It’s likely to be a lean Christmas this year for millions of Australians doing it tough.
More than half of Australians are expected to spend less on food during the festive season, according to research by The Salvation Army.
Spending on gifts will also be slashed this year by 48 per cent as people struggle to scrape enough cash together.
READ MORE: Whopping $100k tax debts blamed for spike in cafes, pubs closing doors
The Salvation Army’s Major Bruce Harmer said the sobering statistics was a sign that help like that provided by the Salvos was as vital as ever.
“At the Salvos, we see first-hand how much people are really struggling, particularly as we head into a busy Christmas season,” Harmer said.
“Our research has shown the full extent of what we are seeing; individuals and families are at breaking point, unsure how they will be able to afford Christmas.”
READ MORE: Record number of doctors training to be GPs – but it’s ‘not enough’
Though millions are expected to struggle to put food on the table this Christmas, research shows only 9.3 per cent of Aussies will actually reach out to a charity for help.
Of this figure, an alarming 55 per cent will be asking for help for the first time.
The cost-of-living crisis has forced more Australians to curb Christmas spending and it’s also contributed to the mental health epidemic.
The Salvos said 35 per cent of people will be impacted by loneliness, anxiety, or stress.
“Christmas is the busiest time of year for the Salvos. It is a time that allows us to support people in their time of need, not just practically but also emotionally,” Harmer added.
“While Christmas can be a time of joy and connection, for some, it can be a time of increased loneliness and isolation.
“We don’t want anyone to suffer alone, no child to go without a present, and no person to go without a special meal this Christmas.
“If you are struggling this Christmas, please reach out to The Salvation Army. We are here to help.”
READ MORE: Over 150 animals will be homeless if Kate can’t pay off $27,000 debt in the next 10 days
Roy Morgan data on Christmas spending backs up Salvos’ research, finding the majority of Australians will either spend the same or less than they did last year.
Those with the cash to spend, however, are expected to fork out more in 2024.
READ MORE: What the Reserve Bank is looking at when it sets interest rates
On the whole, shoppers are forecast to spend $11.8 billion on presents in 2024, up $1.6 billion on last year.
Readers seeking support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636.