The countdown is on to the Easter holidays and a new survey indicates it could be a bumper season for Sunshine Coast tourism and retails sectors.
With many Australians forced into lockdown in 2021, it seems almost three-quarters of us have money to spend.
This could inject thousands of dollars into the region’s economy, coupled with the strong intentions to travel within Australia, and indeed to the Sunshine Coast, in 2022.
The survey, conducted by leading Australian financial comparison company Savvy, found 58 per cent of 1003 people surveyed said they would be spending up to $500 during the Easter school holiday period, which runs from April 2 to April 18.
A further 23 per cent would spend between $500 and $1000, and an additional 14 per cent intended to spend between $1001 and $2000.
Personal finance expert Bill Tsouvalas said consumer confidence was growing again thanks to continued encouragement to spend money in hospitality or tourism.
“Our survey found people have savings they are eager to spend, with 56 per cent saying they will be visiting shopping centres and 42 per cent saying they’ll go to restaurants this Easter,” said Mr Tsouvalas.
“Money is burning a hole in Aussies’ pockets. This should be good for local hospitality and tourist destinations that rely on income from Easter visitors.”
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Locals are also tipped to spend big this Easter, with 45 per cent of people planning to stay home over the holidays.
“This does not mean their wallets will remain closed, with 56 per cent of all respondents intending to visit shopping centres, and 52 per cent planning to eat at restaurants,” said Mr Tsouvalas.
“This means local hospitality and tourism operators can expect to prosper this Easter, as Australians spend their savings closer to home.”
Shopping will be the most popular Easter activity among young people — at 63 per cent among 18-to-25-year-olds, and 61 per cent among 25-to-34-year-olds. Farmers’ markets are most favoured among the older generation.
The survey revealed food and drink were among the biggest areas of spending for the holiday season, with the total average figure per person coming in at $485.
Groceries topped the list at $153, followed by eating out at $119, alcohol at $72, and meat and seafood at $69. The predicted spend of Easter eggs, chocolate and sweets was $45 per person.
Easter spending
- 73 per cent of Australians plan to spend their savings this Easter.
- 23 per cent plan to spend $500 to $1000, and 58 per cent intend to spend up to $500.
- 43 per cent of Australians intend to travel locally this Easter.
- The total predicted average food and drink spend is $485.
