Things to Buy in Perth, Australia: Your Ultimate Shopping Guide 2025
Standing in London Court's Tudor-style arcade while watching tourists marvel at the medieval clocks and browse for Australian opals, I realized Perth's shopping scene tells a unique story. This sun-drenched capital of Western Australia, with its blend of international luxury brands and authentic local craftsmanship, offers shopping experiences that rival any Australian city – yet with a distinctly relaxed, Western Australian character. If you're wondering about the best things to buy in Perth, Australia, you're about to discover treasures ranging from world-class wines to Aboriginal art, from pristine pearls to locally-made fashion that captures Perth's effortless coastal elegance.
- Why Perth Shopping Deserves Your Attention
- The Best Things to Buy in Perth, Australia
- 1. Margaret River Wine – World-Class Vintages at Your Doorstep
- 2. Broome Pearls – Lustrous Treasures from the North
- 3. Aboriginal Art and Artifacts – Cultural Treasures
- 4. Australian Opals – Nature's Color Play
- 5. Tim Tams and Australian Snacks – Edible Souvenirs
- 6. Ugg Boots and Sheepskin Products – Authentic Australian Comfort
- 7. Australian Designer Fashion – Perth's Unique Style
- 8. Tea Tree Oil and Natural Skincare – Pure Australian Botanicals
- 9. Fremantle Markets Treasures – Handcrafted and Local
- 10. Akubra Hats – Iconic Australian Headwear
- Where to Shop: Perth's Best Shopping Districts
- Planning Your Perth Shopping Experience
- Shopping Tips for Perth
- Seasonal Shopping Highlights
- What Makes These the Best Things to Buy in Perth, Australia
- Final Thoughts on Perth Shopping
Why Perth Shopping Deserves Your Attention
Perth often flies under the radar compared to Sydney or Melbourne, but that's precisely what makes shopping here special. The city's isolation on Australia's west coast has fostered a thriving community of local designers, artisans, and food producers who create products you simply won't find elsewhere. Combined with Perth's position as a gateway to incredible regional producers – from Margaret River wineries to Broome pearl farmers – the things to buy in Perth, Australia represent both global sophistication and authentic Australian craftsmanship.
Things to Buy in Perth, Australia
The Best Things to Buy in Perth, Australia
1. Margaret River Wine – World-Class Vintages at Your Doorstep
When exploring the Perth things to buy, Margaret River wine deserves top billing. Located around a three to three-and-a-half-hour drive south of Perth, the Margaret River region produces world-class wines, particularly cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay that have put the region on every connoisseur's radar.
Why Margaret River wines are special:
The region’s temperate maritime climate and unique terroir are often compared to classic wine regions like Bordeaux. Award-winning wineries produce wines uniformly excellent in quality, with cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay receiving particular international acclaim. What sets Margaret River apart is the combination of small-batch production, family-owned estates, and pioneering winemakers who've been perfecting their craft for just 50 years yet achieve results that rival centuries-old European vineyards.
Top wineries to look for:
- Leeuwin Estate – Famous for Art Series labels featuring Australian artists
- Vasse Felix – The region's founding winery, producing exceptional cabernet since 1972
- Cullen Wines – Pioneering biodynamic viticulture with elegant, refined wines
- Voyager Estate – Known for their underground barrel cellar and wine-paired lunches
- Howard Park – Producing eminently drinkable riesling from a feng shui-designed cellar door
Where to buy in Perth: Small shops throughout the city and suburbs sell Australian souvenirs and iconic buys, including specialized wine retailers that stock Margaret River selections. Liquor stores like Dan Murphy's, First Choice Liquor, and specialist bottle shops in suburbs like Claremont and Subiaco offer comprehensive Margaret River sections.
Price range: Expect to invest AUD $25-50 for quality Margaret River wines, with premium and reserve bottles ranging from AUD $60-200+.
Pro tip: Many Perth retailers offer mixed cases that allow you to sample different wineries and varietals. This is perfect for discovering your favorites before visiting the region.
2. Broome Pearls – Lustrous Treasures from the North
Among the most prestigious things to buy in Perth, Australia are South Sea pearls from Broome. These luminous gems, cultivated in the pristine waters off Western Australia's northwest coast, are among the world's most valuable pearls due to their exceptional size, lustre, and subtle golden hues.
