Moving house is no small feat. Whether it’s a first home, a fresh start or just a new postcode, settling in deserves a little celebration. And when it comes to housewarming gifts, there’s a fine line between thoughtful and “please don’t make me find space for this.”
We’ve rounded up the kinds of housewarming gifts people actually want. Practical, stylish and very Aussie-approved. Whether you’re shopping for mates, family or new neighbours, this guide has you covered.
Jump ahead for more of these presents:
Before we dive in, a few points on what actually makes a good housewarming gift:
You really can’t go wrong with a good drop. Australia produces over 1 billion litres of wine each year, and Aussies aren’t shy about enjoying it. More than 500 million litres are consumed across the country. Whether it’s a bold Shiraz from the Barossa or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from Margaret River, wine is a gift that never stays unopened for long.
Bonus points for wrapping it in a reusable tea towel or tote.
A touch of greenery makes a house feel like a home. Indoor plants can help boost mood, purify the air and soften even the boxiest of spaces.
In Australia, devil’s ivy (also known as golden pothos) consistently tops the popularity charts thanks to its forgiving nature and trailing good looks.
If they’re based in Victoria, you might want to take a look at our guide to the best places to buy houseplants in Melbourne — it’s full of local gems worth knowing about.
Peace lilies, fiddle leaf figs and monstera deliciosa are also long-time favourites for their lush foliage and low-maintenance needs.
If your giftee lacks a green thumb, a hardy herb kit is a great alternative. Basil, parsley and mint are kitchen staples that double as decor and bring a fresh flavour boost to meals. And if you’re feeling boujee, pair the plant with a stylish pot from a local ceramics brand or nursery - they’ll think of you every time they water it.
Fun fact: According to Bunnings (the go-to for Aussie plant lovers and weekend DIYers,) indoor plant sales have surged over the past five years, with millennials leading the trend. So don’t second guess yourself on this, gifting a plant is still very much in style.
Not the supermarket multipacks. Think beautiful, long-lasting towels from brands like Sheridan or Kip&Co. It is the kind of thing people don’t often buy for themselves but always appreciate. When choosing towels or linen as a gift, look for natural fibres like 100% cotton or linen. These materials are softer, more absorbent and improve with age.
Pay attention to GSM, which stands for grams per square metre. The higher the number, the thicker and more luxurious the towel will feel. Around 500 to 600 GSM is ideal for bath towels. This weight is plush enough to feel indulgent but still dries quickly. For tea towels, opt for linen or a cotton-linen blend. These fabrics are durable, absorbent and become softer with every wash.
Neutral colours or subtle patterns tend to suit most homes and styles. This makes them safer gifts if you are unsure of the recipient’s decor. A quality towel or tea towel gift is one of those small luxuries that turn everyday routines into moments of comfort and style.
When it comes to scents for a new home, think fresh and inviting, not grandma’s lavender tea lights tucked away in the bathroom. Candles also play a role in feng shui, where they’re used to create warmth, attract positive energy and bring balance to a space — especially in areas linked to wellbeing or relationships.
Aussie-made candles and diffusers with natural aromas like eucalyptus, lemon myrtle and sandalwood are absolute winners. They bring a crisp, clean vibe that instantly lifts the space and feels uniquely local.
Brands like Aesop, al.ive body and Etikette have nailed the balance between style and substance. Their candles don’t just smell amazing; they come in sleek, modern packaging that looks right at home on a shelf or coffee table.
If you’re going the diffuser route, it’s a gift that keeps on giving, slowly releasing those lovely scents without needing a matchstick. Ideal for new homeowners who want their place to smell fresh day after day without any fuss.
Wine and cheese. Name a more iconic duo. If you’re bringing a bottle, a cheese board is the perfect sidekick. It turns a simple catch-up into something special, and it’s the kind of gift that gets pulled out again and again for entertaining, picnics or even a fancy night in.
