WOMEN of Australia are rejoicing and heaping praise on Target Australia for breaking away from tradition this Christmas.

Their latest Christmas catalogue features their new range of summer bikinis being modelled by women of varying sizes and body shapes as well as differing ages. And women of Australia were quick to notice and thank the retailer for showing “real women”.

Their Facebook page has been inundated with people applauding the retail giant’s decision, something Target Spokesperson, Kristene Reynolds is more than happy to see.

“We’re thrilled with the amazing response that has been generated on social media for the new swimwear catalogue as we are continuously committed to promoting diversity and celebrating all women,” Reynolds said.

“In August of this year we launched the Every Body campaign with the introduction of size 16 mannequins in store and women of all shapes and sizes across our TV, digital and print campaigns. Both initiatives are small but vital steps in continuing Target’s promise to make quality style and fashion not only more affordable but also more accessible and relevant for women.”

But it’s not just the “real women” getting a run in Target’s new advertising, regular blokes are also appearing in their pages.

See some of the social media reaction below. What do you think of Target’s decision?

Thank you for listening to our feedback about wanting to see real to life models. Its great to be able to see what we can look like in swimmers too :) hope to see more and more of this Posted by Brie Dams on Tuesday, 1 December 2015

Target Australia u are the first step to fighting bullying and body image! By showing women of all sizes u truly are fighting this issue! Everyone of every size! Are r beautiful xx Posted by Sara Emily Mould on Tuesday, 1 December 2015

First time in my life I have ever thought a catalogue was ok! Thank you for the body/racial/age diversity of the male and female models! Posted by Justine Devonport on Tuesday, 1 December 2015

Loving the models and the swimwear in the latest catalogue, Thank you for putting women that represent more... Posted by Tamara Robertson on Tuesday, 1 December 2015