Australia’s digital marketplace is evolving at a blistering pace, and nowhere is that clearer than in the growth of Customer to Customer (C2C) commerce. From Facebook Marketplace to Gumtree and emerging apps like AirRobe and Carousell, Australians are embracing the power to buy and sell directly with one another. In 2025, new regulations and consumer behaviours are accelerating the C2C boom, making it a must-watch trend for savvy buyers, sellers, and investors alike.
The Rise of C2C in Australia: Beyond the Garage Sale
What started as a digital version of the neighbourhood garage sale has become a multi-billion-dollar ecosystem. In 2025, C2C platforms are not just about second-hand goods—they’re at the forefront of sustainable shopping, side hustles, and even micro-entrepreneurship.
- Online Marketplaces: Platforms like Gumtree, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace dominate, but niche players (like Depop for fashion and AirRobe for circular wardrobes) are growing fast.
- Peer-to-Peer Services: Australians now swap skills, rent tools, or even trade surplus produce through platforms like Airtasker and Shebah.
- Payments and Logistics: The rise of secure payment gateways (think PayID, Osko) and same-day courier partnerships are making C2C faster and safer than ever.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, C2C e-commerce transactions grew by over 18% in 2024, with projections pointing to even steeper growth this year as Australians seek more value and sustainability in their purchases.
Policy Updates and Consumer Protections: What Changed in 2025?
The rapid expansion of C2C trading has brought new scrutiny from policymakers. In 2025, several key updates are shaping the landscape:
- Mandatory ID Verification: Major platforms must now verify seller identities for high-value transactions, a move designed to curb fraud and increase buyer confidence.
- GST on Digital Platforms: The ATO has expanded rules requiring C2C platforms to collect and remit GST on certain transactions, especially for regular sellers or those running what amounts to a small business.
- Consumer Guarantees Extended: New ACCC guidelines clarify that even peer-to-peer sales may be subject to Australian Consumer Law protections in some circumstances, particularly for faulty goods or misrepresentation.
These changes mean buyers and sellers need to be more aware of their rights and responsibilities. For example, if you’re flipping furniture as a side hustle, you could be subject to tax and consumer law obligations you didn’t face just a few years ago.
Smart Money Moves: How to Win at C2C in 2025
With opportunity comes risk—and reward. Here’s how to make the most of C2C platforms in today’s environment:
- Know the Rules: If you’re selling regularly, keep detailed records and be prepared for tax time. The ATO’s new data-matching program means undeclared income is easier to spot.
- Think Safety First: Use secure, traceable payment methods (avoid cash-in-hand for anything significant), and arrange meetups in public spaces or use trusted delivery partners.
- Sustainability Wins: C2C isn’t just about saving money—it’s a core part of the circular economy. Australians are increasingly choosing pre-loved items to cut costs and reduce waste, a trend that’s only growing in 2025.
- Micro-Entrepreneurship: Platforms like Depop and Marketplace are incubators for small business. If you’re creative, C2C is a low-barrier way to test product ideas or build a side income.
Real-world example: Melbourne-based uni student Zoe turned her love of upcycled fashion into a $1,000/month side hustle on Depop. Thanks to new e-commerce tools and clear ATO guidelines, she’s running a compliant micro-business from her phone.
The Future of C2C: What’s Next?
Looking ahead, C2C platforms are set to integrate more AI-driven matchmaking, instant payments, and even blockchain-powered authenticity checks—making the process smoother and more trustworthy. As Australians continue to prioritise sustainability and financial flexibility, expect C2C commerce to keep expanding into new niches, from collectibles to local experiences.
