A recent survey reveals that a significant majority of Australians are experiencing heightened stress as they approach the Christmas season, largely due to ongoing financial pressures. According to research commissioned by IGA, approximately 87 percent of Australians are concerned about rising costs this festive season, with factors such as soaring inflation impacting household budgets since 2022.
The surge in living expenses has primarily affected essential items, including food, housing, and energy. Heather Howell, a spokesperson for IGA, noted that 68 percent of Australians are actively seeking ways to cut grocery expenses while managing increased costs for electricity and fuel. “Christmas is really just a continuation of that and really looking at what you can cut back,” Howell stated.
Smart Shopping Strategies for the Festive Season
As families prepare for the holidays, many are adopting smarter shopping habits to alleviate financial strain. “You had a beautiful festive spread. You want to impress your guests. You want to entertain, but the big thing is people are just being smarter about how they do it,” Howell explained. She emphasized that Christmas celebrations do not have to be financially burdensome.
Shoppers are increasingly turning to home brand products as a means to save on staples. Howell highlighted that purchasing affordable alternatives for baking essentials like flour, sugar, and mixed fruit can significantly reduce costs. Additionally, she noted that consumers are comparing prices across various supermarkets and are willing to shop around to secure the best deals.
Planning and Simplifying Festive Meals
The trend of simplifying holiday meals is also becoming more prevalent. Many consumers are opting for ingredients that can be utilized in multiple dishes, allowing for cost-effective meal preparation. Howell suggested that shoppers consider ready-made options, such as frozen cheesecakes or pavlova bases, to save both time and money during the busy holiday season.
Planning Christmas menus in advance has proven beneficial for those looking to avoid last-minute overspending. Howell remarked, “Coming together is really important … people are making smarter choices to help keep costs down without losing the joy of the festive season.” By making thoughtful choices, families can enjoy the holiday spirit without the financial burden.
As Australians navigate the complexities of this festive period, it is clear that many are prioritizing financial prudence while still aiming to create memorable celebrations. Howell concluded, “You don’t have to spend the earth to have an amazing Christmas.”
