Keep Op Shops Affordable for the People Who Need Them

Op shops like St Vincent de Paul Society state they provide affordable goods to the community.

In their submissions to Treasury, they have acknowledged that the cost of living crisis has worsened and that people are struggling. They also state that they provide affordable goods through their shops.

But for many people right now, that is not matching reality.

Second hand clothing and basic items are increasingly being priced at levels that are no longer accessible for families who are already doing it tough.

This creates a clear disconnect between what is being claimed and what people are experiencing.

I have personally recorded many examples of overpriced and poor quality items, which can be seen on my Instagram page @feralmumshealing.

This matters because not everyone who is struggling looks like they are. Many families are quietly doing it tough, and op shops have traditionally been a place where people could access affordable essentials with dignity.

When those prices rise beyond reach, it removes one of the few accessible options people rely on and can push people toward fast fashion or going without basic needs altogether.

I recently shared my experience online and it went viral. Thousands of people came forward with the same concerns and similar experiences. This is not an isolated issue, it is something being felt across communities.

This petition is not about attacking op shops or the incredible volunteers who support them. It is about asking an important and reasonable question.

Are op shops still meeting the needs of the people they were created to support?

We are calling for:

A clear and transparent definition of what affordable means

Fair and consistent pricing guidelines for essential items

Greater accountability to ensure accessibility remains a priority