Perth, June 28: Sydney Airport’s Lost Property Auction is back for 2026, offering bargain hunters the chance to bid on more than 2,300 unclaimed items while supporting free swimming lessons for local families.
Starting from just $10, the online auction features a wide range of goods left behind by travellers, including laptops, jewellery, headphones, sunglasses, gaming consoles, perfume and clothing, alongside more unusual finds such as a wedding dress, Batman Lego set, fishing reel, ski boots and even a circular saw.
The auction, managed by Theodore Bruce Auctioneers, aims to raise $200,000, enough to fund more than 8,000 free swimming lessons and water safety programs through a partnership with Bayside Council. Since 2013, Sydney Airport’s annual Lost Property Auctions have raised almost $2.2 million for charities and community initiatives.
Kristen Sweeney, Sydney Airport Group Executive, People and Corporate Affairs, said: “For more than a decade, our Lost Property Auctions have raised almost $2.2 million for charities and community initiatives, turning unclaimed items into real support for the communities around the airport.
“Cost-of-living pressures are placing real strain on families right now, and swimming lessons are one of the things that can easily fall out of the budget. Every dollar raised helps remove that barrier, giving local families access to free lessons and water safety education.”
Mayor, Cr Edward McDougall, Bayside Council, said: “Learning to swim is a critical life skill, but too many children and families in our community miss out due to cost and access barriers.
“This partnership with Sydney Airport will help us deliver free swimming lessons and water safety education to those who need it most.
“Bayside is a diverse and growing community, and programs like this play an important role in building confidence in the water, improving safety and supporting stronger, more connected communities.”
Bayside is home to around 182,000 residents, with almost half the population born overseas. The community program will deliver learn-to-swim classes for children, young people and adults, as well as beach and water safety education at venues including Angelo Anestis Aquatic Centre, local beaches and foreshore areas, and the Arncliffe Youth Centre.
Theodore Bruce Auctioneers Director, Casi Prischl, said: “The Sydney Airport auction is one of our most-loved events. People from all over Australia log in to bid, not just for the bargains, but because they know every dollar goes towards something meaningful in the community.
“This year we have a brilliant mix of high-quality tech, gorgeous jewellery and watches, sunglasses, bags and perfume. With 120 laptops, 350 lots of jewellery and 150 pairs of sunglasses up for grabs, there is something for everyone.
“For the kids and the young at heart, we have a Batman Lego set, gaming consoles and three skateboards just waiting to find new homes.
“And for those who enjoy a surprise, we have ski boots, a fishing reel and boxing gloves up for grabs. Whether you are planning a weekend adventure or just looking to reel in a great deal, opening bids start at just $10.”
Sydney Airport’s lost property team returned more than 6,000 items to their owners over the past year. Unclaimed items that were not reunited with their owners have either been donated to local charities or included in this year’s auction. The airport has also opened a new Lost Property office in Terminal 2, opposite Gate 55, operating from 8am to 4pm on weekdays.
Details
- Auction opens: Online now
- Catalogue: www.theodorebruceauctions.com.au
- Opening bids: From $10
- Items available: More than 2,300 unclaimed items
- Fundraising target: $200,000
- Community benefit: More than 8,000 free swimming lessons and water safety sessions
- Beneficiary: Bayside Council’s Community Learn to Swim and Water Safety Program
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