What makes Broome pearls special: South Sea pearls can reach up to 20mm in diameter (compared to 8-10mm for typical cultured pearls), with colors ranging from pure white to champagne, gold, and rare silver. The Pinctada maxima oyster species found in Broome's waters produces pearls with exceptional nacre thickness, creating that sought-after deep lustre.
Where to buy:
- Paspaley – The most prestigious name in Australian pearls, with boutiques in Perth's luxury shopping districts
- Kailis Jewellery – Family-owned West Australian pearl company with Perth showrooms
- Willie Creek Pearls – Offering both high-end jewelry and more accessible pieces
Investment note: Quality South Sea pearl jewelry starts around AUD $500-800 for simple pieces, with statement necklaces reaching AUD $10,000-50,000+. Consider this a lifelong investment prized for its enduring beauty and long-term value.
3. Aboriginal Art and Artifacts – Cultural Treasures
Creative Native, located in the heart of Perth city on Murray Street Mall, has grown to become one of Western Australia’s most prominent specialist retailers of authentic Aboriginal artworks, souvenirs and gifts in Western Australia. When seeking meaningful Perth things to buy, Aboriginal art represents both cultural significance and artistic excellence.
What's available: From didgeridoos and boomerangs for happy backpackers to fine art for private collectors and investors, Creative Native caters to diverse budgets and interests. The gallery showcases paintings, textiles, jewelry, wood carvings, and ceremonial items from Western Australian Indigenous communities.
Other notable galleries:
- Artitja Fine Art Gallery in South Fremantle, operating since 2004 and celebrating their 21st year in 2025, works with more than 20 Aboriginal-owned art centres
- Japingka Aboriginal Art Gallery in Fremantle has been associated with Aboriginal art for over thirty-five years
- Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery, an Aboriginal owned and operated enterprise offering cultural activities, performances, and authentic Aboriginal art
Price range:
- Small authentic boomerangs and artifacts: AUD $30-100
- Quality didgeridoos: AUD $150-800
- Original paintings: AUD $500-50,000+ depending on artist and size
- Jewelry and wearable art: AUD $80-500
Cultural considerations: All artworks from reputable galleries come with provenance supported by certificates of authenticity, ensuring fair and ethical trading. Always purchase from galleries that adhere to the Indigenous Art Code.
4. Australian Opals – Nature's Color Play
London Court's English-Tudor charm is perfect for finding gemstones, Australian gifts, and souvenirs. Australian opals, sourced from renowned mining regions across Australia, rank among the most coveted things to buy in Perth, Australia.
Types of opals:
- Boulder opals – Featuring ironstone backing with spectacular color play
- White opals – Classic light-bodied stones with rainbow flashes
- Black opals – The most valuable, with dark body tones intensifying colors
- Crystal opals – Transparent or translucent with vibrant color patterns
Where to buy: Reputable jewelers throughout Perth's CBD, particularly around Murray Street Mall and within London Court, specialize in Australian opals. Look for stores that provide certificates of authenticity and explain the stone's origin.
Investment guide: Quality opals start around AUD $200-500 for smaller stones, with exceptional pieces reaching thousands. Unlike mass-market gemstones, Australian opals are genuine investments that appreciate over time.
5. Tim Tams and Australian Snacks – Edible Souvenirs
No list of things to buy in Perth, Australia would be complete without Australia's beloved chocolate treat. Tim Tams are iconic Australian snacks perfect as gifts or personal keepsakes, available throughout Perth at competitive prices.
Beyond Tim Tams:
- Caramello Koalas – Chocolate koalas filled with caramel
- Cherry Ripe – Australia's oldest chocolate bar with cherry and coconut
- Vegemite – The infamous yeast spread Australians love
- Macadamia nuts – Native Australian nuts, perfectly roasted and salted
- Anzac biscuits – Traditional oat and golden syrup cookies
Where to buy: Major supermarkets like Woolworths and Coles throughout Perth offer the best selection and prices. For variety packs perfect for gifts, check airport stores or specialty shops in Murray Street Mall.
Packing tip: Tim Tams travel well and don't require refrigeration, making them perfect souvenirs. Buy an insulated bag if traveling during summer months.
