In 2026, the white goods industry (large appliances like fridges, washing machines, and dryers) has shifted from a “linear” sales model to a highly profitable recommerce economy. With rising manufacturing costs and a national push toward the “Right to Repair,” the business of selling refurbished or factory-second white goods has become a multi-billion dollar opportunity in Australia.
Whether you are starting a boutique refurbishment shop or a large-scale liquidator, here is the blueprint for a white goods business in the current market.
1. The 2026 Market Opportunity
Economic pressures and environmental awareness have normalized “second-hand” for the average Australian household.
- Refurbished Growth: The global refurbished appliance market is growing at a 12.9% CAGR, with Australia being a key adopter due to high logistics costs for new imports.1
- Factory Seconds: There is a massive niche for “carton damaged” or “factory seconds”—brand-new units with minor cosmetic dings that sell for 20–50% off RRP.
- The B2B Pivot: Beyond individual homeowners, small businesses (cafés, Airbnb hosts, and property managers) are increasingly sourcing refurbished appliances to optimize their operational budgets.2
2. Strategic Business Models
Success depends on your sourcing and value-add strategy.
| Model | Sourcing Strategy | Key Advantage |
| Refurbishment Specialist | Buying “dead” units from scrap or trade-ins. | Highest margins; adds value through technical repair. |
| Factory Seconds Outlet | Direct contracts with manufacturers (e.g., Samsung, LG) for returned stock. | High volume; products often come with partial warranties. |
| Appliance Liquidator | Purchasing bulk pallets from closing retail stores or warehouses. | Low acquisition cost; high variety of brands. |
3. Essential Compliance & Safety
In Australia, selling electrical goods is strictly regulated.3 Failure to comply can lead to heavy fines under the Electricity Safety Act.4
- Test and Tag: Every used appliance must be electrically tested. If you sell an untested unit, you are legally required to label it as “Used – Not Tested” and provide a safety warning.
- ACL Guarantees: Even if a product is second-hand, Australian Consumer Law (ACL) mandates that it must be of “acceptable quality.” You cannot waive a customer’s right to a refund if a fridge fails two weeks after purchase.
- The “No Cash” Rule: If your business involves buying scrap or used appliances from the public, remember that in most Australian states, you must pay via electronic transfer to prevent the trade of stolen goods.
4. Operational Excellence: The Refurbishment Workflow
To scale, you need a standardized “Checklist for Resale” to ensure every unit is floor-ready.
- Diagnostic Phase: Use AI-enabled fault detection tools to identify compressor issues or sensor failures.
- Deep Cleaning: Use industrial steam cleaners. In 2026, “certified sanitized” is a major selling point for used washing machines and fridges.
- Component Upgrading: Replacing old seals, filters, or belts with high-quality aftermarket parts.
- Verification: A final 24-hour “burn-in” test (e.g., ensuring a fridge maintains 4°C consistently).
5. Marketing Your Inventory
Digital trust is your most valuable currency. Because buyers are often skeptical of used electronics, your marketing should lead with transparency.
- High-Def Transparency: Use 360-degree photos and videos. If there is a scratch on the side of a dishwasher, highlight it.
- Warranty “Peace of Mind”: Offering a 3, 6, or 12-month in-house warranty will allow you to charge a 15–20% premium over competitors on Facebook Marketplace.
- Multi-Channel Presence: Sync your inventory across eBay, Gumtree, and Shopify. Automated inventory management is essential so you don’t sell the same washing machine twice.
Growth Tip: The Subscription Model
Consider “Appliance-as-a-Service.” Instead of selling a refurbished fridge for $500, rent it to students or short-term renters for $40/month. This creates recurring revenue and allows you to retain the asset.