Imagine this: you are on holiday and enjoying your time in the Land Down Under now that the borders are open. In the midst of all the fun, however, you think of your loved ones at home. How nice would it be if they are all here together with you? But because they can't be, you'd have to get the next best thing - souvenirs for them! And no, we're not talking about the overrated keychains.
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Australia is amazing for a lot of things, and one of it has to be their array of unique souvenirs. Here are our top picks for awesome (and practical) ideas for you to start souvenir-hunting in Australia!
P.S. Did you know that Western Australia is the closest Western destination to Singapore and KL with only 4.5 hours and 5 hour flight time respectively? ✈️☀️ If you’re travelling with kids, you don’t have to worry about long flights too! Not to mention, Western Australia is a Muslim-friendly destination! Purchase experiences on Klook and redeem $30 OFF Western Australia activities, with a minimum spend of $300!
1. For the coffee lover: Coffee beans
The café scene in Australia is dominated by independent businesses instead of global chains, hence the reason why it is unlikely for you to stumble upon the famous Starbucks in the country. Australians have a special affinity for coffee, and this fact is reflected in the strength and significance of the local coffee culture. With a myriad of independent coffee roasters and shops around the country, Australia is no doubt a well-opinionated nation when it comes to coffee ?
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In the land where coffee is the way of life, you have got to bring that Australian coffee experience with you for the coffee lover back home. The best way to do that is to get coffee beans from renowned cafes – baristas are able to provide you with the best suggestions on the type of roast that best suits your loved one’s taste buds for that perfect cup of coffee!
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#HHWT Tip: If you're buying coffee as a souvenir for your loved ones back home, check if they have a coffee grinder. If not, ask if the barista could grind the coffee beans for you – more often than not they would be glad to help you do so for free.
2. For the sweet-toothed: Golden Boronia Nougat
If your loved ones are into desserts and everything sweet, packets of the Golden Boronia Nougat would excite them for sure! And the Golden Boronia Nougat is Australia’s number one nougat! The nougat is made using natural ingredients and is 100% cholesterol-free, so your loved ones can munch away without feeling too guilty ?
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Plus the nougats come in a wide variety of types. From hard nougats to soft nougats, from original flavoured nougats to almond ones, you'd be at a loss for what to get. Which is why we recommend getting the mixed pack so your loved ones are free to choose their preferred flavours!
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P.S. You can rest assured of the nougat's halal status as it's Halal-certified by the Western Australia Halal Authority (WAHA).
3. For the even sweeter-toothed: Honey cake
Besides nougat, another dessert you can bring home for your loved ones is Australia’s famous honey cake exclusively available at The Honeycake in Perth and Western Australia. The sweet delight that is this traditional Czech honey-layered cake is filled with caramel and topped with fresh ground walnuts. There are also pandan or cacao flavours!
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Not only is it delicious, but it's also so addictive it will leave you wanting more! Plus the quaint packages they come in are perfect. You don't even need an extra bag for this ?
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#HHWT Tip: Their website has a section devoted to halal cakes that are made with Muslim-friendly ingredients and are alcohol-free (though do note that they are not officially halal-certified). These alcohol-free cakes must be pre-ordered as they are only available upon request. It is advisable for you to contact them via their offices directly 3 days in advance (we recommend a week!) to place your order for delivery or pick-up.
P.S. Thinking of exploring Perth and Western Australia?This 5D4N Muslim-friendly Perth itinerary is just what you need!
4. Honey and honey products
Had enough honeycake and looking for the 'basic' ingredient? There are many honey producers across Australia so you won't have any problems finding pure honey, honeycomb, or other honey products to bring back home! There have been recent scandals involving imported or 'mixed' honey by some brands, but since there's no shortage of local producers you'll still have plenty of choices.
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One brand that's been in the honey business for a long time is Beechworth Honey, which has been around since the 1980s! Their range includes pure honey in various textures, and honey-based beauty products. Do note that they also sell non-alcoholic and alcoholic honey-based drinks, but their pure honey is suitable for consumption as it only contains honey.
For the chocolate lovers:
5. Pods chocolates
If you are big a fan of chocolates (who isn't right? ?), this is something you absolutely can't miss out on!
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These little morsels of chocolate are literally called "pods" for a reason and they are actually small wafer pods with chocolate filling. Take your pick of Snickers, Mars or Twix chocolate filling and trust us, this crunchy and choco combination is a real treat. Beware though, it might be really addictive! What's even greater is that these chocolates are halal-certified from Halal Certification Authority Australia and you can easily find them in supermarket chains like Woolworths, IGA and Coles.
P.S. Did you know that Woolworths in Sydneyhave their own brand of halal products?
6. Cadbury Caramello Koala
Caramel and chocolate in one bite? That's like 2 of the best sweet treats you can ever combine! And yes, Cadbury's Caramello Koala is making this dream come true.
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Shaped in the form of the country's mascot, a koala, this snack consists of milk chocolate with a flowing caramel centre, and many locals remember it as their favourite childhood snack. Buy a bag of them from supermarket chains such as Woolworths or Coles to keep the kids entertained on your Australian adventure. While the taste is really yummy, you might just hesitate to eat these Caramello Koalas because they are too cute!
