Shopping in Perth Overview:
Perth is a boom town and as such has a significant population of workers with high disposable incomes. As a result retail shopping is first class in Perth. The many shops and shopping centres in Perth have a wide range of retail services and goods often at special sale prices. International visitors especially from Asia come to Perth for shopping because of its close proximity to Asia and the diversity of shops in large shopping centres. There are large shopping centres in the Perth suburbs of Karrinyup, Innaloo, Cannington and Gardinya. The Perth Central Business District (CBD) has many boutique shops including the latest Australian fashion shops and all major Australian brand department stores. Shopping districts with light industrial/trade shops include Osborne Park, Malaga, Balcatta, Wanneroo/Wangara. Satellite cities of Joondalup, Midland, Fremantle, Rockingham also have large shopping centres.
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What are the usual Shop Opening Hours in Perth?
Visiting shoppers in Perth get a surprise at the restricted shopping trading hours in Perth. Shopping hours in Perth are from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday, except for Thursday when shops are open until 9pm. Shops are also open from 8am to 5.30pm on Saturday. Some areas such as Perth City and Fremantle also have special trading hours and many shops and businesses will be open on Sunday in these areas. Smaller operators carrying essential items such as some pharmacies and delis (corner shops) and mini-supermarkets will also be open beyond the normal trading hours and many of these smaller shops are open until 9pm daily and open 6-7 days a week.
On public holidays most shops will be closed, however in areas such as Perth City and Fremantle trading will normally continue, and many small operators in the metropolitan area will also be open for business. Most businesses and shops will be closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
The city has the most convenient shopping hours in the metropolitan area, with seven-day shopping all year round, excluding public holidays.
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What are the Main Shopping Areas?
Central Business District
The City of Perth has over 900 specialty shops, with plenty to tempt the adventurous shopper. Choices range from designer fashion to children’s toys, gourmet cuisine and high tech goods.
The Central Business District is a compact shopper’s paradise. Walking from the Perth Railway Station to St Georges Terrace, shoppers can devour the fashion and food offerings of the central city without even hitting the streets. A system of covered overpasses and colourful arcades protects pedestrians from the elements.
Murray and Hay Streets both have traffic-free malls, and the city centre is criss-crossed with arcades, many of them underground, where locals and tourists mingle as they shop. The malls and arcades are linked by walkways and overpasses that extend as far as the city train and bus stations. This keeps the pedestrians away from the traffic and vice versa, keeping everyone happy. For full details on all arcades in Perth, see: www.lookatwa.com.au/Zones/arcades.html
Originally created to help pedestrians traverse the wide city blocks, arcades including Carillon City, Piccadilly, Plaza, Trinity, Wesley and Paragon Arcades, together with the shopping areas of Raine Square and Forrest Chase, have each developed a distinctive character. London Court, with its Tudor façade and ornate clockfaces, continues to be a popular drawcard for visitors and locals alike.
The city’s major department stores – David Jones, Myer and Target – are complemented by boutiques specialising in everything from eveningwear to specialist teas. David Jones has added an extra temptation to Perth’s shopping scene with a gourmet food hall on its lower floor.
London Court
Located between St Georges Terrace and the Hay Street Mall, London Court is an opportunity for the visitor to explore the historic and delightful ambience of Elizabethan England. The exquisitely carved woodwork of the windows and facades, the replicas of the clocks of the Palace of Westminster and La Grosse Horloge at Rouen, and the statues of Sir Walter Raleigh and Dick Whittington are just a few of the many fine features of Perth's only open air shopping arcade. Sample the exclusive goods available from the 37 speciality stores, or simply absorb the spirit of a time long past.
The West End
The “West End”, centred on the heritage streetscape of King Street, is fast becoming known as the area for shopping sophisticates and adventurers. If you’re after the latest in Australian or overseas fashion, home design or unique artwork, the West End is the place. Hay Street also abounds in outdoor adventure stores to kit you up for your next foray into the wilderness.
