Malvern EastProject Repton , 2025
“The key thing we were looking for was the consistency in the pricing that we received, having the right team to be able to problem solve when an issue arose, they did it in a very calm and measured manner. They're a great team and we worked so well together, had we done the design with Envy it would have saved us 6 months minimum”
12 Best Smart Home Devices for Toorak Homes in 2025

In the exclusive enclave of Toorak, a luxury home is defined not just by its architecture but by its intelligence. Integrating the right technology transforms a beautiful space into a responsive, intuitive environment that anticipates your every need. This definitive guide explores the best smart home devices available in Australia, curated specifically for discerning Toorak homeowners planning a custom build or sophisticated renovation. We move beyond generic reviews to provide a practical resource for creating a truly integrated and automated residence.
This listicle is designed to be your primary resource, detailing where to source premier smart home technology. We will analyse the top Australian retailers and platforms, including specialists like Oz Smart Things and major outlets such as JB Hi-Fi and The Good Guys. For each source, we provide a concise overview, direct links, and insights to help you select the ideal components for your project. You will discover the best places to find sophisticated systems for lighting, security, climate control, and entertainment.
We’ll examine how leading builders like Envy Abode integrate these technologies from the ground up, ensuring your home’s automation is as flawless as its design. Forget navigating countless websites; this curated list provides everything required to make informed decisions for your bespoke Toorak home.
1. Amazon Australia
As Australia's largest online marketplace, Amazon Australia is an essential starting point for sourcing a vast array of the best smart home devices. Its extensive catalogue spans from its own Echo and Ring ecosystems to third-party favourites like Philips Hue and Nanoleaf. For homeowners in affluent suburbs like Toorak planning a bespoke smart home installation, the platform provides a comprehensive environment for price comparison, product research, and discovering compatible accessories, all in one place.
The primary advantage is the sheer volume of user-generated data. Real-world reviews and customer Q&As offer practical insights that go beyond marketing copy, helping you gauge long-term reliability and ease of integration. With Prime, you benefit from fast, reliable shipping and a straightforward returns process, crucial for testing device compatibility in a custom-built environment.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Competitive pricing with frequent sales, robust buyer protection, and an unparalleled selection of devices and accessories.
- Cons: Listing quality can be inconsistent across third-party sellers, so it’s vital to check seller ratings. Some Alexa features may also differ from the US versions.
- Website: https://www.amazon.com.au
2. JB Hi‑Fi
As a major national retailer, JB Hi-Fi has become a go-to destination for some of the best smart home devices, offering a well-curated selection through its dedicated Smart Home hub. The platform excels at showcasing popular ecosystems like Google Nest, Philips Hue, and Arlo, making it ideal for homeowners in suburbs like Toorak who prefer to see products in person before committing. This physical presence allows for immediate click-and-collect and hands-on demonstrations.
JB Hi-Fi’s main advantage is its blend of online convenience with a robust bricks-and-mortar network. Regular sales and product bundles provide excellent value, while the ability to handle returns and warranty claims locally offers peace of mind. This is particularly valuable when coordinating multiple device purchases for a comprehensive home automation project, ensuring any issues can be resolved quickly without the hassle of return shipping.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Competitive price matching during sales events, straightforward returns and local warranty support, and a trusted Australian retail presence.
- Cons: The product range can vary significantly by store, with the most extensive selection usually found online. In-store advice may lean more promotional than technical.
Website: https://www.jbhifi.com.au/pages/smart-home-automation
3. The Good Guys
The Good Guys positions itself as a mainstream retailer for some of the best smart home devices, offering a well-curated 'Connected Home' category. It bridges the gap between specialist suppliers and general marketplaces, providing a trusted environment for purchasing smart lighting, cameras, and hubs from accessible brands like TP-Link, Nanoleaf, and Google. For homeowners in Toorak embarking on a renovation, it serves as a reliable source for foundational smart tech, backed by frequent promotions and a national store presence.
