Western Australia Shopping Guide 2025
Find the best markets, malls, and unique souvenirs in Western Australia.
Western Australia is Australia's largest state, covering more than one-third of the continent and offering an extraordinary range of landscapes from pristine coral reefs and red outback deserts to verdant wine regions and cosmopolitan coastal cities. Home to Perth, one of the world's most isolated yet vibrant capital cities, Western Australia rewards adventurous travellers with World Heritage sites, unique wildlife, and some of the planet's most spectacular natural wonders.
What to Buy
Unique local products worth bringing home.
Australian Opals
Australia produces 95% of the world's opals and Perth has several excellent opal jewellers. WA itself produces boulder opals in the Yilgarn region. Look for authenticated Australian opals at Costello's Opals (Perth CBD) and Opal World (Hay Street Mall). Prices range from $50 for small pendants to thousands for fine gem-quality stones.
Aboriginal Art
Authentic WA Aboriginal art — from small prints and gift items to major canvas works — makes a deeply meaningful souvenir. Ensure any Aboriginal art you purchase is from a reputable gallery with authenticated provenance documentation and artist certificates showing fair return to the artist.
Margaret River Wine
A case or a bottle (or two) of Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay is one of the finest souvenirs of WA. Vasse Felix, Leeuwin Estate, Cullen Wines, Howard Park, and Cape Mentelle are among the most celebrated labels. Most wineries ship interstate and internationally.
WA Honey and Jarrah Honey
Western Australia produces some of the world's finest monofloral honey from jarrah, marri, and karri eucalyptus forests. WA jarrah honey has documented antibacterial properties similar to New Zealand mānuka. An excellent food souvenir available in most WA farmers markets and specialty food stores.
Ugg Boots
Genuine Australian sheepskin Ugg boots are popular souvenirs, though the brand 'UGG' is now an American trademark. Look for 'Australian Made' sheepskin footwear from WA or Australian-made boot brands to get the authentic product.
Mānuka and Jarrah Honey Skincare
WA producers including Beenaturals and Comvita offer jarrah honey-based skincare products (face creams, soaps, lip balms) that make excellent gifts and are unique to WA.
Quokka Merchandise
Rottnest Island's famous quokkas are one of WA's most beloved wildlife icons. Quokka plush toys, clothing, mugs, magnets, and artwork are sold throughout Perth, Fremantle, and at Rottnest Island itself.
Markets & Bazaars
Experience authentic local shopping culture.
Local Bazaars
Traditional markets offer the most authentic shopping experience. Wander through narrow lanes filled with spices, textiles, and crafts. Bargaining is expected.
Food Markets
Local food markets showcase regional produce, spices, and prepared foods. Great for experiencing daily local life and finding edible souvenirs.
Complete Shopping Guide
Bargaining phrases, souvenir recommendations, and budget tips.
Shopping Districts
Where to find different types of shops.
Hay Street and Murray Street Malls
Perth's main pedestrian shopping district covering two parallel malls in the CBD. Home to major department stores (Myer, David Jones), large chain retailers, international fashion brands, and the historic London Court arcade — an extraordinary Tudor-style laneway connecting Hay Street and St Georges Terrace, built in 1937. The Rialto arcade on Murray Street is another elegant heritage shopping passage.
Fremantle Markets
A Fremantle institution operating since 1897, the Fremantle Markets are housed in a spectacular Federation Renaissance building listed on the State Heritage Register. Over 150 stalls sell fresh WA produce, artisan cheeses, handmade chocolates, Indigenous art and crafts, vintage clothing, handmade jewellery, and gourmet food products. The atmosphere, buskers, and food stalls make this as much an experience as a shopping destination.
Subiaco Farmers Market
Perth's most popular weekly farmers market, running every Saturday morning in Subiaco. Local WA farmers and producers sell seasonal fruit and vegetables, artisan bread, cheeses, free-range eggs, flowers, and specialty food products directly to consumers. An excellent place to experience WA's extraordinary produce quality.
Garden City Shopping Centre
Perth's largest shopping centre with over 350 stores including major department stores (Myer, David Jones, Target, Kmart), international and Australian fashion brands, electronics, homeware, a large food court, and a cinema complex. Located 12km south of Perth CBD near the South Perth foreshore.
Margaret River Providore
A beloved gourmet food destination in the Margaret River wine region, combining a deli, cheese room, bakery, and extensive local producer products under one roof. The perfect place to stock up on Margaret River olive oils, local cheeses, smoked meats, preserves, and wines before heading home.
Japingka Gallery
One of WA's most respected galleries specialising exclusively in authenticated Aboriginal Australian art. Japingka represents artists from across Australia with particular strength in Kimberley and Western Desert traditions. All works are purchased directly from community art centres ensuring fair returns to artists. An excellent source for authentic, investment-quality Aboriginal art.
Subiaco and Rokeby Road
Subiaco's Rokeby Road is one of Perth's best boutique shopping strips, with independent fashion stores, homeware shops, specialty food retailers, excellent cafes, and regular pop-up markets. A pleasant alternative to the big shopping malls for browsing unique WA-designed products.
Malls & Modern Stores
Air-conditioned shopping options.
Modern shopping malls are available in major cities, offering international brands, food courts, and entertainment. They provide a comfortable, air-conditioned shopping experience with fixed prices.
Bargaining Tips
How to negotiate prices in local markets.
Start at about 50% of the asking price and work up. The final price is often 60-70% of initial ask.
Be friendly and patient. Bargaining is a social interaction, not confrontation.
Walk away if you can't agree - the seller may call you back with a better price.
Compare prices at multiple stalls before buying. Get a sense of the market rate.
Buy multiple items from one seller to negotiate a better overall price.
Have small bills ready - don't show large amounts of cash while negotiating.
When NOT to Bargain
- Fixed-price shops and malls
- Government emporiums
- Restaurants and hotels
- Supermarkets and pharmacies
Customs & Export Rules
What you need to know about taking purchases home.
Export Restrictions
Some antiques, artifacts, and cultural items may be prohibited from export. Ask for authenticity certificates when buying antiques.
Tax Refunds
Check if tax refund schemes exist for tourists. Keep receipts and ask about procedures at larger stores.
Duty-Free Limits
Check your home country duty-free allowances. Declare valuable items if required.
Shipping
Many shops can arrange shipping for large purchases. Get insurance for valuable items.
Shop Smart in Western Australia
Get our complete shopping guide with bargaining phrases, quality assessment tips, and budget planner.
Download Shopping Guide