Iconic department store closures expected before Christmas
Iconic Australian department store David Jones has entered voluntary administration after 188 years of operation. Luxury brands have begun removing their stock from stores, leaving thousands of jobs at risk and creating significant retail vacancies.
Why it matters
The collapse of a major national retailer signals a significant shift in the Australian retail landscape and poses a major economic challenge for commercial landlords and the local workforce.
— 3:52pm , first published November 5, 2026 — 9:03am
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Share A A A Luxury brands have fled David Jones and left shelves around the country stripped bare as shoppers flocked to lament the once-prestige department store that has been surrendered to administrators and receivers after 188 years.
Gucci, Scanlan Theodore, Yves Saint Laurent and Oroton were among dozens of designer brands that deserted their concession stores after David Jones staff were told on Thursday morning that the retailer had finally tipped into collapse.
Headlinne story · 6 newsrooms
David Jones Appoints Administrators as Unpaid Rent Triggers Retail Collapse
What every outlet reported, where they differ, and how each framed it →
Also covering this story
7 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
Major Australian retailer David Jones folds after 188 years in operation
David Jones enters voluntary administration as lender appoints receivers
Australia's oldest department store David Jones collapses after 188 years
David Jones expected to fall into administration after failed 11th hour talks with biggest landlord
Australian retailer David Jones collapses after landlord talks fail
David Jones on brink of collapse and behind on rent to Westfield stores
David Jones expected to enter voluntary liquidation after landlord talks collapse, Australian media report
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