6. Ugg Boots and Sheepskin Products – Authentic Australian Comfort
Genuine Australian-made Ugg boots represent some of the most practical Perth things to buy. Unlike mass-produced imitations, authentic Australian sheepskin products offer superior quality and comfort that lasts for years.
What to look for:
- "100% Australian Made" certification
- Double-faced sheepskin (fleece on one side, suede on the other)
- Hand-cut and hand-stitched construction
- Quality rubber soles suitable for outdoor wear
Where to buy: While specialty sheepskin stores across Perth offer authentic Australian-made Ugg boots, R.M. Williams is best known for its handcrafted leather boots, Akubra hats, and classic Australian bushwear. Other options include specialty sheepskin shops in suburbs like Fremantle and dedicated Australian souvenir stores.
Price range: Authentic Australian Ugg boots range from AUD $120-250 depending on style and quality, while sheepskin slippers start around AUD $80-120.
7. Australian Designer Fashion – Perth's Unique Style
Perth's fashion scene blends coastal ease with urban sophistication. Fashion editors often note that Cottesloe’s Napoleon Street is a local favourite for multi-brand boutiques catering to Perth’s relaxed coastal style like Love Story, ACO, and Boheme Luxe, offering labels from Isabel Marant and Stella McCartney to Anine Bing and Ulla Johnson.
Perth fashion districts:
King Street – Lined with beautiful heritage buildings and home to international fashion houses like Chanel and Gucci, this is Perth's luxury shopping heart.
Cottesloe – The beachside suburb offers bohemian-luxe fashion perfect for Perth's lifestyle. Independent boutiques focus on international and local brands with an emphasis on natural fabrics and relaxed elegance.
Subiaco – District boasts an impressive collection of European design brands, located just 10 minutes west of Perth city centre.
Claremont Quarter – Offers luxury shopping in Perth with unique boutiques and a delightful shopping experience.
Australian designers to discover:
- Gorman – Quirky prints and sustainable fashion
- Zimmermann – Feminine resort wear with Australian aesthetic
- Scanlan Theodore – Sophisticated tailoring and evening wear
- Bassike – Minimalist, sustainable fashion
- Nobody Denim – Australian-designed premium denim
8. Tea Tree Oil and Natural Skincare – Pure Australian Botanicals
Perth is special for locally made products like tea tree oil and natural cosmetics. Western Australia's unique botanicals create skincare products with genuine therapeutic benefits.
Key Australian ingredients:
- Tea tree oil – Antimicrobial and antiseptic properties
- Eucalyptus oil – Respiratory benefits and natural insect repellent
- Kakadu plum – World's highest concentration of Vitamin C
- Quandong – Native peach with anti-aging properties
- Lemon myrtle – Natural antibacterial with refreshing scent
Brands to look for:
- Aesop – Premium botanical skincare with signature packaging
- Jurlique – Biodynamic farming and sustainable beauty
- Australian Botanical Products – Pure essential oils and natural remedies
- Bondi Wash – Plant-based home and body care
Where to buy: Chemist Warehouse offers competitive pricing on Australian beauty brands, while specialty stores throughout Perth CBD stock premium selections. The AGWA Shop at the Art Gallery of Western Australia offers beauty products alongside jewelry and art books.
9. Fremantle Markets Treasures – Handcrafted and Local
The historic Fremantle Markets, operating since 1897, offer an authentic shopping experience for discovering unique things to buy in Perth, Australia. The most established weekend market in Perth is a definite must-see.
What you'll find:
- Handmade jewelry using local materials
- Leather goods from Western Australian craftspeople
- Locally roasted coffee and tea blends
- Fresh produce from Western Australian farms
- Vintage clothing and collectibles
- Artisan soaps and skincare products
When to visit: Friday: 9am-8pm Saturday: 9am-6pm Sunday: 9am-6pm
Pro tip: Arrive early Saturday morning for the best selection before crowds arrive. Bring cash as some stallholders don't accept cards.
10. Akubra Hats – Iconic Australian Headwear
The Akubra hat represents authentic Australian style and practical sun protection. Made from rabbit fur felt, these legendary hats have been handcrafted in Australia since 1876.
