New research reveals that a significant number of Australians are experiencing stress this holiday season due to ongoing pressures from rising living costs. Following three years of escalating expenses, particularly in food, housing, and energy, many households are tightening their budgets as Christmas approaches. According to a study commissioned by IGA, a staggering 87 percent of Australians are concerned about the financial implications of the festive period.
In a statement, IGA spokesman Heather Howell emphasized that 68 percent of Australians are actively seeking ways to reduce their grocery bills amid soaring electricity and petrol prices. “Christmas is really just a continuation of that,” Howell remarked. “People are looking at what they can cut back on. You want to impress your guests, but it’s about being smarter with your spending.”
Shoppers are increasingly turning to home brand products to ease financial strain, a trend that Howell notes is gaining momentum. “Home brand products are a really great way to save on all of your staples,” she stated. For essential items like flour, sugar, and mixed fruit, Howell suggests that there is little reason to opt for more expensive brands, especially when baking for the holidays.
Strategies for Smart Holiday Spending
Howell also highlighted that many Australians are comparing prices across various supermarkets and utilizing shopping catalogues to find the best deals. “We are seeing people simplifying their Christmas preparations,” she explained. “Choosing ingredients that can be used across multiple dishes is a really great way to save.” For example, many are opting for frozen desserts, such as cheesecakes or pavlova bases, which reduce both time and monetary expenditure.
Planning Christmas menus well in advance is another strategy Howell advocates for avoiding last-minute overspending. “Coming together is really important,” she noted, emphasizing that people are making informed choices to keep costs manageable while still enjoying the festive spirit. “You don’t have to spend the earth to have an amazing Christmas,” Howell added.
As Australians navigate this challenging financial landscape, the focus remains on creating memorable holiday experiences without incurring overwhelming costs. By embracing smarter shopping practices and thoughtful planning, many are determined to celebrate the season without sacrificing joy.
