COST-OF-LIVING PRESSURES PUSH AUSTRALIANS TO RETHINK HOW THEY SHOP

95 per cent of Australians are actively hunting for deals

Cost-of-living pressures are reshaping how Australians spend, with households becoming more deliberate about where, how, and what they buy.

As budgets tighten, we are not simply spending less, but spending smarter. Shoppers are prioritising long-term value, reliability, and everyday practicality over impulse buys.

According to new insights from AliExpress, 95 per cent of Australians are actively hunting for deals, while 73 per cent compare prices across multiple platforms before making a purchase.

“Australians are redefining what value means in the current climate, combining cost-conscious decisions with a growing appetite for quality and innovation,” said Kit Yau, Marketing and Partnership Director at AliExpress.

Cost-of-living pressures drive a shift to global shopping

There is also a growing openness to buying from overseas platforms, particularly among younger consumers. Access to global brands and more competitive pricing is proving hard to ignore.

Rather than defaulting to the cheapest option, shoppers are weighing reviews, brand reputation and performance, especially for higher-cost items like technology.

“With fuel prices and household budgets all under pressure, that shift is unlikely to slow down,” Yau said.

Australians are also investing in better connectivity and smart home setups to support heavier daily use

WFH demand fuels tech spending

Working from home continues to influence spending patterns, with demand rising for affordable, reliable tech.

Established brands such as Lenovo remain popular, while more budget-friendly options like mini PCs from Beelink, GMKtec and Minisforum are gaining traction.

Consumers are also investing in better connectivity and smart home setups to support heavier daily use, from video calls to streaming.

More choice without the premium price

Platforms offering curated global products are helping reduce the uncertainty often associated with overseas shopping. For Australians building out home offices, that added confidence matters.

Brands like Logitech and AMD sit alongside emerging players, offering performance without the traditional retail markup.

Beyond work from home

The shift extends beyond office essentials. Australians are increasingly exploring creative tech, from Creality 3D printers to devices from Nothing, OnePlus and POCO.

For some, it is about more than convenience. It is about creating new income streams or pursuing side projects from home.