Why Akubra:
- Blocks up to 98% of harmful UV rays
- Water-resistant and durable
- Improves with age, developing character
- Designed for Australian conditions
Where to buy: R.M. Williams stores throughout Perth stock genuine Akubra hats alongside other Australian-made items. Expect to invest AUD $150-300 for quality Akubra hats that last decades with proper care.
The Best Things to Buy in Perth, Australia
Where to Shop: Perth's Best Shopping Districts
Murray and Hay Street Malls
Murray and Hay Street Malls are pedestrian-friendly shopping hotspots featuring fashion, jewelry, and accessories, with iconic arcades like Enex Perth, Trinity Arcade, Wesley Quarter, and King Street each offering unique shopping experiences.
London Court
London Court is one of the most beautiful shopping areas in Perth, a historical Tudor England themed arcade built in 1937 and heritage listed. The 120-meter arcade features medieval clocks and specializes in gemstones, Australian gifts, and unique souvenirs.
Watertown Brand Outlet Centre
Watertown Brand Outlet Centre features over 100 outlet stores showcasing both Australian and international brands, making it a must-visit destination for fashion enthusiasts and bargain hunters. The semi-outdoor complex offers discounted prices on brands like Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, adidas, and Puma.
Getting there: Take the free Yellow CAT bus from Perth Station directly to Watertown.
Claremont Quarter
For upscale shopping, Claremont Quarter offers luxury boutiques, designer fashion, and fine dining in an elegant setting. Located in the affluent western suburbs, it's perfect for discovering high-end Perth things to buy.
Subiaco and Leederville
These vibrant neighborhoods feature independent boutiques, vintage stores, and alternative fashion. Oxford Street in Leederville offers edgy threads and unique knickknacks, while Beaufort Street in Mount Lawley provides idiosyncratic finds.
Where to Shop: Perth's Best Shopping Districts
Planning Your Perth Shopping Experience
Before you explore all the wonderful things to buy in Perth, Australia, ensure your travel documentation is properly arranged. Australian Immigration Services specializes exclusively in eVisa processing, providing a streamlined and efficient system to help international travelers secure their Australian visa quickly and hassle-free. Their dedicated online platform simplifies the entire visa application process.
Ready to start your Perth shopping adventure? Apply for an Australia eVisa and begin planning your Western Australian journey today!
Best Times to Shop in Perth
Weekday mornings (10am-12pm) – Quietest time with best service and selection
Thursday and Friday late night shopping – Extended shopping hours until 9pm with many stores open beyond the standard 5:30pm closing
Saturday – Shopping hours from 8am to 5:30pm, perfect for markets and boutique browsing
Sunday – Many stores open from around 11am to 5–6pm, making it ideal for relaxed shopping, ideal for relaxed shopping
Avoid: Weekday afternoons (3pm-5pm) when locals finish work and shops get crowded
Budget Planning for Things to Buy in Perth, Australia
Budget-Conscious Shoppers (Under $100 AUD)
- Tim Tams and Australian snacks (AUD $20-40)
- Tea tree oil and natural skincare (AUD $15-50)
- Aboriginal-inspired souvenirs (AUD $30-80)
- Australian-themed clothing (AUD $40-90)
- Small bottles of Margaret River wine (AUD $25-50)
Mid-Range Shoppers ($100-500 AUD)
- Quality Ugg boots (AUD $120-250)
- Akubra hats (AUD $150-300)
- Aboriginal art prints (AUD $150-400)
- Designer Australian fashion pieces (AUD $150-450)
- Premium Margaret River wine cases (AUD $200-500)
Luxury Shoppers ($500+ AUD)
- Broome pearl jewelry (AUD $500-50,000+)
- Original Aboriginal paintings (AUD $1,000-100,000+)
- Australian opal jewelry (AUD $500-20,000+)
- Designer fashion collections (AUD $500-3,000+)
- Premium wine collections (AUD $500-5,000+)
Planning Your Perth Shopping Experience
Shopping Tips for Perth
1. Understand GST and Tax Refunds
All goods and services in Australia have a 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST) applied, with credit cards like Visa and Mastercard widely accepted throughout retail outlets. International visitors can claim GST refunds through the Tourist Refund Scheme for purchases over AUD $300 from a single retailer within 60 days of departure.