The primary advantage is its hybrid online-offline model. You can research and purchase online, often taking advantage of StoreCash promotions or bundled deals, and then opt for convenient click-and-collect or straightforward in-store returns. This physical footprint provides a level of service and assurance that online-only retailers cannot match, which is valuable when coordinating multiple device purchases for a home project. The website's clear brand filters make it easy to quickly find compatible products within your chosen ecosystem.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Competitive promotions and bundled deals, a strong national retail footprint with easy returns and collection, and a user-friendly website.
- Cons: Limited availability of premium or enthusiast-level smart home brands online, and stock levels for some specific items can fluctuate.
Website: https://www.thegoodguys.com.au/smart-home/connected-home
4. Officeworks
While traditionally known for office supplies, Officeworks has carved out a significant niche as a reliable retailer for some of the best smart home devices. The platform excels in accessibility and convenience, offering a curated selection from major ecosystems like Google, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. For a homeowner in Toorak looking to quickly acquire a new smart speaker or set of lights for an extension, Officeworks provides an immediate, tangible solution with its widespread physical presence and rapid fulfillment options.
Its key differentiator is the integration of professional installation services through its Geeks2U partnership. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a hands-off approach to setup, ensuring devices are configured correctly within their home network from day one. With options like 2-Hour Click & Collect and free metro delivery on orders over $65, acquiring and implementing new smart technology is exceptionally straightforward.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Widely available stock with a simple returns policy, professional smart home installation add-ons available, and helpful category browsing by ecosystem.
- Cons: The product range focuses on popular consumer-grade devices and lacks the advanced, pro-grade equipment found at specialist stores. Stock can also rotate seasonally.
Website: https://www.officeworks.com.au/shop/officeworks/c/technology/smart-home
5. Bunnings
While often associated with tools and timber, Bunnings has become a surprisingly robust destination for sourcing foundational best smart home devices, especially for DIY-inclined homeowners. Its strength lies in providing accessible, AU-standard essentials like smart lighting, plugs, and security cameras from trusted brands such as Arlo, Swann, and DETA. For those in suburbs like Toorak starting a renovation or extension, Bunnings offers a practical, hands-on approach to smart home integration, allowing you to physically inspect devices before purchase.
The platform's primary advantage is its educational focus. The "Build a Smart Home" guides and in-store experts provide invaluable advice for integrating devices with Google Home or Alexa ecosystems, simplifying the setup process. This support, combined with a vast network of physical stores for immediate pickup or easy returns, makes it an ideal starting point for building out the core components of a smart home system before moving to more specialised, high-end solutions.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Strong DIY educational resources and in-store advice, competitive pricing on basic devices, and easy accessibility with nationwide stores.
- Cons: Limited selection of high-end or niche ecosystem products, and online listings may lack the detailed technical specifications found on specialist sites.
Website: https://www.bunnings.com.au/products/smart-home
6. Kogan (SmarterHome)
For homeowners looking to deploy smart technology across an entire property without an exorbitant initial investment, Kogan’s SmarterHome range presents a compelling value proposition. This platform is a go-to for affordably outfitting multiple rooms with a wide selection of devices, from security cameras and smart plugs to lighting and robot vacuums. For a Toorak homeowner planning a secondary smart system for a granny flat or outdoor entertaining area, Kogan offers a cost-effective way to achieve comprehensive automation.
The ecosystem is built around the Kogan SmarterHome app, which unifies device control and allows for the creation of automation routines compatible with Google Home and Alexa. This makes it an excellent entry point for those experimenting with smart technology or for applications where budget is a primary consideration. Aggressive pricing, frequent sales, and bundle deals make it one of the most accessible sources for the best smart home devices on a larger scale.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Very competitive entry-level pricing allows for quick, whole-home outfitting on a budget. The unified app simplifies control over a diverse product range.
- Cons: Product support and firmware update consistency can vary between different devices. Some older products may have limited advanced integration capabilities.
7. eBay Australia
Beyond mainstream retailers, eBay Australia serves as a crucial resource for sourcing niche and specialist best smart home devices. The marketplace is invaluable for finding components that are often unavailable elsewhere, such as specific Z-Wave or Zigbee modules, Shelly relays, or hard-to-find accessories for discontinued product lines. For a homeowner in Toorak overseeing a highly customised integration, eBay provides access to a global inventory of both new and refurbished parts, often from specialist local sellers.
