Amid rising living costs, Lloyds Auction House is launching a Perth-based auction with a twist: appliances starting at just $1. The initiative, which forms part of a broader series of auctions nationwide, aims to offer affordable, brand-new home appliances to families facing financial strain. As essential items like ovens and dishwashers become increasingly unaffordable, the auction is providing a much-needed opportunity to access crucial home goods at a fraction of the retail price.
This auction, which launched in Perth, is not just about discounts; it reflects a broader shift in Australian shopping habits as families prioritise value over brand. The event, offering over $12 million worth of appliances, is part of a nationwide effort to make household goods more accessible, especially for those whose budgets have been squeezed by inflation and rising living expenses.
A Lifeline for Struggling Families
In recent years, many Australians have had to make difficult choices between essential household items and other pressing needs such as food and rent. According to homewares charity Good360, this has led to homes missing basic amenities like fridges or even bedding, with poverty often not being immediately visible. The organisation’s founder, Alison Covington, explains that millions of Australians are struggling to afford vital household items like appliances, cutlery, and cooking utensils due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
For these families, the Lloyds Auction House event is a lifeline. Items such as dishwashers, ovens, and range hoods, usually priced far above what many can afford, are now accessible at significantly reduced prices. For example, a brand-new DeLonghi oven, typically sold for $3,600, is available at the Perth auction for just $47. This represents an 80% discount, a considerable saving for those who might otherwise have to go without.
Lee Hames, Chief Operations Officer at Lloyds, stressed that the auction is designed to meet the demand for affordable home goods. “Everything is brand new, completely unreserved, and starts at just $1, so we’re sure every appliance will sell,” Hames told PerthNow. The auction’s appeal is clear: it offers a way to tackle the financial hardship many families face while providing an opportunity to secure essential home goods at prices that would otherwise be out of reach.
Shifting Shopping Habits in a Digital Age
Beyond offering relief for those in need, the auction also highlights a shift in how Australians are shopping for big-ticket items. As the cost of living increases, many are turning to online auctions as their first stop for essential goods. This change in behaviour has been accelerated by the pandemic and the increasing adoption of digital technologies, making online auctions a more familiar and trusted way to buy everything from appliances to furniture.
The auction event in Perth is a reflection of this new shopping landscape, where value and affordability take precedence over traditional retail routes. According to Hames, the move to online auctions represents a broader trend towards digital, value-driven shopping. “People are more value-driven, more digital in their habits, and far more comfortable buying big-ticket items through online auctions.” he said. This shift is transforming how Australian consumers interact with the market, making access to high-quality goods more democratic and accessible.
The Perth auction runs until Wednesday, offering another opportunity for locals to secure much-needed appliances at a fraction of their usual cost. For many, this auction provides not only a chance to save money but also the possibility to improve their living conditions during these challenging times.
