Short answer: look for heels with a cushioned, supportive footbed (preferably podiatrist-designed), a stable heel (block or low kitten), a wider toe box or square toe, and modest heel height (≤7 cm / ~2.8 in) — brands available in Australia that consistently meet those criteria are Vionic (podiatrist-designed footbeds), Clarks, Sole Bliss / Inez (comfort-focused fashion heels), and some styles from Tony Bianco and Hush Puppies. Below are specific models, why they work, and quick shopping tips.

Top comfortable-heels picks available in Australia

• Vionic Carmel (block pump) and Perris slingback — Vionic builds VioMotion/orthotic footbeds with deep heel cups and arch support, so their heels feel far more comfortable for long wear than typical fashion pumps. Good if you need real arch support or have plantar fasciitis. (au.vionicshoes.com.au)
• Vionic Brookell heeled sandal — a cushioned heeled sandal with contoured footbed and a stable heel for events and evenings. (au.vionicshoes.com.au)
• Clarks Laina (and other Clarks low/medium heels) — Clarks often uses cushioned insoles and moderate heel heights; look for models labeled “cushion” or “comfort.” Their 55 mm heels are a good balance of lift + stability. (shop.myshoes.com.au)
• Sole Bliss / Inez Sasha sandals (and other comfort-led fashion heels) — reviewers report multi-hour comfort from well-cushioned, shock-resistant heels with adjustable straps; good for dancing/events. (Available via boutiques/stockists in AU or international delivery.) (instyle.com)
• Hush Puppies and Clarks siblings — check for padded insoles and block/kitten heels; often easier on feet than stilettos (local stock varies).
• Consider comfort-focused independent labels (local boutiques or “comfort shoe” retailers like The Comfort Co. in Australia) — they stock podiatry-backed heels and return/exchange policies. (comfortcoshoes.com.au)

What to look for (quick checklist)

• Footbed: built-in cushioning + arch support (orthotic-style inserts are a big win).
• Heel shape: block or wedge > stiletto for longer wear.
• Heel height: aim under ~7 cm (2.5–2.8 in) for daily comfort; 5–6 cm is ideal for many.
• Toe box: square or almond toe is more forgiving than a narrow point.
• Straps/closure: adjustable straps reduce slipping and rubbing.
• Sole: some rubber/TPR outsoles give grip and shock absorption.
• Width options: brands offering narrow/standard/wide fit give better comfort.

If you already have favorite heels

• Add a gel or foam forefoot pad and a metatarsal pad to reduce ball-of-foot pain.
• Try a thin orthotic insert (make sure it doesn’t make the shoe too tight).
• Stretch new leather slightly or wear in short sessions first.

Sizing & testing tips (in-store or ordering online in Australia)

• Try shoes with the socks/stockings you’ll wear them with.
• Walk on hard and soft surfaces in-store (or wear at home on carpet for short sessions if ordering online).
• Prefer retailers with easy returns/exchanges (many AU comfort retailers offer free returns over a threshold).
• If you have foot issues (bunions, plantar fasciitis, high arches), prioritize podiatrist-designed lines (e.g., Vionic) or consult a podiatrist for custom insoles.

If you want, I can:

• Pick 4–6 exact in-stock models from Australian retailers in your size and price range (I’ll check current stock/prices).
• Or show nearby stores/stockists — tell me your shoe size and budget and I’ll look up availability.

Would you like me to search for models in your size and price range now?