Aussie Websites Give Free Shipping

Adding to the attraction of better prices online, many Aussie internet retailers are giving free shipping to Australian, cross-Tasman and even European & U.S. shoppers this gift season.

While shopping in your pyjamas from the comfort of your own home while it's pouring rain outside is everyones dream, beating the mad traffic in December is another bonus. But who wants to have to pay more for that privilege when budgets are already tight?

"Look, it's a real discount and we pay for it, but I think it's only fair" says Jason Bogatai who has two designer gifts stores in Sydney city, "because shoppers expect to save when they buy online, not get slugged with big freight costs." His online gift store www.bristolandbrooks.com.au offers free postage for any order over $100.

Melanie Becker started the exercise wear label Female For Life last year and normally charges $10 or $15 postage on each order. "It's been a tight year for many families - especially after the quakes & floods, etc. So we hope to open up opportunities for gifts by paying the postage for our customers". Any purchase from www.femaleforlife.com.au will be shipped for free this summer, including sale items.

The message from online retailers is loud and clear: "Shop online and save!"