With five days to go until Christmas Day, shopping centres are preparing for a frenzy.
"The whole sentiment in the retail community at the moment is that we're going to have a very strong Christmas this year," said Chadstone centre manager Scott Sullivan.
The National Australia Bank said that extra spending will be financed using credit cards.
"Last year we saw a 12 per cent increase in total credit card transactions on the last Friday before Christmas," NAB's executive general manger Angus Gilfillan said.
The National Retail Association said this weekend alone they are expecting a spend of up to $3 billion across the country.
"That would be growth of about 5 or 6 per cent on last year, that's not a phenomenal figure but it certainly is better than the tough years that retailers have had post-GFC," said Trevor Evans, chief executive at the National Retail Association.
Families are expected to spend on average about $1600 most of that on gifts.
But not all Australians are spending on themselves.
The Salvation Army said it has received an influx of gifts and donations and will be providing meals and hampers to those in need.
"Around 300,000 people, individuals and families will get support from us this Christmas," said Major Bruce Harmer at the Salvation Army.
"We'll be distributing roughly 500,000 gifts to make sure that kids have a great Christmas."
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