Prime, Apple TV and YouTube. Netflix is in the streaming business, and TikTok in the video-hosting industry. On the other hand, based on revenue Disney is in the theme park and toy business, Amazon the online sales industry, Apple the computing and phone industry, and Google in the search and advertising industry. For these companies, streaming and video hosting is a small side business that provides useful data to feed a greater machine. So in the “streaming wars” they don’t have as much to lose, as they can run these side businesses at a loss. Netflix and TikTok aren’t so lucky. By turning to games, they’re grabbing onto a lifeline they really need. This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/levelling-up-why-netflix-and-tiktok-are-turning-to-gaming-to-secure-their-future-183990" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. Image: Shutterstock

Movies

Young boy caught in fatal game of hide and seek

A young boy in the US state of Georgia has died after a family game of hide and seek went terribly wrong, and he accidentally got himself awkwardly stuck between a washing machine and dryer. Emergency services rushed to the boy's grandparents’ home on Friday evening after the child, aged 9, became trapped. Tim Watkins, from the local Sheriff’s Office, said it is believed the little boy was trying to hide behind the appliances when he got stuck between them. After looking for him for about five to ten minutes, the family discovered him and immediately began performing CPR. Despite continued efforts, paramedics were unable to revive the boy. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. It is believed he may have died from positional asphyxiation. There was no trauma to the little boy’s body. The Sheriff’s Office confirmed no charges have been brought against the family. Local residents have expressed their shock at the tragic news, with many taking to social media to express their condolences. “How tragic! Praying that the family is able to find some kind of peace during these most unfortunate circumstances,” one woman wrote on Facebook. Image: Getty

Family & Pets

Andrew Symonds laid to rest in private service

Cricketing icon Andrew Symonds has been farewelled in a private funeral on Friday morning, ahead of a public service later that afternoon. Symonds’ wife and children were seen clutching his beloved Akubras as they gathered with friends, teammates and other family members of the cricketer at Riverway Stadium on the outskirts of Townsville, Queensland. The memorial comes <a href="https://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/gone-too-soon-tributes-flow-for-andrew-symonds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">nearly a fortnight after Symonds veered off a remote road</a> and fatally crashed his car. His wife Laura and their children Billy and Chloe were among the first to arrive at 10am, just an hour before the service began, and were followed a short time later by Symonds’ best friend and former teammate Jimmy Maher. Other cricketing greats also attended the service, including Adam Gilchrist, Ian Healy, Ricky Ponting, Mark Waugh, Glenn McGrath and Micthell Johnson, as well as West Indies batsman Brian Lara and NRL player Darren Lockyer. A note sent to guests told them “no tie necessary”, reflecting Symonds’ casual personal style and his frequent appearances at semi-formal events in shorts and t-shirts. Some guests took the brief seriously, arriving in chinos and button-up shirts, while others wore three-piece suits. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Andrew Symonds will be publicly farewelled this afternoon in Townsville. Fans are welcomed to join the service online from 2:30pm AEST on <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cricketcomau</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FoxCricket</a> & <a href="https://twitter.com/kayosports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kayosports</a> <a href="https://t.co/E4rR5Sae18">pic.twitter.com/E4rR5Sae18</a> — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1530015862995816448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2022</a></blockquote> In lieu of flowers, guests were encouraged to donate to the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Nigel Fairbain was the first to speak at the service, welcoming attendees to celebrate Symonds’ life. “The gratitude his family extends to you all, with the acknowledgement to people who have travelled long distances. “Rejoice in the life he led. Celebrate it and learn from it. “Andrew’s life was a life well-lived, albeit cut short too early.” Symonds’ two children both spoke after, followed by his mother Barbara and sister Louise. A video tribute was also delivered by former teammate Matthew Hayden. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/05/andrew-symonds-service1.jpg" alt="" /> Photos of Andrew Symonds, cricket hats and his cricket bat surrounded his coffin. Image: Twitter After the service, Gilchrist told <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10859363/Andrew-Symonds-funeral-Townville-Riverway-Stadium-Australia-cricket-greats-wife-Laura-farewell-Roy.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Mail Australia</a> that Maher delivered the best eulogy he’s ever heard. “He looked at the kids in the eyes and told them exactly what he thought Roy would want him to say,” Gilchrist told the publication. “The service was simply beautiful. I’ve not seen a congregation as moved as they were today - full of sadness, but also such beautiful memories of a guy who just gave so much of himself to so many people, unconditionally. “He was loyal, almost to a fault. Mischievous character, but he would do whatever it took to help others - in and off the field. “We’ve all spoken so much about Roy, and there’s barely been a mention of his cricketing exploits and he was one of the game's great exploits. Ricky Ponting said he’d pick him in any team in any format.” Following on from the morning’s service, a public service will be livestreamed on <a href="https://www.cricket.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cricket.com.au</a>, <a href="https://kayosports.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kayo Sports</a>, and <a href="https://www.foxsports.com.au/?_gl=1*qteu7l*_ga*YW1wLU50aDlQVWR6Yk41MU11RW5FRjdQRVE." target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fox Cricket</a> from 2.30pm. Image: Getty Images

