Save money this October with Buy Nothing New Month

Australians are being encouraged to rethink their shopping habits this October by taking part in Buy Nothing New Month, a global initiative that promotes conscious consumption and sustainability.

What is Buy Nothing New Month?

Launched in Melbourne in 2010, the campaign challenges participants to avoid buying anything new for 31 days - excluding essentials like food, hygiene products, and medicine.

Instead, people are urged to borrow, swap, repair, or buy second-hand.

Why Buy Nothing New?

The movement has gained momentum in recent years as Australians grapple with the environmental and financial costs of overconsumption.

Australia buys more clothes per person than any country in the world, according to Textiles Waste in Australia report from The Australia Institute.

Each year, Australians add almost 1.4 billion new garments to their wardrobes, and toss about 200,000 tonnes of clothing.

"Everything you own was once money," says Buy Nothing New Month founder Tamara DiMattina. "This month is about asking: do I really need this?"

What is the hardest part about not buying new?

"At the start it was helping people understand the reason I'm not buying them a birthday or Christmas present isn't because I'm a tight-arse," DiMattina says. "I'm trying to spread the message.

"Most gifts are unnecessary, come in wrapping that gets thrown away, bring momentary 'buzz' and are cool for a hot minute."

How to get get involved this Buy Nothing New Month?

"Easy! Just don't buy stuff!" says DiMattina.

Participants are encouraged to explore alternatives to purchasing new items. Repairing broken items, borrowing tools or clothing, and shopping at op shops are all part of the challenge.

"Host a swap party," she says. "Invite five mates. Everyone brings five things they no longer want/need (could be clothes, shoes, books, homewares, etc) and you swap 'em around. Not new but new to you."

Nina Gbor, director of circular economy and waste at The Australia Institute, says she has avoided buying new clothes since she was 15, and has been organising clothes swaps for about 14 years.

"You can find great-quality items without spending a cent. Anyone can host or join one - and it's as simple as searching online for how to start one."

Tips for Buy Nothing New newbies

• Start small: Focus on one category, like clothing or homewares.
• Use what you have: Rediscover forgotten items in your wardrobe or cupboards.
• Borrow or swap: Join local community groups or ask friends.
• Track your savings: Many participants report saving hundreds during the month.
• Reflect: Consider how your habits change and what you truly value.

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