New research from Good360 Australia reveals the financial strain many Australians are facing ahead of Christmas, with one in two respondents worried about affording gifts for their family.
According to the charity, the findings paint a concerning picture as families grapple with mounting cost pressures, with people aged 25-34 (58%) and South Australians (56%) the most anxious about being able to afford gifts for their family this festive season.
The research also finds more than one in four Australians surveyed (27%) are concerned that this Christmas will be the hardest their family has faced in years.
Good360 Australia founder and Managing Director Alison Covington AM says the research highlights the added financial stress that comes with Christmas and underscores the need to support charities that are helping to bring dignity and joy to people’s lives.
“This has been a tough year for so many Australians, and the Christmas period can exacerbate the financial pressure for families already struggling,” she says.
“Christmas should be a time of joy, but for many, it’s shaping up to be one of financial stress and anxiety. The cost-of-living crisis is continuing to push families to their limit, and no one should have to choose between simple gifts for their family and meeting basic needs.
“Every Australian deserves the dignity and joy of the festive season, and we can do more to make this a reality. One in eight [surveyed] Australians including one in six children are living below the poverty line, creating a need for everyday items others may take for granted such as clothing, basic homewares, bedding or even a toy for a child.”
Good360’s efforts
Good360 connects brand-new goods donated by leading retailers and brands to Australians in need via a network of over 4500 charities and disadvantaged schools, ensuring essential items reach people who otherwise might go without.
The charity is urgently raising funds to help deliver dignity, joy and hope this holiday season.
“For every $1 raised, we deliver $20 worth of brand-new goods to people who need them most. With $2.5 billion worth of goods wasted each year, we have a huge opportunity to reduce waste and help families experiencing hardship,” says Ms Covington.
“Good360 Australia’s ongoing partnership with Hasbro, which includes fantastic Play-Doh, My Little Pony and Peppa Pig product donations, is a great example of the impact donated, brand new goods can have for families and children. Together, we are delivering the gift of dignity and joy to families in need.”