Need a bit more info on what Garage Sale Trail is all about? Here are the questions we get asked the most.
What is it?
Garage Sale Trail is Australia's biggest secondhand treasure hunt. Each year, more than 330,000 Australians take part by hosting garage sales or markets at their homes, schools, unit blocks, community halls and even pubs - or by shopping the Trail.
Collectively, they extend the life of more than 730,000 items each year, saving them from landfill.
2026 marks the final ever Garage Sale Trail event. It's your last chance to clear out and cash in or bag a bargain.
Garage Sale Trail 2026 takes place on 7–8 & 14–15 November. You can take part on just one day or more, from anywhere in Australia.
It's free to join and you'll get get tips, support and promotional materials to help your sale succeed.
When is Garage Sale Trail happening?
Garage Sale Trail happens once a year in November. In 2026, the trail returns on 7-8 & 14-15 November. Thousands of garage sales and markets will pop up in homes, unit blocks, schools, car boots and ovals all across the nation.
What events are happening near me?
Visit the national map to search for garage sales and markets happening near you, and build a trail of favourites to visit.
What can I buy or sell on the trail?
With more than 3 million items going up for sale each year, you can find almost anything — from pre-loved furniture and books to clothing, vinyl, toys and knick-knacks.
Past sales have even included rocket-powered jet packs, Star Wars collections and two grandpas offering cups of tea and biscuits.
All we ask: keep it secondhand, clean and legal (PG, please).
Who it is for?
It’s for everybody. Households, unit blocks, community groups, charities, schools, pubs, local businesses, even whole streets get involved.
You can take part to:
- Make some cash from items you no longer need
- Fundraise for a cause or local group
- Shop the trail for bargains and one-of-a-kind treasures.
Can I take part if I don't have a garage / front yard?
No garage? No worries. You can:
- Join a local market - many have community stalls available.
- Team up with your neighbours and use your apartment’s common area.
- Check out our guide for unit blocks if you need inspiration.
How do I register a garage sale?
Registering a garage sale or market is quick and easy — it takes about five minutes on the Garage Sale Trail website. Once completed, you get:
- A free listing on the national map (viewed over 500,000 times).
- Promotional materials to spread the word.
- Tips and support to help you run a successful sale.
Best of all, you’ll be part of a nationwide movement of more than 330,000 community-loving, thrift legends across Australia.
To host a sale, register here.
How do I get my free promo materials?
You’ll get them straight after registering. Download posters, flyers, social tiles and directional signage — plus goodies to help you decorate and plan your sale.
Who keeps the money?
It’s totally up to you.
- Keep the cash for yourself - last year the average seller made $761.
- Or fundraise for a charity, school or community group - they made over $1,325 each on average.
When's the best time to host your sale?
Most sales run from 9am – 2pm. Stick to those golden hours for the best crowds.
Do I have to host my sale at home?
Not at all. You can:
- Team up with friends or family and host at theirs.
- Host elsewhere - just make sure you have the landowner's or council's okay.
- Join a local community market or car boot sale. From September, you can search the sales map and use the "type" filter to find group sales.
Hot tip: the most successful sales are on streets with good passing traffic. Just steer clear of unsafe or unsuitable spots like roundabouts or footpaths.
Why is this any different to organising a garage sale on any other time of the year?
For first timers, we make it easy by providing free promotional materials, tips and tricks as well as support from the garage sale community.
Being part of big national event also means you're making some truly magical things happen. Like playing a part in saving over 700,000 items from landfill.
There's also something pretty cool about knowing you're part of a community of folks all simultaneously garage sale-ing over two big weekends.
I’m in. How do I sign up?
Registrations to join Garage Sale Trail 2026 are now open. To host a sale, register here.
Can I sell food at my sale?
We love a good feed here at the Garage Sale Trail and there is almost nothing better than enjoying a freshly baked scone with your newly purchased pre-loved jumpsuit / dog figurine / handbag.
If you’re planning on selling food, you’ll need to have the necessary food hygiene and safety certificates. Check with your local council.
Can I edit or delete my sale listing after it is published?
Absolutely. You can update your listing anytime by logging into your Garage Sale Trail account. Here you can change the details of your event, update times or delete your sale if plans change.
Need some tips on how to update your listing? We have created some quick videos to step you through how.
What do I do with any items I don't sell?
Not everything sells on the day of your garage sale, and that's okay. There are heaps of ways to make sure your unsold treasures still find a good home.
If you still have stuff left over, consult the reuse guide we have created to help you find new homes for your stuff. And whatever you do, don't leave items on the kerbside or outside charity stores as it's illegal and you could copy a hefty fine.
Is my council participating?
Probably! More than 120 councils are making Garage Sale Trail possible in 2026. Their support keeps the event free for everyone.
If your council isn’t involved, a limited number of free spots are available. Register early in these areas.
Why is 2026 the final Garage Sale Trail?
Every great adventure has a final chapter. After 16 unforgettable years making secondhand second nature, 2026 marks our final ever event.
The Last Hurrah on 7–8 & 14–15 November 2026 is our national grand finale. A chance to go out on a high and celebrate everything this amazing community has built together.
While Garage Sale Trail is hanging up its boots, our passion for local community action and environmental sustainability isn't going anywhere.
We are shifting our full focus toward our sister initiative, Grow It Local. A national movement dedicated to getting more people growing, sharing and eating locally grown food.
Will Garage Sale Trail return in 2027?
While we would love to find a new custodian to carry on the event, 2026 will be the very last organised by the Garage Sale Trail Foundation. It's your last chance to clear out and cash in or bag a bargain.
What happens to my account after the 2026 event?
Your registered sale and account profile will remain active through the 2026 event weekends so shoppers can find your listing. Following the event, the platform will be archived. You can opt-in to hear from us via Grow It Local to stay part of our community sustainability network.
Who organises Garage Sale Trail?
Garage Sale Trail is run by Garage Sale Trail Foundation, an Australian not for profit, in partnership with the councils of Australia. Read our story.
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📧 Email: contactus@garagesaletrail.com.au
