Terms and Conditions

1. Prices

All prices are in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include GST. Unless otherwise stated, prices are per person. Prices are valid until 31 December 2025 but are subject to change without notice before booking confirmation.

2. Contract

All bookings are made with Sideways Tours Pty Ltd (ABN and ACN TBC), hereinafter referred to as “Sideways Tours”. By confirming a booking, you agree to be bound by the terms outlined in this document.

3. Cancellation and Change Policy

Cancellation terms vary depending on the type of service. Refunds, where applicable, are processed within 7 business days.

3.1 Standard Public (Shared) Tours – Customer Changes

  • One date change permitted free of charge with more than 10 days’ notice.
  • Less than 10 days’ notice: 50% cancellation fee.
  • Additional changes: $50 administration fee per booking.

Cancellations:

  • More than 10 days prior: refund minus processing costs (usually 10%).
  • Between 2–10 days: 50% refund.
  • Less than 48 hours: no refund.

3.2 Special Events and Wine Experiences

  • Cancellations more than 14 days in advance: refund minus 10% fee.
  • Between 6–14 days: 50% refund.
  • Less than 6 days: no refund.
  • Date changes are not guaranteed and are at Sideways Tours’ discretion.

3.3 Private Tours

  • All private tours require a 20% non-refundable deposit.
  • Date changes (subject to availability): 20% change fee.

Cancellations:

  • More than 14 days: 80% refund.
  • Less than 14 days: no refund.

3.4 Operator Cancellations

Sideways Tours reserves the right to cancel or modify any part of the tour due to safety, availability, weather, or unforeseen circumstances. In case of operator cancellation:

  • A full refund or reschedule will be offered.
  • If changes occur during a tour, an equivalent experience or partial refund will be proposed where applicable.

3.5 Itinerary Changes

Itineraries may vary due to supplier availability, venue closures, or weather. Substitutions will be of equal or greater quality and value.

4. Payment Terms

  • Public tours: full payment required at time of booking.
  • Private tours: 20% deposit due upon booking (non-refundable), balance due 14 days prior to tour date.
  • Late payments may result in automatic cancellation without refund of deposit.

5. Alcohol & Safety Policy

  • Alcohol consumption is not permitted inside vehicles.
  • Wineries and venues may legally refuse service to intoxicated guests.
  • Guests must comply with all safety instructions and wear seatbelts at all times.

6. Gift Vouchers

  •  Valid for 3 years from date of issue.
  • Fully transferable but non-refundable.
  • If tour prices increase, the difference must be paid at the time of redemption.

7. Privacy & Security

Your personal information is treated confidentially and securely, in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). Payment details are encrypted and processed through secure platforms.

8. Departure Points

Pickup locations are confirmed via email or SMS before your tour. You must be present at the designated location on time. No-shows will forfeit their booking without refund.

9. No Show

If you are not at the agreed departure point within 5 minutes of the scheduled time, the tour may proceed without you. No refund will be issued.

10. Guest Liability for Damage

Guests are responsible for any damage to vehicles or partner venues caused by negligent or intentional actions. You may be billed for repairs or cleaning.

11. Photography & Marketing

Photos or videos taken during tours may be used for marketing purposes. If you do not wish to appear, you must inform us in writing before the start of the tour.

12. Guest Responsibility

Guests are responsible for:

  • Their own allergies or dietary needs,
  • Their own respectful and safe conduct,
  • Complying with Australian road safety laws.

13. Right to Refuse Service

We reserve the right to refuse service or remove any guest whose behaviour:

  • Is intoxicated, abusive, or disruptive,
  • Poses a risk to others’ safety or enjoyment,
  • Violates WA public health or safety guidelines.

No refunds will be provided in such cases. This policy complies with Australian Consumer Law and Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (WA).

14. Liability Disclaimer

Participation in our tours is at your own risk. Sideways Tours is not liable for:

  • Any injury, illness, loss, or damage incurred during the tour,
  • Force majeure events (accidents, road closures, natural disasters).

Sideways Tours holds Public Liability Insurance up to $20 million AUD. However, coverage decisions are made by the insurer and are subject to the terms of the policy. This provides an additional layer of protection, but does not override the personal responsibility of guests. We strongly recommend that all guests have appropriate travel insurance.

15. Weather & Force Majeure

Tours operate in all weather conditions. In case of extreme weather, bushfires, road closures or other emergency conditions, we reserve the right to cancel or reschedule. No liability is accepted for circumstances beyond our control.