News

Furore erupts after RSL member refuses to allow Indigenous flag at ANZAC service

A NSW woman had the police called on her after she attempted to drape an Indigenous flag honouring First Nations diggers at her local war memorial service in Lismore. Cindy Roberts tried to display her flag beneath the Australian flag before the service began, but a local RSL member allegedly stopped her twice and called the police, according to the <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10753649/Anzac-Day-2022-fury-memorial-service-hit-row-Indigenous-flag.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail</a>. The incident has sparked outrage among those in attendance and online, with former Lismore mayor Jenny Dowell describing it as a “huge overreaction”. “It wasn’t a huge protest in any way and was absolutely done respectfully,” she said. “It was embarrassing and awkward and it should have just been allowed to pass without the fuss from the RSL member.” Ms Roberts, whose daughter, grandparents and uncles have served in Australia’s armed forces, had taken part in the dawn service and the march to Lismore Memorial Baths for the ceremony. When she arrived, the only flag flying was the Australian flag, despite other venues displaying the Aboriginal, Australian, and Torres Strait Islander flags side by side. “I just wanted to remember my ancestors that had fought in every single war, including the frontier war,” she told Daily Mail Australia. “So I stood and I felt a spirit in my heart tell me to just lay the flag out. I didn’t put it on the flagpole, I just placed it on the ground underneath the Australian flag. “Then I was approached by a member from the RSL and asked to remove the flag. “I said, ‘But my grandfathers and my uncles and my ancestors fought in the wars of this country’. He said, ‘This is not the time or the place’.” “I thought, ‘Well, when is the time to bring unity?’” Ms Roberts said she then picked the flag up and went to the spot where the wreaths were laid, where she was confronted again. “Then (the RSL member) approached me again and told me to remove the flag again and with the police this time,” she continued. “When this happened, I cried. I broke down and everyone saw me but I still stood there in the crowd behind the children with the Aboriginal flag.” Ms Robert’s daughter Skye, who served as a ship technician in the Australian Navy for five years, was with her mother when the incident occurred. Celebrated Indigenous soldier Clarrie Combo, who fought for Australia in Egypt, Libya, Crete, Syria, Greece, Sri Lanka and New Guinea during WWII, was one of Ms Roberts’ great uncles. “Our people have been through so much and I’m tired of them not being acknowledged,” Ms Roberts said. “First Nations people who fought in these wars deserve more respect because they put their lives on the line.” Ms Dowell said she tried to reason with the RSL member and that she couldn’t understand why they were treating Ms Roberts. “I saw the reaction from a member of the RSL who was saying repeatedly, it’s not appropriate, it’s not appropriate,” she told the publication. “I didn’t quite know what was not appropriate. I thought it was very disappointing - and not one speaker in the whole ceremony even acknowledged country. “I thought that was poor. The situation could have easily have escalated if Cindy had chosen to do so but she didn’t and many there may not have even noticed. “I thought she was very respectful and hopefully we can all learn from this incident - and that it doesn’t happen again.” The incident caused intense debate in the town’s Facebook group, with many supporting Ms Roberts. “To the beautiful Indigenous woman advocating to raise the Indigenous flag today at the service following the march, I am beyond apologetic for the utter disrespect you were shown,” one local wrote. Others insisted that the Australian flag should cover everyone since soldiers all fought under it in wartime. “They fought under the Australian flag. We are all Australians,” one person said. Image: Daily Mail

Caring

Check your attic for this rare collectors’ card!

