Australians expected to spend $1.6bn on Boxing Day

Australians are expected to flock to shops and online stores this Boxing Day, with spending forecast to hit about $1.6bn – a 4.3 per cent rise on last year, new data shows. The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and Roy Morgan predict household goods, apparel and department stores will dominate the day, with $476m expected to be spent on household items, $216m on clothing and footwear, and $123m in department stores. Hospitality and smaller retailers are also set for strong growth, with spending of $141m and $221m respectively. ARA chief executive Chris Rodwell said the forecasts highlight Boxing Day’s enduring appeal for shoppers and its importance for retailers. “Australians continue to turn out in large numbers for the Boxing Day shopping experience, drawn by the connection to trusted brands, fresh stock movement and strong seasonal value,” Mr Rodwell said. “We expect value-driven behaviour to remain a feature of consumer spending into 2026, with households continuing to prioritise competitive prices and strong promotional activity.” He said strong retail sales leading up to Christmas had created a solid platform for the one-day event. “The growth we’re seeing highlights both the resilience of the sector and the enduring appeal of Boxing Day as a premier discount event,” Mr Rodwell said. He also encouraged Australians to support local and national retailers over ultra-low-cost offshore platforms. “Whether it’s your local shop, a national chain or a trusted Australian online retailer, every purchase flows back into local jobs, training, wages and community investment,” Mr Rodwell said. “Ultra-low-cost offshore platforms like Temu and Shein cannot match that contribution and are not held accountable to the same standards,” he said. Boxing Day sales are expected to lead post-Christmas spending, with the full week from December 25 to 31 forecast to reach $3.832bn, up 4.4 per cent on last year, driven by discounts, gift card redemptions and continued demand for value.