Exclusive: Australians are braced for a stark cost-of-living Christmas this year, readers of Nine.com.au say.
The cost of living crisis isn't showing any signs of slowing down and it's hitting Australians where it hurts this holiday season.
According to an exclusive survey of 581 readers, high inflation will force Australians to tighten their belts even further.
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The survey found 49 per cent of readers will be cutting spending on gifts, food and drinks due to cost of living constraints.
One reader said the rising cost of groceries and general living expenses has put a "dampener" on Christmas.
"Sadly, exchanging of gifts this year will be at an all time low. So disappointing," one said.
Another said their family will be sticking to a "tight budget" and are scrapping some major expenses.
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"I can still have Christmas despite being on a tight budget. Make your own Christmas decorations and just have fun doing it," they said.
"My wife loves making things and cooking. Christmas is still going to be big but it's food and drinks that will be the only costs. No presents, just cards."
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Some survey respondents noted they can barely afford everyday expenses like bills or groceries and paying for Christmas feels like an impossibility.
However, 36 per cent of readers said they won't be making any financial changes at Christmas this year.
Another 15 per cent said they weren't sure if the cost of living will result in a budget Christmas just yet.
Research shared by The Salvation Army in Australia offered a similar grim snapshot of Christmas this year for millions of Aussies.
It also found more than half of Australians are expected to spend less on food during the festive season.
Another 48 per cent of people admitted they will slash spending on gifts.
*The nine.com.au poll, which runs once a fortnight, canvases the views of the nine audience on 9Nation, which is an online community of our readers and viewers.