Note: Cadbury Caramello Koala is halal-certified by the Halal Certification Authority Australia. Cadbury Australia also has a list of their halal products here so you can stock up on other sweet treats at the same time!
7. Chocolate bars and products
If you're looking for a simpler version, you won't have any difficulty securing these delicious bars, pastilles, or truffles! Whether you're visiting a large chocolate factory or looking for small boutique brands you'll be spoilt for choice from the variety available!
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If you're visiting Western Australia's Margaret River Chocolate Factory or Melbourne's Yarra Valley Chocolaterie you won't have to worry as their couverture chocolate (without any additional ingredients) are Muslim-friendly! For both locations, we have also checked with them that their products that contain any alcohol or animal derivatives have it clearly stated on the packaging so do check the ingredients list before purchasing any products. In addition, the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie has confirmed with us that they use vanilla beans and not vanilla extract (using alcohol).
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You'll also find lots of homegrown brands such as Koko Black available in shopping malls across the country. Boutique brands such as these tend to have more unique flavours - so you can taste flavours from all over the world! Make sure to check for any alcohol or animal derivatives before purchasing.
P.S. If you’re a fan of adventure, Western Australia needs a place in your travel bucket list! Catch your own wild lobster on a thrilling seafood cruise. 🦞✨ Meet cute Quokkas on a guided wilderness trail, dive into the city and swim with wild dolphins, an experience like no other! If you like all that, purchase the experience on Klook and enjoy $30 OFF Western Australia activities (with a minimum spend of $300).
For the foodie:
8. Vegemite
If you have been to Australia, you would know that Australians live on Vegemite. It is a staple in most Australian households. The thick and dark brown spread is high in salt, and can be put in an assortment of foods – from bread to spaghetti and soup. It's kind of like how we're obsessed with Nutella here, Australians are obsessed with Vegemite!
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Be warned though, this is a very strong taste and you either love it or hate it!
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Although its ingredients are not known due to its closely-guarded recipe, Vegemite is certified halal by the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils, and the yeast in the product is processed without any alcohol! There is also a Vegemite Cheesybite flavour made with cream cheese that has been halal-certified too!
9. Banana bread
In case you're looking for something to go with your Vegemite, get the Banana bread from Coles! Or you can have the bread on its own as it tastes perfect too.
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Freshly baked and packed with flavour, this is a snack that you can eat as a breakfast dish while you're there on vacay or bring it home to savour it. Note: While the banana bread from Coles is not officially halal-certified, we've checked the ingredients and it doesn't contain any alcohol or animal derivatives. Do dine at your own discretion!
10. For the nutty one: Macadamia nuts
For a healthier option, macadamia nuts serve as a great snack. The high-fat content in macadamia nuts is healthy – it reduces cholesterol levels and reduces your risk of heart disease. As macadamia nuts originated in Australia, you can get them for cheap as souvenirs for the foodie back home! Plain, salted, or flavoured - you can find macadamia nuts of all types in major supermarket chains or even dedicated shops that sell only nuts!
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#HHWT Tip: Plain and salted macadamia nuts are typically Muslim-friendly as they should contain only nuts and salt, but do remember to check the ingredients list before purchasing any as a snack. And when we talk about macadamia nuts, we're not just talking about eating them. Australia took it one level up and turned their macadamia nuts into awesome skincare products too ?
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Pure Nut is an Australian plant-based brand that makes beauty and skincare products from macadamia nuts and manuka honey. Macadamia oil is known to nourish and rejuvenate your skin, giving you a perfect glow that will last even after your vacation ends! Their products are not halal-certified, however, their products are all vegan-friendly and the macadamia face and body oil consist only of cold-pressed macadamia oil with no added ingredients.
P.S. Still thinking of where to go in Australia? We've got you covered with this 6D5N Muslim-friendly itinerary of Brisbane and Gold Coast!
For the beauty guru:
11. Tea tree oil products
Talking about skincare products, here's even more for the beauty guru back home! There is a variety of tea tree oil products widely available and made in Australia. As tea tree oil is completely natural, your loved ones will enjoy a boost to their skin – and they will definitely thank you for it ? Thursday Plantation has owned their own tea tree plantation since 1976, and their products are all vegan-friendly with no animal-based additives.
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Their skincare products also contain products such as manuka honey which has healing properties that help with soothing everything from sunburn to acne. I mean, it's always good to have some of these just in case, right? Thursday Plantation's healing balm would feel so good on your skin, while it nurses it back to health.
12. Lucas’ Papaw Ointment
Alternatively, try Lucas’ Papaw Ointment - an iconic Australian product. Papaw is another term for papaya; and as you would have guessed, the ointment is made from pure Australian papaws! Do note that the papaws are fermented to concentrate the enzymes before processing and we advise you to purchase at your own discretion and comfort.
