New research reveals that a significant majority of Australians are experiencing heightened stress this Christmas due to ongoing pressures from rising living costs. With inflation affecting essential expenses such as food, housing, and energy since 2022, many households are feeling the financial strain as they prepare for the festive season.
Concerns Over Rising Costs
A report commissioned by the supermarket chain IGA indicates that 87 percent of Australians are worried about the financial implications of the holiday season. Heather Howell, a spokesperson for IGA, noted that 68 percent of respondents are actively seeking ways to save on groceries amidst increasing electricity and petrol costs. “Christmas is really just a continuation of that and really looking at what you can cut back,” Howell stated.
The pressure to host festive gatherings while managing tight budgets has led many to adopt a more practical approach to holiday spending. Howell emphasized that it is possible to indulge in festive traditions without overspending. “You can have bougie on a budget,” she said, highlighting the importance of smart shopping strategies to create an impressive holiday spread without additional financial stress.
Smart Shopping Strategies
As households look for ways to ease their financial burdens, savvy shoppers are turning to home-brand products to help manage costs. Howell pointed out that buying basic ingredients, like flour and sugar, from budget-friendly brands can significantly reduce expenses. “There isn’t any real reason to buy more expensive products for those sorts of things when you’re baking,” she noted.
Many consumers are also comparing prices across various supermarkets and utilizing shopping catalogues to find the best deals. Howell mentioned that spreading the cost of Christmas over five weeks is becoming a popular strategy, allowing families to budget effectively without the usual last-minute financial crunch.
In addition to budget-conscious shopping, Australians are simplifying their holiday meals by choosing versatile ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes. “They are also buying a frozen cheesecake or a pavlova base, so it’s about spending less but also spending less time baking,” Howell explained. This approach not only saves money but also reduces the time spent in the kitchen, allowing families to focus on enjoying the festive season.
Howell advises that planning Christmas menus in advance can help avoid overspending. “Coming together is really important … people are making smarter choices to help keep costs down without losing the joy of the festive season,” she said. “You don’t have to spend the earth to have an amazing Christmas.”
As Australians navigate this challenging landscape of rising living costs, the emphasis on smart spending and thoughtful preparation may provide a pathway to a more enjoyable and less stressful holiday season.
