The Ultimate Gift Guide for the Last-Minute Shopper

Christmas shopping can be a joy for some and daunting for the rest, especially as the end-of-year rush sets in. Between countless work dinners and other holiday prep, it’s easy for gift-buying to slip down the priority list. And if you’ve missed the cut-off times to get online orders sent by Christmas, don’t despair – there are plenty of in-person places to shop that are likely to have what you need. 

Bricks-and-mortar stores, local boutiques and major retailers are well stocked and often open late in the lead-up to Christmas. Whether you’re after a small gesture or a standout present, you’re likely to find exactly what you need in person with our guide below.

Homewares

Perfect for the newly moved-in, a nesting friend or to gift a holiday party host, homewares are almost always appreciated. From a striking table decoration or an elegant vase to a beautiful fruit bowl or pair of huggable mugs, there’s plenty of range. 

Make it extra special by shopping handmade ceramics from places like Mud in Sydney or Melbourne, weekend markets, maker shops such as Craft Victoria or designer fairs in the lead-up to Christmas. You might even find special market events at local pottery studios, or a section in your favourite museum gift shop dedicated to handmade artisanal pieces.

Premium liquor

This season is prime time for bottle shops, so most will be open right up until the big day – and till late. If you’ve forgotten a gift for your brother-in-law or need a last-minute backup, head to Liquorland to pick up something special. For the whisky aficionado in your life, surprise them with the Glenfiddich 15 single malt scotch whisky ($149 for 700ml). It also makes the perfect pairing for most Christmas lunches and dinners that involve roasts and dark chocolate-centred desserts with its complementary notes of raisin, citrus and spice. 

If the recipient is more of a wine person, you can’t go wrong with a bottle of Petaluma white label chardonnay ($30 for 750ml). Elegant and complex, with hints of coffee, chocolate, dark fruits and spices, this smooth red wine from Spain is a perfect accompaniment for a festive feast or can be cellared for a few more years.

Gourmet food hamper

You may have missed the window for pre-ordered Christmas hampers, but you can still curate your own. Supermarkets, delis and other food purveyors are often open right up until Christmas – some even on the day – giving you a last-minute chance to assemble something worthwhile. International grocers are perfect for stocking up on unique confectionery and specialty foods.

Start with a sturdy gift box or basket, line it with some tissue paper and fill it with the recipient’s favourite snacks, gourmet condiments and maybe a couple of unusual morsels to keep things interesting. Don’t forget to keep items like cheese and chocolate cool until it’s time to hand over the gift. 

Good Day People also offer a great selection of hampers ready to order express up until December 23rd., Australia wide.

Statement stationery

Two easily accessible places for giftware are your local newsagent and Australia Post – both open until Christmas Eve and ideal for picking up quality stationery. Larger stores often carry premium items such as gilt-edged notebooks with superior paper and gorgeous covers, or boxed pens from well-known brands. If you’re stuck for ideas, a 2026 planner is a safe bet. Also check out specialty stores like Milligram, plus museum gift shops, for nifty items and statement stationery.

Scented candles

A scented candle may not be the most original gift, but with so many fragrances now available, it’s easy to find something that feels personal. Homeware shops and department stores will have plenty in stock. Novelty candles, like the fruit-shaped, fruit-scented ones from Nonna’s Grocer, could be the ticket. Or switch it up and gift incense instead. You can pair it with a stylish holder – extra credit if you can find a distinctive, locally made one.

Coffee table book

Did you know bricks-and-mortar bookshops still exist? You might be an audiobook reader, or prefer an ebook to paper, but there’s no doubt a coffee table book is better as a physical object. Browse your local bookshop and you’re bound to find something in the art, design or culture section to gift to your cosmopolitan friend. As a bonus, books are super easy to wrap.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Liquorland.