When it comes to cheese boards, timber is timeless. Opt for hardwoods like acacia, teak or oak. They’re durable, naturally antibacterial and look beautiful on the table. A board with a handle or groove around the edge adds a practical touch. For something more luxe, look for sets that include cheese knives or a built-in drawer with accessories.
To round out the gift, include some charcuterie essentials. Think prosciutto, salami, or a jar of fig or quince paste. Toss in a wedge of brie or sharp cheddar and a packet of quality crackers, and you’ve created a complete platter experience.
For quality picks, try The Somewhere Co. for stylish picnic sets, or check out Ecology, Kip&Co or local markets for beautifully made boards. Even Bunnings and David Jones have solid options that combine form and function.
A personalised floor mat is a small gesture that makes a big first impression. It’s a lovely gift for couples or families moving into what they hope will be their ‘forever’ home, adding a personal touch right at the doorstep.
That said, not all doormats are created equal. Some have cheeky messages like “Hope you brought wine” or “Go away unless you have snacks,” while others are more understated with a monogram or family name. This is definitely one to match to your recipient’s personality. If they’re more classic than quirky, go for a neutral mat with a simple design. A plain coir style with a crisp serif font or house number tends to suit most tastes.
Durability matters too. Coir mats with a non-slip rubber backing tend to hold up well and are great at brushing off sandy or muddy feet - a bonus if they’re living coastal or have kids and pets.
For high-quality options, check out Aussie small businesses on Etsy, or local brands like Door Mates and The Mat Group. Many offer custom designs, quick turnarounds and packaging that’s gift-ready.
Pick a theme that suits their vibe. Think Australian landscapes, modern architecture, interior design, local food and wine, or even coffee culture. The best picks look great both closed and open — bold imagery, beautiful covers and colours that work with their space.
Some Aussie best sellers to check out:
You’ll find stunning options at Kinokuniya, Booktopia, and boutique stores like Jumbled or Country Road Home.
Forget the dusty old gift baskets filled with tiny jams no one eats. Today’s gourmet hampers are all about high-quality, locally sourced produce that actually gets devoured.
You can either curate your own or pick up a beautifully presented one from a trusted local maker. Creating your own gives it a personal touch, especially if you include treats made in the region your giftee is moving to. It’s a thoughtful way to help them discover local gems while settling into their new spot.
Start with the essentials: a standout cheese or two, artisan crackers, small-batch condiments, local honey or jam, and a bit of something sweet like handmade chocolate or nougat. Want to elevate it even further? Throw in a bottle of regional wine or craft gin.
Here are a few local favourites to consider:
Presentation counts too. Use a wooden crate, a reusable basket or even a cooler bag for something practical. Wrap it all up with a hand-written note and you’ve got a housewarming gift that’s delicious, personal and regionally rich.
When in doubt, a voucher is the no-fail housewarming gift. It gives the new homeowners the freedom to pick something they actually need, whether that’s a dinner out after a big move, a new lamp for the lounge, or a fresh set of mugs they actually like.
The key is choosing something local or genuinely useful. A voucher to a nearby cafe, deli or bakery helps them discover their new neighbourhood. A credit for a homewares store lets them fill in the gaps, like missing kitchen essentials, new towels or that one item they forgot to pack.
Some of the most popular gift cards Aussies love include:
Want to go the extra mile? Pair the voucher with a handwritten list of local spots to check out. Include your favourite breakfast place, the best coffee nearby, or a hidden gem for homewares.
Choosing the perfect housewarming gift doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you go for something practical, personal or purely indulgent, the best gifts are those that show you’ve thought about the person and their new home. If you want to keep it eco-conscious, here’s how to shop sustainably for gifts.
From timeless classics like quality towels and coffee table books to local gourmet treats and personalised touches, there’s something here to suit every style and budget.
And remember, if you or someone you know is planning a move - Upmove is here to help make moving easier. Now that’s a gift everyone can appreciate.
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