Australians are set to spend billions over the long weekend, taking full advantage of open borders and reduced COVID restrictions.

Research by Roy Morgan found Australian consumers will spend almost $1.5 billion on Easter-related food like hot cross buns and chocolate eggs this coming Easter, with one-third of this spending coming from NSW alone.

That’s an average of $100 per person, Roy Morgan’s report found, with 73% of Australians expected to splurge on these once-a-year treats.

But the spending doesn’t end there – the report noted Australians are keen to exorcise their wanderlust after two years of COVID-related travel restrictions, and will spend $7.1 billion on holidays over the long weekend.

The splurge will be welcome news for tourism companies and the businesses that rely on out-of-town visitors, according to Australian Retailers Association CEO Paul Zahra.

“This is the first holiday period in two years that many people will take full advantage of the time off and get away with family and friends, which is great to see. Travel plans were discarded in 2020 and 2021 due to the various snap lockdowns, and last Christmas was disrupted by Omicron,” he said. 

“With the borders opened and safety protocols relaxed, people will be taking advantage of the Easter long weekend. 

“This is a significant boost for tourism operators and local businesses who’ve been doing it tough these past two years.”

Just under two-thirds (63%) of travellers will choose to explore their own backyards and stay in their home state, the report found. One-third of holidaymakers will be venturing interstate, while the remaining 3% will need to dust off their passports.

There’s plenty of excitement to be had at home for those not striking out on an adventure this Easter, too. Mr Zahra expects many Australians to use the time off for DIY projects around their homes and gardens.

“It’s the last break many people will have before winter sets in. People who aren’t going away traditionally use this time to upgrade things around the house that they’ve been putting off for months due to their busy work schedules,” he said.

Sources

• Australian Retailers Association, Australians to spend billions on holidays, food and chocolate this Easter