Halfway through the year, almost one-in-five (19%) of Australians are yet to start their New Year’s resolutions, according to the latest data from Compare the Market, with rising costs proving a major setback.
The consumer comparison experts’ mid-year check in found most Australians (71%) are still on track to achieve their goals by the end of the year, while an efficient 9% have already reached their personal targets.
The nationally representative survey revealed half of Australians wanted to save more money (50%), followed by eating healthier (40%), and losing weight (31%). More than one-in-five also want to be more energy efficient (22%).
Australians’ top 2026 New Year’s resolutions
| National | QLD | NSW | VIC | SA | WA | |
| Save more money | 50% | 46% | 57% | 48% | 46% | 48% |
| Eat healthier | 40% | 36% | 44% | 35% | 45% | 41% |
| Lose weight | 31% | 30% | 32% | 28% | 32% | 29% |
| Spend less money on shopping/discretionary items | 29% | 29% | 34% | 26% | 31% | 21% |
| Exercise more/go to the gym | 27% | 23% | 29% | 26% | 21% | 26% |
| Spend less money at the supermarket | 22% | 22% | 23% | 19% | 20% | 25% |
| Be more energy efficient | 22% | 24% | 21% | 16% | 31% | 22% |
Source: Compare the Market
Previous research from Compare the Market revealed that consumers intended to cut their lifestyle costs – including takeaway meals, dining out, shopping and holidays – to save money in 2026.
Compare the Market’s Economic Director David Koch said increased living costs had made some resolutions harder to achieve.
“Few would disagree that it’s been a bumpy start to the year,” Mr Koch said.
“The conflict in the Middle East sent shockwaves through global petrol and diesel prices, we’ve had three cash rate increases, and inflation remains high.
“That’s really tested Australians’ the top New Year’s resolution – to save more money – at a time when wallets have already been hit hard.
“Other goals such as eating healthier, losing weight and exercising can also cost money, but consumers are still looking for ways to spend less at the supermarket checkout and curb their energy usage at home.
“It’s been a difficult start to the year, but there is hope. Plug any financial leaks, such as unused subscriptions, shop around for better offers on your essential bills like insurance, and consider switching to generic brands at the supermarket to maximise your savings.”
When referencing this research, please attribute: https://www.comparethemarket.com.au/
Disclaimers
Compare the Market commissioned Pureprofile to survey a nationally representative sample of 1,019 Australians in June 2026.
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