What is an op shop?

An op shop is an opportunity shop: an Australian term commonly used for a charity shop selling donated second-hand goods to help fund the organisation’s work.

How an op shop works

People offer goods, the operator assesses and sorts them, and suitable items are sold or handled through its other approved routes. Retail income helps cover the operation and may support charitable services. A donated item still has receiving, premises, transport and handling costs. The gross sale price is not the same as the net amount available for programmes.

Who can shop there?

Ordinary retail shopping is generally open to the public. Buying at a charity shop is different from applying for emergency material aid, which can involve an assessment or referral. If you need help with essentials, ask the organisation’s support service rather than assuming the retail counter can authorise free goods.

What might be on sale?

Clothing, books and homewares are common, but the actual range depends on the branch and donations. Furniture, electrical goods and other categories require a specific check. Use Vinnies’ shop finder or Salvos Stores’ locator to find branches, then verify the detail you need.

Are all second-hand shops charity shops?

No. Commercial thrift, consignment and vintage retailers can also sell used goods. Savers describes a for-profit model with nonprofit donation partners. Compare the different shop models before assuming the funding route is identical.

For a first visit, read op shopping for beginners. For the name itself, see why it is called an op shop.

By Op Shops Hub Team. About our team. Updated 2 November 2026.