As the countdown to Christmas begins, Australians are turning to a surprising source to save money and reduce stress: the second-hand market. Whether it’s a preloved slip dress, vintage furniture or quirky retro art work the trend toward buying and selling used goods is booming. And, it might just be the holiday hack you didn’t know you needed.
According to PayPal’s latest Circular Economy Report, more than a third of Australians (35%) have sold second-hand goods in the past year, pocketing an average of $1,300 by clearing out unused items. Meanwhile, two-in-five (43%) Aussies are embracing preloved treasures to save money, nab unique finds, and tread a little lighter on the planet.
Saving, sustainability and style
Aira Bonifacio, a single mum based in Sydney who started Baddie Threads, sells second-hand fashion and her own crochet designs, enabling her to create a stable income while pursuing her creative passions. And, for Aira the second-hand market is more than a side hustle; it’s a lifeline. “Shopping second-hand started as a trendy, eco-friendly choice, but now it’s about saving money while staying stylish. My side hustle has given me and my daughter financial security – it’s proof you can always turn things around.”
Similarly, Kara Otter, founder of Karameleon Vintage, has transformed her love for vintage fashion into a successful family business by sourcing vintage pieces to sell on Depop and Etsy. Kara also has her own swimwear and fashion label, Karameleon. And, has turned her passion into a full-time gig that employs her cousin, sister, and even her mum.
“Our orders ship from my grandma’s house, where we’ve set up a whole Depop room,” she says. “What started as a fun way to make extra cash has become an international business, thanks to platforms like Depop and PayPal. Buyers trust PayPal, which has been key to our success.”
Lillian Scott – aka the International Princess, and one of Australia’s early Depop adopters, agrees. Over eight years, her store has grown from a casual hobby to a full-time job, selling nearly 9,000 items. “It started as a way to earn extra money for lunch but has turned into a career that allows me to travel and do what I love,” she says.
What’s the deal with Depop?
For many, this trend is driven by the desire to stretch dollars without sacrificing style. Three-in-five Australians (63%) cite saving money as their primary motivation, while 40% are drawn to the sustainability of giving goods a second life. Even better, 35% say shopping second-hand offers high-quality items at a fraction of their original price.
Depop, a platform popular among Aussie fashionistas, continues to reports massive growth – with over 35 million users worldwide and a staggering $3.5 billion generated in sales since its 2011 launch. Sellers on the platform range from side hustlers to full-time entrepreneurs, with some earning six-figure incomes by transforming their preloved fashion finds into thriving businesses.
A stress free solution to silly season spending
With economic uncertainty lingering, 31% of Australians plan to buy more second-hand goods if times get tougher. And it’s not just about saving money – second-hand shopping offers a chance to find thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts or spruce up your home for Christmas gatherings without breaking the bank.
Consumer shopping expert Bonnie Brady says, “It’s heartening to see Aussies embracing the circular economy. It’s not only better for the environment but also provides a creative, budget-friendly way to celebrate the festive season.”
So, whether you’re hunting for a vintage couch to seat extra guests or searching for unique, eco-conscious gifts, diving into the second-hand market could be your ticket to a stress-free Christmas. Just remember to shop smart and safe – platforms like Depop, powered by PayPal, offer secure transactions to protect both buyers and sellers.
