The First World Op Shop Day - A Milestone for Op Shops

Saturday, 18 October 2025 marks the first-ever World Op Shop Day - a day to recognise the remarkable contribution op shops make to our communities and our environment.

For Anglicare Op Shops, it's a milestone worth recognising. Across Australia, op shops play a vital role in building community, reducing waste, and helping people in practical, meaningful ways. Today, we join others around the country in acknowledging the difference our shops make in everyday lives.

A Legacy of Reuse and Community

The story of op shops in Australia stretches back more than 100 years. The term "Op Shop" first appeared in the 1920s, when charitable stores began opening across the country to extend the life of goods, raise funds for social causes and offer dignity through practical support.

What started as small local initiatives has grown into a legacy of reuse and care - one that continues to have both social and environmental impact.

Op shops are unique: they turn items we no longer need into opportunities for others.

This first World Op Shop Day is not just about a date on the calendar - it's a moment to recognise that long-standing tradition. It reminds us how reuse connects people, provides affordable access, supports community services, and reduces waste

What it Means at Anglicare

Over 1 million people visit Anglicare Op Shops every year. Many come looking for affordable, good-quality clothing. Others are facing crisis or financial stress and need practical support. Whatever the reason, our Op Shops offer much more than a retail experience, they are safe, welcoming spaces of compassion and respect.

When you shop, donate, or volunteer at an Anglicare Op Shop, you're helping more than just your wardrobe. Each act of generosity helps fund essential community programs - from food assistance and crisis support to affordable housing and counselling for families in need.

Together, we're:

• Offering meaningful, sustainable shopping experiences.
• Creating spaces of belonging through our volunteers and local partnerships.
• Saving over 3,000 tonnes of quality goods from landfill every year.

It's not just fashion. It's compassion.

A Day to Say Thank You

This first World Op Shop Day is not about celebration - it's about gratitude.

Our over 300 volunteers and staff walk alongside people, listen with compassion, and offer practical care every day. To every volunteer, donor and shopper who contributes to the life of an Anglicare Op Shop - THANK YOU. Your kindness, time and care transform everyday shopping into something deeply meaningful.

Today, we pause to recognise you and to appreciate the role op shops play in shaping communities built on generosity, connection and hope.
 
Find out more about World Op Shop Day here.