Australia's first Pawn Expo comes to Gold Coast
Australia's first Pawn Expo will bring Rick Harrison and second-hand industry leaders to the Gold Coast this September.
What’s Happening?
Global television celebrity and pawnbroker Rick Harrison will headline Australia’s first dedicated national pawnbroking trade event on the Gold Coast. Southport Sharks will host Pawn Expo Australia on Friday, 18 September.
The event will bring together pawnbrokers, second-hand dealers, gold buyers, precious metal dealers, suppliers and other industry professionals. The National Pawnbrokers Association of Australia created the expo for businesses working across the country’s second-hand sector.
Harrison will deliver the keynote address and participate in an audience question-and-answer session. He will also attend an exclusive private dinner with delegates.
Why It Matters
National Pawnbrokers Association of Australia President and event organiser Leanne Coneybear said the industry’s recent transformation made the timing ideal.
“Pawnbrokers and second-hand dealers play a significant role in the circular economy by extending the life of quality pre-owned goods and with the industry booming, an event like this is now essential,” Ms Coneybear said.
She said the expo would give businesses from across Australia a dedicated place to meet, learn and share industry knowledge.
“For the first time, businesses from across Australia have a dedicated event where they can connect, learn, discover new products and services, share ideas and strengthen the future of our industry. We’re thrilled to welcome Rick Harrison as our inaugural keynote speaker and believe his experience building one of the world’s most recognised pawn businesses will be a highlight for delegates.”
Local Impact
Southport Sharks will welcome businesses from across Australia, giving Gold Coast operators direct access to a national industry gathering. Local pawnbrokers and second-hand dealers can meet peers, suppliers and specialists working across the wider sector.
Attendees can hear Harrison’s keynote, participate in the audience question-and-answer session and visit the trade exhibition. The program also includes education sessions, an industry drinks event and opportunities to build business connections.
By the Numbers
Australia’s resale market reached $34.6 billion in 2025 and continues to grow at close to 10% annually.
More than 80% of Australian shoppers now purchase second-hand goods, reflecting a major change in consumer behaviour.
The global resale market exceeds US$220 billion and could pass US$360 billion by 2030. It is growing at three times the rate of traditional retail.
Zoom In
Harrison is the businessman and pawnbroker behind Las Vegas’ World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. He also stars in the hit television series Pawn Stars.
Ms Coneybear said his appearance offered Australian businesses an incredible opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s most successful operators.
“Rick Harrison is much more than a television personality,” she said. “He’s built one of the world’s most recognised pawn businesses and understands negotiation, branding, customer experience and entrepreneurship at the highest level.”
The door prizes include a cruise for two valued at $2,000 and an emerald ring valued at $23,000. A dinner experience with Harrison, valued at $3,000, will also be offered. Terms and conditions apply.
Zoom Out
Consumers are increasingly choosing resale because of sustainability, affordability and access to quality pre-owned goods. Australia is following the same pattern seen across the growing global market.
Ms Coneybear said the pawnbroking industry had changed enormously during the past decade. It now includes sophisticated retailers, precious metals specialists, luxury resellers and providers of responsible short-term finance.
“Consumer attitudes have completely changed and buying pre-owned is no longer seen as a compromise; it’s become a smart financial decision and an increasingly sustainable way to shop,” she said.
What To Look For Next?
Pawn Expo Australia will bring the sector together at Southport Sharks on Friday, 18 September. Delegates can use the keynote, educational sessions, and networking program to build stronger national industry connections.
Tickets can be purchased through the Pawn Expo Australia website.