Woolworths will sell Australian-made flags and items suitable for the Australia Day holiday, reversing its decision last year to stop stocking special themed merchandise. The supermarket chain said it listened to community feedback and recognized that many customers and employees wanted to celebrate January 26th. Australia Day, which marks the day the British began to colonize Australia, has become increasingly divisive, with many Indigenous Australians viewing it as a day of mourning.
Woolworths will celebrate Australia Day in store by selling Australian-made flags and a selection of items “perfect” for the public holiday in a reversal of its controversial decision last year that prompted calls from Opposition Leader Peter Dutton to boycott the supermarket giant.
Australia Day and whether it is appropriate to celebrate it on January 26, the day the First Fleet landed and planted the British flag in present-day Sydney in 1788, has become an increasingly divisive issue in recent years. Many Indigenous Australians view that day as a time of mourning, while supporters of the date say it is an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the country’s history.
The ASX-listed retailer ignited a political firestorm last year when it announced it would no longer stock special Australia Day-themed merchandise, such as thongs and hats emblazoned with the national flag, because of declining demand and a “broader discussion about 26 January and what it means to different parts of the community”.That decision prompted Dutton to call for a boycott of Woolworths and led to supermarket staff being physically and verbally assaulted.
While Woolworths will not stock Australian-themed paraphernalia in stores due to declining demand, they will be available through marketplace sellers My Deal, Big W Market and Everyday Market. It has also been stocking Australian-made Australian flags in all supermarkets since July 2024, and from November started selling Australian-made Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags.
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