Making shopping simpler
Ordering groceries online can make everyday life easier – especially when things feel busy, stressful, or unpredictable.
It can help save time and energy and support you to stay on top of daily needs during periods of transition or change.
You can order groceries from your phone, tablet or computer, and choose to have groceries delivered to your home or ready for collection.
Why it can help
Online grocery shopping can support your wellbeing in practical ways:
- Less stress and effort - Avoid busy shops, long queues and last-minute decisions
- More time - Order at a time that suits you, day or night
- Better budgeting - See your total as you shop and make changes before checking out
- More control - Take your time choosing items without feeling rushed
Online shopping can be especially helpful if you are:
- adjusting to a new routine
- managing injury, health conditions, disability or mobility challenges
- balancing work, family or caring responsibilities
Getting started
If you are new to online shopping, you can start small:
- Choose a supermarket or grocery service in your area
- Create an account using your email address
- Add items to your online basket
- Choose delivery or pick-up
- Select a time that works for you
Most services allow you to:
- save favourite items
- repeat past orders
- update your order before delivery
Tips to make it easier
Start with a short list
Order a few essential items first to get comfortable with the process
Plan meals and set a budget
Planning ahead can help reduce waste, manage costs and make shopping quicker.
Check delivery options and costs
Some delivery times are lower cost or more flexible. Compare options before you check out.
Shop safely online
- Use trusted websites and secure payment methods
- Create strong passwords
- Be cautious of unexpected links, messages or deals that seem too good to be true
If access feels challenging
Not everyone has the same access to online services or feels confident using them.
If this sounds like you, you could:
- ask a family member, friend or support worker for help
- look for community delivery services or local stores that offer phone or assisted ordering
- check if aged care or disability supports can assist with shopping or meal preparation
- seek local food relief services if cost is a concern
Getting support
If accessing food or managing groceries is becoming difficult, support is available.
This may include:
- community services that help with food access
- financial counselling or budgeting support
- local organisations that provide emergency food relief
- aged care or disability supports that assist with shopping or meals
Helpful Australian Government resources
- eSafety Commissioner – help with staying safe online and protecting your personal information, and avoiding unsafe websites
- Scamwatch – advice on identifying scams and fake online stores, and what to do if something feels wrong
- MoneySmart – tools and tips for budgeting, meal planning and managing grocery costs
- My Aged Care – information about in-home support, including meals and shopping
- NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) – information about disability supports
- Services Australia – information about payments, financial help, and support services