King Street
The history behind King Street set the stage for its present architectural glory. Once lined with workmen's cottages and Chinese market gardens, it was not until the heady Gold Boom days of the 1890s that properties were developed as warehouses for manufacturers' agents, importers and produce merchants. Part of its unique attraction is the mixture of diverse architectural styles that have built up over the years. The National Trust has classified the precinct as being of historical significance and for some years Perth Council have put a lot of time, effort and money into breathing new life into the area. And like Cinderella, King Street has undergone an aesthetic transformation. What was once a lacklustre back alley of Perth, is now the address of fashionable boutiques, cafés and specialist shops collectively reputed for originality, exclusivity and style.
While the street is a mecca for those shopping with generous budgets, it is also a popular dining destination. As evening approaches, head to one of the pubs on Murray Street which host local bands most nights. Apart from café culture, you can also browse for souvenirs at indigenous and contemporary art galleries or shop for beautiful garments in trendy boutiques.
The easiest way to find King Street is by its landmarks – the Belgian Beer Café and Carnegies, on opposite corners of Murray Street, and His Majesty's Theatre, a beautiful old building on the corner of Hay Street. If you're exploring on foot, King Street is a few minutes' walk from Perth's major malls. Those travelling by car will find that parking in King Street itself is not easy. Instead, use one of the multi-storey car parks close by . The Red CAT bus system runs east down Murray Street and west up Hay Street which is convenient to access King Street.
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What are the Major Shopping Centres?
Perth has many world class shopping centres throughout the metropolitan area. The shopping centres are fully air-conditioned, have plenty of parking, facilities for both infants, the elderly and disabled, as well as a wide variety of shops. If you are looking for a specialty store, department or discount store, supermarket, or foodhall, then the shopping centres are the place to go. All of the shopping centres can be accessed via either buses or trains that stop very close by.
For a full list and details of shopping centres across Perth, see: www.lookatwa.com.au/Shopping/shoppingcentres.html
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Where can I Shop for Bargains?
Harbour Town is Perth's only dedicated outlet shopping centre, where you will find over 100 brand outlet stores selling at brand direct prices. Enjoy a real shopping adventure with a huge variety of quality brands including Nike, Esprit, Sheridan, Billabong, Adidas, Royal Doulton, Cue (Veronika Maine), Simone Perele, Industrie and more. Centrally located in West Perth, it's only a ten minute stroll from Perth city or take the Yellow CAT bus right to the door. Open 7 days a week. Old Markets Site, 840 Wellington St, West Perth Phone 9321 2282
Further details see www.harbourtown.com.au
For details on discount stores across Perth, see www.discountshoppingguide.com.au/perth
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What Online Shopping Guides are Available?
Find Nearest (www.findnearest.com.au)
FindNearest is designed for people who like to shop. If you need to get some retail therapy, this resource will assist in finding your nearest shopping centre, or the nearest outlet for your favourite store.
StreetDirectory.com (www.street-directory.com.au)
Shopping precincts listed complete with address and location street directory map.
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What Markets are Available?
For those seeking a different shopping experience, markets offer an alternative to city shopping. The suburbs in and around Perth and Fremantle have many interesting markets offering a broad range of goods. Some specialise in handicrafts, while others sell fresh produce or second hand clothing. There are Sunday markets, evening markets, weekend markets, all so different but with one thing in common: they offer the visitor excellent value.
Like anyone in the retailing trade these days, market managers know that consumers want to enjoy themselves as well as buy, so you'll find there's often free entertainment for children or a musical act during the day. Most markets have food outlets, and many feature a food hall offering a range of cheap, tasty dishes from around the world, as well as somewhere to rest tired feet and enjoy a welcome cup of coffee. Some markets are found in outer suburbs, but the excellent train and bus services from Perth and Fremantle will enable you to visit them with the minimum of time and fuss.
For list and details of markets in and around Perth, see
www.lookatwa.com.au/Shopping/markets.html
www.whitehat.com.au/WA/Markets/MarketsWA.asp
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Where Can I Buy Furniture?
