In the UK you're entitled to a replacement there and then, no need for authorisation from the manufacturer.
Is it different in Oz, or could they have been covering their arses with the manufacturer at your expense?

Over here, I'd have stood in the shop, arms folded, farting quietly until I got my replacement.
(Juan Quar is clinging to her front teeth on, Mon 6 Sep 2010, 9:58, 2 replies)

same in Australia
It's the retailer who's responsible for repair/replacement/refund, not the manufacturer. Also, you don't need the box it came in or any of the packaging. You paid for the device and it's irrelevant whether it was packed in a shiny box or a paper bag. On the rare occasion I've had to return stuff I take a printout of the relevant blurb from the web site of the relevant authority (DOCEP.WA.GOV.AU in WA, other states have their own). I've never needed to use it though as the service has been good.
( SteamedCleaner, Mon 6 Sep 2010, 13:25, closed)

I dunno how it is in Oz, I live in NZ =P

Like you, I would've refused to leave until I got what I wanted, but I've dealt with this kinda thing in a the past and I know that won't get the result I want. Most things will be replaced instantly, like my old DVD player a few years back, but because of Apple's policies its a bit more complicated with iPods and the like.
(ElGranto, Tue 7 Sep 2010, 0:48, closed)