Australia’s Christmas spending statistics 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic may have changed the way Australians celebrate the festive season this year, but it hasn't put a dampener on Christmas spending.

A nationally representative Finder survey of 1,001 Australians aged 18 and over asked respondents how much they plan to spend across five key categories this Christmas. Here is what we found.

How much are Australians planning to spend?

$17.3 billion

When applied to the adult population, this is equivalent to $893 per person.

Average festive spend by state

People living in New South Wales are set to be this year's biggest spenders, with residents expected to fork out $1,010 on average. Whereas Western Australians will be spending the least, forking out $705 per person.

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What are we spending our money on?

Gifts top the list of festive expenses this year, with Aussies expected to spend $391 per person.

This is followed by travel, with the average person forking out $352 despite border restrictions still in place throughout a number of states and territories.

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Spending by generation

Millennials are feeling the most festive when it comes to their holiday budget, with the average gen Y planning to spend $1,034 this Christmas.

Baby boomers are expected to spend the least, setting aside just $709 in comparison.

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How Australians will be lowering the cost of Christmas

Almost two-fifths of Aussies (41%) will be buying festive gifts or supplies early. Around 1 in 4 (28%) will be shopping during the sales to purchase Christmas presents at a discount, while 24% will set a buying limit with family and friends.

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How to save money this Christmas

• Don't say yes to everything. The festive season is full of social engagements, and this can leave a serious dent in your savings. Rather than accepting every invitation, pick a few important events and stick to those instead.
• Use your vouchers. Christmas is a great time to get rid of those unused vouchers. Ransack your drawers and wallet for any remaining gift cards and use the store credit for gifts.
• Set a gift limit. Buying a gift for every single member of your extended family can really add up. Instead, suggest that everyone buys for one member of the family. This will save you a small fortune on gifts.
• Share the catering load. If you're hosting Christmas this year, ask each friend or relative to bring a plate of food so you're not left to foot the bill for the entire meal.