A rare Pokémon card has fetched a whopping record $546,000 (US$420,000) at an auction. The insanely rare 1999 Pokémon Base Set Shadowless 1st Edition Holo Charizard card was sold on March 19. The description of the card on the auction website describes the inspiration it holds even a quarter of a century later. “Emblematic of the strength and power its design was meant to portray, the 1st Edition Base Set Charizard card continues to inspire awe even after almost a quarter of a century,” it read. “This historic piece of art designed by celebrated artist Mitsuhiro Arita is easily the most recognizable Pokemon card ever made.” Incredibly enough, 3,000 copies of the card were submitted to PSA Authentication and Grading Services but only 121 were given the highest grading of “10 Gem Mint” due to its popularity. “Featuring the highest attack power of any of the original Pokemon cards produced; the ferocity of the artwork coupled with the might of its Fire Spin caused most Pokemon fanatics to use it with pride. “It is one of the most coveted trading cards ever produced. Widely considered one of the holy grails of the Pokemon world, this Flame Pokemon is poised to show continuous returns for years to come and become a premier investment piece for any portfolio to have.” Maybe it’s time to ask the kids or grandkids to go through their own Pokemon collections! Images: PWCC Market Place and Shutterstock

Money & Banking

Warnie's memorial service is today: What you need to know

Almost a month on from the sudden death of cricketer Shane Warne, the Spin King will be honoured with a celebration in the heart of Melbourne at the MCG, in front of fans and family alike. Those closest to Warne farewelled him at a private service earlier this month and those wishing to pay their respects can now watch or attend a state memorial service today. When and where is the service? The service will be at the MCG, home to some of Warne's greatest cricketing triumphs. The gates of the MCG are due to open at 5:30 pm for a 7 pm start, and the state memorial service is scheduled to run for about two hours. A stage will be set up on the grounds of the MCG and upwards of 40,000 people are expected to fill the stadium's stands. The service will feature performances, tributes and reflections recognising Warne's big personality and charisma as well as his enormous contributions to Australian sport. Who will be attending? A long and impressive list of high-profile people will take part in the service, but not everyone will appear in person. Some guests and performers will appear either via live video links or pre-recorded segments. Musical entertainment will be a huge part of the service. Performers are expected from those Warne counted among his friends including Elton John, Chris Martin, Robbie Williams and Ed Sheeran. Local acts will include Anthony Callea and musician Jon Stevens, slated to perform covers of "bangers" that were among Warne's favourites, including songs by INXS and Noiseworks. Kylie and Dannii Minogue will also be part of the proceedings, but it's unclear whether or not they will perform. The biggest names in cricket in Australia and overseas will take part, including Wasim Akram, Allan Border, Ian Botham, Sachin Tendulkar, Michael Clarke, Stephen Fleming, Merv Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Dimitri Mascarenhas, Glenn McGrath and Mark Taylor. AFL great Dermott Brereton and Aaron Hamill, a long-time close friend of Warne, will take part, as will actors Eric Bana, Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe. Other prominent people making appearances are golfer Greg Norman, surfer Kelly Slater and comedian Andy Lee. The people most important to Warne, his immediate family, will also speak as part of the evening's proceedings. His three children, Brooke, Jackson and Summer, his father Keith and brother Jason are due to appear on stage. Can I still get a ticket? More than 50,000 tickets have already been nabbed, but another 10,000 spots were released through the MCG website on Wednesday. Tickets to the event are free and in recognition of Warne's contributions to the game, his family requested that fans come along to the memorial dressed in their cricket gear. How can I watch it? Eddie McGuire, who will MC the event, said all free-to-air TV channels will be broadcasting the service, there will be radio channels airing it as well, and there will be multiple places to live stream the proceedings online. Coverage will begin on ABC News Channel and on iview from 6:30 pm AEDT, with the memorial broadcast live on ABC Local Radio (except SA and Perth metro) and ABC Sport Digital.