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With antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, the ointment can be used as a local topical application for minor burns and scalds, insect bites and rashes. It also offers relief for skin inflammation and doubles as a light moisturizer for your lips. However, as it contains pharmaceutical-grade petroleum jelly it's not a suitable replacement for regular moisturizers and should not be used as such.
13. For tea connoisseurs: T2
If you're a tea connoisseur, then you're in for a treat at T2, a boutique tea shop in Australia. Originating from Melbourne, T2 has unique tea flavours and it's not just tea that you're buying here but the whole tea experience.
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What's great about T2 is their interestingly designed boxes and you can expect normal flavours like peppermint, chamomile and lavender, chai and French earl grey to more unique ones like strawberries and cream, choc chip chai and more! Their boxes also have instructions so you'll know how long you should brew your tea and serving suggestions - perfect if you're a beginner ? Besides getting tea, you can also get teawares like tea infusers, pots, tea glasses, jugs and flasks which are beautifully designed.
For the health-conscious:
14. Fish oil supplements
The continent offers products not just for your exterior well-being, but also the interior! You can buy a wide range of supplements in Australia at ridiculously low prices, especially fish oil. What better way to show your love and care for your loved ones than to present them with a bottle to help them feel healthier? ☺️
Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which does wonders to your health. It promotes healthy cholesterol levels as well as supports bone health. Your mental health is also taken care of as fish oil offers mood support, eliminating disorders such as depression and anxiety.
#HHWT Tip: One of our readers has alerted us that most fish oil brands in Australia might contain pork gelatine or non-halal-certified bovine gelatine. Here are some brands who sell halal or Muslim-friendly fish oil supplements: Madina Vitamins (halal-certified by the Islamic Services of America), Australian by Nature (halal-certified by the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils), and Southernature (halal-certified by the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils). Blackmores' EPO+Fish Oil and Omega Brain High DHA Fish Oil have also been halal-certified. Do remember to check the product packaging for the halal logo before purchasing, as not all of the products sold by the same company may be halal-certified.
15. Propolis
Propolis is produced by bees during the honey-making process, and is known as a traditional antioxidant and remedy for sore throats. Liquid propolis can be swallowed to soothe throat irritation, or taken as a daily boost to start your day with some pep in your step.
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Some brands such as Southernature and Australian by Nature also produce capsule versions that can be taken as a quick and easy daily supplement! Do note that capsule versions (apart from the 2 listed) may contain pork or non-halal bovine gelatine so do check for the halal logo before purchasing any capsules.
16. For the fashionista: UGG boots
UGG boots are unisex boots made of the finest quality of sheepskin! Apart from being trendy, they provide warmth, comfort and ease of wear – the perfect gift for travellers to cold countries who love to dress to impress. UGG boots are also versatile and can be worn over any style while providing maximum comfort ?
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A gift of UGG boots is sure to pamper the feet of your loved ones. With Australia being the largest distributor of sheepskin footwear, you can get the original boots from UGG Australia and be assured of their great quality! The sheepskin used is also ethically sourced, and you can read more about UGG's policies regarding animal welfare here
17. For the jewel fiend
If your loved one is into bling-bling, Pandora bracelets and charms make a great gift. Jewellery from the Danish manufacturer and retailer can sometimes be cheaper than that in our home country. Couple that with tax refund claimed via the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS), you get to enjoy more savings when you buy Pandora jewellery in Australia ?
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Make your Pandora charm extra special by getting those that can only be found in the Land Down Under, like the Sydney Opera House, Kangaroo, Koala, or the Australian flag charms!
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You don't have to worry about wrapping this one up, as the packaging is already more than gorgeous!
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When you're in Australia, you can't leave without purchasing their opal jewelry ? Opal is the national gemstone of Australia (no wonder they called it Opal Card ?), and you can find many opal jewelry stores scattered all over the country. For starters, here are some shops you can check out: Lightning Ridge Opal Mines, Johnston Opals (Victoria), Opal Minded (NSW), Fremantle Opals, Quilpie Opals (Western Australia).
18. For the collector: Boomerang
The boomerang is a symbol of the aboriginal Australian culture, which indigenous hunters used to seek for prey. Its unique crescent shape allows it to return to the thrower, meaning a hunter will never lose his boomerang when out hunting!
Hand-painted boomerangs of different sizes can normally be found in markets and souvenir shops around the country. These boomerangs would make great gifts or meaningful decor for the collectors back home!
There you have it – awesome gifts you can bring back from Australia for your loved ones. We can assure you that these gifts are so amazing, they won't chuck it aside like any other normal souvenir!
P.S. Want to escape from the city? Then Western Australia is the vacation destination for you! Get out in nature and explore Rottnest Island (and see adorable Quokkas!), see the vast coast of Margaret River, go glamping in the dunes of Ningaloo Reef and much more - It’s truly an explorer’s dream come true! 😍 Check out all the experiences on Klook and get $30 OFF Western Australia activities when you spend a minimum of $300.
P.S. Heading to New Zealand instead? Check out our list of 10 Muslim-friendly snacks you have to buy from NZ supermarkets!