As an international student living or visiting Darwin, finding affordable outlets for clothes, furniture and homeware can help you feel more comfortable in a new city!
This makes “op-shopping” or “thrift shopping” a great way to add to your wardrobe or home without breaking the bank.
Here is our guide for thrifting in Darwin.
Vinnies and Salvos
The St Vincent de Paul Society, commonly known as “Vinnies” and the Salvation Army (Salvos), are volunteer organisations who provide community focussed support throughout Australia, including second-hand stores.
At their stores, you will find clothing, homewares, books and plenty more, across a range of locations. You are likely to find clothes for work or sports as well as everyday staples like jeans, jackets and shoes for much cheaper than you’ll find at name-brand stores.
Thrifting at these stores is also a great way to give back to your local community as both organisations use funds to help people in need.
Locations:
- Salvos – Nightcliff, Casuarina, Winnellie, Palmerston Cty
- Vinnies – Casuarina, Fannie Bay, Winnellie, Darwin City, Stuart Park.
Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are a local market held every Thursday and Sunday from 4pm – 9pm in the dry season.
They have been an important cornerstone of the local community in Darwin for more than 30 years and feature more than 300 stalls including many clothes, accessories, and homemade arts and crafts.
This vibrant open-air market held at sunset is a great cultural experience in a lively atmosphere as well as a chance to pick up some beautiful handcrafted homeware and second-hand clothes.
Location: Maria Liveris Dr, The Gardens NT.
Red Cross Australia
The Red Cross is a global humanitarian organisation and they also have two thrift stores in Darwin. The organisation aims to improve the lives of vulnerable people in the community, and partner with many volunteers and the local government to provide services to those in need.
At their second-hand stores you will find a variety of clothing, kitchenware, and odd bits and pieces that can add some character and life to your home.
Locations: Malak and Palmerston
Sister Buffalo
Sister Buffalo is an independent, pre-loved fashion concept store that was created by sisters Gaby and Lou De Mattia in 2018. The store is now both online and at pop-up locations throughout Darwin during the year.
The founders are fiercely committed to reducing the impact on the environment and created the store with the goal of providing a space in Darwin that challenges the community to buy second-hand clothing like they normally would with fast fashion.
At their store, you will find a range of pre-loved clothing items and perhaps more unique pieces than at organisations like Vinnies, Salvos and Red Cross.
Location: Information about pop-up store events can be found on the website.
NT Secondhand Store
The NT Secondhand Store is a local family-run business established in 2011. The store buys and sells white goods, furniture, knick-knacks and practically anything else you might need for your home or office.
Their focus is on sustainably up-cycling and repurposing quality items to help the environment and community. Their store is a great place to visit for students looking to furnish a new house or apartment, and find quality items at a more affordable price than typical large retailers.
They also offer pick-up and delivery to help transport heavier items to your home.
Location: 70 Winnellie Rd., Winnellie NT
