Easter to drive $20b in Australia's retail spending

It will be led by DIY projects, travel, and food.

Australian retailers are set to receive a $20b boost this Easter, driven by increased spending on travel, home improvement and food, according to new data from the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and Roy Morgan.

Whilst overall consumer sentiment remains weak, spending on holidays, DIY projects, and Easter treats is expected to remain strong.

“After an immensely challenging past year, retailers across food and homeware sectors will be eagerly anticipating this Easter spending uptick as Australians turn their attention to home-maintenance projects,” said ARA Chief Industry Affairs Officer Fleur Brown.

More than 6.2 million Australians plan to take on home improvement projects over the break, with spending expected to reach $6.7b, up 27% from last year. The average spend per person is $1082, an increase of $230.

Queensland is leading the surge, with $2.2b projected in DIY and homewares spending, up $400m from 2024. New South Wales is expected to reach $1.7b, and Victoria $1.2b.

Additionally, 4.55 million Australians are expected to travel over Easter, 100,000 more than last year. Total travel spending is forecast at $11.1b.

Older Australians are a key part of this trend, with two million people aged 50 and above planning trips during the break.

Around 15.2 million Australians will spend on Easter food and chocolate, with national spending projected at $2.2b. NSW and Victoria will lead, each with $710m, followed by Queensland ($320m), WA ($270m), SA ($120m) and Tasmania ($50m).

Victorians will spend the most per person at $173, followed by NSW residents at $148. The national average is $145.

“Easter is also a perfect time to take a much-needed break with family and friends, which is what we are seeing Australians do this year,” Brown said.  

“Retailers in popular holiday destinations are well-prepared for the Easter school holiday crowds, which will in turn add a further boost to the sector," she added.