Queen makes emotional appearance at memorial service for Prince Philip

Queen Elizabeth has made her first public appearance in over five months as she attended St. George's Chapel for a memorial service marking one year since Prince Philip's death. Her Majesty was joined by other members of the royal family and other dignitaries for the emotional service in honour of the Duke of Edinburgh. The Queen looked lonely and solemn as she entered the church to pay her respects, as she sat alone to reflect on her life with her husband. Prince Philip, who was by his wife’s side for more than seven decades, passed away at their Windsor Castle home in April 2021, just two months shy of his 100th birthday. Due to strict coronavirus rules, only 30 people were able to be in attendance at the service, meaning the Queen said poignantly alone as her husband of 73 years was lowered into the Royal Vault of St George’s Chapel of the castle. Another memorial service was held at London's Westminster Abbey and was a much larger event, with royals Prince Charles and Camilla, and Prince William, Kate Middleton and their children all in attendance. The event also marked the first public appearance of Prince Andrew since settling his lawsuit over sexual assault allegations, as Andrew accompanied the Queen into the church. “A man of rare ability and distinction, rightly honoured and celebrated, he ever directed our attention away from himself,” David Hoyle, the Dean of Westminster, said of Philip. The Dean went on to say it was a "long life lived fully". Image credits: Getty Images

Family & Pets

Howzat! Tickets now up for grabs for Warnie's state funeral

Over 50,000 people will be able to join Shane Warne’s family in farewelling the iconic cricketer at his state funeral - but those who miss out on the coveted tickets can still pay their respects. Victorian Premier Dan Andrews revealed that tickets for the service - due to be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 30 - will be free, with <a href="https://www.vic.gov.au/state-memorial-service-shane-warne" target="_blank" rel="noopener">online booking</a> starting at 3pm on Tuesday. The Premier took to Twitter to share new details about the service on Tuesday morning. “We’ve got some details locked in for Warnie’s memorial at the MCG,” Mr Andrews wrote. “And don’t worry - if you can’t make it, the memorial will be livestreamed.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> We've got some details locked in for Warnie's memorial at the MCG. The service will begin at 7pm, 30 March. Free tickets will be available for booking from today at 3pm, at <a href="https://t.co/qXOL7WTyrk">https://t.co/qXOL7WTyrk</a> And don't worry - if you can't make it, the memorial will be livestreamed. — Dan Andrews (@DanielAndrewsMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielAndrewsMP/status/1505998214381850625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2022</a></blockquote> It is expected that at least 50,000 fans will be joining Warne’s family and friends, as well as dignitaries and invited guests at the MCG. These guests will include former and current cricketers, and Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed he will be attending. Others including Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and UK pop star Ed Sheeran have also expressed their interest in being involved in the event, as reported by the <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/cricket/article-10637171/Shane-Warne-memorial-services-tickets-available-TODAY.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail</a>, while Warne’s ex-fiancee Elizabeth Hurley is understood to be trying to make the service. Most of the tickets will be available for the Great Southern Stand, which will be renamed the Shane Warne Stand in tribute. The service is due to commence from 7pm, with attendees - who must be fully vaccinated - required to be seated by 6.45pm. Depending on demand, more tickets may become available. Members of the public can submit online tributes to the cricket icon until April 10, and the family has requested that donations be made to the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health in lieu of flowers. Cricket grounds across Australia are also understood to be live streaming events paying tribute to Warne following his death on March 4. NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said the final details for the event at the Sydney Cricket Ground are still being finalised, but that it would be run alongside the Melbourne event and would be unticketed with free entry. “We are working through that at the moment with (Venues NSW chairman) Tony Shepherd and the team at Cricket Australia,” Mr Perrottet said. “We want to run those events alongside each other. Obviously, we will live stream the memorial service in the MCG - that’s incredibly important. “I think it’s important that we provide the opportunity for people to come to the cricket ground and pay their respects to Shane and to his family and friends.” The SCG service will include live tributes to Warne - who holds the record for the most test wickets at the grounds - and footage of his achievements. Venue NSW chairman Tony Shepherd said Mr Perrottet, Sports Minister Stuart Ayres, and former Prime Minister John Howard were also invited to the SCG memorial. A spokesperson from Cricket Australia told the <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/shane-warne-memorial-service-to-be-held-at-sydney-cricket-ground/news-story/5f3bc78ad88382c7ce3e0644b7ca1d4b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Telegraph</a> other cricket grounds were considering hosting services, including Adelaide Oval. “The SCG has expressed its intention to live stream Shane Warne’s memorial service and is of course welcome to do so,” they said. “Other grounds around Australia including Adelaide Oval are understood to be considering doing the same thing.” Image: Getty Images

