According to the Australia Institute’s 2024 Christmas Waste Report, 27% of Australians expect to receive a Christmas gift they will never use or wear, with the estimated value of those unwanted presents now exceeding $1 billion. The good news is that a more meaningful, thoughtful December is completely possible. Read on to discover how.

Regift or thrift

Thrifted gifting is more thoughtful and popular than ever. Second-hand stores like Salvos and Lifeline are full of unique, high-quality pieces waiting for a second life. Thrifting redirects tonnes of items from landfill and helps support community services.

Make a donation

One of the simplest ways to give meaningfully is to donate in someone’s name. Here are some local organisations making a difference:

• Bangalow Koalas Offers gifts that support habitat restoration work.
• Friends of the Koala Provides koala adoptions and conservation support.
• Summerland Bank Christmas Food Drive Across the festive season, all Summerland branches accept non-perishable food donations. These contributions support local families through Momentum Collective’s Adopt a Family for Christmas program, and also assist the Lismore Animal Rights and Rescue Group.

Shop small, shop local

Choosing local makers and small businesses supports your community and reduces transport emissions. Some local options include:

• Pikt Flowers, a sustainable flower farm run by a local family who grow and pick every bloom on their own property. Their arrangements are seasonal, chemical-free and grounded in regenerative farming practices
• Nimbin Apothecary, a herbal dispensary that has been part of the Nimbin region for more than 25 years. Their team handcrafts natural remedies, teas, and botanical skincare using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients, supporting holistic wellbeing and local makers:
• Weekend markets across the Northern Rivers for handmade and homegrown goods

Give an experience

Experiences create memories, not waste, and are often the most meaningful gifts. Consider:

• Tickets to a show at the Brunswick Picture House
• A restaurant voucher for 187 Cantina in Lismore or Ballina
• A picnic or day trip to Bundjalung National Park

These gifts bring people together, which is ultimately what the holiday season is about.

Why this matters to us

As a B Corp certified, customer-owned bank, Summerland Bank is committed to choices that benefit both people and the planet. Supporting local communities, reducing waste and encouraging thoughtful consumption all align with our values. Helping our region make sustainable, meaningful choices is part of who we are.

Together we can make the holidays lighter on the planet, richer in connection, and more reflective of the values we want to celebrate.