Customers are anticipated to spend over $6 billion during the upcoming Easter, School Holidays, and ANZAC Day period, according to ANZ. The main spending categories expected are food, travel, and entertainment.
The forecasted amount reflects a 3% increase compared to 2024 figures—a rise attributed to higher pre-event spending as Australians plan to utilize the public holidays. ANZ's data indicates that a significant portion of the expenditure will be on travel and experiences, dining out, and grocery shopping. Travel expenses alone are expected to total $440 million as people seek to enjoy the extended break.
Yiken Yang, ANZ Managing Director Everyday Banking, remarked, “We’re expecting Australians will spend big in the lead-up to the bumper Easter, Anzac Day and School Holiday period, with forecasted spend up 3% compared to this time last year. Travel remains a major expense category this year, suggesting that savvy customers are looking to make the most of the numerous public holidays and enjoy a well-deserved trip away.”
Yang noted that in 2024, categories such as travel, dining out, and grocery shopping were primary contributors to spending, with Victorians leading across states with expenditures of $1.64 billion. “We’re anticipating even greater figures across the country this year—a promising sign for local businesses as Australians prepare to wine and dine over the break.”
Frank White, owner of BIG4 Deniliquin Holiday Park, reported increased demand this year. “With the timing of the School Holidays, Easter and Anzac Day, what would have normally been a 5-day holiday has turned into a two-and-a-half-week break for many Australians. This year we’re seeing families much earlier than we typically do due to the School Holiday period, meaning there’s already a buzz throughout the park." He also advised, “We do still have availability, however, I encourage those who haven’t yet booked their travel to do so quickly to avoid missing out. It’s a great opportunity to make the most of the public holidays and school break and get outdoors with the kids.”
ANZ's data from 2024 provides a demographic overview of spending, showing a 3.87% increase in spending by women over 2023, with a notable rise in expenditures on entertainment, travel services, and digital goods. Men, on the other hand, spent more on grocery stores, dining, retail, and wine or liquor shops compared to the previous year.
State-specific data from 2024 emphasizes Victorian spending of $1.64 billion, the highest among states. The Northern Territory and Western Australia showed substantial year-on-year increases in spending, while Western Australia had the highest expenditure per capita at $1,830.
The data also highlighted spending on dining out, with Victorians spending the most, although New South Wales saw a slight decline compared to 2023.