Impact Comics

Impact Comics stands as a cornerstone of Canberra's pop-culture scene, a small independent store that has grown into one of Australia's largest comics retailers since its founding in 2004. Located at 16 Garema Place on Ngunnawal Country, the shop offers a broad selection of new comic books, manga, graphic novels, and collectibles. The store is known for its extensive back-issue bins, hard-to-find variant covers, and weekly imports from the USA that hit the shelves within 48 hours of their American release. Walk through the doors and you will find a carefully curated space where superhero sagas sit alongside indie gems, and the latest manga volumes share shelf space with classic trade paperbacks.

What sets Impact Comics apart is its dedication to making comics accessible to everyone. The team runs a comprehensive standing-order service for collectors who want to guarantee every issue in a series, and they ship nationwide with a flat $12.99 rate per order. The store hosts community events, including the annual Free Comic Book Day celebration and the Impact Comics Festival, drawing enthusiasts from across the Australian Capital Territory and beyond. With a 4.6-star rating from over 400 Google Maps reviews, customer feedback consistently praises the shop's well-organised layout, knowledgeable staff, and the sheer breadth of its inventory.

Selection and Specialties at Impact Comics

The inventory at Impact Comics is built around deep, carefully maintained stock across multiple formats. Weekly new-release shelves feature the latest Marvel, DC, Image, and independent titles, making Friday a highlight for regular visitors. Beyond the new arrivals, the store devotes considerable space to graphic novels and collected editions, covering everything from landmark superhero epics to literary memoirs and obscure European imports. Manga has a dedicated section of its own, with series ranging from Shonen Jump staples to slice-of-life shojo and dark seinen titles — a range that Google Maps reviewers particularly flag as extensive.

Back Issues, Variants, and Rare Finds

A major draw for serious collectors is the back-issue selection. The store maintains a rotating stock of older single issues, variant covers, and out-of-print runs. Reviewers on Google Maps note the thrill of discovering hidden gems in the long boxes, and the staff are described as helpful in locating specific issues or suggesting alternatives. The variant cover program includes exclusive retailer-incentive editions when available, and the store actively promotes its “Last Chance” final-order cut-off alerts so customers never miss a limited release.

Toys, Models, and Pop-Culture Merchandise

Beyond the printed page, Impact Comics carries a curated line of toys, models, and apparel. The Funko! section covers bobbleheads and vinyl figures from dozens of franchises, while model kits and action figures range from anime imports to Western comic icons. A selection of T-shirts — many imported — rounds out the offering, giving fans a way to wear their fandom. Gift cards are available in-store and online, making the shop a popular stop for birthday and holiday shopping in Canberra's city centre.

Customer Reviews and Reputation

Impact Comics holds a 4.6-star rating on Google Maps based on over 430 reviews, reflecting strong community loyalty and a largely positive in-store experience. Recurring themes in Google Maps reviews include the exceptional range of stock, the tidy and well-signed layout, and the friendliness of the team. One reviewer, Rob Sharp, describes the store as “an excellent and well-organised comic shop with an outstanding selection of single issues, older editions, and plenty of collected volumes. There are also Pokémon cards and a large manga range.” That mix of trading-card games alongside traditional comics is something several reviewers highlight.

What Customers Love

Reviewers consistently mention the shop's atmosphere as welcoming and free of the gatekeeping sometimes associated with niche hobby stores. Peter, a Google Maps reviewer, noted that the staff are “very friendly and helpful, they always seem to have the time to help out.” Freddie Mercury, after a disappointing run with several Victorian comic shops, called Impact Comics “exactly what a comic shop should be” and praised the team for getting orders right and communicating clearly.

A Note on Service

While the vast majority of feedback is glowing, a small number of reviews mention occasional off-days at the counter. Lucia Charman's Google Maps review noted a large selection but felt the customer service was lacking during her visit. The owner responded publicly and empathetically, acknowledging that the store can have bad days and reassuring customers that they are valued. That level of engagement underscores the management's commitment to continuous improvement and genuine care for the community.

Impact Comics in Canberra's City Centre

The store sits at 16 Garema Place, a pedestrian-friendly spot in the heart of Canberra's central business district. The location is part of the Canberra Centre precinct, putting it within easy walking distance of major bus interchanges and public-transport hubs. Maps attributes confirm the area is well served by public transport, and the store is identified as LGBTQ+ friendly — an inclusive signal that resonates with the diverse crowd that comics attract. On-street parking can be found nearby, and several multi-storey car parks operate within a few blocks, making the store accessible whether you are a local running errands or a visitor exploring the capital.

Impact Comics acknowledges the Ngunnawal people as the traditional custodians of the land, a statement displayed prominently on their website. The shop is open seven days a week, with extended Friday hours until 7:00 p.m. for new-comic day and a gentle Sunday trading window from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for those who prefer a quieter browse. The store’s footprint is compact but the layout is praised in reviews for being easy to navigate, even when the shelves are packed with new releases.

Services, Events, and Stamp Orders

Collectors who want to ensure they never miss an issue can set up a standing order. The process is straightforward: choose your ongoing series, and Impact Comics will pull a copy for you each release date. The staff also handle special requests and questions through the “Ask an Imp” contact form on the website, offering research help for out-of-print titles or recommendations based on your tastes. Mail orders are dispatched weekly to anywhere in Australia, with the flat $12.99 shipping rate applying to most comic and book orders — a competitive deal for country-wide delivery.

Community Events and Free Comic Book Day

Impact Comics actively participates in the global Free Comic Book Day event each year, turning the store into a bustling hub of giveaways, signings, and family-friendly activities. The business also organises the Impact Comics Festival, bringing together creators, cosplayers, and fans from around the region. These events are promoted through the store's newsletter and social channels, so signing up is the best way to stay informed about upcoming dates and guests.

Libraries and Schools

The store works with local libraries and schools to supply comics and graphic novels for educational and recreational collections. This outreach reflects a belief that comics are a powerful literacy tool, and the team is happy to advise educators on age-appropriate titles and curriculum connections. Institutions interested in bulk purchases or standing orders can reach out via the contact page for tailored assistance.

Common Questions

What are Impact Comics' opening hours?

The store is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Does Impact Comics offer mail order?

Yes, the shop ships orders Australia-wide. Standard shipping is a flat $12.99 per order for most comics, graphic novels, and manga. Bulkier items may incur a slightly higher charge.

Can I set up a standing order for my favourite series?

Absolutely. Standing orders are one of the store's core services. You can request titles in-store or through the website, and the team will hold each issue for you as it arrives.

Does Impact Comics stock manga?

Yes, the store has a large, dedicated manga section covering many genres and publishers. Google Maps reviews frequently mention the size and variety of the manga range.

Is the store wheelchair accessible?

The Maps listing indicates that the shop is located in a pedestrian plaza with level access. For specific accessibility needs, it is best to call the store directly on (02) 6248 7335.

Does Impact Comics host events?

Yes. The shop runs Free Comic Book Day each year and organises the Impact Comics Festival. Subscribing to the newsletter is the best way to get details on upcoming events.

Whether you are a lifelong collector hunting for a rare variant or a new reader looking for a friendly place to start, Impact Comics offers a genuine, community-rooted comic shop experience in Canberra. To compare this business with others in the area and find the one that fits your needs, visit Ilistify before your next shopping trip.