Caring

Preparations begin for the Queen ahead of Philip’s memorial service

After her recent mobility issues, a huge operation is underway <a href="https://honey.nine.com.au/royals/queen-elizabeth-plans-to-make-monarch-comfortable-at-prince-philip-memorial-westminster-abbey/fea7f70c-1c00-47cb-8573-d9cbd674aa15" target="_blank" rel="noopener">to ensure</a> Queen Elizabeth II is as comfortable as possible ahead of her late husband’s memorial service. The service to commemorate Prince Philip one year after his death is due to take place at Westminster Abbey on March 29, but the Queen may be taking a different route than usual in and out of the Abbey. Buckingham Palace aides are said to be considering several options to allow the Queen to attend the mass without being seen walking with difficulty, including entering the Abbey via the Poet’s Corner or arriving by helicopter, per <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/18003126/queen-prince-philip-memorial-service-military-operation/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Sun</a>. The monarch was last seen at the Abbey in October 2021 for the 100th anniversary of the Royal British Legion, where she was spotted using a walking stick. Soon after that event, which saw her take her usual route into the Abbey, the Queen was forced to cancel a number of events on her doctors’ orders. According to the publication, staff have ruled out using a wheelchair, and are considering using privacy screens to shield the monarch from cameras as she walks. Another idea could see the Queen break with tradition and arrive before the other guests to take her seat early. “Everything is being looked at to make sure the Queen makes it to Philip’s service,” a source told The Sun. “But the most important thing is to make sure she is comfortable. “A 15-minute flight is better than an hour in the back of a car. Some days she can walk around easily. Other days she cannot. It varies day by day.” The Queen, who turns 96 next month, is hoping to lead the mourners at Prince Philip’s service. Other senior royals in attendance will include Prince Charles and Camilla, Prince William and Kate Middleton, as well as European royals who were unable to attend the funeral and surviving members of the Duke of Edinburgh’s family from Germany. Image: Getty Images

Caring

Spotify teams up with Netflix for new music streaming service

A new partnership between Spotify and Netflix has created a streaming service to help TV and movie fans find original musical content. Netflix Hub is now available from the Spotify app, and is the centralised place for original soundtracks, playlists and podcasts for top TV shows and movies from Netflix. The service is currently offering musical content from hit shows such as Stranger Things, Narcos: Mexico, Squid Game, Bridgeton and many more Netflix original content. As well as soundtracks, podcasts such as Netflix Is A Daily Joke, 10/10 Would Recommend and You Can’t Make This Up are also available for listeners to enjoy. The service also includes original behind the scenes content from the making of certain Netflix shows, as well as character matching experiences and quizzes to engage with. The partnership has built on the existing relationship between Netflix and Spotify, as the two companies have long worked together to bring users the best multimedia experience. The overlap in the streaming services will see a boost in users who engage with Netflix’s original content, and those who have a passion for music. This partnership also further boosts Spotify as the main competitor in the music streaming service market, rivalling Apple Music. Spotify recently announced that they plan to roll out more exclusive content to the Netflix Hub in the months ahead. Netflix Hub is available to all Spotify users, both Free and Premium, by simply typing “Netflix” into the search bar on the Spotify app. Image credits: Spotify / Netflix

