Taskbar search bar faulty, Codex app won't load, 0 way to speak to a human in Australia

To request a return or service and speak with a human in Australia, use these supported options:

1. Start a return/repair request online
   1. Go to Microsoft account | Devices.
   2. Sign in with the account used to purchase or register the Surface.
   3. Select the affected device, then select Next.
   4. If the device is not listed, select Register device and add it, then continue.
   5. Follow the on‑screen steps to create a service order. If the device is in warranty, this will guide through repair/replacement options. If the warranty status does not match the proof of purchase, use Update your warranty with your proof-of-purchase from the same page.
2. Use in‑person Surface service in Australia
   1. Australia has Microsoft Authorized Service Providers (ASPs) that can inspect and service Surface devices in person.
   2. Go to the Australia ASP page: Find Surface Authorized Service Providers in Australia.
   3. Follow the link there to Harvey Norman’s TechTeam page to find the nearest participating store.
   4. Before visiting:
      • Back up data because service may erase the device.
      • Bring the purchase receipt or invoice so the ASP can confirm warranty; if not available, they can use the serial number.
   5. The ASP can perform hardware inspection, troubleshooting, and system recovery, and if needed help send the device to Microsoft for repair or replacement. Note that ASPs may charge additional fees, even for in‑warranty repairs, so confirm costs with them first.
3. Speak to Microsoft Store support about the purchase If the device was bought from the Microsoft Store (online), contact Microsoft Store Sales & Customer Support for Australia:
   • Country/region: Australia (+61)
   • Microsoft Store Sales Support: 1800624449 (Toll Free)
   This team can help with purchase‑related issues and next steps for returns or escalation.
4. If covered by a commercial protection plan (business/education)
   • If this is a commercial Surface covered by the Microsoft Extended Hardware Service Plan Plus with On-Site in Australia, contact the Microsoft Authorized Reseller that sold the plan. They can arrange on‑site repair or service under that plan.

These paths provide both a formal return/repair request and ways to speak directly with a human (phone support, in‑person ASP, or reseller if on a commercial plan).

References:

• How to get service or repair for Surface
• Find Surface Authorized Service Providers in Australia
• Get service for your out of warranty or damaged Surface
• Help with Microsoft Store purchases
• Surface Australia On-Site service & repair