The platform's strength lies in its diversity. You can find everything from bulk lots of smart switches for a large-scale renovation to rare enthusiast-grade sensors. The ability to filter by Australian sellers ensures you can secure local stock with faster shipping and support. While pricing is competitive, the onus is on the buyer to carefully vet listings, check seller feedback, and confirm that devices meet Australian electrical standards before purchase.
Key Considerations
Pros: Excellent for rare or bulk accessory purchases, competitive pricing on new and refurbished items, and filters to prioritise Australian sellers.
Cons: The buyer must vet listings carefully for compatibility and standards compliance. Warranty and support vary significantly by seller.
Website: https://www.ebay.com.au
8. Google Store (Australia)
For those deeply invested in the Google ecosystem, the official Google Store (Australia) is the definitive source for Nest smart home devices. It’s the primary destination for acquiring the latest Nest Hubs, speakers, and security cameras, ensuring you receive genuine, Australia-specific products with full warranty support. Homeowners in areas like Toorak looking to build a cohesive smart home will find the platform’s clear guidance on product compatibility and ecosystem integration, including support for new standards like Matter and Thread, particularly valuable.
The store excels at providing a seamless user experience, with detailed comparison pages and setup resources that simplify the decision-making process. For those who prefer a hands-off approach to installation, the option to book a professional installer directly through the store is a significant advantage. This ensures that your chosen devices are correctly integrated into your home's infrastructure from day one. You can learn more about how this smart home technology can be integrated into a luxury build.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Guaranteed official warranties and access to the latest Google releases, with clear ecosystem and compatibility information for a streamlined setup.
- Cons: The product range is limited compared to broader marketplaces, focusing mainly on cameras, hubs, and audio devices. Some Nest products, like thermostats, are not officially available in Australia.
Website: https://store.google.com/au
9. Apple (Australia) - Smart Home Accessories
For homeowners committed to the Apple ecosystem, the official Apple Australia store is the most direct and reliable source for the best smart home devices guaranteed to work seamlessly with Apple Home. The curated selection features premium accessories fully compatible with HomeKit, Matter, and Thread, including Apple’s own HomePod and Apple TV which act as powerful home hubs. This makes it an ideal destination for those in Toorak looking to build a secure, private, and cohesive smart home environment where every device integrates flawlessly from day one.
The primary benefit is the assurance of quality and compatibility. Every product listed has been vetted to meet Apple's stringent standards for performance and security, eliminating the guesswork often involved with third-party marketplaces. With free delivery, straightforward returns, and in-store pickup, the purchasing experience is as polished as the products themselves. You can learn more about how these devices fit into the best home automation system to create a truly connected home.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Guaranteed compatibility with the Apple Home ecosystem, a premium product range with a straightforward returns process, and clear guidance on setup.
- Cons: Pricing is often set at the recommended retail price (RRP), and the brand selection is narrower than what you'll find at larger retailers.
Website: https://www.apple.com/au/shop/smart-home/accessories
10. Philips Hue (Australia)
For a truly integrated and premium lighting experience, going directly to the source is often the best strategy. The official Philips Hue Australia website serves as the definitive hub for its entire ecosystem, making it a crucial resource for planning sophisticated lighting designs. For custom builds in areas like Toorak, where bespoke lighting scenes are paramount, the site offers the complete catalogue, including the latest releases and exclusive products not always available through third-party retailers.
What sets the official site apart are its detailed educational resources and setup guides, which are invaluable for ensuring seamless integration with systems like Google Home, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. It provides clear compatibility information and inspiration galleries to help visualise how different lighting products can transform a space. This makes it an essential planning tool before purchasing some of the best smart home devices for lighting automation, ensuring every component works together flawlessly from day one.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Access to the full, updated product range, reliable and high-quality lighting, and extensive software support with a robust accessory ecosystem.
- Cons: Premium pricing compared to generic smart bulbs, and advanced features like out-of-home control often require the separate Hue Bridge.
