The collapse of David Jones: Is this the death of department stores?

Daniel Ziffer discusses a retail institution overtaken by changing habits, what it says about the economy and whether Australians still want what department stores have to offer.

Nov 06, 2026, updated Nov 06, 2026

For generations of Australians, David Jones was somewhere people would dress up to go shopping – the Christmas windows, the fashion parades and the excitement of taking home something special in those black and white houndstooth bags.

Now, after 188 years, the department store has entered voluntary administration.

Its stores are still trading, but thousands of workers face an uncertain future. And the new owner, if one can be found, will have to decide how much of the business can survive. 

Today, ABC business reporter Daniel Ziffer discusses a retail institution overtaken by changing habits, what it says about the economy and whether Australians still want what department stores have to offer.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram

Guest: ABC business journalist Daniel Ziffer

Want to see more stories from InDaily SA in your Google search results?

  1. Click here to set InDaily SA as a preferred source.
  2. Tick the box next to "InDaily SA". That's it.
Podcast