Saving money on groceries in Australia
When Coles, Woolworths and Aldi specials change, how to use unit prices, half-price specials and loyalty programs, and other money-saving tips.
In short
Australia's main supermarket chains include Coles, Woolworths, Aldi and IGA. For foods from home, look for specialist grocers in your area.
What to do
Weekly specials and unit prices can make a real difference to your food bill. These habits come from Moneysmart and the ACCC.
Shop around the weekly specials
Coles half-price specials ↗ Woolworths specials ↗ Aldi Special Buys ↗
Coles and Woolworths say their weekly specials change every Wednesday and run until the following Tuesday, and both list half-price items. Woolworths shows a preview of next week's specials every Monday at 5pm. Aldi releases new Special Buys every Wednesday and Saturday.
Compare the unit price
Unit prices explained (ACCC) ↗
Big supermarkets must show a unit price on the shelf label, such as the price per kilogram or per 100 g. Use it to compare different brands and pack sizes: a bigger pack is not always cheaper. Moneysmart notes that pre-packed fruit and vegetables can cost more per kilo than loose.
Check a special is a real saving
The ACCC says it can be misleading to promote a normal price as a sale or special. Look for the 'was' price, and only take a multi-buy deal if you will use the extra. Some discounts are only for loyalty members.
Loyalty programs
Coles is part of Flybuys and Woolworths runs Everyday Rewards. You collect points when you shop and later turn them into money off. Some member prices need you to scan your card or app at the checkout.
What you need to know
- Plan the week's meals around what is already in your fridge and cupboard and what is on special, then shop from a list
- Buy staples such as rice, oats and flour when they are on special
- Try home brands, and fruit and vegetables that are in season or on sale
- Check what time your local store marks down fresh food
- Struggling to afford food? Moneysmart says food relief services and charities offer meals, food parcels or vouchers
Special days and prices can change, so check the store's own website or app. This site does not recommend any supermarket.
Details for your state or territory
Tap your state to see its rules.
South Australia
Indian groceries
Ekam, Enfield ↗ Ekam, Blair Athol ↗ Bharat, Ingle Farm ↗
Ekam has branches in Enfield and Blair Athol. Bharat in Ingle Farm was also visited.
Halal and Middle Eastern
IGA Valley View ↗ Al Madina Supermarket ↗
IGA Valley View was reported to stock halal food. Al Madina Supermarket in Kilburn was also visited. Check each shop's halal status yourself.
Links open Google Maps for current hours and reviews. Shop quality varies, so check dates on packaged goods and prices at the checkout. Special days and prices can change, so check the store's own website or app.
Last checked 8 Oct 2026.