Website: https://www.philips-hue.com/en-au/products
11. Oz Smart Things (AU Specialist)
For discerning homeowners undertaking a bespoke smart home project, Oz Smart Things is an indispensable Australian specialist. It moves beyond mainstream consumer gadgets, offering a curated selection of advanced modules and components from brands like Shelly, Z-Wave, and Zigbee. This focus makes it the ideal supplier for custom installations in Toorak properties, providing the specific hubs, sensors, and certified retrofit parts needed to create a truly integrated and sophisticated system compatible with platforms like Home Assistant, SmartThings, and Apple HomeKit.
What sets Oz Smart Things apart is its deep technical expertise and local support, including installation and advisory services in major cities. This hands-on guidance is invaluable for navigating the complexities of advanced automation, ensuring all your best smart home devices work seamlessly together. Their inventory of hard-to-find components empowers a level of customisation that mass-market retailers simply cannot match, crucial for achieving a flawless smart home experience. For more insights into advanced configurations, you can explore information about comprehensive smart home security systems.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Specialised expertise for complex Australian installations, stocks pro-grade components unavailable elsewhere, and offers strong local support with fast shipping.
- Cons: Prices on certain items may be higher than on mass-market platforms, and the selection of mainstream security cameras is more limited.
Website: https://www.ozsmartthings.com.au
12. eufy (Australia)
For homeowners prioritising privacy and subscription-free security, the official eufy Australia store is an essential destination. eufy has carved out a niche in the market by offering some of the best smart home devices focused on local storage, reducing reliance on the cloud. This approach is particularly appealing for custom homes in suburbs like Toorak, where security and data privacy are paramount. The platform showcases their entire ecosystem, from 4K security cameras and dual-lens video doorbells to smart locks and robotic vacuums, all designed for user-friendly setup.
The key advantage of buying direct is access to Australian warranties, local customer support, and exclusive promotions. Free shipping on orders over $99 and a clear returns process provide peace of mind. eufy’s emphasis on DIY installation makes it a strong contender for those who prefer a hands-on approach to their smart home setup. For a deeper understanding of how these devices fit into a larger ecosystem, it's worth exploring a comprehensive smart home automation installation plan.
Key Considerations
- Pros: Subscription-optional security with local HomeBase storage, simple setup and a broad device portfolio, and good value compared to competitors with heavy subscription models.
- Cons: Some advanced cloud and AI features still require a paid plan, and integration with ecosystems like HomeKit can vary by device, requiring careful research.
Website: https://www.eufy.com/au
Smart Home Devices Comparison Across 12 Retailers
Provider | Core Features/Offerings | User Experience/Quality ★ | Value Proposition & Price 💰 | Target Audience 👥 | Unique Selling Points ✨ |
Amazon Australia | Broad cross-brand catalogue, Prime shipping | ★★★★☆ Reliable reviews & compatibility | ★★★★ Competitive pricing & frequent deals | Bargain hunters, tech enthusiasts | 🏆 Largest AU marketplace, extensive accessories |
JB Hi-Fi | Curated smart home categories, in-store pickup | ★★★★ Trusted local returns & support | ★★★★ Good price matching during sales | Australian shoppers preferring physical stores | ✨ Strong national retail presence |
The Good Guys | Clear filters, mix of entry to mid-range devices | ★★★★ Frequent promotions & easy returns | ★★★★ Budget to mid-range value deals | Value shoppers, mid-level smart device buyers | ✨ StoreCash promos & national footprint |
Officeworks | Ecosystem/category browsing, install services | ★★★ Professional installation available | ★★★★ Free delivery $65+, easy returns | DIYers needing setup help | ✨ In-home professional smart home setups |
Bunnings | DIY smart essentials, educational resources | ★★★★ Strong DIY support & advice | ★★★ Budget pricing on basics | DIY enthusiasts, basic smart home adopters | ✨ Build-a-Smart-Home guides & drive-thru |
Kogan (SmarterHome) | Budget SmarterHome brand + 3rd party devices | ★★★ Good range but variable support | ★★★★★ Very aggressive pricing & bundles | Entry-level buyers, full-home quick outfitting | ✨ Central app with automation + voice control |
