64% of Australians fear economic crash by Christmas
Key takeaways
- 13.7 million people think Australia will have a recession in 2026.
- 42% of Aussies have less than $1,000 in savings.
- Just 3% of respondents think a recession 'certainly won't happen'.
Millions of Aussies believe the nation is heading for a recession by the end of the year, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1,017 respondents revealed 48% of Australians think a recession is likely by the end of the year, while a further 16% say it is certain to happen.
That's 13.7 million people bracing for a significant economic downturn within months.
Separate Finder research shows 42% of Australians have less than $1,000 in savings.
Sarah Megginson, personal finance expert at Finder, said Australians are stressed about the state of the economy.
"Families all over the country are feeling a big financial squeeze, and many are worried things will get worse before they improve.
"While a recession isn't guaranteed, the fact that so many people expect one shows just how anxious they are."
Megginson said fears of a downturn were already changing consumer behavior with households tightening their belts.
"Families are becoming more cautious about spending money and taking on new debt."
Finder's research shows 15% of Australians are unsure if a recession is looming, while almost 1 in 5 (18%) believe one is unlikely.
Just 3% of respondents think a recession 'certainly won't happen'.
Megginson said now is the time to reduce unnecessary expenses and prioritise building emergency savings.
"Economic uncertainty is scary, but taking a few proactive steps today can help you feel much more in control of whatever comes next."
How likely do you think it is that Australia will have a recession by the end of the year?
| Certainly will happen | 16% |
| Likely | 48% |
| I don't know | 15% |
| Unlikely | 18% |
| Certainly won't happen | 3% |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,017 respondents, April 2026 |  |
Credits
- PR & Insights research team: Taylor Blackburn, Kate Boddington, Natascha Kwiet-Evans, William Capada
- Survey operation: Qualtrics
Sources
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