What Is an Op Shop? A Beginner’s Guide to Thrifting in Australia (2026)
If you’re new to second-hand shopping in Australia, you’ll hear the term ‘op shop’ often. So, what is an op shop? In short, an op shop is a retail store run by a charitable organization, selling donated, second-hand goods to raise money for their cause. The name itself is Australian slang for “opportunity shop.”
These stores are the local equivalent of what Americans call a ‘thrift store’ or what the British refer to as a ‘charity shop.’ They are a part of Australian communities, offering affordable clothing, furniture, books, and homewares while promoting recycling and sustainability. Understanding how they work is the first step to becoming a savvy op shopper.
What does “op shop” stand for?
The term “op shop” is an Australian abbreviation for “opportunity shop.” The name reflects the dual opportunities they provide: for shoppers to find bargains and for the community to support a charity’s work through donating and purchasing goods.
While the term is Australian, the concept is global. These stores are a part of the “circular economy,” giving pre-loved items a second life. This is a reason why op shopping is a part of sustainable fashion.
How are op shops different from vintage or consignment stores?
It’s easy to group all second-hand stores together, but there’s a key difference.
| Store type | Primary purpose | Source of goods |
|---|---|---|
| Op shop | Fundraising for a charity | Public donations |
| Vintage store | For-profit retail | Curated and purchased for resale |
| Consignment store | For-profit resale on behalf of owners | Items from individuals (owner gets a cut of the sale) |
The main distinction is the charitable purpose. When you shop at one of the op shop chains in Australia like Vinnies, Salvos, or Sacred Heart Mission, your money directly supports their community programs.
What can you find at an op shop?
You can find almost anything. While clothing is the most common category, most op shops sell a variety of goods, including:
- Men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing
- Shoes and accessories
- Furniture and homewares
- Books, vinyl records, and DVDs
- Toys and games
- Kitchenware and appliances
The stock is dependent on donations, so the selection is constantly changing. Part of the fun is that you never know what you might find. Just remember: as our guide on whether op shops wash clothes explains, you should wash items before you use them.
Op shops are community hubs powered by donations and volunteers. For more information on getting involved, you can read about how to volunteer at an op shop or check the careers page of a major charity like The Salvation Army.