- Domestic appliances in Australia are more expensive than in Europe or the US, due to the large shipping distance, smaller population, and historically lower exchange rate. However, this shouldn’t deter you from buying locally. Unless you are particularly attached to your washing machine or blender, it usually makes more sense to buy these items once you’re in Australia. Most appliances from overseas operate to different voltages or have different pin settings than those standard in Australia, and shipping can be cost prohibitive and take a very long time. Keep in mind that basic appliances* are commonly provided with certain types of properties when rented.Average Melbourne prices for domestic appliances bought brand new:
Item Price (AU$) Clothes washing machine, 5 kg capacity 750 Tumble dryer, 5 kg capacity 300 Dishwasher, 12 servings capacity 600 Microwave, 800/900 W model 200 Vacuum cleaner, 1200/1400 W model 400 Electric cook top, 4 electric hot plates 800 Refrigerator 200 lt + Freezer 50 lt 1000 *This can vary, but all properties with kitchen will have a stove and oven, and possibly a refrigerator and dishwasher. Houses may also include a washing machine / dryer.
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Major Appliance Stores
Camberwell Electrics
1110 Toorak Rd, Camberwell
03 9835 4343
http://www.giveusago.com.au/
Full range of domestic appliances serviced by friendly sales staff. Discounts for cash payment.Retravision
Multiple locations across suburbs
http://www.retravision.com.au/
Major supplier of domestic appliances. Retravision is a one-stop shop to buy everything you need for your home. Also offers rent-to-own programs that allow you to enjoy appliances while making monthly payments, which can be a good option for expats who don’t know how long they intend to stay.The Good Guys
Multiple locations
http://www.thegoodguys.com.au
Very inexpensive store with a wide range of products. Discounts available for cash purchases, and price negotiation is acceptable.If you are on a budget, your best bet is to check eBay or Gumtree, which overflow with offerings from international students leaving the country at the end of each term. Many expats have reported picking up like-new appliances and electronics for a fraction of the price using this method.
Gumtree
http://www.gumtree.com.au**********
Major Electronics Stores
Harvey Norman
210 Lonsdale St, CBD
13 1100
And many locations in suburbs
http://www.harveynorman.com.au/
Televisions, computers, games and gadgets. Usually the most expensive of electronic stores, but offers discounts for cash sales. The salespeople aren’t usually the most knowledgeable about the products they are selling, but are often open to negotiation, especially if you’re buying several high-ticket items.JB-HiFi
366 Lonsdale St, CBD
03 9670 3611
And many locations in suburbs
http://www.jbhifi.com.au/
A hometown favourite. Started here in Melbourne this chain has now expanded nationwide. Usually the cheapest for TVs, stereos and cameras, the frequent no-frills, no advertising sales at these stores can provide significant savings. However, staff are generally less than polite or helpful.**********
Major Hardware Stores
Bunning Hardware
Multiple locations in city and suburbs
http://www.bunnings.com.au/
A warehouse style hardware superstore chain. Everything you could need to fix or build everything you could need.Mitre 10
Multiple locations in city and suburbs
http://www.mitre10.com.au/
Smaller and more expensive than competitor Bunnings, but staff are generally more knowledgeable and willing to offer tips on how to complete a renovation or building project, or let you know which is the best tool for the job.