There are numerous large chain furniture shops across Perth as well as many independent furniture retailers. Some of the main furniture retailers include:
For other retailers, see www.yellowpages.com.au, search for ‘furniture – retail’.
Or for list of discount retails see www.discountshoppingguide.com.au/perth
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Where Can I Buy Electrical Goods & Appliances?
There are several large chain electrical goods and appliance retailers as well as many independent retailers. The major players include:
For other retailers, see www.yellowpages.com.au, search for ‘Electrical Appliances – retail’
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Can I Rent Furniture or Electrical Appliances?
There are several companies in Perth offering both short or long term furniture and electrical appliance rentals. The main operators include:
For other retailers, see www.yellowpages.com.au, search for ‘Hire - Household Appliances & Furniture’.
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Where do people Shop for Food?
There are 2 main supermarket chains in Australia – Coles and Safeway/Woolworths, and a further 2 smaller operators in Perth – IGA (Independent Grocers of Australia) and Foodworks. Coles and Safeway/Woolworths are the biggest supermarkets and consequently typically offer the largest selection of items. You are typically able to purchase all food items at the supermarket and could in effect do all your shopping at these stores.
Many consumers buy fresh produce at local fruit and vegetable shops, butchers, bakers etc., or at markets. Each main shopping strip will typically have a green grocer, butcher, and bakery.
Main Supermarkets:
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What Options are Available for Internet Providers?
Some of the major internet providers include:
For other providers, see www.yellowpages.com.au, search for ‘Internet Providers’.
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What are the Major Mobile Phone Providers?
There are hundreds of choices of mobile phone plans and packages, and you will need to assess what is the best package to suit your personal usage and requirements. Some of the major mobile phone providers include:
For other providers, see www.yellowpages.com.au, search for ‘Mobile Phones – retail’.
Many operators provide bundle discounts if you put all your services with them i.e. internet, home phone and mobile phone services.
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What is Available in terms of Pay TV?
There are only 2 options available for cable/satellite television in Western Australia, Foxtel and Optus Cable, with Foxtel being the most popular pay TV provider. For further details see:
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What are my Options with regards to Electricity Suppliers?
In Western Australia, consumers are not able to select which electricity supplier they would like to obtain their energy from.
Synergy Energy supplies electricity to residential customers in the Perth metropolitan area, regional towns and country areas in the South West Interconnected System (SWIS), which extends from Kalbarri to Albany and as far east as Kalgoorlie.
www.synergy.net.au Phone: 13 13 53
Horizon Power is the regional business responsible for the generation, transport and sale of electricity in areas outside of the SWIS.
www.horizonpower.com.au Phone: 1800 267 926
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What are my Options with regards to Gas Suppliers?
For the purposes of gas licensing, Western Australia has been divided into eight supply areas. The supply areas are made up of various local government districts.
Company |
Supply Area |
Alinta
Phone: (08) 9486 3000
Email: Customer.Services@AlintaGas.com.au
Web: www.alinta.net.au |
Kalgoorlie-Boulder
Albany
Coastal (from Gin-Gin to Busselton
including the Perth metropolitan area). |
Wesfarmers Kleenheat Gas Pty Ltd
Phone: (08) 9312 9333
Web: www.kleenheat.com.au |
Leinster Margaret River |
Burns and Roe Worley
Phone: (08) 9278 8345
|
Goldfields-Esperance |
Synergy
Phone: (08) 9326 6111 or 13 13 53
Email: info@synergyenergy.com.au
Web: www.synergyenergy.com.au |
Coastal (from Gin-Gin to Busselton including the Perth Metropolitan area) |
AGL
Phone: (08) 9422 4100
|
Supplier
of Gas to large use customers (do not require a gas trading or gas
distribution licence) |
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What are the Banking Options?
Australia has an advanced banking system, comprising a number of operators covering the whole of Australia, plus other banks who specialise in individual states. The state banks often have relationships with banks in other states, so that customers can use their services when they travel interstate. Each bank will offer their own mix of accounts and facilities, and associated fees. Following are some of the key banking services available in Australia:
ATMs (automatic teller machines) - are located outside banks, and at most shopping centres and strips. It is usually free if you use a machine linked to your bank's network, otherwise a fee will be charged.
