Tapped out: 12.5 million Aussies too broke or overstimulated for social activities
Australians are cutting back on social outings amid growing financial pressure, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1,010 respondents found 60% of Aussies – equivalent to 12.5 million people – were avoiding social gatherings to conserve funds or recharge over the festive season.
Almost half (47%) say they cut back on social engagements to save money, while 1 in 5 (21%) did so to save their 'social battery'.
The research found women (65%) were slightly more likely than men (56%) to have scaled back to save money or their sanity.
Rebecca Pike, money expert at Finder, said socialising was not in the budget for millions of people.
"It's hard to be social without spending money.
"When managing a tight budget, whether driven by necessity or a strategic financial goal, catching up with friends is one of the things that becomes more tricky."
Pike said social media is ironically playing a role in Aussies being less social.
"When every event is a photo op for TikTok and Instagram, it means your group – and you – are likely going to be paying more per experience.
"Separately, increased consumption of social media drains your life force and makes you feel like you've been social when you haven't left your sofa."
Pike urged Aussies to set up a dedicated savings account for social activities.
"You don't need to be frugal at the expense of enjoying friendships.
"A dedicated lifestyle fund allows you to see your friends without the guilt and worry about how you're going to afford it.
"Even small, consistent contributions can add up significantly over time."
Pike said you can spend time with friends and family on a budget.
"In a time when connection matters more than ever, finding budget-friendly ways to catch up ensures inclusivity, allowing everyone to participate regardless of financial constraints."
Are you avoiding social activities (e.g. going to parties, gatherings, drinks) over the festive period?
| Yes, to save money | 47% |
| Yes, to save my 'social battery' | 21% |
| No | 40% |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,010 respondents, December 2024 |  |
Methodology
- Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker is a monthly recurring nationally representative survey of more than 60,000 respondents.
- Figures in this release are based on 1,010 respondents from December 2024.
- The Consumer Sentiment Tracker is owned by Finder and operated by Qualtrics.
- The survey has been running monthly since May 2019.
Ask a question