Boxing Day Bargains Down Under: A Student's Guide to Epic Savings

Boxing Day is a public holiday and a big shopping day in Australia.

To clarify, no one throws punches on this day. 

Although it could get a little physical, at least in the 80s to 2000s, when people would line up and push each other when department store doors opened. Now, sales also happen online, so the rush is more laidback. 

So, why is it called “Boxing Day?

Boxing Day is celebrated on December 26, the day after Christmas, in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the UK (places that used to be part of the British Commonwealth). 

The name comes from an old tradition that started in the 16th century in England. 

Back then, wealthy families would give their servants and tradespeople “Christmas boxes” filled with food, money, or small gifts. Since servants often worked on Christmas Day, the 26th was their day off to visit family and enjoy the boxes they received.

Today, Boxing Day is the grand finale to the holiday season, and the best day to finally buy things on your wishlist while saving big!

What goes on sale during Boxing Day?

Almost everything goes on sale, from fashion and beauty to tech, travel, and homeware.

Below are some of the big brands that have already announced their Boxing Day Sale 2025. Some of their prices may already be discounted, but you can expect the biggest markdowns on Boxing Day itself.

• Coach Outlet - up to $320 off

• Lacoste - up to $115 off

• JB HI-FI - up to $500 off on phones, plus more discounts on tech and home entertainment.

Your Boxing Day strategy

1. Set a spending limit and treat it like a challenge

You’ve just survived Christmas spending, so don’t let Boxing Day drain what’s left in your bank account. Set a realistic budget and turn it into a personal challenge: Can I grab what I want and still stay under budget? Watching your savings stay intact feels even better than scoring that half-price hoodie.

2. Make a wishlist (and avoid impulse buys)

Know what you want before the big day. Add items to your wishlist a week early, then use apps like ShopBack, Cashrewards, or Honey to track prices and earn cashback. If it’s not on your list, it’s probably not worth the splurge.

3. Time it right

Some stores open as early as 5 or 6 AM, and online sales can start right at midnight. Plan if you’re after limited stock or big-ticket discounts. Timing your shopping means less stress and fewer random “just because it’s on sale” purchases.

4. Choose where you want to shop: online vs in-store

Online shopping helps you avoid crowds (and often adds cashback perks), but some exclusive “doorbuster” deals only happen in-store.

If you’re heading out, wear comfy shoes, bring water and snacks, and plan your stops. Think of it as a budget-friendly workout with rewards at the finish line.

5. Don’t let FOMO spend for you

It’s easy to feel pressure to buy just because everyone else is shopping, but remember, sales happen all year round. Before you hit “add to cart,” ask yourself: “Would I still want this at full price?” If the answer’s no, skip it.

You absolutely deserve a little retail therapy, but not at the cost of next month’s budget. If you’re unsure, try this test: “Can I live without it?” If yes, you probably don’t need it right now. Boxing Day isn’t about spending more. It’s about shopping smart and saving where it counts.

Whether you’re new to your city or maybe you’re curious to shop in other cities, we have listed a guide to some of the shopping hotspots in Australia.

Sydney

Pitt Street Mall

Best Known For:

Open-air shopping scene in a pedestrian-only street.

Getting There:
2–3 minute walk from Town Hall or Martin Place Station

Student Tip:
Go early, wear comfy shoes, and take quick breaks 

Chatswood Chase

Best Known For:
A big, beautiful shopping centre on Sydney’s North Shore  

Update:

Chatswood Chase reopened on October 23, 2025, after 18 months of renovations. You can expect new stores opening each week and a fresh, modern look across every floor.

Getting There:
5–7 minute walk from Chatswood Station

Student Tip:
Visit on a weekday morning to explore comfortably before the Boxing Day crowds hit.

Melbourne

Bourke Street Mall

Best Known For:
Melbourne’s main shopping street. 

Getting There:
Catch any tram that runs through Swanston or Elizabeth Street. They stop right at the mall.

Student Tip:
Go early in the morning if you want to shop before the rush. Stay later if you want to enjoy the buskers and street lights.

Chadstone Shopping Centre

Best Known For:
Australia’s biggest shopping destination and Fashion Capital

Getting There:

• Free shuttle from Federation Square (25 minutes)

• Buses from Caulfield or Hughesdale Station take around 10 minutes

Student Tip:

Plan ahead. Book the shuttle, bring snacks, and wear comfy shoes. You’ll want to explore every corner.

Brisbane

Queen Street Mall

Best Known As:
Brisbane’s open-air shopping strip at the heart of the city.

Getting There:

• Walk from Central Station (about 5 minutes)

• Accessible by most city buses  

Student Tip:

Go early to beat the crowd, and take time to explore the arcades. That’s where you’ll find some of Brisbane’s hidden gems.

Indooroopilly Shopping Centre

Best Known As:
Brisbane’s largest indoor shopping centre.  

Getting There:

• Indooroopilly Station is just a short walk away

• Plenty of buses stop directly at the centre

• Free parking for 3 hours

Student Tip:

Go on a weekday morning if you want to avoid the crowds. Bring friends with you! Between the shops, cinema, and dining spots, it’s an easy place to spend the whole day.

Perth

Hay Street Mall

Best Known As:
A pedestrian-only shopping street in the heart of Perth CBD.

Getting There:
Use any Perth bus or train into the CBD. The mall runs between Barrack and William Streets.

Student Tip:
Visit late afternoon to catch the shopping vibe + cafés coming alive when the shops wind down.

Murray Street Mall

Best Known As:
Another key pedestrian shopping strip in Perth CBD, known for its mix of retailers, street performers and city energy.

Getting There:
Walkable from Perth Train Station or Perth Underground. Very central.

Student Tip:
Start early and aim for the food markets/food options afterwards, a good reward after a shopping run.

End the year with great finds and a happy wallet

Whether you’re upgrading your tech, refreshing your wardrobe, or planning your next holiday, Boxing Day is the perfect time to score massive savings. The key is to prepare early. Compare prices, create a wish list, and shop from trusted retailers to make the most of the sales without overspending.

Remember, the best deals often go fast, so set your alerts, check return policies, and shop smart. With a little planning, you can end the year with great finds and a happy wallet.

Shop with your international student friends!

Shopping can be more fun–and strategic (you can assign your friend to buy deals on tech while you buy on fashion) when you’re doing it with friends.

If you’re a new international student in Australia, we invite you to our community.

IDP’s student community is an online group where you can meet peers and student ambassadors to hear real experiences, tips, and advice about studying abroad. And once you make friends, you can even invite each other for a quick or a whole-day shopping spree!