eBay Australia | Vast new/refurbished range, niche accessories | ★★★ Variable quality & warranty | ★★★★ Great for rare finds & bulk buys | DIY tech enthusiasts & bargain hunters | ✨ Rare modules & AU seller filters |
Google Store (Australia) | Google Nest official AU devices, pro install | ★★★★ Latest releases, clear compatibility | ★★★ Premium official products | Google ecosystem users & early adopters | ✨ Australia-tailored support & pro installs |
Apple (Australia) | Curated HomeKit accessories, HomePod & Apple TV | ★★★★ Premium quality, easy returns | ★★★ Premium RRP pricing | Apple ecosystem loyalists | ✨ Full Apple Home ecosystem compatibility |
Philips Hue (Australia) | Complete smart lighting catalogue | ★★★★★ Reliable, long software support | ★★★★ Premium priced but high quality | Lighting enthusiasts, smart home integrators | 🏆 Extensive accessories & multi-ecosystem |
Oz Smart Things (AU) | Pro-grade smart modules, local install/advice | ★★★★ Specialist expertise, local support | ★★★ Variable, often higher than mass market | Advanced users & custom Australian installs | ✨ Pro-grade modules + expert local services |
eufy (Australia) | Subscription-optional security, local storage | ★★★★ Easy setup, broad portfolio | ★★★★ Good value vs heavy-subscription rivals | Security-focused users & value seekers | ✨ Local storage, optional subs, AU warranty |
Creating Your Bespoke Smart Home in Toorak
Navigating the landscape of smart home technology can feel overwhelming, but as we've explored, the journey begins with identifying your core needs. From the comprehensive security ecosystems offered by eufy to the sophisticated, ambient lighting from Philips Hue, the "best smart home devices" are ultimately those that align perfectly with your lifestyle and the unique architectural character of your home. The curated retailers we've detailed, from specialists like Oz Smart Things to mainstream hubs like JB Hi-Fi and Bunnings, provide the necessary building blocks for a connected living experience.
The key takeaway is that individual devices, no matter how advanced, are only part of the equation. True luxury and convenience emerge when these components are orchestrated into a seamless, intuitive, and utterly reliable system. A smart home in Toorak shouldn't just be a collection of gadgets; it should be an integrated environment that anticipates your needs, enhances your security, and simplifies daily routines without a second thought.
From Individual Devices to an Integrated Ecosystem
Achieving this level of sophistication requires a strategic approach that goes beyond simply connecting a few smart plugs or a voice assistant. Consider these critical factors as you move forward:
- Platform Cohesion: Will you centralise your system around Apple HomeKit, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa? Your choice will influence device compatibility and the overall user experience.
- Network Reliability: A high-performance smart home is built on a robust Wi-Fi network. Ensure your home's network infrastructure can handle the demands of numerous connected devices without lag or dropouts, especially in a large, custom-built residence.
- Scalability and Future-Proofing: Your needs may evolve. Select devices and platforms that allow for future expansion, ensuring your investment remains relevant and functional for years to come.
- Aesthetics and Integration: In a luxury home, technology should be felt, not necessarily seen. The best smart home devices blend seamlessly into your interior design, complementing the architectural vision rather than cluttering it.
Your Next Step: Professional Orchestration
While a DIY approach can be a great starting point for smaller projects, creating a truly bespoke smart home that is both powerful and elegantly simple requires professional expertise. This is where planning and integration become paramount. A unified system where your security, lighting, climate, and entertainment work in perfect harmony is not an accident; it is the result of meticulous design.
Partnering with a specialist ensures that the technology is not an afterthought but a foundational element of your home's design from the very beginning. This professional touch transforms a collection of high-quality devices into a cohesive, intelligent living space tailored precisely to your family's unique rhythm and preferences, delivering the effortless sophistication a Toorak home deserves.
Ready to transform your vision of a sophisticated, intelligent home into a tangible reality? The team at Envy Abode specializes in integrating the best smart home devices into custom luxury builds and renovations, ensuring technology enhances your lifestyle seamlessly. Contact Envy Abode to discuss how we can build a truly bespoke smart home experience for you.