The Salvation Army is bracing for what it describes as its toughest Christmas since its founding 140 years ago, as millions of Australians grapple with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
New research commissioned by the Salvos highlights the widespread financial hardship faced by households, with 6.3 million Australians (29.9%) struggling to afford housing costs this festive season.
The report paints a grim picture for families, revealing that nearly one in four Australians (24%) fear their children will miss out on presents this year, while 2.5 million (12%) worry their kids will go without food. Alarmingly, 1.2 million parents (5.7%) say they won’t even discuss Christmas with their children due to financial constraints.
“This will likely be the hardest Christmas in the Salvos’ 140-year history,” said Major Bruce Harmer of The Salvation Army. “The scale and depth of need we’re seeing across the country is unprecedented. The festive season, which should be a time of joy, is instead amplifying the hardships so many families have been enduring for years.”
The research, conducted by Pureprofile, surveyed 2,004 Australians and revealed additional troubling statistics:
- 17.4% of Australians expect to go into debt this Christmas.
- 19.2% will struggle to afford medical bills.
- 24% will not have enough food to eat.
- 39.2% have already foregone holidays to make ends meet.
- 35.8% are reducing the number of people they host on Christmas Day due to financial pressures.
Charities are also seeing unprecedented demand for assistance. Nearly 1.9 million Australians (9.3%) plan to seek help from organisations like The Salvation Army this Christmas, with more than half (54%) doing so for the first time.
“This research is not just numbers—it represents real people making heartbreaking choices to provide for their families,” said Major Harmer. “We see this struggle every day in the people who reach out to us for support.”
Last Christmas, the Salvos provided:
- Over 330,000 gifts and toys to families in need.
- More than 184,000 meals to people experiencing homelessness.
- 92,000 bed nights for families needing accommodation.
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Major Harmer remains hopeful. “We see hope in those who have the courage to ask for help and in the generosity of Australians who stand alongside us year after year. This Christmas, if you’re in a position to help, please consider donating to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal.”
The appeal aims to raise $27 million to support struggling Australians during the festive season. Donations can be made online at salvationarmy.org.au, by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58), or at any Salvos Store.
As the festive season approaches, the Salvos are calling on Australians to help make Christmas brighter for those doing it tough.