2. Compare Prices Across Districts
Luxury items in King Street command premium prices, while the same products may cost 20-30% less at Watertown Brand Outlet Centre. Fremantle Markets offer authentic local crafts at fair prices, but CBD tourist shops often inflate prices on similar items.
3. Verify Authenticity
For high-value purchases like Aboriginal art, opals, pearls, and Ugg boots, always request certificates of authenticity. Reputable sellers willingly provide documentation proving origin and, for Aboriginal art, ethical compensation to artists.
4. Take Advantage of Sales Periods
Boxing Day sales (December 26) – Biggest discounts of the year, with 30-70% off End of Financial Year (June-July) – Major clearance sales Mid-season sales (January and July) – Good discounts on fashion
5. Explore Suburban Shopping
Don't limit yourself to the CBD. Suburbs like Cottesloe, Subiaco, Fremantle, and Claremont offer unique boutiques, better prices, and more authentic Perth shopping experiences without tourist markups.
6. Pack Smart for Fragile Items
Wine bottles, opals, pearls, and Aboriginal art require careful packing. Many stores offer shipping services for fragile or bulky purchases. Consider purchasing protective wine bags or bubble wrap for carry-on luggage.
Shopping Tips for Perth
Seasonal Shopping Highlights
Summer (December-February)
- Beach fashion and swimwear at peak availability
- Light, breathable clothing perfect for Perth's hot summers
- Fresh produce at Fremantle Markets
- Summer wine releases from Margaret River
Autumn (March-May)
- New fashion collections in boutiques
- Wine harvest season – excellent cellar door visits
- Comfortable weather for market shopping
- Fall produce including apples and stone fruits
Winter (June-August)
- Ugg boots and sheepskin products at their best
- Fewer tourists mean better service and availability
- Truffle season – look for local truffle products
- Cozy wool clothing and blankets
Spring (September-November)
- Wildflower season – unique Western Australian floral products
- Spring fashion collections
- Pleasant weather for extended shopping days
- Fresh honey and spring produce
Seasonal Shopping Highlights
What Makes These the Best Things to Buy in Perth, Australia
The things to buy in Perth, Australia share distinctive characteristics: authenticity, quality, and connection to Western Australia's unique geography and culture. Whether you're investing in Margaret River wine that rivals Bordeaux, wrapping yourself in genuine sheepskin Ugg boots, or bringing home Aboriginal art that carries 65,000 years of cultural knowledge, each purchase tells a story.
Perth's isolation has preserved a shopping culture that values quality over quantity, local over imported, and authenticity over mass production. The city's artisans, winemakers, designers, and craftspeople aren't trying to copy eastern Australian or international trends – they're creating products that reflect Western Australia's character: sun-drenched, relaxed, sophisticated, and genuinely Australian.
Final Thoughts on Perth Shopping
After years exploring Perth's shopping districts, from the Tudor charm of London Court to the bohemian boutiques of Cottesloe, I've learned that the best things to buy in Perth, Australia aren't always found in guidebooks. Sometimes it's the small artisan jewelry shop hidden in Subiaco, the perfect bottle of Margaret River cabernet recommended by a knowledgeable staff member, or the Aboriginal artwork with a story that resonates deeply that becomes your most treasured purchase.
Perth offers shopping experiences that combine international sophistication with authentic Australian character. The city's relaxed pace means salespeople have time to share stories about products, artisans are accessible at markets, and shopping feels like exploration rather than obligation.
Whether you're filling your suitcase with Tim Tams and tea tree oil, investing in South Sea pearls that will appreciate for generations, carefully wrapping Aboriginal art to ship home, or sampling Margaret River wines that rival the world's best, you're not just shopping – you're collecting pieces of Western Australia's soul.
So embrace Perth's sunny disposition, explore beyond the obvious tourist shops, chat with local artisans about their craft, and discover why the Perth things to buy have earned their reputation among savvy travelers. Your perfect Western Australian treasure is waiting somewhere between pristine beaches and world-class wineries, between ancient Aboriginal culture and contemporary design.
Welcome to Perth – where shopping is relaxed, authentic, and distinctly Western Australian.
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