As the annual Boxing Day sales commence, Australian consumers are expected to spend more than $3.1 billion this year. A survey by the comparison website Finder indicates that approximately one in three Australians—over seven million people—plan to take advantage of the discounts in 2025. While the promise of savings entices many, experts are advising shoppers to carefully monitor prices to ensure they are securing genuine bargains rather than misleading offers.
Strategies for Savvy Shopping
Before diving into the sales, experts suggest several strategies to maximize savings. According to Finder’s money expert, Rebecca Pike, tracking prices prior to the sales can greatly enhance the ability to identify authentic discounts. “Signing up to retailer mailing lists can also pay off,” she noted. “Early access and subscriber-only offers are often available before the public sales go live.”
Pike emphasizes the importance of discerning between inflated prices and actual discounts. Shoppers should compare final prices across various stores to ensure they receive the best value. To further enhance savings, combining discounts with cashback offers, loyalty points, coupon codes, or credit card rewards can yield significant benefits.
Additionally, shoppers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with retailer policies, as many purchases made during the Boxing Day sales come with stricter conditions, including shorter refund windows or no-return stipulations. Pike advises consumers to stick to a predetermined list and budget to avoid impulse buys that may not be genuinely necessary.
Avoiding Scams During the Sales
As the rush for bargains intensifies, shoppers should also remain vigilant against a surge in scams targeting unsuspecting consumers. Research from the Australian Banking Association reveals that Australians lost approximately $40 million to buying and selling scams over the past year, with nearly two-thirds of respondents reporting experiences with shopping fraud.
The most common scams include fake order confirmations, where individuals receive notifications for purchases they never made, prompting them to click on dubious links. Social media scams, where sellers disappear after receiving payment, are also prevalent. Simon Birmingham, head of the banking association, highlighted that scammers are adapting their tactics, using artificial intelligence to imitate legitimate businesses and capture more victims.
“Double-check that you are purchasing from a legitimate website,” Birmingham advised. “Be cautious of text messages about missed deliveries, as this is a common method used by scammers to extract personal or financial information.”
As Australians prepare for this year’s Boxing Day sales, a proactive approach to shopping and heightened awareness of potential scams can help ensure a safer and more rewarding experience.
