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In a major shake-up, David Jones store closures have been confirmed across Australia and New Zealand, with 19 of the retailer’s 38 stores set to shut by the end of 2026.
For generations, David Jones has been a go-to destination for everything from appliances and designer furniture to Christmas gifts and special-occasion shopping.
I can personally remember going to David Jones for so many milestones, from shopping for my Year 12 formal dress to searching for the perfect bridesmaid dresses. It was the place I’d go to find something special for Mum, pick up a beautiful gift or simply wander the homewares department, dreaming of all the things I’d one day have in my own home. And I know I’m not alone. For many Australians. David Jones has been more than just a department store–it’s been a part of life’s little traditions and biggest moments. Which is why the news that almost half its stores are set to close feels particularly sad.
The announcement comes less than a week after the 188-year-old retailer entered voluntary administration, marking a significant turning point for one of Australia’s most recognisable shopping institutions.
Which David Jones stores are closing?
The latest David Jones store closures will affect shopping centres across six Australian states and territories, as well as the retailer’s New Zealand location.
The full lust of 19 stores set to close is:
New South Wales (7)
- Macquarie Centre
- Macarthur Square
- Parramatta
- Wollongong Central
- Hornsby
- Green Hills
- Warringah Mall
Victoria (3)
- Malvern Central
- Highpoint
- Glen Waverly
Western Australia (3)
- Hay Street Mall
- Garden City
- Carousel
Queensland (2)
- Robina Town Centre
- Sunshine Plaza
South Australia (2)
- West Lakes
- Marion
Australian Capital Territory (1)
- Woden
New Zealand
- Newmarket, Auckland
Why is David Jones closing so many stores?
Founded in Sydney in 1838, David Jones has long been synonymous with Australian department store shopping. However, the retailer has faced mounting financial pressures, including years of losses, costly leases, changing shopping habits and growing competition from online retailers.
After negotiations with major landlords broke down, David Jones entered voluntary administration in November 2026, with McGrathNicol appointed as administrator and FTI Consulting as receiver.
The decision to close half its stores forms part of an urgent restructuring plan aimed at giving the remaining business a more sustainable future.
When will the David Jones store closures happen?
While exact closing dates have not yet been confirmed, the affected stores are expected to continue trading through the busy Christmas shopping period before shutting by the end of December 2026.
For shoppers, this could mean opportunities to pick up discounted fashion, furniture, bedding and homewares, with stock expected to be marked down or transferred to other locations. However, customers should be aware that online deliveries may take longer than usual, while some delivery services and click and collect are currently unavailable.
The retailer has also tightened its change-of-mind exchange policy for purchases made from November 7.
Is this the end of David Jones?
Not necessarily (we hope!) While the David Jones store closures mark a significant change for the much-loved retailer, the remaining stores are expected to continue operating as administrators explore options for the business. Major flagship locations, including the iconic Elizabeth Street store in Sydney, have been spared from the announced closures.
For now, the future of David Jones may lie in a smaller, more carefully curated retail experience. And for Australians who grew up wandering its homewares departments, admiring its Christmas displays or choosing something special from its shelves, the changes signal the end of a familiar chapter in Australian shopping history.
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