They say it’s the thought that counts when gifting presents at Christmas, but new research from Compare the Market has revealed that one in five Australians regift their unwanted presents over the holiday period.
The latest findings show that 23.2% of Aussies admit to regifting – with 4.8% of Aussies surveyed offloading their unwanted presents to others immediately and 18.5% letting a bit of time pass before passing off an unwanted gift to someone else.
The data found that Gen Z may be the most ungrateful when it comes to Christmas presents, with 7% passing off a gift they received as a new present immediately and 21.8% regifting after a while. In contrast, just 1.3% of Baby Boomers said they regift immediately, while the older generation was also the most likely of any generation to keep a present they didn’t want.
And the Sunshine State takes the crown as Australia’s regifting hotspot, with 24.4% of Queenslanders admitting to regifting, ahead of Victoria (23.3%), New South Wales (22.2%), South Australia (22.1%) and Western Australia (22.8%).
Compare the Market’s Economic Director David Koch said that it could be an unfortunate sign of the times.
“While Christmas can be a very magical time of year, we also know that it can put a lot of financial strain on Australians who are doing it tough. So, if you are lucky enough to get a gift this holiday season, consider what the person may have sacrificed to ensure you don’t go without,” Mr Koch said.
”We know that some Australians may pass along gifts they actually do like to someone else because of financial pressures and not wanting them to miss out at Christmas. It’s not always done in malice.
“Don’t be quick to judge because the Christmas spirit is always about the thought that counts.”
In some good news, 16.2% of Australians said they would donate their unwanted or duplicate presents to charity, with Baby Boomers leading the charge at a rate of 23.2%. Gen Z is the least likely to donate their gifts to charity, at a rate of 7.7%.
South Australia came out as the most charitable state for donating unwanted presents, while those west of the border in WA are least likely to donate gifts to charity.
“Inflation may be slowing down, but there are still plenty of families who are struggling as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite – especially as we head into one of the most expensive times of the year,” Mr Koch said. “It’s heartwarming to know that many presents will end up under the trees of those who need them the most.
“If you are planning on donating your unwanted presents, the good news is that many of the nation’s charities accept donations all year round and not just during the festive period. These organisations do a lot for the most vulnerable members of our community but be aware that charities aren’t a dumping ground for your rubbish. If you are giving items away, always make sure you adhere to the rules and guidelines so you’re helping charities help Aussies who need it the most.”
Compare the Market’s data also found that:
- 4% of people return or exchange poor or duplicate gifts
- 16% of people don’t do anything with poor or duplicate gifts
- 5% sell them
- 2% of Australians throw them out
“This data tells us there are a whole lot of presents being purchased at this time of year that people may not want or appreciate,” Mr Koch said. “If you are buying something, it could be worth keeping your shopping receipt if someone does want to return or exchange an item for something they prefer.
“The last thing I want to see is anyone throwing their hard-earned money down the drain, but there are some things you can do. Firstly, ask people to make a list (and check it twice) so you have a few ideas of things they actually want.
“Secret Santa is also a popular tradition in households and offices around the country and the best part is you can set a spending limit so you don’t blow your budget. And gift cards are another safe option, so people can purchase what they want.”
For more information, please contact:
Phillip Portman | 0437 384 471 | [email protected]
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