It’s the Boxing Day tradition that could soon be left on the shelf, with new Compare the Market research revealing that 61.6% of Australians won’t participate in the sales this year.*

Compare the Market’s new analysis found that around one in five Aussies surveyed (22.9%) said they never take part in the sales event.

The most surprising trend was among Baby Boomers, with 38% reporting they never participate in the sales.

That’s more than five times the rate of Gen Z (7%) and three times the rate of Millennials (10%), who said they avoid the shopping frenzy.

A quarter of Australians said they would likely miss the sale this year to save money, while 13% said they would avoid Boxing Day sales because they had already participated in Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.

*Source: Compare the Market survey of 1,010 Australian adults, conducted December 2025.

Just 7.4% of respondents said they would confidently buy at least one item during the sales frenzy, while 31% said they would likely purchase something, depending on the discount.

Those participating will spend an average $521.

Compare the Market’s Sarah Orr said other sales events were stealing the show.

“There’s been a real shift when it comes to the spending season, with a lot of people burning out before the holidays start,” Ms Orr said.

“Boxing Day used to be the biggest sales event of the year. Now we’re bombarded with a huge line-up of sales events in November.

“Around 66% of Aussies said they took part in Black Friday, while just 38% plan to shop on Boxing Day. By the time Christmas rolls around, a lot of people have had enough, and they don’t have the energy to face the crowds.”

And it’s not just shopping fatigue—economic pressures are also shaping spending habits.

“Some families will look to tighten their belts heading into the New Year,” Ms Orr said.

“With inflation rising at a higher-than-expected rate in September and October, and a cash rate hike on the cards for next year, reining in spending could be a good idea.

“If you’re hitting the sales, make sure you go in with a plan. Nobody wants to start the New Year with a financial hangover.”

Ms Orr’s top tips for nabbing a bargain this Boxing Day.

1. Hunting around for deals could save you big. Don’t settle for the first discount you see. Prices can vary significantly between stores, so flip through catalogues, scroll deals online and double-check you’re scoring a real steal.
2. Dodge the delivery fee trap which could gobble up savings. Nothing ruins a sweet discount like a sneaky shipping charge. Some stores make you hit a minimum spend for free delivery. Instead, try Click & Collect, pop into the store or shop online only when delivery is free. Your wallet will thank you.
3. Cash in on your insurance, energy and utility rewards. You may have access to reward stores through your insurance company, energy retailer or utility provider, which can offer discounts on big-name brands and help you save more during the sales. Take a peek at what perks you already have access to – there could be discounts hiding under your nose.
4. Swipe, boost and check your spam. Got a loyalty card? Flash it like a VIP pass when shopping – you may be entitled to discounts. Remember to boost those offers for extra discounts and don’t forget to check your inbox, as retailers love sending secret codes and early sale invites before Boxing Day.

For more information, please contact:

Phillip Portman | 0437 384 471 | [email protected]

Compare the Market is a comparison service that takes the hard work out of shopping around. We make it Simples for Australians to quickly and easily compare and buy insurance, energy, and home loans products from a range of providers. Our easy-to-use comparison tool helps you look for a range of products that may suit your needs and benefit your back pocket.