EFTPOS (electronic funds transfer at point of sale) - i.e. paying for goods using your bankcard. Most banks and retail outlets offer this facility and the funds may be taken from your current, savings or credit account. The larger retailers normally let you draw extra cash out as well, with no charge.
Internet banking is now offered by most banks, enabling you to check balances, transfer money between accounts, pay bills (BPAY system) and so on.
When you arrive in Australia, opening your bank account is straight-forward. You may need to show your passport, and resident’s visa. You will also have to provide a tax file number at some stage so that any interest paid to you is not taxed before you receive it.
The Australian Banking sector is dominated by the following four major banks:
It is possible to open an Australian bank account before leaving your home country. The following Australian banks have Migrant Banking Services available:
For other banking options in Perth, go to: www.lookatwa.com.au/AboutPerth/banks.html
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What is a Tax File Number (TFN) & How Do I Apply For One?
A tax file number (TFN) is a unique number issued to individuals and organisations to help administer tax and other Australian Government systems. You do not require a TFN to work in Australia, but it is to your advantage to have one. If you do not, you may pay higher tax and have no entitlement to government benefits that you may otherwise be eligible for. Residents and temporary visitors are required to pay taxes on income earned in Australia. It is not compulsory to have a TFN, however, if you do not have one you may have more tax withheld than you need to or be unable to receive government benefits you are entitled to. Only one TFN will ever be issued to you.
You can apply for a tax file number (TFN) online only if you are currently in Australia and you have:
- a valid permanent migrant visa, or
- a valid visa with work rights, or
- a valid overseas student visa, or
- a valid visa allowing you to stay in Australia indefinitely.
To apply online go to: iar.ato.gov.au/IARWeb/default.aspx?pid=4&sid=1&outcome=1
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Do I need to Register my Pet?
The law requires all dogs above the age of three (3) months to be registered. The ‘Dog Registration year’ commences on 1 November each year and expires on 31 October of the following year unless registrations are affected for a three (3) year period. Registrations are valid throughout Western Australia, which means that during the period of the initial registration, a dog does not have to be registered again if an owner/s moves from one part of Western Australia to another. You will need to contact your local council to obtain a registration form. A range of fees apply and typically discount fees apply for de-sexed cats and dogs. A registered animal is given an identification tag that should be worn at all times.
Further information can be obtained at: http://wa.gov.au/search/index.html
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What is Pet Micro-chipping?
Microchipping is a permanent form of identification for your pet. Inserting a microchip is like a vaccination, it only takes a few seconds. The procedure is very safe and your pet will feel little pain. Once done, your pet's details, your contact address and phone numbers are entered on a national database.
Collars can fall off or be removed and details on pet tags can fade or become outdated. Inserting a microchip means your pet can be easily identified by a ranger, animal shelter or veterinarian regardless of the situation. Once identified, you can be contacted immediately and informed of the location of your pet.
If your pet has been stolen and then later recovered, ownership of your pet can be challenged. Microchipping is the only way you can prove ownership of your pet (and yes this does happen).
Microchips are inserted at Veterinary clinics. Some councils will also run pet micro-chipping sessions.
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Do I need to have my Pet Vaccinated?
It is not compulsory to vaccinate your pet, however, to safeguard your pet from potentially serious diseases vaccinations are recommended. Dogs are typically vaccinated against: Distemper, Infectious Canine Hepatitis, Parvovirus and the serious respiratory infection, Canine Cough. Your dog may require two vaccinations so that they are fully protected. Adult dogs often require an annual vaccination booster every year..
For further information on pet vaccinations ask your local vet.
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Where can I find a Vet?
You can search for a vet at: www.petalia.com.au/vetlocator/ or look in your local Yellow pages www.yellowpages.com.au
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Additional Information & Web Reference List:
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