Woolworths backflips on Australia Day merchandise ban

A Woolworths Group spokesperson today confirmed customers should expect to see a “Perfect for Australia Day” selection across its supermarkets and Big W stores.

“We will be celebrating Australia Day as a team, and with our customers,” the spokesperson told 9news.com.au.

“While we did make changes to our merchandise range last Australia Day due to decline in demand in our stores, we listened and recognised that many customers and teams wanted us to do more to help them celebrate the day.

“In our supermarkets we will do this through the lens of great Australian food that is perfect for the day, while BIG W will also showcase products perfect for family and friends coming together over the Australia Day long weekend.”

Aussie-made flags will be available for purchase at stores, while a larger range of merchandise will be sold online.

“Our store team members are also welcome to celebrate the day in-store. We respect everyone’s choices in how they choose to spend the day,” the spokesperson said.

“Our position is aligned with the theme for the day from the National Australia Day Council – reflect, respect and celebrate.”

A Coles spokesperson told 9news.com.au that they would continue to stock a “range of summer entertaining merchandise throughout January” as they previously have done.

“The range will offer a variety of items for customers looking to entertain with BBQs, parties, picnics or for those attending sporting events like the cricket and tennis, as well as for the Australia Day weekend,” the spokesperson said.

Geelong City Council decided to commemorate the date and discontinue any advocacy for changing it from 2026, reversing a previous decision made last year to no longer celebrate the date – in what was described as another backflip.