Music

Customer shocked by exorbitant service fee

One customer was taken by surprise after dining at Salt Bae’s new London restaurant, when they were presented with the bill for $60,000 worth of food as well as a $9000 service fee. Salt Bae, whose real name is Nusret Gökçe, recently opened a new restaurant in the ritzy London neighbourhood of Knightsbridge. Diners at the establishment can expect to spend a pretty penny, including $1500 for a tomahawk steak and $55 for fries, but one diner wasn’t expecting a 15% service fee when they were presented with the bill. In addition to the exxy food and drinks, including $18,000 wine, the bill came with a 15% service charge, working out to £4829.10 on top of the £32,194 bill. That’s a charge of about $8933 on top of a $59,327 meal. <img style="width: 434.5156889495225px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844861/https___prodstatic9net.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/47ad6063eed94bab9aaef210baf96b52" /> The customer shared a photo of the cheque on Snapchat with the caption, “That’s just taking the p*ss”, and the image quickly went viral online, with many wondering how any meal could be worth those kinds of prices. Many critics say Salt Bae is overstepping his markups, which include charging $33 for asparagus and $20 for Red Bull, while others believe the prices, including the service fee, are justified considering the quality of the food and the potential to see Salt Bae do his thing. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUTA32OsX6x/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUTA32OsX6x/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Nusr_et#Saltbae (@nusr_et)</a> </div> </blockquote> Gökçe originally went viral in 2017 with a video of him sprinkling salt onto a meal getting over 10 million views. He now has almost 40 million followers on Instagram, and his videos of him doing his thing in the kitchen regularly get over 5 million views. With the opening of his London restaurant, Gökçe now owns luxury steakhouses in Miami, New York, Boston, Dallas, and Beverly Hills in the United States; Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates; Ankara, Bodrum, Istanbul and Marmaris in Turkey; and Mykonos, Doha, London and Jeddah. Image: Laurent Koffel/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

Food & Wine

New pop-up “Karen” restaurant delivers rude service on purpose

A unique pop-up dining experience is set to open in October, with a very different and potentially divise gimmick. Karen’s Diner will serve up American comfort dishes alongside terrible service and ‘Karen’ stereotypes. The diner’s catchphrase, "Great Burgers & Rude Service", has already started to create a buzz, as people anticipate their grand opening in Sydney this October. The restaurant is the latest project from the Sydney-based experiential hospitality company, who have previously been behind Wonderland Bar — a Mad Hatter-themed pop-up. The 1950s-style diner pokes fun at ‘cancel culture’ by flipping the golden rules of hospitality on its head. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844383/burgers.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/c873ce11fa5b4295b174c7f61e365ccb" /> Image credit: bemorekaren.com The tongue-in-cheek concept was inspired by the rise in complaining ‘Karens’ in popular culture, a pejorative trope referring to an entitled and privileged white woman, often seen demanding to "speak to the manager". As part of the unique dining experience, staff are encouraged to be rude to patrons, while customers can have fun and go along for the ride. Despite the controversial service, the creators of the venue have assured customers that the food will be of an extremely high quality, with a menu of comfort classics including burgers, wings, shakes and cocktails on offer. Their menu items even feature Karen-themed names, with drink titles including 'The Music Is Too Loud’, ‘I’ve Been Waiting 10 Minutes for Some Service’, and ‘You’ve Just Lost My Business’. There will also be a number of vegan and vegetarian options available for those with dietary requirements. The hospitality group regularly works with actors, so their staff will definitely be brutal in their off-beat offences. Viral Ventures co-founder Aden Levin says the concepts are all designed to be fun and offer customers "something they have never experienced before". "Particularly after the last few months, we just want people to have fun and this is our approach to all our venues and pop-ups around Australia," he says. For more information or to book a table, visit <a href="https://www.bemorekaren.com/">bemorekaren.com</a> Image credits: Shutterstock / bemorekaren.com

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Warnie's memorial service is today: What you need to know

Queen makes emotional appearance at memorial service for Prince Philip

Howzat! Tickets now up for grabs for Warnie's state funeral

Preparations begin for the Queen ahead of Philip’s memorial service

Spotify teams up with Netflix for new music streaming service

Customer shocked by exorbitant service fee

New pop-up “Karen” restaurant delivers rude service on purpose