Are Luxury Brands Cheaper in Australia? What You Need To Know Before Your Next Trip
If you are taking a trip to Australia anytime soon, you may be thinking about a little luxury retail therapy while you’re there, but are luxury brands cheaper in Australia? We have all the details you need to know.
There are so many incredible places to visit in Australia and wonderful things to do, but should you add a little luxury shopping to your holiday plans? Should you pick a new luxury bag or piece of jewelry while you are in Australia, or are the prices better in your home country?
We are going to be answering the question, are luxury brands cheaper in Australia so you know all the important information before you head off on vacation?
We will tell you all the key details that you need to know before you make any luxury purchases, including price comparisons between Australia and other major luxury shopping destinations and which brands you should pick up while you are shopping in Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth. This article is a must-read before you hop on your flight to Australia!
Are luxury brands cheaper in Australia?
It depends on where you live as to whether luxury brands will be cheaper for you! If you live in the United States then luxury brands in Australia will be a little cheaper, but if you live in the United Kingdom or an EU country, then Australia will be more expensive.
This difference in price ultimately comes down to the current currency exchange rates and the 10% GST refund rate that you’ll receive on your products, so it is always worth looking at the exchange rate before you travel, even if you’re visiting from a country which usually would have pretty similar pricing to Australia.
The only exception is that Australian brands will usually always be cheaper in Australia than anywhere else in the world, which is why is a great idea to pick a new Zimmermann dress, or anything from an Australian designer brand, while you are in the country.
Price Comparison
Let’s take a look at the price differences and exactly how much more expensive, or cheaper if you are referencing American prices, luxury goods are in Australia compared to other areas of the world.
We have taken the example of Louis Vuitton Multi Pochette Accessories, and the price of this popular designer handbag in different countries so you can get an idea of how much you could save, or more you could spend if you buy this bag in Australia.
Country | Home Country Price | Price in USD ($) |
America | $2,750 + tax | $2,750 + tax |
Australia | $4,100 | $2,655 (not including 10% GST refund) |
UK | £1,970 | $2,498 |
France | €2,150 | $2,333 |
Singapore | Singapore $3,800 | $2,813 |
As you can see, the United States and Singapore are up there as the more expensive countries to buy this Louis Vuitton bag, with Australia only slightly cheaper than these countries. Eurozone countries are by far the best place and cheapest country to purchase the Louis Vuitton Multi Pochette Accessories, and this price doesn’t even take into account the VAT refund, which would make the final price even cheaper!
If you are in America or Singapore, it is definitely worth picking a new LV handbag, or any designer bag, since the price is much cheaper, plus the GST refund available in Australia will give the bag an even lower price.
GST Refund
Just like in Europe, Australia has a tax refund scheme in place for tourists, but there are certain rules you need to be aware of and a couple of things you need to do in order to receive this refund. In Australia, the tourist refund scheme applies to the goods and services tax (10%), which can be applied to purchases of over AUD $300 in one store.
To receive this refund, you need to buy the goods within 60 days of leaving the country and you cannot be an Australian citizen.
There are then a couple of things you need to do when you are buying your new luxury purchase. Firstly, you need to make sure you have your passport with you when you are shopping to prove you are not a resident of Australia, and then you can fill in the necessary paperwork.
When you reach the airport to head home, you need to remember to head to the TRS Facility at departures with your passport, boarding pass, original tax invoices, and the purchase itself so the item can be inspected – this means it is best to pack a new purchase in your carry on luggage. One other important thing to remember is the fact that you can’t open and use your new luxury item until you’ve got back home.
You will then receive your refund by credit card – just perfect. There are also TRS Facilities at a seaport if you have traveled to the country by boat or cruise ship. You will find these TRS Facilities at all major international airports, and each airport website will show you where the facilities are so they are easy to find. It is recommended to leave extra time for this refund process as there can be long queues.
Stock in Australia
It is also worth noting that some shoppers have experienced limited stock in Australia. There are fewer luxury boutiques compared to America, France, or Italy and so you may find that some of the designer bags you are looking for might be out of stock.
This might mean you need to have a few pieces you are looking for on your wishlist to have a higher chance of being able to pick up something while you are in Australia.
Luxury goods to pick up in Australia
Here are some of our top picks of designer pieces you should add to your wardrobe while you are in Australia. Zimmermann and Alemais are two incredible Australian brands that everyone needs in their life and would be a great brand to pick while you are in Australia and the prices will be a little cheaper.
If you are traveling from America, it is always worth picking up a new designer handbag since the prices are cheaper and you can get a further 10% off with the GST refund scheme.
1. Zimmermann
Zimmermann is best known for their beautiful summer dresses, just like this gorgeous Devi Floral Scallop Detail Linen Dress! The ivory linen dress will be breathable during the summer months and features a pretty floral pattern on the skirt.
The back is stunning, with a lace-up, corset-style back panel for the bodice to ensure a super flattering fit. The spaghetti straps and scalloped edges are the perfect finishing touch.
The detail on this Zimmermann Floral Print Long Sleeve Cotton Chintz Wrap Dress is just incredible and makes the dress totally irresistible.
The rose-pink shade of the cotton dress pairs beautifully with the tan, gold, and light blue flowery print that decorates the dress, as well as the floral border around the hem, neckline, and waist. This dress is a fantastic option for any summer event.
2. Alemais
We love the bold prints that decorate Alemais pieces, such as this Guardian Printed Satin Keyhole Midi Dress – ideal for summer weddings!
The bright azure blue satin is decorated with mystical motifs and emblems in vibrant colors to ensure an eye-catching look. The simple silhouette, with a straight midi skirt, crossover top, and v-neckline works well with the striking print.
This Alemais Lou Balloon-Sleeve Multi-Pattern Linen Shirt is a great option when the weather gets a little cooler, but you still want to brighten up any cloudy days.
This linen shirt has a stunning silhouette, with a large, pointed collar, button-up front, and voluminous sleeves. The white background means the multicolored whimsical pattern really pops! Pick up this wonderful shirt for just $495.
We hope you found this article answering the question, are luxury brands cheaper in Australia, helpful! For more luxury fashion content, check out the links below.
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